Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Varanasi In 2 Days

Places To Visit In Varanasi : Varanasi, renowned as Kashi or Banaras, stands as a captivating magnet for tourists seeking a profound immersion into India’s spiritual essence. Over two days, delve into its vibrant tapestry, where sacred ghats and ornate temples beckon explorers. As one of India’s oldest and most sacred cities, Varanasi pulsates with cultural vibrancy, celebrated for its diverse handicrafts encompassing intricate gold and silver threadwork, artisanal wooden toys, exquisite carpet weaving, and dazzling glass bangles. Its plethora of attractions extends a warm embrace to travelers worldwide, inviting them to delve into its rich tapestry of mysticism and tradition. Here, we unveil the quintessential destinations to enrich your Varanasi sojourn.

1. Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat, derived from the legend of Lord Brahma’s offering of ten horses, emerges as a divine sanctuary within Varanasi, ideal for a two-day pilgrimage. Here, amidst the bustling ambiance, the most spirited aartis grace the banks of the sacred Ganges. For an enchanting spectacle, Kartik Purnima, during the celebrated Dev Deepavali, illuminates the city in celestial splendor, offering a sublime vista of the Ganga Aarti. Dashashwamedh Ghat captivates with its bustling congregation of flower vendors, boatmen enticing visitors for rides, and revered Sadhus presiding over nightly pujas commencing around 7 pm. Within this sacred enclave, travelers find solace, indulging in serene moments and partaking in the array of spiritual rituals that unfold throughout the day.

2. Assi Ghat

Nestled at the junction of the Assi River and the Ganges, Assi Ghat emerges as a prime destination for a two-day Varanasi exploration. Revered for its profound religious significance, this site holds a cherished position in the hearts of both Varanasi denizens and visitors alike. Legend intertwines with reality, as Assi Ghat is believed to be the very spot where the illustrious poet Tulsidas breathed his last. At the heart of this locale lies the majestic Shiva Lingam, ensconced beneath the canopy of a venerable peepal tree, drawing pilgrims to pay homage and offer prayers to Lord Shiva. The enchanting vistas of sunrise and sunset along the banks of the Ganges add to the allure of Assi Ghat, beckoning travelers to behold nature’s splendor. Each day, throngs of devotees flock to witness the serene spectacle of the Ganga Aarti, a soul-stirring performance that commences around 6:30 in the evening, infusing the atmosphere with a sense of divine tranquility.

3. Manikaranika Ghat

As Varanasi’s primary cremation site, Manikarnika Ghat stands as the ancient riverfront, epitomizing both sacred tradition and profound spirituality in this two-day Varanasi sojourn. According to belief, the completion of funeral rites and spending one’s final moments at this ghat ensure a peaceful transition into the afterlife, liberating the soul from the cycle of reincarnation. As dusk descends, Manikarnika Ghat transforms into a mesmerizing tableau, illuminated by the glow of funeral pyres and the gentle flicker of candle-lit flower offerings drifting upon the sacred waters of the Ganges. This captivating site offers travelers an intimate encounter with the ritualistic cremations that transpire here, while also providing the opportunity to embark on a serene boat tour along the hallowed currents of the Ganges River.

4. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Ranked among the revered 12 Jyotirlingas, signifying abodes of Lord Shiva, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple emerges as a serene haven for family pilgrimages during a two-day Varanasi escapade. Positioned gracefully on the western banks of the sacred Ganges, this temple boasts a resplendent structure adorned with approximately 800 kilograms of pure gold plating. Revered as one of India’s oldest, wealthiest, and most sacred shrines, it magnetizes devotees from across the globe, drawn by its tranquil spiritual ambiance and the promise of blessings from Lord Shiva. Adorned with intricate sculptures, the temple’s exterior exudes an ethereal aura, enhancing its divine allure. Within its precincts, numerous smaller shrines, including Kaalbhairav, Vishnu, Virupaksh Gauri, Vinayaka, and Avimukteshwara, further enrich the spiritual tapestry of this sacred site.

5. Banaras Hindu University

Established in 1916 by the visionary Madan Mohan Malviya, Banaras Hindu University stands tall as one of the largest residential educational institutions across Asia, presenting an enriching stopover during a two-day exploration of Varanasi. Encompassing a sprawling expanse of 1300 acres, this esteemed university beckons students worldwide, promising a world-class academic journey amidst state-of-the-art infrastructure and distinguished faculty members. With over thirty-two departments, 14 streams, and 6 institutions forming its organizational framework, BHU epitomizes academic excellence and diversity. Annually, aspiring scholars undergo rigorous entrance examinations, paving their path toward admission into its esteemed halls.

For those seeking respite from the urban clamor, Banaras Hindu University offers a tranquil retreat ensconced amidst lush greenery, providing a serene escape from the bustling ambiance of the Banaras Ghats. Among its myriad attractions, the university’s on-campus museum shines as a beacon, housing an impressive array of miniature paintings and a treasure trove of over 100,000 invaluable artifacts and archaeological wonders, offering visitors a glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage.

6. New Vishwanath Temple

Crafted by the illustrious Birla family, renowned entrepreneurs, the New Vishwanath Temple stands as a captivating addition to your Varanasi itinerary, especially following a visit to Banaras Hindu University. This grand religious edifice boasts a sprawling complex housing seven distinct temples, drawing inspiration directly from the revered old Vishwanath temple. Affectionately referred to as the Birla Temple, its architectural magnificence is surpassed only by its spiritual significance. Every inch of its interior is adorned with the divine verses of Lord Krishna from the sacred Bhagavad Gita, weaving a tapestry of spiritual enlightenment for visitors. Embark on an enchanting journey through Varanasi’s spiritual landscape by including this gem in your two-day itinerary, promising an experience that resonates deeply with the soul.

7. Ruchika Art Gallery

For those who cherish collecting memories from their travels, a visit to Ruchika Art Gallery is a delightful addition to your two-day Varanasi adventure. Helmed by the creative spirit Ruchika Malhotra, this artistic haven beckons with its vibrant array of paintings that encapsulate the very essence of Varanasi and its iconic landmarks. Whether you seek small masterpieces or grandiose canvases, this gallery offers a diverse selection of artistic treasures, including charming postcards, ensuring a memorable shopping experience. Embrace your inner artist as the gallery extends an invitation for tourists to wield a paintbrush and partake in immersive artistic workshops. Following a bustling day amidst Varanasi’s Ghats, Ruchika Art Gallery serves as a serene sanctuary to unwind and bask in the beauty of creative expression.

8. Sri Durga Temple

Situated near the Durga Ghat and a brief stroll westward from Assi Ghat, Sri Durga Temple stands as a mystical gem awaiting discovery during your two-day exploration of Varanasi. Cloaked in hues of red and ochre, this temple, affectionately dubbed the “Monkey Temple” for the playful guardians that adorn its surroundings, pays homage to the revered Goddess Durga. Commissioned by the Queen of Bengal in the 18th century, it serves as a sanctum of devotion and spiritual solace. Each year, throngs of devotees flock to this sacred site, seeking the divine blessings of Goddess Durga amidst an atmosphere permeated with fervent prayers and soul-stirring bhajans. The temple’s centerpiece, a kund intricately linked to the Ganga River, is believed to possess healing properties, adding to the allure of this divine sanctuary.

9. Ramnagar Fort

Erected under the patronage of Raja Balwant Singh in the year 1750, Ramnagar Fort emerges as a captivating testament to Varanasi’s storied past, boasting exquisite Mughal-inspired architecture. While its sandstone ramparts once stood sentinel against invaders, today the fort assumes a different role, offering visitors a glimpse into history through its eclectic museum collection. Within its ancient walls, antique weaponry, opulent hookahs, jeweled sedan chairs, and a remarkable astronomical clock, spanning over 150 years, await exploration. As the sun dips below the horizon, travelers can savor the spectacle from within the fort’s confines, basking in the vivid hues of a Varanasi sunset. Additionally, the fort’s temple pays homage to the revered sage Veda Vyasa, further enriching the cultural tapestry of this historical landmark. For an enriching sightseeing experience, Ramnagar Fort stands as a must-visit destination during your two-day Varanasi excursion.

10. Alamgir Mosque