Varanasi, one of India’s most historic and oldest cities, is particularly captivating during Diwali. The city is filled with radiant lights, pandas, enchanting rituals, and spiritual gatherings. These 10 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi offer a unique mix of historical charm, spiritual depth, and traditional celebration.
| Place | Description | Why Visit | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dashashwamedh Ghat | Main ghat famous for Ganga Aarti and decorated with thousands of oil lamps floating on the river. | Witness the grand Ganga Aarti and magical evening ambiance. | Evening during the Ganga Aarti |
| Kashi Vishwanath Temple | Ancient Shiva temple known for its grand Diwali celebrations and elaborate decorations. | To feel the devotion at one of India’s holiest temples, beautifully adorned for Diwali. | Early morning or evening |
| Assi Ghat | A quieter ghat with fewer crowds, offering a peaceful riverside experience during Diwali. | Experience a calm Diwali by the Ganges with serene reflections on the water. | Evening |
| Tulsi Manas Mandir | Historical temple where the Ramcharitmanas was written, embellished with festive lights and decor. | For cultural immersion in a historic site of Indian epic storytelling. | Daytime |
| Bharat Mata Mandir | Unique temple featuring a marble map of India, reflecting unity in diversity during Diwali. | Celebrate India’s cultural pride and heritage through patriotic Diwali decor. | Afternoon |
| Ramnagar Fort | Majestic riverside fort hosting Ramlila performances and illuminated with lights. | See dramatic Ramlila enactments and explore Varanasi’s historical richness. | Evening for Ramlila |
| Manikarnika Ghat | Known as a cremation site, this ghat adopts a peaceful ambiance with floating lamps on Diwali. | Reflect on the spiritual journey of life and death in this solemn, peaceful setting. | Early morning |
| Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple | Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, buzzing with devotion and lamps during Diwali. | Join in the chanting, offerings, and deep devotion at this lively temple. | Early evening |
| Banaras Hindu University | The campus is decked out with lights and hosts Diwali cultural programs, including music and dance performances. | Engage in vibrant cultural festivities and enjoy the youthful, festive atmosphere. | Evening for performances |
| Sarnath | Peaceful Buddhist site that welcomes Diwali with quiet reflection and lights. | For a tranquil Diwali focused on peace and introspection in this serene setting. | Daytime |
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is the heartbeat of Varanasi’s Diwali celebrations. As the main ghat, it is where the famous Ganga Aarti takes place every evening. The evening sky glows as oil lamps float down the Ganges, echoing the festive spirit and religious devotion.
Why Visit: Be part of the grand Ganga Aarti.
Best Time: Evening during the Aarti.
2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of India’s holiest sites for Lord Shiva devotees. During Diwali, the temple glows with countless lights, and special prayers add to its spiritual ambiance.
Why Visit: Experience the powerful devotion at a sacred Shiva temple adorned for Diwali.
Best Time: Early morning or evening.
3. Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat offers a peaceful Diwali experience away from the crowds, with the river reflecting rows of lamps in a serene setting. This quieter ghat lets you enjoy the festive spirit more personally.
Why Visit: For a tranquil Diwali by the river.
Best Time: Every Evening.
4. Tulsi Manas Mandir
Known as the place where the Ramcharitmanas was composed, Tulsi Manas Mandir is historically and culturally rich. The temple is beautifully decorated with lights, making it an inviting place for reflection.
Why Visit: A place steeped in history, perfect for cultural immersion.
Best Time: Every Daytime.
5. Bharat Mata Mandir
Unique in design and purpose, Bharat Mata Mandir features a marble map of India and celebrates the nation’s diversity. During Diwali, the temple reflects patriotism with its special decorations.
Why Visit: To honor India’s heritage and cultural unity.
Best Time: Afternoon.
6. Ramnagar Fort
Ramnagar Fort hosts vibrant Ramlila performances, bringing the Ramayana’s scenes to life with passion and lights. The fort’s riverside location and elaborate architecture add to the experience.
Why Visit: For cultural performances and historical exploration.
Best Time: Evening for Ramlila.
7. Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat, a cremation site, transforms into a place of quiet reflection on Diwali, with floating lamps symbolizing life’s journey. It is solemn but spiritually uplifting.
Why Visit: Reflect on the cycle of life and death in this sacred spot.
Best Time: Early morning.
8. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple attracts many devotees during Diwali, with offerings of lamps, flowers, and fervent prayers to Lord Hanuman. The temple is lively and filled with chants.
Why Visit: To experience lively devotion and Diwali blessings.
Best Time: Early evening.
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9. Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
BHU’s vast campus is lit up for Diwali, and students host cultural events, including music and dance performances that reflect the festival’s joy and creativity.
Why Visit: Engage with Diwali’s cultural side in a youthful setting.
Best Time: Evening for performances.
10. Sarnath
Though associated with Buddhism, Sarnath embraces Diwali with a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can find solace in this serene site, focusing on the festival’s message of light and peace.
Why Visit: For a quiet Diwali focused on reflection.
Best Time: Daytime.
Experience the magic of Varanasi during Diwali – a time when the city comes alive with spirituality, devotion, and celebration. From the magnificent Ganga Aarti to the serene temples and ghats, every corner glows with a divine light. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual journey or simply want to soak in India’s rich culture, these 10 Best Places to Visit in Varanasi truly let you feel the divine energy that surrounds Varanasi during Diwali 2024.