Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Nestled on the banks of the sacred River Ganga in Uttar Pradesh, it holds deep spiritual significance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains. A visit to Varanasi is not just a trip; it's a dive into India's soul — where ancient rituals meet timeless beauty. Here are 35 best places you must visit in Varanasi:

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a spiritual heart of the city.

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
The most famous ghat where the grand Ganga Aarti takes place every evening.

3. Assi Ghat
A peaceful ghat where pilgrims and students gather; ideal for watching sunrise.

4. Manikarnika Ghat
Known as the main cremation ghat, it represents the cycle of life and death.

5. Tulsi Manas Temple
Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple is where the epic Ramcharitmanas was written.

6. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
A revered temple believed to protect devotees from troubles.

7. Bharat Mata Mandir
Unique temple dedicated to Mother India, featuring a marble relief map of India.

8. Durga Temple
Known as the "Monkey Temple" due to the presence of many monkeys.

9. New Vishwanath Temple (BHU)
A replica of the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple located in the BHU campus.

10. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
One of the oldest and largest residential universities in Asia, with a beautiful campus.

11. Sarnath
A short drive from Varanasi, this is where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.

12. Ramnagar Fort
A beautiful 18th-century fort on the eastern bank of the Ganges.

13. Alamgir Mosque
Also known as Beni Madhav Ka Darera, it offers panoramic views of the Ganges.

14. Chunar Fort
A historic fort near Varanasi with scenic views and a fascinating past.

15. Gyan Vapi Well
Located within the Kashi Vishwanath Temple complex, this sacred well has historical significance.

16. Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple)
Built in traditional Nepalese architecture, it's dedicated to Lord Shiva.

17. Tibetan Temple
Peaceful temple at Sarnath with a beautiful prayer wheel and Buddhist art.

18. Archaeological Museum, Sarnath
Houses important artifacts including the Lion Capital of Ashoka.

19. Ravidas Park and Temple
Dedicated to the saint Ravidas, a spiritual site for his followers.

20. Man Mandir Observatory
An ancient observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh with instruments to track stars.

21. Kedar Ghat
One of the oldest ghats, popular for South Indian pilgrims.

22. Scindia Ghat
Known for its partially submerged Shiva temple.

23. Chet Singh Ghat
A historic ghat with fort-like architecture.

24. Munshi Ghat
A photogenic ghat near Dashashwamedh.

25. Lalita Ghat
Famous for the Nepali Temple and scenic views.

26. Jain Ghat
A sacred site for Jain pilgrims.

27. Bharat Kala Bhavan
A museum inside BHU, showcasing Indian art and history.

28. Vindhyachal
A holy town near Varanasi, known for Vindhyavasini Temple.

29. Hanuman Ghat
Believed to have been built by Lord Hanuman himself.

30. Ganga Mahal Ghat
A royal ghat built by the Narayan dynasty.

31. Ahilyabai Ghat
Named after Queen Ahilyabai Holkar who restored many temples in Varanasi.

32. Darbhanga Ghat
Features grand architecture and heritage hotels.

33. Reewa Ghat
Named after the princely state of Reewa.

34. Shivala Ghat
Less crowded, good for peaceful walks.

35. Batuk Bhairav Mandir
Dedicated to a fierce form of Lord Shiva, known to protect devotees from evil.