Attractions Nearby Varanasi, Day Trips and Excursions

(Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India)

With attractions both in and around the city of Varanasi, it is easy to see why so many tourists choose to explore the sights around Uttar Pradesh. Close by are the attractions within Allahabad, Gorakhpur, Kushinagar, Patna and also Sarnath, which is situated a mere 10 km / 6 miles to the north-west of Varanasi and famed for its numerous temples.

The Nepal border is also just a short distance away, being straddled by the small town of Sunauli, next to Bhairawa. Agra lies to the far north-west of Varanasi and its world-class attractions are best reached by taking an overnight train, with several departing each day.

Agra

Being that Agra is in relative proximity, you simply have to leave time to pay a visit to this glorious city, and of course, India's most wonderful tourist attraction, Agra's very famous Taj Mahal, which boast incredibly detailed marble architecture at its very finest. Agra is also home to the Red Fort, the Persian-style Chini Ka Rauza and Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb, amongst other historical landmarks, and if that's not enough to convince you, then come in February and enjoy the festivities at the Taj Food Festival, and the processions during the crowded Taj Mahotsav carnival.

Allahabad

Located approximately 130 km / 81 miles to the west of Varanasi, the city of Allahabad resides at the meeting point of two incredibly important Indian rivers, the Yamuna River and also the River Ganges (Ganga). Allahabad seems to have found itself a little of the tourist trail, which is a shame, since there are a number of quality attractions situated here. These include Allahabad's grand Mughal fort and tombs, its holy Sangam area and is impressive Raj-era structures. And if you are a little hungry when you arrive, you will find that the city's Indian bakeries and ice-cream parlours are quite outstanding.

Gorakhpur

Gorakhpur is a busy transport hub frequented by many visitors travelling to Kushinagar, Nepal or Sunauli. Whilst there are not really any attractions of any note within Gorakhpur, if you are stopping off here, you may well be pleased to fill your time by paying a visit to the Buddhist Museum, which is located on the southerly outskirts and close to the city's lake. There are also a huge number of shopping opportunities within Gorakhpur city centre.

Kushinagar

A peaceful and rather verdant town, Kushinagar is the place to come if you crave a little respite, away from central Varanasi. Most people come to Kushinagar, since this reputedly the place where the great Buddha breathed his last breath, and has understandably become a major Buddhist pilgrimage site. There are a large number of Buddhist temples spread around Kushinagar, with the main sights lining the street known as the Buddha Marg. In particular, look out for the Mahasukhamdadachan Thargyi Pagoda, the Mahaparinirvana Temple, the Mathakuar Temple, the Buddha Museum, the Wat Thai complex, and the famous Ramabhar Stupa, where it is said that Buddha was actually cremated.

Patna

Patna is a large and busy city, with a population of more than 1.3 million residents. The city lies on the southern side of the River Ganges, where it stretches for around 15 km / 9 miles. Those looking for attractions within Patna will find that the majority of the historic sites lie within the Chowk area, on the eastern side of the city, while to the west you will find hotels, shops and the train station. The Patna museum is always popular, as is the Qila House (Jalan Museum), the Golghat Granary, the holy Sikh shrines of Har Mandir Takht, and the historical ruins of Pataliputra.

Sarnath

It is worth coming here to compare the different styles of these modern Buddhist temples, which were built by Buddhists from Burma, China, Japan, Thailand and Tibet. Within a peaceful parkland setting, the 5th-century Dhanekh Stupa monuments marks the very spot where Lord Buddha preached his very first sermon. Also from the same era is the Chaukhandi Stupa, while Sarnath's more modern Mulgandha Kuti Vihar Temple and Deer Park may also be of interest.