As Varanasi is a holy city, most of its tourist places comprise of temples and ghats (holy river banks).
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The temple is one of the top tourist attractions in Varanasi. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the twelve Jyotir Lingas. Almost 3000 devotees visit this temple every day. No electronic gadgets like mobile and camera are allowed inside the temple.
Kaal Bhairav Temple
Kaal Bhairav is a fearsome manifestation of Lord Shiva and it is believed that Kaal Bhairava guards the Kashi city. It is a must to visit the Kaal Bhairav Temple after the visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Tulsi Manas Temple
Tulsi Manas Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. This is the same place where Tulsidas had written the epic, 'Shri Ram Charit Manas'. The walls of this temple are beautifully decorated with the verses and scenes from this epic.
Banaras Hindu University
Banaras Hindu University is among the largest residential universities in Asia and is spread across 1,300 acres of land. It is a good experience to explore the beautiful campus.
Sankat Mochan Temple
Sankat Mochan Temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Varanasi. There is a huge rush of devotees in the temple on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Dasaswamedh Ghat
Dasaswamedh Ghat is among the oldest and the holiest ghats of Varanasi. Lots of religious rites are performed on this ghat. During the time of Aarti in evening, this ghat is lit up with thousands of earthen lamps floating on the water of Ganges, a beautiful sight which should not be missed.
Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika ghat is the ghat where most of the dead bodies are cremated in Varanasi and that is the reason why it is also known as the ‘Burning Ghat’. It is believed that cremating the dead body at this ghat will free the soul of the dead from the cycle of life and death.
The list of temples and other tourist attractions in Varanasi is endless and includes Panchganga Ghat, Ram Nagar Fort, Man Mandir Observatory, Durga Temple, Alamagir Mosque and Nepali Hindu temple. Early morning boat ride on Ganga and dip in the river’s holy waters are the refreshing activities.