Varanasi is a spiritual sanctuary where every lane, temple, and ghat breathes devotion. Whether you're seeking silence, mantras, meditation, or sacred rituals, the city offers powerful spaces to reconnect with your inner self and the divine.
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Why visit: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas and a cornerstone of Hindu spiritual life.
Highlights: – Daily rituals and aartis – Spiritual energy – Temple heritage
Timing: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Entry: Free (₹300 for VIP darshan)
2. Sarnath
Why visit: A serene Buddhist site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment.
Highlights: – Dhamek Stupa – Monasteries – Peaceful gardens
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹25 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)
3. ISKCON Temple (Krishna Balaram Mandir)
Why visit: A clean and vibrant temple with soothing kirtans and spiritual discourses.
Highlights: – Morning and evening aartis – Gita classes – Sattvic food at Govinda’s
Timing: 4:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
4. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Why visit: A revered temple known for its calming aura and strength-giving chants.
Highlights: – Devotional Hanuman bhajans – Laddoo prasad – Peaceful darshan line
Timing: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Entry: Free
5. Tulsi Manas Temple
Why visit: A white marble temple where verses of Ramcharitmanas are carved into the walls.
Highlights: – Ramayana murals – Spiritual serenity – Devotional atmosphere
Timing: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
6. Kabir Math, Lahartara
Why visit: Dedicated to the teachings of Sant Kabir, offering a peaceful space for reflection.
Highlights: – Memorial of Kabir – Spiritual discourses – Meditation spots
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
7. Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple)
Why visit: Built in the style of Kathmandu’s Pashupatinath, it offers peace and architectural charm.
Highlights: – Carved woodwork – Riverside location – Lesser crowds
Timing: 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free
8. Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Why visit: A spiritually charged ritual on the banks of the Ganges that leaves a lasting impression.
Highlights: – Priest-led ceremony – Fire lamps and mantras – Sacred ambiance
Timing: 6:45 PM daily
Entry: Free, VIP seating ₹200
9. Bharat Mata Mandir
Why visit: A unique spiritual site dedicated to Mother India rather than deities.
Highlights: – Marble map of India – Nationalistic spiritual vibe – Quiet surroundings
Timing: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
10. Jain Ghat and Temples
Why visit: A peaceful space associated with Jain philosophy and rituals.
Highlights: – Jain shrines – Riverside stillness – Meditative mood
Timing: Sunrise to sunset
Entry: Free
Feature Image:- Photo by ARTO SURAJ on Unsplash
