Top 10 Things To Do In Varanasi
To begin with, Varanasi is that city that is as old as human civilization and its existence is more than 5000 years old. Varanasi, on the banks of river Ganga, is an ancient as well as one of the seven holy cities of the Hindus in India. Banaras and Kashi are the other famous names of the city. The city has high regards in the hearts and soul of the Hindus and it is popularly believed that dying here provides ‘moksha’ or liberation. Along with all these aspects, the city also has a modern touristy vibe to offer and here we present some amazing things to do in Varanasi.
Walk on the Ghats
The ghats of Varanasi are the most lively thing to explore in Varanasi. You will find the ghats always lit with diyas and filled with the devotees at all hours of the day. The sight is totally breathtaking and soul filling.
Attend Evening Ganga Aarti
The evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat on the banks of River Ganga is the most religious activity that is carried out in Varanasi every single day. Leave aside the sight, this experience will stay with you for a lifetime and beyond. The aromas of flowers, incense sticks, sound of the hymns, chants, and prayers, and view of the lights everywhere makes for the most delightful scene ever.
Morning Boat Cruise
The boat ride in the Ganges river in Varanasi during dawn hours takes you through various ghats and also the temples. Go for an early morning boat ride to view the sunrise and see the beauty of the city in a different way. The dusk hour makes for the best time for the boat ride.
Temples in Varanasi has immense aura of auspiciousness. Varanasi can also be called as the temple city and you got to explore the various temples of the city for its architecture and also for worshipping. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Mritunjay Mahadev temple, Tulsi Manas, Kalbhairav temple etc are some of the popular temples of the city.
Sarnath is popular in history because of Buddha first teaching his Dharma after his enlightenment. The Ashoka Pillar at the Sarnath has some interesting carvings that you would like to see. The place is a huge interest point for history, photography, and architecture lovers.
Heritage Walk
A heritage walk in the city of Varanasi is the best way to explore the beautiful and magnificent city of Varanasi. Take a walk in the narrow streets and explore the extremely intact houses and buildings, old architecture and you will love the heritage walk in the city.
Shopping
You will love shopping in the holy city and bringing some of the authentic items of the place like Banarasi saree or dupatta, carpets, stone inlay work, ornate jewels, bangles, and idols of God. In fact, for many shopping in Varanasi is a real fun and lifetime experience.
Learning Yoga
In the holy city, learning and doing yoga is one of the most rejuvenating activities. You can get a lot of peaceful vibes while doing yoga on the banks of the river. Totally a must try activity.
Visiting Ashram
There are quite a few ashrams in the holy city and the trip to these places would make your touring experience a whole lot better. From the busy city life and the mob that you will find at the ghats, the ashrams in Varanasi are quite peaceful and not so crowded.
For the most gastronomical experience in Varanasi, we recommend you to go for the street food tour. You will find some of the best streets foods here like Jalebis, Banarasi kalakand, Tamatar Chaat, Pani Puri, Aloo Tikki, and especially Paan. Varanasi is known for delicious dishes. Street & alley shops are popular outlets to taste & relish cuisines of Varanasi.
Your trip to Varanasi should be filled with a lot of experiences and cultural sight. And visiting these places would make your trip totally complete. These things to do in Varanasi are top rated and you must not skip any of these. Opt for a trip out of several Varanasi tour packages to enjoy the culture, cuisine and spiritualism of Kashi.
Suggested Tours
4 Hour Morning Boat Ride on Ganga in Varanasi Tour
1 Day Varanasi Tour
3 Hour Varanasi Ganga Aarti Tour
1 Day Sarnath Tour
4 Hour Varanasi Heritage Walk, Ganga Aarti & Street Food Tour
8 Days Golden Triangle with Varanasi Tour