Assi Ghat is one of the most popular ghat in Varanasi, located at the southernmost part of the city. It is a preferred spot for tourists to experience the traditional rituals, culture and lifestyle of Varanasi. You can take boat rides along the river Ganges, experience Aarti by the river, relax on the ghats or visit the Kashi Vishwanath temple located nearby.
Sarnath is a holy Buddhist site, located near Varanasi. It is one of the most revered pilgrimage spots in India, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The main tourist attractions around Sarnath include Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, Tibetan Temple, Chaukhandi Stupa and Archaeological Museum.
One of the lesser-known tourist spots in Varanasi, Ramnagar Fort holds great historical significance for the city. It is located on the eastern bank of the river Ganges and is a beautiful example of a blend of Mughal and Indian architecture. Visitors can explore the museum inside the Fort that displays a unique collection of vintage cars, and artifacts of the royal family of Varanasi. You can also witness the traditional Ram Lila play here during Dusshera.
If you have more time, you can explore other popular ghats like Dasaswamedha and Manikarnika. Visiting a silk weaving factory or trying local street food like chaat and lassi can also be an interesting experience. For those with less time, you can consider skipping Ramnagar Fort and visit the nearby Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum instead. Keep in mind that Varanasi can get very hot and humid during summer, so carry sufficient water and sunscreen while traveling.