Varanasi is not just a city you visit; it is the place you survive and fall in love with. This is the place where you can witness the unreal coexistence of death and celebration. We found Varanasi to have an incredible energy. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience, then you are at the right place.
If you are a first-time visitor, this is for you. In this guide, you will know about the best places to visit in Varanasi in 2 days and all the best things you can do in Varanasi. So, let us process further.
Table Of Contents -
- About Varanasi – India’s Holy City
- Attractions & Things To Do in Varanasi
- Ghats of Varanasi
- ‘Burning’ Ghats
- Must-See Ghats of Varanasi
- Sunrise Boat Ride
- Evening Ganga Aarti
- Sadhus of Varanasi
- Temples
- Back and Side Streets
- Varanasi Street Art
- Getting Around Varanasi
- Sarnath – The Place Where Buddhism Began
- Sarnath Stupa Complex
- Mulagandha Kuti Vihara
- Archeological Museum
- Varanasi Practical Information & Useful Advice
- Phil and Garth’s Top 5 Varanasi Tips
- Varanasi FAQs
- Varanasi Costs
Introduction to Varanasi- India’a Oldest City
Welcome to the heart of the Hindu faith, where mortals seek liberation. Millions of pilgrims visit here once in their lifetime. Are you planning your trip and searching for the best things to do in Varanasi? We can assure you are going to experience something very unique and enthusiastic here.
Varanasi is not just a destination; it’s a place where every moment feels alive, whether it’s early morning prayers or evening rituals by the river.
However, for many travelers, the first day feels a little overwhelming. But by the second day, you start understanding the rhythm of the city. So instead of giving you a random list, let’s walk through what actually matters and what you’ll truly experience.
Read our previous blog, “Where to Stay in Varanasi: What First-Time Visitors Get Wrong”
Attractions & Things To Do in Varanasi
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Varanasi, start with visiting the ghats, attending the Ganga Aarti, taking a sunrise boat ride, exploring temples, and walking through the old streets. These experiences give you a complete and real feel of the city in a short time.
Ghats of Varanasi
The ghats are the most breathtaking places in Varanasi, where everything happens. From early morning rituals to evening gatherings, this is where you will see:
- People praying
- Locals bathing
- Visitors observing quietly
Walking along the ghats, especially early morning or evening, is something you’ll remember for a long time.
Burning Ghats
Ghats like Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat are known for cremation rituals. This can feel intense, especially if it’s your first time. But many travelers later say this experience gave them a different perspective on life, very calm, very accepting. Just be respectful and observe quietly.
Must-See Ghats of Varanasi
Focus on the following if you are short on time.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: Lively, crowded, full of energy.
- Assi Ghat: Peaceful, relaxed, great for mornings.
- Manikarnika Ghat: Deep spiritual importance.
Each ghat feels different. You should definitely try to experience at least two.
Sunrise Boat Ride
“Sunrise Boat Ride” is one of the most recommended things to do in Varanasi. The city has a completely different vibe in the early morning. You can see;
- Soft sunlight on the river
- Priests performing rituals
- Calm and peaceful atmosphere
Short tip: Go just before sunrise for the best experience. It’s quiet, less crowded, and truly beautiful.
Evening Ganga Arti
The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most powerful experiences here. You can experience:
- Sound of bells
- Fire rituals
- Devotional chants
However, it can get very crowded, so:
- Reach early
- Or watch from a boat for a better view
Sadhus Of Varanasi
You’ll notice sadhus around temples and ghats. Some are deeply spiritual, while others interact more with visitors. A simple piece of advice for you:
- Be respectful
- Ask before taking photos
- Don’t feel pressured to give money
Temples
Among all temples, the most important one is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. This temple is one of the most sacred places for Lord Shiva devotees. Here, you can expect:
- Security checks
- Long queues (especially during peak time)
Short Tip: Visit early morning for a smoother experience.
Back and Side Streets
Honestly, this is where you will feel true Varanasi. It may feel confusing at first, but just walk slowly, and you will discover a lot.
- Narrow lanes
- Small shops
- Local chai stalls
- Street food
Varanasi Street Art
In some parts of the city, you’ll see colorful murals and paintings. It’s a nice contrast, an ancient city with a modern artistic touch. You will see that most artworks are painted on the walls at the top of the ghats.
Getting Around Varanasi
Let’s keep this practical. Choosing the right stay location really helps. When you book the best hotels near Assi Ghat, best hotels near Marniakrnika Ghat, or best hotels near Harishchandra Ghat, you can easily take auto and e-rickshaws every time and reach your destination within minutes. For you:
- Autos and e-rickshaws are easily available
- Walking is often the best option near ghats
- Traffic can be slow in busy areas
Sarnath- The Place Where Buddhism Began
Sarnath is one of the world’s 4th holiest cities for Buddhists. It’s 30 minutes from Varanasi. This is where Buddha gave his first sermon. If Varanasi feels too busy, this place gives you a break. The remains of Sarnath and a couple of other attractions are all within walking distance of each other. It’s a busy location with lots of stalls on the roads.
Sarnath Stupa Complex: The Dhamek Stupa is the main attraction.
- Historical importance
- Calm environment
- Great for slow exploration
Mulagandha Kuti Vihara: A peaceful temple with beautiful murals. This is the perfect place if you want a quiet moment.
Archeological Museum: If you enjoy history, this place has important ancient artifacts. Not very crowded, so you can explore peacefully.
Varanasi Practical Information & Useful Advice
Let’s be honest with you. Varanasi is not like a typical tourist city where everything feels smooth and organized. And that’s exactly why many first-time visitors feel a bit overwhelmed in the beginning.
But don’t worry, once you understand a few things, your experience becomes much better. Here are some real, practical tips that will actually help you:
Expect a Bit of Chaos (It’s Normal):
Varanasi is busy, crowded, and full of narrow lanes
At first, it might feel confusing. But give it a few hours. You will slowly adjust and start enjoying it.
Start Your Day Early:
Mornings in Varanasi are completely different from the rest of the day, less crowded, peaceful ghats, better experience at temples. So, if you wake up early, you will enjoy the city much more.
Don’t Overplan Your Day:
A common mistake travelers make is that they try to cover everything in one day. This usually leads to tiredness, stress, and missing the real experience. Instead, keep your plan light and flexible.
Be Careful in Narrow Lanes:
The old city area has very narrow streets. It is easy to get lost, not suitable for cars, and crowded during peak hours
Short Tip: Use landmarks or maps, and don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions.
Dress Simple and Respectfully:
Since Varanasi is a spiritual place. Wear comfortable and modest clothes, especially when visiting temples. This helps you feel more comfortable and respectful.
Keep Small Cash Handy:
Not every place accepts digital payments (small shops, local vendors, rickshaws, etc). Keeping cash saves time and avoids hassle.
Choose Your Stay Location Carefully:
This is very important, especially when you’re exploring different things to do in Varanasi. Many travelers focus only on price or distance, especially when searching for the best hotels near Varanasi Temple.
But here’s what really matters:
- Easy access (very important in Varanasi)
- Comfortable rooms
- Peace after a long day
Stay Calm and Open-Minded: Varanasi is all about experience. Things may not always go as planned, but that’s part of the journey. If you stay relaxed, you can actually enjoy it more.
Additionally, if you are unsure, you can also read our detailed guide on Where to Stay in Varanasi to compare locations better.
Where to Stay in Varanasi (Important)
While exploring all these things to do in Varanasi, your stay matters more than you think. Many people search for the best hotels near Varanasi Temple, thinking that closer is always better. But from our experience at Hotel Arya:
- Easy access matters more than exact distance
- Comfort matters after a long day
- A peaceful room makes your trip better
You can also explore:
Book Your Stay Now
Rooms fill fast due to high demand near the temple area. Make your family trip to Varanasi special with Hotel Arya. Enjoy easy access to major attractions, homely comforts, and warm hospitality that stays with you long after you leave.
Varanasi FAQs (Helpful Answers for First-Time Visitors)
What are the best things to do in Varanasi?
The best things to do in Varanasi include visiting the ghats, attending the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, taking a sunrise boat ride, exploring Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and walking through the old streets. These experiences give you a complete feel of the city’s culture and spirituality.
Is 2 days enough to explore Varanasi?
Yes, 2 days are enough to experience the main highlights of Varanasi, including temple visits, Ganga Aarti, and a boat ride. However, planning your stay location properly is important so you don’t waste time traveling and can cover everything comfortably.
What should first-time visitors not miss in Varanasi?
First-time visitors should not miss the evening Ganga Aarti, a sunrise boat ride, visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and exploring the ghats. These are the most meaningful and memorable experiences that define Varanasi.
Is Varanasi safe for tourists?
Varanasi is generally safe for tourists, including families and solo travelers. Like any busy city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and keep your belongings secure in crowded places.
When is the best time to visit Varanasi?
The best time to visit Varanasi is between October and March, when the weather is more comfortable for exploring. Early mornings and evenings are the best times of the day to visit ghats and temples.
Should I stay near the ghats in Varanasi?
Staying near the ghats can be convenient, but choosing a place that is easy to access is more important. Many travelers look for the best hotels near Varanasi Temple, but a well-connected and comfortable location often provides a better overall experience.
Is Sarnath worth visiting during a Varanasi trip?
Yes, Sarnath is definitely worth visiting. Located near Varanasi, it offers a peaceful environment and historical importance as the place where Buddha gave his first sermon, making it a great addition to your trip.
What are some common mistakes travelers make in Varanasi?
Common mistakes include trying to cover too many places in one day, choosing hotels based only on price, and ignoring accessibility. Planning a balanced itinerary and selecting a comfortable stay can make your trip much smoother
Final Thoughts
If you are planning your trip and exploring the best things to do in Varanasi, then you should know it is not about doing everything, but experiencing the right things, in the right way. Some of our guests arrive with long checklists, but the ones who take their time, keep their plans simple, and stay somewhere that makes their travel easy, enjoy Varanasi the most.
Because honestly, after a full day of:
- Visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Attending Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Walking through busy streets and ghats
What you really need is a place where you can relax without stress. Know more about us at our website, Hotel Arya.
Book Your Stay Now
Rooms fill fast due to high demand near the temple area. Make your family trip to Varanasi special with Hotel Arya. Enjoy easy access to major attractions, homely comforts, and warm hospitality that stays with you long after you leave.
