Varanasi: The World's Second Most Popular Religious Destination in 2025

According to a recent global study by My Cross, a platform specializing in faith-based tourism insights, Varanasi has been ranked as the most popular religious destination in India and the second most sought-after spiritual destination worldwide, just after Kyoto, Japan.

In 2025, Varanasi has ascended to global prominence, being ranked as the world's second most popular religious destination by the My Cross. This recognition underscores Varanasi's profound spiritual significance and its timeless appeal to millions of pilgrims, seekers, and curious travelers from across the globe. Situated on the sacred banks of the Ganges, the city continues to embody the soul of India's ancient spiritual traditions while embracing modern global attention. Notably, the surge in tourist footfall has made Varanasi the top religious and tourist destination of East Uttar Pradesh.

With its mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, ancient temples, and rich cultural tapestry, Varanasi tourism has emerged as a magnet for international visitors seeking authenticity and spiritual transcendence. Today, with Kyoto (Japan) topping the list, Varanasi proudly ranks 2nd among the top 10 religious tourism hotspots worldwide—solidifying its status not just as India’s spiritual capital, but as a global beacon of faith and heritage. It is followed by Vatican City (Italy) in 3rd place and Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) in 4th, among others.

Varanasi achieved a strong score of 78, placing it just behind Kyoto in the overall rankings. While Kyoto sees a higher number of annual visitors, Varanasi leads globally in online search interest, recording an impressive 2.8 million searches, a clear indicator of its growing global appeal.

Interestingly, the city offers 1,149 accommodation options—nearly double that of Kyoto—despite welcoming a comparatively lower annual footfall of 11 million visitors. This highlights Varanasi’s robust tourism infrastructure and its growing significance in the realm of global religious tourism.

Key Highlights of Varanasi's Spiritual Significance

• Ancient Heritage : Recognized as one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, Varanasi holds a pivotal place in Hinduism as one of the seven sacred cities (Sapta Puri).
• Spiritual Epicenter : Home to the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, the city attracts millions seeking spiritual solace and enlightenment.
• Cultural Hub : Beyond its religious significance, Varanasi is a beacon of Indian culture, known for its classical music, dance, and rich traditions.
• Global Recognition : Recent reports highlight Varanasi's rise in global spiritual tourism rankings, emphasizing its appeal to both domestic and international visitors.

• Ghats of the Ganges : The city boasts over 80 ghats, with Dashashwamedh and Assi being among the most frequented for rituals and the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti.
• Sarnath : A short distance from Varanasi, this site marks the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon, making it a significant pilgrimage for Buddhists.
• Banaras Hindu University (BHU) : One of Asia's largest residential universities, BHU is a center for learning and cultural exchange.
• Local Bazaars : The bustling markets offer a glimpse into the city's vibrant life, with traditional Banarasi silk sarees and handicrafts being popular souvenirs.

• Attend the Ganga Aarti : Experience the spiritual fervor during the evening Aarti at the ghats, a spectacle of light, sound, and devotion.
• Boat Ride on the Ganges: Witness the city's skyline and rituals from the river, especially during sunrise or sunset.
• Culinary Exploration : Savor local delicacies like kachori sabzi, chaat, and the famous Banarasi paan.
• Visit Temples : Apart from Kashi Vishwanath, explore other temples like Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and Durga Temple.

Visiting Varanasi offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of India's spiritual and cultural essence. As the city continues to enchant and inspire, it remains a testament to the enduring allure of tourism in Varanasi. Whether you're drawn by faith, history, or the quest for inner peace, exploring Varanasi promises an experience that resonates deeply and lingers long after the journey ends.