Varanasi walking tour & city guide
The sacred city of ghats on the Ganges.
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Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and the holiest city in Hinduism. Along the Ganges, stone steps called ghats lead down to the water, where pilgrims bathe, pray and cremate their dead.
The ghats
More than 80 ghats line the river. Every evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat, priests perform the Ganga Aarti, a ceremony of fire, bells and chanting. A boat ride at sunrise shows the city waking up. Manikarnika Ghat is the main cremation ground, where respectful behavior is essential.
Old city and Sarnath
Behind the ghats, the narrow lanes of the old city are full of temples, shrines, cows and sweet shops. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the holiest. Sarnath, 10 kilometers away, is where the Buddha gave his first sermon.
Top sights in Varanasi
- 1
Dashashwamedh Ghat
The main ghat and evening Aarti.
- 2
Sunrise boat ride
The ghats from the river.
- 3
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
A holy Hindu temple.
- 4
Assi Ghat
A lively ghat with morning rituals.
- 5
Sarnath
Where the Buddha first taught.
Food markets & where to eat in Varanasi
Old city lanes
Sweet shops and kachori stalls.
Assi Ghat area
Cafés by the river.
Godowlia Market
Street food and chaat.
Food to try in Varanasi
Banarasi paan
Betel leaf with sweet fillings.
Kachori sabzi
A spicy breakfast.
Malaiyo
A frothy saffron milk dessert in winter.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Varanasi
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in VaranasiCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Varanasi.
- eSIM for IndiaStay online from the moment you land.
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