Popular Places to Visit in Varanasi During a Short Trip
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest cities in the world. It is located on the banks of the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh and is a major spiritual and cultural hub of India. Even a short trip to Varanasi can offer a deep experience of tradition, faith and beauty. If you’re planning a quick visit, here are the top places you should not miss.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
This is one of India's most significant temples, and it is all dedicated to Lord Shiva. People from across the country visit here to attain blessings. The temple is never empty but the vibe and passion are an experience. Even if you are not religious, you will like the peaceful atmosphere. It shows you the old culture and traditions of India.
Best time to visit: Early morning for a serene darshan
Tip: Dress in simple attire and do not carry leather items inside
This ghat is the busiest and most popular of all the ghats in Varanasi. It is the central location for the evening Ganga Aarti, which is a ritual that has hundreds of viewers daily. The sight of the aarti with chanting and lampes floating on the river is unforgettable.
Best time to visit: Evening for the Ganga Aarti
Don’t miss: Taking a boat ride before sunset
Just a short drive from the city, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. The site is peaceful and includes a museum, a large stupa and several Buddhist temples. It is a good place for families and history lovers to spend a quiet afternoon.
Top sights: Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, Thai and Japanese temples
Ideal for: Short half-day trips
One of the country's oldest cremation ghats, this is an unusual and emotional place. Not a tourist site in the traditional sense, but it provides an unvarnished look at how life and death are regarded in Hinduism. Be polite and stand back.
Why visit: Learn about the cultural view of death and rebirth
Note: Avoid photography here
5. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
BHU is Asia's largest residential university and has a serene and green campus. You can also explore the New Vishwanath Temple from within, which is accessible to everyone. The place is less touristy and ideal for a peaceful visit.
Must-see top picks: New Vishwanath Temple, Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
Tip: Ideal location for photography and peaceful strolls
6. Local Markets and Street Food
Don't miss the street food of the city. From kachoris and jalebis to Banarasi paan, the taste is rich and exceptional. Godowlia and Thatheri Bazaar are good places to shop for silk sarees, brassware and souvenirs.
Try these: Tamatar chaat, lassi, thandai
Shop at: Godowlia Market, Thatheri Bazaar
Travel Comfortably with Us
To make the most of your short trip to Varanasi, it’s important to travel comfortably between places. With Tempo Traveller in Varanasi, you get the benefit of moving with your group without the hassle of changing cabs or dealing with traffic alone. At Ac Tempo Traveller Hire, we offer well-maintained tempo travellers for families, friends and pilgrims across India.
Our drivers know the local routes well and ensure your journey is smooth and on time. Whether it’s airport pickup, a full-day city tour or an outstation visit to Sarnath, we are here to serve you. Let your Varanasi trip be peaceful and well-managed with Ac Tempo Traveller Hire.