Varanasi, situated on the sacred banks of the Ganges, is a pilgrimage destination brimming with spiritual energy and cultural richness. Along with its sacred ambiance that comes to life with the evening Ganga Aarti, the city is also known for its cultural heritage of Banarasi Silk Sarees weaving and a thriving street food scene. A serene boat ride at sunrise or sunset is another top thing to do in Varanasi that offers an unforgettable view of the ghats. As you wander through the winding lanes and alleys, don't forget to try the legendary Banarasi paan. And if you're visiting in winter, the frothy Malaiyo is an unmissable seasonal delight. With its seamless blend of devotion, heritage, and local flavor, Varanasi has so much to offer that no two days in the city can look the same.
Exploring the ghats is one of the top things to do in Varanasi, where spirituality and daily life come together in a timeless rhythm. Over 80 ghats line the sacred Ganges in Varanasi, and each one has its own significance and story. Dashashwamedh Ghat is known for its grand evening Ganga Aarti. Assi Ghat offers a peaceful start to the day with morning yoga and music. Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest cremation grounds. Other notable spots include Panchganga Ghat, where five rivers are believed to meet, and Scindia Ghat, recognized for its partially submerged Shiva temple.
Located just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. This is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. Visiting Sarnath is among the top things to do in Varanasi, especially for those looking to learn about Buddhist history. The place features the Dhamek Stupa, ancient monasteries, the Ashokan Pillar, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, which displays relics and the Lion Capital of Ashoka, the national emblem of India. For those curious about what to do in Varanasi beyond the ghats, Sarnath provides a mix of history, spirituality, and tranquility.
Interesting Fact :
Taking a dip in the sacred Ganges River is one of the top things to do in Varanasi. It is a significant ritual for millions of Hindu devotees. It is believed that the river washes away sins and purifies the soul. The best places in Varanasi for this experience are Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Panchganga Ghat, where locals and visitors take part in early morning bathing rituals. It's not just a religious act; it's one of the most unforgettable experiences in Varanasi. It connects you with centuries of living heritage.
A visit to the weaver's village near Varanasi, especially Sarai Mohana, offers insights into the heart of Banaras' artisanal heritage. The village is famous for producing the iconic Banarasi sarees, which feature intricate designs, zari work, and vibrant silk threads. Watching master weavers at work on old handlooms is a humbling experience. It reveals the craftsmanship passed down through generations. This is one of the best activities in Varanasi for travelers interested in tradition and cultural heritage.
Interesting facts :
A boat ride on the Ganges is one of the most iconic experiences in Varanasi. It provides a front-row view of the city's spiritual life. As your boat moves along the sacred river, you'll see the long-standing traditions that take place on the ghats. You can witness morning prayers, sacred dips, cremation rituals, and chanting priests. This journey captures the essence of Varanasi, combining tranquility with cultural depth.
The best time for this ride is during sunrise. The ghats shine in golden light, and devotional hymns fill the air. Evening rides offer a stunning view of the illuminated ghats and floating diyas during the Ganga Aarti. This experience attracts everyone. Couples look for peace, solo travelers seek reflection, and families want to show their children the spiritual heart of India. It's also one of the best things to do in Varanasi for kids, as they enjoy the boats, birds, and cultural scenes around.
You can pick between traditional wooden rowboats for a quiet, authentic experience or motorboats for a faster and wider view of the ghats.
Timings
Witnessing the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the best things to do in Varanasi. It is a spiritual spectacle you'll never forget. As the sun sets and the sky turns orange, a group of priests dressed in saffron robes performs a synchronized ritual. They use brass lamps, incense, conch shells, and chants to worship the Ganges River, which is regarded as a goddess in Hindu belief. The sound of bells, devotional music, and the scent of sandalwood fill the air. This creates a divine atmosphere and is one of the most recommended activities in Varanasi.
What Happens During the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
No visit to Varanasi is complete without trying its famous street food. The city's culinary offerings are rooted in tradition, mirroring its cultural atmosphere. Unlike cuisines in other cities, Varanasi Street food is mostly vegetarian and often made without onion and garlic, adhering to satvik principles. Still, it is full of flavor, texture, and variety; this makes it one of the must-do things in Varanasi for food lovers.
Must-Try Dishes in Varanasi :
Varanasi is a treasure for anyone interested in traditional textiles and handmade crafts. The city's famous Banarasi sarees represent elegance and are known for their luxurious silk, intricate zari work, and Mughal-inspired designs. A Banarasi saree is not just clothing; it's a piece of living heritage.
The city's lively bazaars offer a wide range of local crafts that show Varanasi's artistic diversity. Markets like Godowlia, Chowk, and Thatheri Bazaar host shops selling wooden toys, brass and copper ware, stone carvings, glass beads, and the special Gulabi Meenakari, which is pink enamel work. These handmade items make meaningful souvenirs and are ideal for those who appreciate traditional Indian art. When exploring things to buy in Varanasi, don't miss handmade Rudraksha malas, spiritual souvenirs, and classical musical instruments like tablas and sitars.
Where to Shop : Madanpura, Vishwanath Gali, Thatheri Bazaar
Varanasi is not just a city of temples and rituals, it is also a vibrant center for classical Indian music, dance, and storytelling. Known as the birthplace or karmabhoomi of renowned artists like Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Bismillah Khan, the city has supported musical traditions for centuries. For culture enthusiasts, seeing a live performance here is one of the most rewarding experiences in Varanasi. Evenings in Varanasi often come alive with baithaks, which are intimate music sessions, Kathak dance performances, and Dhrupad concerts held in heritage venues or along the ghats. Events like Subah-e-Banaras at Assi Ghat feature early morning classical music and yoga sessions that beautifully combine spirituality with performance art.
Many cultural centers and institutions, such as Bharat Kala Bhavan at BHU and Sangeet Natak Akademi-supported venues, regularly host performances that highlight the region's classical richness. These performances offer a unique look into India's intangible heritage, sharing stories through ragas, rhythmic footwork, and poetic expressions.
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