The center of the action in Varanasi is the Banaras Ghats, a series of huge steps that lead to the Ganges. In the morning, believers descend the stairs to wash off their sins with holy water, and in the evening they return for fire-fired prayer ceremonies.

Would you like to make the most of your stay in the “City of Lights”? Check out our list of the best things to do in Varanasi.

Note: It may be possible that some businesses may be temporarily closed due to current global health and safety concerns.

1) Sunset view over Varanasi from the Ganges

The Ganges, named after the Hindu goddess Ganges, is one of the most valued natural sites in India. The river flows southeast from the Himalayas north to the Bay of Bengal. Approx. 600 million people depend on the holy Ganges’s water for bathing and drinking every day.

Hindus from all over the world come to Varanasi to purify themselves in the waters of the holy Ganges. For tourists, the river provides a fixed point of reference for navigating the city and you are sure to spend a lot of time sightseeing and life around the holy Ganges.

To taking a sunrise cruise along the river you need to wake up early. You can hire one of the myriad boatmen that can be found along the Ghats.

In the late afternoon, one of the best things to do in Varanasi is to buy a small floating offering with fresh flowers and a candle and drop it into the holy Ganges. This wonderful experience will connect you even more deeply with Hindu culture and will remain in your memory for many years to come.

2) Dasaswamedh Ghat

Dasaswamedh Ghat’s lively atmosphere makes it one of the finest places to visit in Varanasi. This tourist attraction is a mish-mash of flower sellers selling colorful flowers, boat drivers offering rides on the Ganges, and holy men (sadhus). This is an area where people can watch for hours during the day.

Hindu priests perform the Ganga Aarti every evening from 7 p.m. in the Dasaswamedh Ghat. Dressed in saffron robes, the priests distribute plates with flower petals and other offerings and blow a Sankh (conch shell) which signal the beginning of the spiritual ceremony. Thousands of tourists gather to watch priests sing and wave for about 45 minutes in intricate patterns staggered plates of incense sticks scented with sandalwood.

Recommendation –When you want to visit the Ghat the make sure that you reach to the ghat at least a few hours early if you want to beat the crowd and find a good venue for the show. You can also enjoy breathtaking views from the boats along the river or from the balconies of the shops above the ghat.How to Reach: Dasaswamedh Ghat Road, Bangali Tola, Varanasi.

3) Assi Ghat

Ganga Aarti to Assi Ghat

When it comes to famous spots in Varanasi, the city’s southernmost main ghat regularly tops the list. The main attraction of Assi Ghat is a Shiva lingam (phallic representation of the Hindu deity) under a sacred fig tree. It attracts hundreds of pilgrims every day who come to worship Shiva after washing up in the Ganges.

Do you feel a little stiff from traveling? Take a stroll through Assi Ghat at sunrise when you can have your dog descend with dozens of others for morning yoga with daily live music. Tourists can also see another performance of Ganga Aarti here at night, which is slightly smaller and more intimate than Dasaswamedh Ghat’s.

4) Manikarnika Ghat

Burning pyre in Manikarnika Ghat

Columns of smoke swirl skyward at Manikarnika Ghat. No, it doesn’t come from a factory, it’s eternal cremations that take place in this ghat. Hindus believe that Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most suitable places for the deceased to perform moksha (liberation from the cycle of spiritual rebirth). The pyre of this ghat burns 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with a hundred cremations a day.

Priests or guides are often offered to show tourists around the fascinating ghat, but some can be aggressive in soliciting money. You can see doms (members of an untouchable caste) carrying corpses wrapped in cloth on makeshift stretchers, as well as stacks of firewood ready to light the pyre.

Of course, for a fee you also have the opportunity to see a cremation up close. Although profound, the experience is not for the faint of heart, nor is it a tourist attraction in the traditional sense. Know your limits, be respectful, and avoid taking photos of funerals, those in mourning, and those who have passed away.

Tip: If you’re interested in ritual cremations but can’t stand the thought of seeing them up close, consider stopping at Manikarnika Ghat on a boat trip on the Ganges. The distance dampens the effect while also giving tourists an idea of ​​what is going on in this important place.

5) Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Hindu pilgrims and tourists travel thousands of kilometers to reach Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a sacred attraction about four kilometers from Varanasi Junction Station near Manikarnika Ghat. The impressive building, which is dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, has earned the nickname “Golden Temple” because of its striking tip, clad with around 800 kilograms of pure gold. The distinctive design of this temple has inspired the architecture of hundreds of other temples across India.

Strict security measures around the resort require tourists to keep their cameras, phones, bags, and other items in an inexpensive locker nearby. Expect to take off your shoes and line up with hundreds of other visitors, all eager to touch Shiva’s lingam, which is two feet tall, on a silver altar. It’s an intense but rewarding experience

Tip: Avoid this attraction on Hindu holidays when worshipers line up for up to two full days to enter the temple.

6) Banaras Hindu University

New Vishwanath Temple at Banaras Hindu University

The Hindu University of Banaras has been a central part of Varanasi’s identity since its inception in 1916. The highly regarded public university is home to over 25,000 students, making it one of the largest residential universities in Asia.

There are no hill stations near Varanasi. So if you want to get away from the crowds and the busy city, come to this lush 1,300-acre campus. The quiet area is shaded by hundreds of tall trees and offers a breath of fresh air from the hectic surroundings of Banaras Ghats.

On campus, stop at the New Vishwanath Temple, a famous temple that finally completed its decade-long construction in 1966. At 77 meters high, the temple is one of the tallest in India and was inspired by the architecture of neighboring Shri Kashi. inspired. Vishwanath temple. .

University visitors should also explore the on-campus museum, Bharat Kala Bhavan. The cultural institution has a spectacular collection of miniature paintings as well as over 100,000 other artifacts of archaeological and artistic importance.

Official site: http://www.bhu.ac.in/

7) Ruchika Art Gallery

Would you like to take a piece of Varanasi home with you? Look no further than the Ruchika Art Gallery, just off Ravindrapuri Road. The gallery’s eponymous owner, Ruchika Mehrotra, has created a warm and charming boutique that displays a vibrant collection of paintings that capture the energy of Varanasi and the ghats in a rainbow of colors.

While some larger works would require shipping, many paintings are small enough to be packed in a suitcase as a souvenir. Pretty postcards are also available for purchase.

In addition to exhibiting locally produced creative works, the Ruchika Art Gallery also invites tourists to pick up a brush during art workshops. Contact Ruchika to find out what’s on the itinerary for your trip to Varanasi.

Address: 1 Ground Floor, Shwetabh Building, near Sankat Mochan Mandir and Lanka Post Office, Lanka Road, Varanasi

Official site: https://ruchikaartgallery.weebly.com/

8) Shri Durga Temple

Spiritual activities around Varanasi are not just limited to ghats. Just a five-minute walk west of Assi Ghat, the Shri Durga Temple is a popular attraction for Hindus looking to pay homage to the goddess Durga. The 300 year old temple cannot be overlooked, it is painted bright red from top to bottom.

The temple’s nickname, “Temple of the Monkeys” gives you a clue about the creatures you can find in this area. You can also see a pair of graceful swans swimming in the pool of water outside the temple.

Address: 27, Route Durgakund, Durgakund, Anandbagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi

9) Ramnagar Fort on the banks of the Ganges

There are few destinations in India without a fortress, and Varanasi is no exception. Fort Ramnagar is about 14 kilometers from the city center. The sandstone fortress and palace from the 18th century are no longer used as a defensive structure, but house an original museum with antique cars, ornate hookahs, antique weapons, jeweled sedan chairs and a coin. astronomical clock that is over 150 years old.

After an archaeological scavenger hunt at the museum, visit the fort’s temples, one of which honors Veda Vyasa, the author of the Mahabharata and other Hindu epics

The Taj Mahal is an icon of India and attracts millions of tourists every year. This impressive monument is as amazing as you imagine it to be. The Taj Mahal is one of the many incredible places to visit in Agra. You can also explore the historic Agra Fort, discover the impressive and magnificent tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah; visit one of India’s largest mosques in Fatehpur Sikri; and find relaxation in Mehtab Bagh, a quiet park in the shadow of the Taj.

Agra has also two compassionate wildlife projects – 

1. The Agra Bear Rescue Center and 
2. The Elephant Conservation and Care Center 

These places also invite tourists to meet some of the world’s most beloved creatures.

Plan your trip to this historic monument with our list of Agra’s top attractions.

Source – Luxury Travel Expert

1) Taj Mahal

We have seen Taj Mahal in history books, social media posts, and postcards. Now I get a chance to traveling and chance to see the Taj Mahal in real life.

The wonderful building structure which dates back to  me to the 17th century. Mughal ruler Shah Jahan was heartbroken when his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal died in childbirth and then he decided to honor her with a white mausoleum. The construction took over 20 years and a workforce of around 20,000 workers.

It’s never a bad time to see the Taj Mahal, but it’s worth getting there early because the building seems to glow at sunrise. You can enter the Taj Mahal through the east and west gates. Once you reach inside the place you can explore the Ornamental Gardens, with calm waters that reflect the Taj. Next, head to the Taj and admire its perfect symmetry and white marble with ornate flower reliefs and set with semi-precious stones.

Top Tip: keep your ticket to the Taj Mahal, which gives you discounts on entry to other nearby attractions in Agra on the same day, such as Fatehpur Sikri and the tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah.

Official site: https://www.tajmahal.gov.in/

2. Agra Fort

In Agra Taj Mahal is not the only UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city is also home to the Agra Fort. Agra fort is centuries-old red sandstone fortress.  This was the imperial city of a number of Mughal rulers.

Sightseeing here is like walking around a city within a city. Jahangir Mahal is the most extraordinary building in Agra Fort, It is a massive palace that combines impressive Hindu-inspired elements (such as closed hanging balconies) with Central Asian architectural elements like characteristic pointed arches. 

Source – https://agra.nic.in/tourist-place/agra-fort/

Tourists can also see a variety of other notable structures such as-

1. Anguri Bagh- It is a courtyard with garden outlines in the shape of puzzle pieces around water channels),
2. Khas Mahal- It is a palace with white marble pavilions and red sandstone,
3. Musamman Burj – It is an octagonal tower with intricate marble inlay, and 
4. Diwan-i-Khas – It is a meeting hall with two black and white marble thrones.

Agra Fort will need at least a couple of hours on your route. It’s a great afternoon after a morning at the Taj Mahal.

Official site: https://agra.nic.in/tourist-place/agra-fort/

3) Sikandra / Tomb of Akbar

This is located on the western outskirts. This building created with the red sandstone and marble tomb. Sikandra was built by Akbar and then completed by his son Jahangir. Its interior is covered in exquisite calligraphy reflecting the teachings of Din-e-Ilahi. Sikandra is the resting place of Mughal Emperor Akbar and his tomb is here in a dark chamber. The Char Bagh-style peripheral garden is another attraction of the place.

Website: https://www.tajmahal.gov.in/nearby-attractions.aspx#Sikandra

4) Soami Bagh

The holy samadh built in Soami Bagh, Agra by the disciples of the Radhasoami faith, is established with love, affection and devotion in memory of Param Purush Puran Dhani Soamiji Maharaj, the exalted founder of the faith.

After Swamiji Maharaj left, the Second Holy Sat Guru, Hujur Maharaj, built a red stone structure in which Swamiji Maharaj preached and sometimes performed satsangs. The structure at that time was sufficient to accommodate all believers, the third Sant Sat Guru, Maharaj Saheb, felt that it was very small and could not accommodate the satsangis of the Radhasoami belief, as Faith ‘expands and suggests demolishing the structure and rebuild a large marble structure that can accommodate all of the Satsangis.

The design work was entrusted to an Italian architect M / s. Firzoni & Co. based in Kanpur. Maharaj Saheb provided the basic settings for the satsang hall and the 15 ‘terrace on all sides etc. The old red stone structure was torn down and the rubble was only used in Holy Samadh. The structure was placed in 52 wells with a diameter between 4 ‘and 10’10 “. Lala Totaram Ji, Holy Engineer of Samadh The proposed modifications and structure were “planned” on an elevated platform of 220’X220, approved by the fourth Sant Sat Guru of Faith ‘BabuJi Maharaj’. The Saint Samadh scale was prepared and was reserved for future engineers. The main hall of satsang is on the ground floor and the walls are covered with marble engravings by Shabds and Bachans by Radhasoami Faith, the canopy in the center houses the sacred ashes of Soamiji Maharaj and Radhaji Maharaj. The false ceiling is made of carved teak and the pillars are made of gold leaf.

The first floor presents striking, fascinating and ornate sculptures on column capitals to a depth of 14 “of trees, flowers and vines. The second floor is installed with the 4 corners and 4 central arches that make hall circular. The round arch features ring beams 10″ carved natural landscapes engraved at a height of 75”. Above is an 85 “balcony offering a mystical view. 9465 MT double dome walls feature rows of flowers and a lotus flower sits in the center of the inner dome A 31’4” tall copper kalsh weighing 6.0M on a stainless steel tube coated with 24 karat gold leaf is an unforgettable sight. The outer dome has a mesh design that is charming on the beholder. The work of Holy Samadh is 95% complete, with the exception of some minor work on the front and keshwas and the canal around it. There are four minerals in the corners of the main building up to to the second floor and above, the octagonal minarets stand-alone up to a height of 141 ‘. Opposite Jharokha is under construction. The total height of the outer dome is 161’ and including Kalash is 193’4 “.

The marbles used in Holy Samadh are of various colors: white, pink, green, yellow and other different colors in different shades that come from different parts of India, mainly Makrana (Jodhpur), Ambaji, Vadodra, Jaislamer, Gwalior.

Semi-precious stones for the inlays are extracted from the beds of various rivers i.e., Narbada and the quarries of Gujarat and southern India. Sapphire, emerald, carnelian, turquoise, lapis lazuli, red coral, onyx, Lajward, Khatoo, Yaqut., Rattak, etc stones are used.

Official Website-https://www.tajmahal.gov.in/soami-bagh.aspx

5) Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb

At the Yamuna River’s bank, there is another exquisite structure of Agra present, known as the tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah. The mausoleum has the remains of Mirza Ghiyas Beg. Mirza Ghiyas Beg is a Persian official who served the Mughal Empire, as well as his wife.

This jewel box-shaped tomb was actually the inspiration for the Taj Mahal, which earned it the nickname “Baby Taj”. The structure of red sandstone and marble has 13 meter high hexagonal towers at each corner.

The most notable thing is that it was the first structure to use Pietra Dura, the iconic Indian marquetry technique that uses semi-precious stones to create floral designs. Visitor’s see the exquisite geometric patterns, depictions of vases and bowls, and delicate bouquets of flowers from floor to ceiling in the elegant building that is reminiscent of that of the Taj Mahal.

Even though it is so beautiful, Itimad-ud-Daulah’s tomb receives far less visitors than other attractions in the Agra area, making it a great place to take in the beautiful features without the crowds.

Address: Moti Bagh, Agra, Uttar Pradesh 282006

6) Mehtab Bagh

Mehtab Bagh gardens and the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal almost seems to extend across the Yamuna River at Mehtab Bagh (Moonlight Garden), a square garden complex measuring 300 meters on each side. It’s the only remaining park in a series of nearly a dozen Mughal-built gardens in the area. 

The park has some pretty flowering trees and bushes—a stark improvement from its state in the mid-1990s, when the site was just a mound of sand. The Archeological Survey of India is hard at work restoring Mehtab Bagh to its original glory by planting Mughal-era plants, so in the future, it may become Agra’s answer to New York City’s Central Park. 

Mehtab Bagh Gardens and the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal appears to stretch almost across the Yamuna River to the Mehtab Bagh (Moonlit Garden), a complex of square gardens 300 meters in diameter. It is the only remaining park in a series of nearly a dozen Mughal gardens in the region.

The park has a few trees and shrubs in bloom, a big improvement on its state in the mid-1990s when the site was just a mound of sand. The Archaeological Survey of India is working hard to restore Mehtab Bagh to its original splendor by planting Mughal-era plants so that it could become Agra’s answer to New York’s Central Park in the future.

The landscape aligns perfectly with the gardens of the Taj, making it one of the best places in Agra to get a view (or a photo) of the stunning structure—especially at sunset. Outside of the gates to the complex, you can shop for Taj Mahal trinkets and other souvenirs from sellers in the area.

Address: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Nagla Devjit, Agra

The landscape goes perfectly with the Taj Gardens, making it one of the best places in Agra to get a peek (or photo) of the impressive structure, especially at sunset. Just outside the resort, you can buy Taj Mahal trinkets and other souvenirs from local vendors.

Address: Dharmapuri, Forest Colony, Nagla Devjit, Agra

3) Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri is just an hour’s drive from the Taj Mahal and is an interesting day trip from Agra. The city, was built by Akbar as a tribute to the famous Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chishti (accurately predicted the birth of a successor) and is the capital of Mughal Empire about 500 years ago. The residents left the city shortly not after it was built but when the water supply became too scarce.

Tourists can explore the well-preserved remains of this red sandstone ghost town that is still surrounded by a wall. Take a look at the Jama Masjid, a mosque and one of the city’s first completed buildings. Next, you can also explore the three palaces built for each of Akbar’s wives. They combine a diversity of religiously inspired architectural styles that honor the individual spirituality of women.

Immerse yourself in this incredible site by visiting the Archaeological Museum near the main gate of Diwan-i-Am. It contains Finally, think outside the box and climb to the Hiran Minar. It is a spiked circular tower covered in stone elephant tusks, on the top of which Akbar himself is said to have spotted wildlife.

four galleries. These are full with treasures from the Mughal era and beyond, including ragged gray ceramic vessels, terracotta lamps, tiny human stone heads, jewelry shapes, and many more.

Official site: https://www.tajmahal.gov.in/fatehpur-sikri.aspx

4) Gurudwara Guru ka Tal

The Mughals spread Islam in this part of India, but the Agra area is also home to a devout Sikh community. Various members of this community make pilgrimages to Gurudwara Guru ka Tal, a spiritual center near Agra.

The Gurudwara Guru ka Tal was built in the 17th century, and today tourists can see the eight remaining towers of the building’s original dozen. You can also enjoy free meals in the communal kitchen, which is perfect for refueling before heading back to town.

Official Website: https://www.gurdwaragurukataal.com/

Address: Gurudwara Dukh Niwaran Guru Ka Taal, Agra-Delhi Highway, Agra – 282007

As a tourist, Park Street, is a popular choice for sightseeing stays, I was fortunate to experience Kolkata through a homestay with my friend in Tollygunge.

Kolkata, the City of Joy – and within this joyful city lies Gariahat, a shopper’s paradise that exudes energy of street shopping. Recently, here, one forgets the silence of air-conditioned malls! It is a sensory overload in the most delightful way –

• A symphony of honking peeli (yellow) taxi traffic,
• Lively chatter, and
• The rhythmic call out of shopkeepers makes you want to explore every shop in here!

A Feast for the Fashion Senses

Surprisingly, I began exploring the market from the homeware lane. A kaleidoscope of tablecloths, cushion covers, sofa covers and bedspreads. Gariahat overflowed with traditional Bengali embroidery and craft, I couldn’t resist a buying a stunning tablecloth featuring delicate appliqué work, where colourful fabric patches are stitched together.

The other side displayed a plethora of ready-made garments for women and men and kids, catering to all styles and sensibilities. As I delved deeper into the by lanes, I stumbled upon quirky jewellery stalls overflowing with handcrafted wonders – chunky stone necklaces, silver earrings, and a dazzling array of bangles in every imaginable colour. 

Image: A dazzling array of handcrafted jewellery

At Gariahat , with every turn, I discovered new treasures, new stories woven into the fabric of the market. The number of options is mind-boggling – from the ubiquitous jute bags to the handcrafted ones and simple leather footwear to the designer uptown collections, Gariahat caters to every whim and need. Not to forget VALUE FOR MONEY !

A Cotton Paradise – Kolkata’s Exquisite Sarees

Saving the best for last, I arrived at the heart of Gariahat – the quintessential saree lane! Kolkata is famous for its exquisite cotton weaves, and Gariahat is a treasure trove of these beauties. From the delicate floral motifs of the Tant sarees to the geometric patterns of the Dhakai sarees, I spent a good two hours running my fingers across the fabric, especially the intricate Kantha embroidery, the sheer variety in front was overwhelming! Each saree was a masterpiece of craftsmanship. I scored a stunning Kantha stitch saree for just 500 rupees (an unbelievable bargain!).

The joy of bargaining in Gariahat is an experience in itself ! A melody of negotiation filled the air, punctuated by nods, hand gestures, and the sweet flow of Bengali. Thankfully, my friend and her mom were bargaining experts, getting me amazing deals on the sarees I found.

My absolute favorite? A stunning Khadi silk saree, a perfect blend of cotton and silk, with breathtaking embroidery – all at an unbelievable price! Pure speechless joy. It was a testament to the value you can find in Garia Haat , where even a modest budget can unlock a world of sartorial spend.

Image: Display of Kolkata’s renowned cotton weaves – Saree Haven

A Few Hours Well Spent or Not Spent Enough?

Four hours at Gariahat simply wasn’t enough to explore everything that it has to offer.  But the real treasures was the friendly interactions of shopkeepers with us and their stories behind their wares, the bargaining that becomes a cultural exchange, and the joy of discovering something unique at every shop!

Gariahat is an experience – a shopping adventure you won’t forget where every rupee spent feels like an investment! Along with the joy of haggling for a bargain!  

A few tips for your Garia Haat visit:

1. Dress for comfort – Garia Haat involves lots of walking!
2. Carry cash, as not all vendors accept cards.
3. Be prepared to bargain – it’s all part of the experience!
4. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to the shopkeepers regarding their product and test your  knowledge!
5. Keep an open mind and enjoy the overall environment!

So, on your next trip to Kolkata, ditch the malls and head straight to Garia Haat. You might just discover your own shopping paradise!

A Glimpse into My Recent Trip

Thanks to my friend for also sparing time for some street side culinary experience! Not to miss the “jhalmuri” (similar to bhelpuri) and “puchka” (paani puri)

Image: Street Food delight – Jhal Muri at Gariahat

Image: Street Food delight – Puchka at Gariahat

Image: Howrah Bridge

Image: Old city charm – The Tram !

Image: A small close -up of my saree stash!

Image: Flower Market

Image: View of the famous Flurys from Park Street