10 Best Things to Do and See in Varanasi
Exploring Varanasi on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Varanasi, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Varanasi. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Vishalakshi Temple
Vishalakshi Temple is a Hindu temple in Varanasi, near the Ganges ghats, attracting pilgrims and visitors seeking the city’s spiritual atmosphere. Discover a shrine dedicated to goddess Vishalakshi, with traditional architecture, vivid colors, and an active setting shaped by offerings, prayers, and devotees.
2. Assi Ghat, (Varanasi)
Assi Ghat is one of Varanasi’s most famous ghats on the Ganges, where the city reveals its spiritual side and lively river life. Visitors can watch the stone steps descending to the water, pilgrims coming for prayers and rituals, and the constant flow of walkers, boats, and locals. It is also a favorite spot for sunrise views and for experiencing everyday life along the Ganges.
3. Ramnagar Fort, Varanasi
On the east bank of the Ganges, opposite Varanasi, Ramnagar Fort is a must-see red sandstone landmark with courtyards, walls and a small museum.
4. Archaeological Buddhist Remains of Sarnath
In Sarnath, near Varanasi, the Buddhist archaeological remains offer a striking glimpse into an ancient spiritual and monastic center. The site brings together stupa ruins, monastery foundations, sculpture fragments and architectural elements that reveal several phases of occupation and construction. As you explore these stone traces, you discover the layout of a major pilgrimage site, now peaceful, where religious history and archaeology meet in a deeply meaningful setting.
5. Namo Ghat
Namo Ghat is a modern ghat on the banks of the Ganges in Varanasi, offering a pleasant viewpoint over the river and the life of this holy city. Visitors can enjoy broad steps, walking areas and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for contemplation, especially at sunrise or sunset. The site also appeals for its recent facilities and river views, making it a great place to observe everyday life on the ghats of Varanasi in a more open and landscaped setting.
6. Sarnath Museum
Sarnath Museum in Varanasi is a must-see archaeological museum for discovering the remains linked to the Buddhist site of Sarnath. Its galleries display stone sculptures, architectural fragments, inscriptions and other objects found during excavations, offering a valuable insight into the art and religious history of the region. Visitors can admire remarkable pieces that reflect the evolution of Buddhist iconography and the richness of North India’s ancient heritage. The visit is both informative and peaceful.
7. Deendayal Hasthkala Sankul
In Varanasi, Deendayal Hasthkala Sankul is a space dedicated to traditional Indian handicrafts and craft skills. This museum showcases the richness of local and regional artisanal techniques, with handmade objects, textiles, embroidery, decorative pieces, and other creations representative of artisan work. A visit lets you discover a wide variety of crafts, appreciate the materials, gestures, and patterns passed down through generations, and better understand the important role of handicrafts in the culture of Varanasi and its surroundings.
8. Man Singh Observatory
Man Singh Observatory in Varanasi is a must-see for visitors who want to discover an ancient observatory linked to India's scientific and architectural heritage. Located near the Ganges, it stands out for its distinctive silhouette and observing instruments, which reflect a tradition of studying the sky and time. The visit offers a peaceful historic setting with stone structures, sighting openings, and astronomical devices. It is a unique stop for combining culture, history, and scientific curiosity in the heart of Varanasi.
9. Kashi Dham Museum
Kashi Dham Museum in Varanasi offers a cultural and heritage-focused look at the world of Kashi, the city’s traditional name. Inside the museum, visitors can discover objects, displays, and elements linked to local traditions, religious life, and the region’s spiritual identity. The visit helps travelers better understand Varanasi’s importance in Indian culture through an accessible and immersive presentation. It is a rewarding stop for anyone who wants to explore the city beyond the ghats and temples.
10. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, (BHU Varanasi)
Located within Banaras Hindu University, Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum is one of Varanasi’s most remarkable museums for discovering Indian art and heritage. Its collections span sculptures, paintings, miniatures, textiles, costumes, coins and decorative arts, offering a rich overview of the subcontinent’s artistic traditions in a calm university setting. It is an ideal stop for travelers interested in history, art and Indian culture.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
