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Varanasi, also called Banaras or Kashi, is often described as the oldest living city in the world. Situated on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, this city has attracted saints, scholars, and travelers for thousands of years. People come here to seek spiritual awakening, to perform religious rituals, or simply to immerse themselves in its magical aura. The city’s significance is not only religious but also cultural—it is the birthplace of classical music, a hub of traditional weaving, and a treasure trove of timeless stories.
For first-time visitors, there are countless things to do in Varanasi, ranging from exploring its famous ghats and temples to tasting its legendary food and experiencing its unique festivals. Unlike other destinations, Varanasi offers not just sightseeing but also a soulful journey into India’s heart.
1. Explore the Ghats of Varanasi
2. Witness the Evening Ganga Aarti
3. Take a Sunrise Boat Ride
4. Visit the Temples of Kashi
5. Discover the Cultural Heritage of Banaras
6. Taste the Street Food of Varanasi
7. Shop at the Bustling Markets
8. Explore the Museums and Historical Spots
9. Experience Music and Spiritual Retreats
10. Go for Short Trips Around Varanasi
11. Suggested Itinerary: Places to Visit in Varanasi in 3 Days
12. Travel Tips for First-Time Travelers
13. Conclusion and TourTravelWorld Packages
If you are wondering about the most essential things to do in Varanasi, walking along its Ghats is at the very top. With more than 80 ghats lining the river, each one tells a different story. Dashashwamedh Ghat is famous for rituals and ceremonies, Assi Ghat is a favorite among students and foreign travelers, and Harishchandra Ghat is known for its cremation grounds.
Life in Varanasi begins and ends at the ghats. Pilgrims take holy dips, children play cricket on the steps, while saints sit in meditation. For a first-time traveler, the ghats offer a raw and authentic introduction to the city.
When people ask about the must-see Varanasi sightseeing places, the Ganga Aarti always comes first. Held every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat, this ceremony is nothing short of magical. Priests in saffron robes chant hymns, swing massive brass lamps, and offer prayers to the river. The synchronized rituals, along with the sound of conch shells and bells, create a divine atmosphere.
Thousands gather every evening to witness this spectacle, making it one of the most unforgettable things to see in Varanasi. Whether you’re spiritual or not, the Ganga Aarti has the power to leave you spellbound.
Early mornings in Varanasi have their own charm. Among the 10 best places to visit in Varanasi, a sunrise boat ride stands out. As the city awakens, the river reflects the colors of dawn, priests chant mantras, and locals perform their daily rituals. Watching this harmony of life while floating on the Ganges is a surreal experience.
It’s also the perfect way to view multiple ghats at once. Many travelers say that if you only have time for one activity, this is the most important among the things to do in Varanasi.
Varanasi is called the City of Temples for a reason. Every lane has a shrine, and each temple holds a story. The most important is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Pilgrims believe that visiting this temple brings liberation.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple – popular among devotees seeking blessings of Hanuman.
Durga Kund Mandir – with its unique red architecture.
Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple) – resembling a miniature of Pashupatinath in Nepal.
Exploring these temples is one of the essential attractions in Varanasi. Whether you’re religious or not, the energy here is unlike anywhere else.
Banaras is more than rituals and temples—it is also about culture and creativity. The city has been home to scholars, musicians, and artisans for centuries. Classical music echoes in its lanes, and silk weavers create the world-famous Banarasi sarees.
If you are listing things to do in Banaras, don’t miss exploring its artistic side. Visit workshops to see saree weaving, attend cultural performances, or explore heritage trails. These experiences show you the softer, creative soul of the city.
One of the most exciting adventures in Varanasi is exploring its food scene. Start your morning with kachori-sabzi, grab a plate of tamatar chaat in the evening, sip on a glass of thick lassi, and end your day with a Banarasi paan.
Food in Varanasi is not just about taste—it’s about tradition. Every dish has a history, and every stall has a loyal following. For food lovers, tasting the local cuisine is among the most memorable things to do in Varanasi.
No trip is complete without shopping, and Banaras has plenty to offer. The markets are filled with colorful textiles, brassware, wooden toys, and jewelry. The highlight, of course, is the Banarasi silk saree—world-famous for its craftsmanship.
Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar are must-visit spots. Even if you’re not shopping, just walking through these narrow lanes gives you a glimpse of the city’s vibrant energy. This is one of the liveliest things to do in Banaras.
For history lovers, Varanasi has its share of treasures. The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum at Banaras Hindu University holds rare paintings, textiles, and sculptures. The Ramnagar Fort, situated across the Ganga, is another popular site showcasing royal collections of arms, manuscripts, and vintage cars.
These places are great additions to your Varanasi sightseeing list, especially if you’re interested in history and culture beyond temples.
Varanasi is deeply connected to Indian classical music. Many music legends were born here, and you can still attend live recitals of sitar, tabla, or vocal performances in the evenings.
For those seeking peace, the city also offers yoga and meditation retreats by the river. Such experiences go beyond ordinary tourism—they make your trip transformative. It’s why many travelers add them to their list of things to do in Varanasi.
If time permits, explore places around Varanasi to visit. Some popular ones are:
Sarnath – where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon.
Chunar Fort – with its ancient fortifications and panoramic views.
Vindhyachal – a powerful Shakti Peeth for devotees.
These destinations are easy day trips that give you a break from the busy lanes of Banaras while still keeping you close to its heritage.
If you have three days, here’s a simple plan:
Day 1: Walk along the ghats, explore Kashi Vishwanath Temple, attend the evening Ganga Aarti.
Day 2: Sunrise boat ride, breakfast with local food, visit Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, shop at local markets.
Day 3: Day trip to Sarnath or Chunar Fort, and end the evening at Assi Ghat with live music.
This itinerary ensures you cover the most important places to visit in Varanasi in 3 days, giving you both spiritual and cultural experiences.
Dress modestly, especially at temples.
Keep cash for small shops and stalls.
Bargain gently while shopping in markets.
Hire a local guide for in-depth temple stories.
Walk or take cycle rickshaws to enjoy the city slowly.
These tips will make your list of things to do in Varanasi smoother and more enjoyable.
Varanasi is not just a city—it’s an experience that blends spirituality, culture, and history. From boat rides to temple visits, from food to festivals, every corner has something to offer. For first-time travelers, exploring this city is nothing less than life-changing.
To make your journey even easier, you can book a Varanasi tour package through TourTravelWorld.com. Their curated packages help travelers experience the best attractions of Kashi with comfort and convenience, ensuring your first trip becomes truly unforgettable.
