Ultimate travel guide to Varanasi: What to see and do in 2 days

Who remembers the famous heart-breaking scene, 'Yeh dukh kahe khatam nahi hota..' from the movie 'Masaan,' or the melodious songs from the iconic movie 'Raanjhanaa'? Both movies are set in the sacred city of Varanasi and capture its essence perfectly, instantly teleporting the viewers to this holy city. Undoubtedly, Bollywood has a special place for Varanasi in its heart, and so do we!

The ancient city of Varanasi is situated on the northern banks of the Ganges, where its two tributaries- Varuna and Assi, form the city’s boundaries. Interestingly, this is how Varanasi got its name. Varanasi is renowned for its classical music and dance gharana, intricately designed Banarasi sarees, rich collections of Hindi and Sanskrit literature and the iconic Banarsi Paan of course!

If you're planning to visit this city of temples, our ultimate Varanasi travel guide is all you need. We’ve got you covered with everything from the best time to visit, transportation tips, top tourist attractions, shopping markets and best food places in Varanasi

Best time to visit Varanasi:

The holy city of Varanasi looks majestic in any season and you can visit it anytime throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is October-March.

October and November- This is a good time to visit Varanasi, as the monsoon rains subside and winter approaches, making the weather pleasant with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 30°C. This is also the festival season, allowing the visitors to experience the famous Dev Deepavali (festival of lights) of Varanasi.

December and January- This is the peak winter and tourist season in Varanasi. The weather is misty and chilly, with the temperature ranging from 9°C - 22°C.

February and March- This is a good time to visit Varanasi. The weather during these months is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring the city’s charm.

Top 5 must visit places in Varanasi

Varanasi is a separate world of its own with endless places to explore. From the vibrant temples to sacred ghats, every lane of Varanasi welcomes travellers with open arms. It’s tough to pick just 5 best places to visit but if you are here for about 2 days, this guide is perfect for you. If you have more time, check out these offbeat places as well. Here are our recommendations for the top 5 places to visit in Varanasi.

1. Kashi Vishwanath temple

Situated on the western banks of the holy Ganga river, Kashi Vishwanath temple is one of the 12 jyoti rlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The present temple was finally rebuilt by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore in 1780. Famously known as “the golden temple”, this temple looks absolutely magnificent with its golden plated dome and spire. Devotees can visit the temple anytime during 4am-11pm and for a magical experience, it is recommended to attend one of the aartis held at various times throughout the day. If you wish to visit more temples, check out this detailed guide.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Entrance

2. Dashashwamedh ghat

Dashshwamedh ghat is one of the oldest and the most sacred ghats in Varanasi. Attending the Ganga aarti here at dusk is a magical experience you just cannot miss! Just 10 mins walking distance from the Kashi Vishwanath temple, this ghat is always bustling with devotees and tourists. The ghat is very famous for conducting religious rituals and hands down, one of the must visit places in Varanasi. Visit the Dashashwamedh ghat at sunset time and witness the holy river bathed in the hues of yellow and orange – truly a sight to behold!

Ganga Aarti magic at Dashashwamedh Ghat

3. Assi Ghat

Located in the south of Varanasi at the confluence of the Holy Ganga and Assi rivers, Assi ghat is one of the most popular ghats of the city and therefore, it is believed that taking a dip at Assi ghat is very holy. There is a lingam of Lord Shiva at Assi Ghat, which is kept under the Peepal tree and is always flooded with pilgrims and tourists. One of the best times to visit the ghat is early in the morning during the magical Subah-e-Banaras aarti. Experience the serene boat ride in the Ganges at the Assi ghat and get some Instagram-worthy pictures.

4. Ramnagar fort

Located near the eastern banks of Ganges, Ramnagar fort was built by Raja Balwant Singh in the 18th century, who was king of Varanasi at that time. Constructed entirely in sandstone, Ramnagar fort is an incredible example of Mughal architecture, making it one of the must visit places in Varanasi. To visit this magnificent fort, tourists have to take a 30 min boat ride from the Assi Ghat, as it is on the outskirts of Varanasi.

Stairway to Grandeur Ramnagar Fort 

5. Bharat Kala Bhavan museum

Located within the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) complex, Bharat Kala Bhavan museum is a famous art and cultural museum and one of the must visit places in Varanasi. Established in the 1920s, Bharat Kala Bhavan museum is one of the oldest museums in India, making it a paradise for history and art lovers. This museum has more than a lakh artefacts which have historical importance. The painting gallery of this museum is particularly beautiful with well-curated paintings from the Mughal courts. Apart from all the art and paintings, there is also a section specially dedicated to the rich collection of Banarasi sarees, which is absolutely unmissable!

Best food places in Varanasi

Apart from its spiritual significance, the holy city of Varanasi is widely popular for its street food. To be honest, the street food scene here is so exceptional that it doesn't really matter where you eat. However, we've handpicked five must visit places in Varanasi you shouldn't miss!

1. Deena Chat Bhandar

Situated just a 5-mins drive from the famous Dashashwamedh ghat, Deena Chat Bhandar is one of the best food places in Varanasi when it comes to vegetarian street food. Started in the late '60s, Deena Chat Bhandar offers a variety of sweet and savoury dishes. It is widely popular for its Tamatar chaat, Kulfi falooda, Tikki chole, Choora matar and dahi kachori. Deena Chat Bhandar is always flooded with not just the locals, but even the celebrity chefs such as Sanjeev Kapoor and Ranveer Brar have visited this iconic food place. Make sure to add Deena Chat Bhandar to your must-visit list on your next trip to Varanasi.

Deena Chaat Bhandar (Credits- instagram deena_chat_bhandar)

2. Blue Lassi

Located right at the Kachori Gali, Blue lassi is hands down the most Instagrammable lassi shop in Varanasi. The shop has bright blue walls which have passport size photos of those who have visited this shop. You can bring a spare photo of yours to add to the shop’s collection. This iconic 70-year-old shop offers an extensive range of around 100 types of lassi. The thick, creamy lassi is topped with fresh seasonal fruits and comes in flavours like chocolate, blueberry and strawberry.

Vibrant interior of Blue lassi store (travellingcamera.com)

3. Chachi ki Dukaan

Just a 3-minute drive away from the famous Assi Ghat, Chachi ki Dukaan is one of the best food places in Varanasi popular for its delicious kachoris-sabzi and jalebis. As the name suggests, originally managed by an elderly aunty lovingly known as Chachi, the shop is now run by her sons. This small shop, much like other old shops in the city, doesn't have a signboard, but everyone knows it. Visitors flock here for the hot, crisp kachoris served fresh and served with syrup, prepared right before their eyes.

4. Ramchandra Chaurasia Tambul Bhandar

When the legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan said, "Khaike Paan Banaras wala, khul jaye band akal ka tala," you know it’s an experience you simply can’t miss! For an authentic paan experience in Varanasi, visit Ramchandra Chaurasia Tambul Bhandar, an iconic shop popular for its flavorful paans for over 50 years. They offer a wide range of flavours, with the most popular being chocolate paan, kesar paan, navaratna paan, and Banarasi chaman bahar paan. Interestingly, the demand for their paans is so high that they also export their flavoured paans to various countries. Isn't that crazy?

Banarasi pan

5. Shree ji ki malaiyo

Shree Ji Sweet and milk shop is almost a 100-year-old legendary place widely popular for its iconic winter-special dessert, Malaiyo. This dessert is made from milk flavoured with saffron and pistachio. Made at low temperatures using a special method, Malaiyo is incredibly light and has a unique cloudy texture that melts in your mouth. This iconic shop has preserved Malaiyo’s original recipe, making it a must-visit place in Varanasi for anyone wanting to taste authentic local desserts..

Malaiyo from Varanasi (Image source- krazybutterfly.com)

Best markets in Varanasi

After exploring the city's prominent attractions and indulging in some delicious street food, you should definitely visit the vibrant markets of Varanasi. You can find anything and everything in these markets, from clothes, accessories and footwear to handicrafts, idols and gift items.
We've curated a list of the best markets in Varanasi that every shopaholic needs to know about.

1. Godowlia Market

Situated right at the bustling Dashashwamedh Road, Godowlia market is one of the best markets in Varanasi. This market has some of the oldest shops in the town and is quite popular for its home decor, household and handicraft items. If you are looking for day-to-day items on a budget, this is the perfect place for you. Not only does it attract tourists from all across the world, but it is also the most loved market amongst the locals for the wide variety of goods.

2. Rajan Silk market 

Banaras aake world famous Banarasi Sarees khareedna is an experience you absolutely must have! To be honest, you can buy these intricately designed sarees from literally any market in Varanasi. But if you want the real deal then do visit Ranjan Silk market here . Situated just 4 mins drive from the Kashi Vishwanath temple, this market is where you’ll find the otherwise expensive Banarasi Sarees at a wholesale price. One of the highlights of Rajan silk market is you’ll get a wide range of the finest hand-woven sarees here.

Intricate artistry

3. Vishwanath Lane 

Just 15 minutes away from the Varanasi railway station, Vishwanath market is one of the busiest markets in the entire Varanasi city. Though smaller in size than the Godowlia market, it has more variety to offer. Vishwanath Lane is the right place for you if you want to buy jewellery items- both funky and classic, wooden toys and high-quality textiles. Vishwanath Market is particularly famous for its beautifully designed bangles and dupattas. And, if you have the skills, bargain with local shopkeepers and get products for half the price.

4. Thatheri Bazaar

One of the prominent and best markets of Varanasi, Thateri Bazaar is well-known for religious artefacts made of copper metal. It is also the only area in Varanasi where you can buy special antique items with some intricate and decorative stonework. Thateri Bazaar is also popular for its silk and brocades.

Copper craftsmanship on display (travelandleisureasia.com)

5. Gol ghar

Gol ghar is one of the biggest markets in Varanasi and probably the only place in the city where you can find a wide variety of unique gift items. Just 6 minute drive from the Kashi Vishwanath temple, Gol ghar literally means round house and is named after its structure. You can also get intricately designed footwear at an affordable price.

How to reach Varanasi?

By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport of Varanasi is well connected to most of the major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Goa and Bangalore. From the airport, you can easily get a cab to reach the main city which is just 30 mins away.

By Train: The city has a railway station, Varanasi Junction, which is one of the busiest railway stations in Uttar Pradesh. A number of trains from major cities like Mumbai, Patna, Lucknow, Surat, and Hyderabad connect to Varanasi, making it easily accessible by rail.

By Road: Varanasi has great road connectivity with cities like Delhi, Allahabad, Lucknow, Patna, Gorakhpur, and Ranchi, if one wishes to come by personal vehicle or private cabs. Both private and state buses to Varanasi run from these cities.

Where to stay?

Now that you know all the best places to explore in Varanasi, why not start planning your next trip to this holy city? Explore the narrow, colourful maze-like lanes, ancient temples, bustling markets and historic ghats to get a glimpse into Varanasi's everlasting spiritual aura. And if you're road-tripping through Uttar Pradesh, consider making a pitstop at The Hosteller Agra and The Hosteller Delhi . Our beautiful hostels offer affordable accommodation in prime locations. There are plenty of accommodation options in Varanasi such as hotels, budgeted and luxury both, guest houses, hostels and ashrams.

The Hosteller Agra

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Varanasi famous for?

Varanasi, also called Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest cities in the world and has a significant importance in Hinduism. This sacred city is known for its ghats, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and its beautiful silk Banarasi sarees.

2. How can I experience the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?

The Ganga Aarti takes place every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat which usually starts at 6:45 PM and lasts for about an hour. It is advisable to arrive early to get the best spots. You can book a boat ride on the Ganges, which offers a stunning view of the Aarti from the river.

3. Is it safe to swim in the Ganges at Varanasi?

Although taking a holy dip in the River Ganges is considered sacred, it is not recommended to swim because the river is very polluted, especially in Uttar Pradesh. Visitors should be careful and avoid fully immersing themselves in the water.

4. What should I wear while visiting temples and ghats in Varanasi?

It is advisable to wear modest clothing when visiting temples and ghats to respect the local culture. Both men and women should consider wearing clothes that cover their legs and shoulders. Avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless clothes as it is considered inappropriate.

5. Is it safe to travel to Varanasi alone?

Varanasi is generally safe for solo travellers, but like any other tourist destination, it's important to stay vigilant, avoid isolated areas after dark and keep your belongings secure

6. What are some of the best places to visit near Varanasi?

There are many cities near Varanasi that are worth exploring. The best places to visit near Varanasi include Dhamek Stupa in Sarnath, Chunar Fort in Mirzapur, Akshayvat in Prayagraj, Ram mandir in Ayodhya, Rumi Darwaza in Lucknow and so on.