Things to do in Varanasi

Activities, attractions and tours

Varanasi featuring boating, a coastal town and a bay or harbour
Varanasi featuring boating, a coastal town and a bay or harbour
Varanasi which includes religious elements
Tulsi Ghat featuring boating, general coastal views and a day spa
Varanasi which includes a bay or harbour and boating

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What to do in Varanasi


Popular places to visit

Areas of Varanasi

 River Ganges, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India; 30-Jan-2019; Siberian migratory birds over river Ganges in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Mahmoorganj

5/5(1 area review)

While there might not be top attractions in Mahmoorganj, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Hanuman Ghat and Tulsi Ghat.

Mahmoorganj
Historic Buddhist temple in Varanasi, India. Buddhist temples structure like  Bangkok ,Thailand

Lanka

When in Lanka, you can plan a visit to Sant Ravidas Ghat and Assi Ghat, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Lanka
Varanasi, India - March 07, 2025: Main ghat at Ganges river in Varanasi city, India

Godaulia

While Godaulia may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like JVH Mall and Hanuman Ghat.

Godaulia
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. Many Boats moored on Ganga river near ghats. Hundreds of tourists and locals come in boats to watch Ganga Maha Aarti ceremony and the fire ceremony. Purple sunset sky

Sigra

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Sigra and surrounding area, you can visit Dasaswamedh ghat and Hanuman Ghat.

Sigra
Hindu Holi city of Haridwar near Ganges, Uttranchal, India

Varanasi Nagar Nigam

While Varanasi Nagar Nigam may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like JVH Mall and Dasaswamedh ghat.

Varanasi Nagar Nigam

Frequently asked questions

Is Varanasi worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to discover the local charm and cultural highlights or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there are plenty of things to do in Varanasi.
How do I spend a day in Varanasi?
Archaeological Museum and Kashi Vishwanath Temple are two excellent places to kick-start your holiday adventures. Remember to check out the dining and retail options in Varanasi while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Varanasi?
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the top tourist attractions in Varanasi and should feature high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Varanasi?
You can easily tour popular attractions like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Assi Ghat and Hanuman Ghat with a three-day getaway in Varanasi. On average, most travellers plan three days here. There's plenty to see and do nearby too, so stay a bit longer and head to Chandauli.
Is Varanasi a walkable city?
Some leading attractions in Varanasi, like Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Assi Ghat, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 2 kilometres from the city centre of Varanasi is Sigra and Mahmoorganj is 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Varanasi with kids?
What to do in Varanasi for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are plenty of things to do in Varanasi for adults including Sant Ravidas Ghat and Alamgir Mosque.
Are there free things to do in Varanasi?
From checking out parks to wandering around hip neighbourhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Varanasi. If you need inspiration, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their travel adventures.

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