Famous Locations
Explore the Iconic Ghats, Temples, and Landmarks
Dashashwamedh Ghat
The most famous and busiest ghat in Varanasi, known for its spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony every evening. It is believed to be the spot where Lord Brahma performed the Dasa Ashwamedha sacrifice.
Highlights:
- Evening Ganga Aarti
- Boat rides
- Spiritual ceremonies
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and is considered one of the holiest places in Hinduism.
Highlights:
- Golden spire
- Sacred Jyotirlinga
- Pilgrimage site
Assi Ghat
The southernmost ghat, where the Assi River meets the Ganges. It is a popular spot for morning yoga and meditation, and hosts the famous Subah-e-Banaras morning aarti.
Highlights:
- Morning yoga
- Subah-e-Banaras
- Peaceful atmosphere
Manikarnika Ghat
The main cremation ghat in Varanasi. Hindus believe that cremation here leads to moksha (liberation). The ghat is always active with funeral pyres.
Highlights:
- Cremation site
- Spiritual significance
- Sacred rituals
Sarnath
Located just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. It is one of the four most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites.
Highlights:
- Dhamek Stupa
- Buddhist monasteries
- Archaeological museum
Tulsi Manas Mandir
A modern temple dedicated to Lord Rama, built at the place where Tulsidas wrote the Ramcharitmanas. The walls are inscribed with verses from the epic.
Highlights:
- Ramcharitmanas inscriptions
- Modern architecture
- Cultural significance
Banaras Hindu University
One of the largest residential universities in Asia, spread over 1,300 acres. The campus includes beautiful architecture, museums, and the famous Bharat Kala Bhavan art gallery.
Highlights:
- Campus tours
- Bharat Kala Bhavan
- Academic excellence
Ramnagar Fort
A fortification on the eastern bank of the Ganges, opposite Varanasi. It is the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Banaras and houses a museum with vintage cars, royal costumes, and weapons.
Highlights:
- Museum
- Royal heritage
- Riverside location
More Ghats to Explore
Other Notable Ghats:
- Harishchandra Ghat - Another cremation ghat
- Panchganga Ghat - Where five rivers meet
- Man Mandir Ghat - Observatory and palace
- Scindia Ghat - Beautiful architecture
- Kedar Ghat - Named after Kedarnath
- Rana Ghat - Peaceful and less crowded
Temples & Religious Sites:
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
- Durga Temple (Monkey Temple)
- Bharat Mata Temple
- New Vishwanath Temple (BHU)
- Kaal Bhairav Temple
- Nepali Temple