Top 10 Places to Visit in Varanasi for First-Time Travellers

India's sacred capital, the city of Varanasi, is a destination that presents an unforgettable mix of ancient tradition, sacred spirituality, and anarchic extravagance. Situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges, the city of immortals is one of the oldest continuously settled places on earth. For the first-timer, to walk in the holy streets and become surrounded by the deep culture can be confusing, but no less captivating.

If it is your first time in this sacred city, continue reading to have your ultimate Varanasi travel guide with top 10 places to visit in Varanasi, carefully selected especially for first-time travellers by Sweet Trip, your preferred travel companion.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Apart from an exception, nothing in Varanasi is purer than Kashi Vishwanath Temple-a Lord Shiva temple. Thousands of pilgrims visit the temple for a holy darshan. The structure and religion itself are an individual experience here, and therefore a no-frills must-see destination.

Sweet Trip Travel Tip: Early morning darshan for a serene darshan and not standing in long queues.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Just behind the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most crowded and vibrant ghat of Varanasi. It conducts the magical Ganga Aarti in the evening, a wonder to see in the shape of incense sticks, fire, and chanting, which tourists as well as locals flock to.

Don't miss: Early morning or sunset boat ride to see the ghats bird's eye view.

Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat, where the Assi River converges into the Ganges River, is a serene haven for lovers of peace. Chanting and yoga mix with the sunrise here to make your day a seamless beginning.

Sweet Trip Tip: Ideal for photos and soaking in the serenity of Varanasi.

Sarnath

It is just 10 km from Varanasi, and it was where Lord Buddha delivered his very first sermon. Observe Buddhist antiquity and architecture in the Dhamek Stupa, the Sarnath Museum, and Mulagandha Kuti Vihar.

Perfect Day Trip: Use a half-day tour by Sweet Trip and visit Sarnath hassle-free.

Manikarnika Ghat

India's holiest cremation ground, the wheel of life and death, is Manikarnika Ghat. A rocky ride for some, the ghat is a dip into the Hindu philosophy of life, death, and rebirth.

Note: Always remain sensitive and respectful.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

One of Asia's largest residential universities, BHU is as much a cultural landmark as it is an educational hub. The campus is punctuated by the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and the beautiful New Vishwanath Temple.

Sweet Trip Tip: Opt for a guided tour that can lead you across the humongous campus more effectively.

Ramnagar Fort

Located across the Ganges River, this 18th-century sandstone fort used to be the palace of the Banaras Maharaja. The fort contains a museum stocked with royal baubles, vintage vehicles, and ancient rifles.

Best Time to Visit: In the evening, when the fort looks majestic in the yellow colours of sunset.

Tulsi Manas Temple

An oblation to Lord Rama, and a literary relic at that, because that's where Tulsidas is said to have composed the Ramcharitmanas. Wall decorations in this temple utilize Ramayana shlokas.

Why Go: Spiritual beauty married to architecture.

Gyanvapi Mosque

Located outside Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Gyanvapi Mosque is a clear indication of the richness of India's heritage. Even though the number of non-tourist sites open to view from near, it is the best instance of the compound cultural heritage of Varanasi.

Local Markets: Vishwanath Gali & Thatheri Bazaar

Your tour is not complete if you have not strolled through the vibrant bazaars of Varanasi. From Banarasi silk sarees and wooden toys to brassware and food street, Varanasi bazaars are heaven for shopaholics.

Sweet Trip Expert Tip: Hire the services of a local guide who will help you negotiate and fetch the best of all.

Bonus Tips for First-Time Travellers

● Best Time to Visit: October to March, when it is pleasant.

● Dress Humble: Especially when heading to the temple and ghats.

● Travel Safely: Hire licensed operators like Sweet Trip to travel safely and get guided tours.

Conclusion

These are the top 10 things to do in Varanasi that give a truer picture of the city's actual nature, from spiritual ghats to royal heritage and spiritual centres. Religion, curiosity, or culture, Varanasi assures leaving an irrevocable imprint on your heart.

For a hassle-free and seamless experience, rely on Sweet Trip, your Varanasi travel guide, car hire, city tour, and personal reviews.