The Ultimate Varanasi Travel Guide: Best Places To Visit, Eat In & Stay At

By Train: Varanasi has two major railway stations, Varanasi Junction and Mughal Sarai Junction both of which are well-linked to major cities through their extensive rail networks.

By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport or Varanasi Airport is located at a distance of just 18 kilometres from the city. It'ss linked to most major Indian cities like Delhi, Ahmedabad, Khajuraho, Kolkata, Pune, Mumbai and Agra.

By Road: Varanasi is well-connected by road with cities in UP like Allahabad, Lucknow, Patna, Gorakhpur and Ranchi in case you are considering to travel by road.

The ghats are where all the magic unfolds and there are over 80 ghats in the city including Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat. Ganga aarti at the ghats is one of the most important rituals in the city and Assi Ghat is the best place to witness it. In the evening, the entire ghat is illuminated with diyas and lights as the priests chant prayers—it's a treat for the soul. Other than that, you can also be a part of the yoga community that comes together at the ghat every morning.

Timings: Though the ghat is open 24 hours, refer to the Ganga aarti timings below in case you wish to attend the aarti.

The Ganga aarti takes place twice a day, morning (5 AM to 7 AM) and evening (7 PM onwards). If you'd just like to sit by a ghat and take in the view without all the bustle, visit some of the lesser-known ghats such as Scindia Ghat or Kedar Ghat.

Quietly resting on the eastern banks of River Ganga, opposite the Tulsi Ghat, is Ramnagar Fort, an 18th-century sandstone fort and palace. This majestic cream-coloured fort reflects the best of Mughal architecture with decorated courtyards, elaborate halls, beautiful fountains, and carved balconies. The fort also has a museum in its vicinity brimming with a rare collection of vintage automobiles, antique weapons, medieval costumes, and a huge astronomical clock. More importantly, the sunset from here looks splendid!

Timings: 10 AM - 5 PM

To enjoy the best of a sightseeing experience, head to Sarnath. Located just 10 km away from the city, the village is among the most famous Buddhist pilgrimages in India. When here, you must visit the Dhamek Stupa which is a massive stone and brick structure built around 1,500 years ago. You can also make your way to the Sarnath Museum to see the Lion Capital of Ashoka, visit the Tibetan Temple, and finally go to the main market for some shopping and munching before heading back to the city.

Timings: 8 AM - 6 PM

Varanasi is home to a bunch of temples that attract several devotees all year round. One of the most famous temples is the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, situated on the western banks of the Ganga. While the temple is a collection of smaller shrines, the main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva. With intricate carvings and heavy gold plating on its tower, the temple is simply stunning.

Timings: 3 AM - 11 PM

LBB Tip: If word is to be believed, there are over 3,000 temples in the city and you can also pay a visit to the Tibetan Temple, New Vishwanath Temple, Nepali Temple, and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.

The Alamgir Mosque is a magnificent structure built by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th century. Situated near the Panchganga Ghat, the mosque is an architectural marvel representing Indo-Islamic style with its beautiful minarets and high domes.

Timings: 5 AM - 9 PM

Visiting Varanasi and not shopping in its hidden lanes and alleys is a crime. The city is known to produce the finest Banarasi silk and one of the best places to score fabric material and sarees is Godowlia Market. The market surrounds the Vishwanath temple and is one of the oldest markets in the city. You will find everything here—from fine silk and brocade fabrics to famous Bhadohi carpets with intricate work. We recommend putting your bargaining skills to work and shopping your heart out.

Timings: 9:30 AM - 10:30 PM

LBB Tip: When shopping here, do not miss out on the amazing street food available in every corner.

When in Banaras, dine like royalty at Canton Royale. As a part of Hotel Surya, this one is a high-end restaurant that has warm royal interiors that display unmatched colonial elegance. The menu features multiple-course meal options with a mix of North Indian, Continental, and Mediterranean dishes.

Timings: 11 AM - 11 PM

Cost For Two: INR 1,500 (approx)

Must Try: Chicken Pesto Panini, Pizza Taka Tak, Dal Kabila and Angoori Kofta

Zomato Rating: 4.2/5

If you are in the mood for a wholesome, home-like vegetarian meal, look no further than Shree Shivay. This restaurant strives to represent the best of Indian food culture and offers a number of dishes in one thali. The extensive menu here features dishes from various regions across India. A vibrant ambience complementing the delicious food makes for a great dining experience.

Timings: 10 AM - 11 PM

Cost For Two: INR 600 (approx)

Must Try: The 8 and 5 compartment thalis obviously

Zomato Rating: 4.3/5

Situated in the heart of Varanasi, inside Stay Banaras, this restaurant offers the best of Continental, Chinese, and Indian dishes with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of dishes, from classic comfort food to traditional favourites with creative twists, and a selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails. We like how the restaurant is beautifully designed in a laid-back outdoor setting.

Timings:  10 AM - 10 PM

Cost For Two: INR 1,100 (approx)

Must Try: Veg Quesadilla, Cappuccino, Cheesecake, Pasta, and Pizza

Zomato Rating: 4.5/5

The city is known for its amazing street food and Kashi Chat Bhandar at Godowlia Chowk is your one-stop shop for the best chaat in Varanasi. Dahi Chaat, Tamatar Chaat, Aloo Chaat, and much more—the sheer spread of different varieties of chaat at this stall is what makes it unique. Arguably one of the best restaurants in the city, you can go here for a quick bite between stops.

Timings:  AM - PM

Cost For Two: INR 200 (approx)

Must Try: Banarasi Chaat, Dahi Puri, Basket Chat, Palak Chat and Golgappa

Zomato Rating: 4.6/5

Nawab Ki Deohri is a 200-year-old heritage villa converted into a boutique homestay in the heart of downtown Varanasi. Featuring a balcony with garden views, a garden, and a terrace, the place is known for its A+ hospitality. It is located close to the railway station and the Manikarnika Ghat is just 2 km away from here.

Google Rating: 4.6/5

Surrounded by 12 acres of landscaped gardens, Taj Ganges is one of the most well-known hotels in the city. The fine dining restaurants here serve international cuisines as well as delicious thalis inspired by the produce from their own organic garden. Here, you can also relax and rejuvenate with one of their spa therapies. Plus, the hotel is just 4.5 km away from Manikarnika Ghat.

Google Rating: 4.5/5

If you are looking for a luxury heritage hotel, Brij Rama Palace is the perfect choice. The beautiful palace was built in the 18th century and now functions as a hotel on the banks of the Ganges. The architecture and interiors reflect the classic Maratha style with original artwork and age-old antiques. The hotel also provides options for rooftop yoga, riverside prayer ceremonies, and guided tours.

Google Rating: 4.5/5

Amritara Suryauday Haveli is a renovated 20th-century resort that displays lovely mansion-style architecture. With lavish rooms that look all the more beautiful with chandeliers, your stay here is guaranteed to be super comfy. Plus, the property is located just 2 km away from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and other tourist spots.

Google Rating: 4.3/5

A 60-year-old well-preserved heritage home, Stay Banaras is Varanasi's first bespoke boutique hotel that imbibes a mix of Indian aesthetics with an eclectic contemporary twist. The stay is only 2 km away from the railway station and features a garden, shared lounge, a terrace, and an in-house diner—Behind Yellow Doors.

Google Rating: 4.5/5

Located in Varanasi Cantt, this palace was built by King Kaiser of Nepal in 1818 and was converted into a hotel in 1982. The hotel will leave you enchanted by its grandeur and has entertainment spaces, a full-service spa, restaurants, a bar and cafe, and even a travel agency within its premises.

Google Rating: 4.2/5