Varanasi, India: Top Things to Do

India is a vast and diverse country, made up of many states and cities, each with its own identity. Broadly, the country is often viewed in two cultural regions — North India and South India. While united under one nation, there are distinct differences between the north and south, particularly in social customs, cultural traditions, languages, architecture, and food. Although some similarities exist and elements do overlap, each region offers its own uniqueness (HOKKAIDO JAPAN THINGS TO DO).

 

In North India, one of the most meaningful and enriching places to visit is Varanasi. Often referred to as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi draws millions of visitors from all walks of life. For Hindus, the city holds deep religious significance for paying homage to the gods. For other travellers, it’s about experiencing Varanasi.

How long you spend in Varanasi is entirely up to you. But you can cover the essential sightseeing spots, or what to do in Varanasi, within two or three days (COLOMBO SRI LANKA TRAVEL).

 

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple at Banaras Hindu University

Also known as the New Vishwanath Temple, this is a significant religious and architectural landmark in Varanasi. Located within the wide and vast BHU campus, this modern temple was inspired by the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple and commissioned by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, the university's founder.

 

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is renowned for its marble architecture, towering spire, and serene atmosphere. It’s about walking from the main gate, into the compound, and through a garden-lined pathway. Inside, you can say your prayers at several smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, including the main altar. Priests are available for paid prayer services, or you can say your own prayers or simply walk around (KERALA INDIA SIGHTSEEING).

Shri Durga Temple
Also known as the Durga Kund Mandir, this is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. Built in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani, the temple stands out with its striking red colour and North Indian Nagara-style architecture. The complex includes a large rectangular tank known as Durga Kund.

Navaratri is one of the busiest times to visit. The temple itself is quite small, you’ll probably spend about 20 minutes here, but the spiritual vibration of Durga Ma can be felt strongly. The narrow walkway leading to the temple is lined with roadside stalls where you can browse or buy souvenirs.

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Main Temple)
For those wishing to offer prayers to ancestors, you can make arrangements through your guide or go on your own. This typically starts around 5 a.m. and may last about an hour.

 

What you shouldn't miss is the night Aarti, the famous evening prayer ceremony. Arrive earlier in the evening to witness the cremation rituals along the ghats. It’s a moving experience. Later, hop into a boat for a ride along the Ganges River, passing by Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple -  also known as the Golden Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

 

Built in 1780 on the western bank of the Ganges, the temple is a key stop on the Varanasi Heritage Walk and draws thousands each night for the ceremony. From your boat, you’ll witness the Aarti alongside hundreds of other visitors in their own boats. A must-do in Varanasi - truly spectacular.

 

Note: Dipping in the Ganges is not allowed during the night prayers. You’ll need to return the next day if you want to do that. The area will be packed with people and lined with petty traders selling all sorts of local goods.

Vishalakshi Temple

During the day, you can also take a boat ride along the ghats to get a broader view of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the surrounding area. Continue the ride and get down at Meer Ghat, where you’ll find Vishalakshi Temple, also known as Vishalakshi Gauri Temple. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati.

 

You’ll walk up a stone staircase to reach the temple. Be prepared for crowds - both inside the temple and along the narrow walkways leading up to it. The paths are lined with small shops selling local items, drinks and Indian street food. Whether you're window shopping or planning to buy, bargaining is expected.