Best Photography Spots In Varanasi | Capture the Beauty of UP

Explore the Photography spots Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India and a photographer’s paradise. Nestled on the banks of the sacred River Ganges, Varanasi is a city of timeless beauty, vibrant colors, and captivating moments waiting to be captured through the lens.

From ancient temples and bustling ghats to narrow alleyways teeming with life, Varanasi offers a plethora of photographic opportunities that embody the essence of India’s rich culture and heritage. Kashi is considered one of the best places to celebrate Mahashivratri.

Join us on a journey through Varanasi’s most iconic photography spots, where every frame tells a story and every click of the shutter reveals the soul of this ancient city.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer seeking to capture the essence of daily life or an amateur enthusiast looking to hone your skills, Varanasi promises to ignite your creativity and inspire your passion for photography.

So grab your camera, pack your lenses, and embark on a visual adventure through the streets of Varanasi, where every corner reveals a new perspective and every image preserves a moment in time that will stay with you forever.

Speaking of UP, you must also take time out to visit Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Get more Clarity about Ayodhya Darshan with the help of our Guide.

Varanasi, UP: An Overview

Varanasi, often referred to as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, situated in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It holds immense cultural, spiritual, and historical significance for Hindus and is considered one of the holiest cities in India.

The city is situated on the banks of the sacred river Ganges, which is believed to purify sins and grant liberation to the soul. Varanasi is renowned for its ghats, which are a series of steps leading down to the river, where devotees perform various rituals including bathing, offering prayers, and performing cremation ceremonies.

Varanasi is also a center for learning, particularly in the fields of music, dance, and spirituality. It is home to the famous Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Do not miss the vibrant Holi celebration in Varanasi.

Best Photography Spots In Varanasi

1. Photography Spots in Varanasi along the Ganges:

The ghats of Varanasi offer a plethora of photographic opportunities. From sunrise to sunset, the changing hues of the sky and the activities along the riverbank provide endless compositions. Some prominent ghats include Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat.

2. Photography Spots in Varanasi along the Assi Ghat Sunrise

Assi Ghat, one of the southernmost ghats, offers a serene setting to capture the golden hues of sunrise over the Ganges. The sight of boats gliding on the river and devotees performing rituals creates a picturesque scene.

3. Boat Ride on the Ganges

Taking a boat ride along the Ganges allows photographers to capture Varanasi’s ghats from a unique perspective. It offers opportunities to capture candid moments of daily life, vibrant colors, and architectural details of the ghats.

4. Street Photography in Old City

Varanasi’s labyrinthine lanes in the old city are a treasure trove for street photographers. The bustling markets, narrow alleys, and vibrant street life provide endless photo opportunities, from portraits of locals to capturing the essence of daily activities. The Government of India has recently started special trains from Varanasi to Visakhapatnam which should not be missed.

5. Temples and Architecture

Varanasi is dotted with numerous ancient temples and architectural marvels. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and Durga Temple are just a few examples. Photographers can capture intricate carvings, ornate facades, and the spiritual fervor of devotees.

6. Photography Spots in Varanasi along the Aarti Ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat

The evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a spectacle not to be missed. Photographers can capture the synchronized movements of priests, the flickering flames of the aarti lamps, and the mesmerizing atmosphere of devotion.

7. Sarnath

Located near Varanasi, Sarnath is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Photographers can explore the ancient ruins, including the Dhamek Stupa and Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, and capture the tranquil ambiance of this historical site.

8. Silk Weaving Workshops

Varanasi is renowned for its silk weaving industry. Visiting silk weaving workshops provides photographers with an opportunity to capture the craftsmanship involved in creating exquisite Banarasi sarees.

9. Photography Spots in Varanasi on Rooftop Views

Many cafes and guesthouses in Varanasi offer rooftop terraces with panoramic views of the cityscape, including the Ganges River and ghats. These vantage points provide excellent opportunities for capturing aerial shots and wide-angle views of Varanasi’s skyline. Take a look at our guide if you wish to start a travel youtube channel.

10. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Located within the Banaras Hindu University campus, Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum houses a vast collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, and artifacts. Photographers can capture the intricate details of these historical treasures and gain insights into India’s cultural heritage.

11. Tulsi Ghat Boat Ride

Tulsi Ghat, known for its serene ambiance, offers a tranquil boat ride along the quieter stretches of the Ganges. Photographers can capture reflections on the water, picturesque views of the ghats, and moments of solitude away from the bustling crowds.

12.Photography Spots in Varanasi along the Burning Ghats

While it may seem solemn, the burning ghats, such as Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat, provide a unique perspective on the cycle of life and death in Varanasi. Photographers can respectfully capture the rituals and ceremonies associated with cremation, portraying the spiritual significance of these sites.

13. Ramnagar Fort

Situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges River, Ramnagar Fort is an imposing structure dating back to the 18th century. Photographers can explore its architectural features, including the ornate gateways, courtyards, and museums housing vintage artifacts and royal carriages.

14. Chunar Fort

Located about 40 kilometers from Varanasi, Chunar Fort is perched atop a hill overlooking the Ganges. This ancient fort offers panoramic views of the river valley and surrounding countryside, making it a picturesque location for landscape photography.

15. Sunset at Man Mandir Ghat

Man Mandir Ghat, adorned with an ornate palace and intricate carvings, provides a stunning backdrop for capturing the golden hues of sunset. Photographers can frame the palace against the colorful sky and reflections on the river for dramatic sunset shots.

16. Chet Singh Ghat

This lesser-known ghat offers a quieter atmosphere compared to the more crowded ghats, making it an ideal location for capturing intimate moments and candid scenes of daily life along the riverbank. To make your long travel plans more comfortable, take a look at the list of travel accessories that you must have if you love to travel.

17. Munshi Ghat

Munshi Ghat is known for its vibrant street art and colorful murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Photographers can capture the eclectic blend of art and spirituality in this picturesque setting.

18. Bharat Mata Temple

Dedicated to Mother India, Bharat Mata Temple is unique in that it does not house any idols but instead features a map of undivided India carved in marble. Photographers can capture the intricate details of the map and the serene ambiance of the temple.

19. Banaras Art Gallery

Located near Assi Ghat, Banaras Art Gallery showcases a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and traditional artworks by local artists. Photographers can explore the gallery’s galleries and capture the creativity and cultural expressions of Varanasi’s artistic community.

20. Dhobi Ghat

The traditional laundry area, or Dhobi Ghat, offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of washermen as they wash, dry, and iron clothes along the riverbank. Photographers can document the rhythmic movements and vibrant colors of this age-old profession.

21. Malviya Bridge

Spanning the Ganges River, Malviya Bridge offers a stunning backdrop for capturing cityscapes and night photography. Photographers can experiment with long exposures to capture light trails from passing vehicles and the shimmering reflections on the river.

22. Jantar Mantar

Although smaller in scale compared to the famous Jantar Mantar in Jaipur, Varanasi’s Jantar Mantar is still worth a visit for photographers interested in astrophotography or capturing the architectural details of this ancient astronomical observatory.

23. Ghats from a Boat at Sunrise

While the ghats are stunning from the shore, experiencing them from a boat on the Ganges during sunrise provides a unique perspective. Photographers can capture the soft light illuminating the ghats and the tranquil ambiance of the river.

24. Bharat Mata Mandir

This unique temple is dedicated to Bharat Mata (Mother India) and features a giant relief map of India carved out of marble. Photographers can capture the intricacies of the map and the devotion of worshippers paying homage to the nation.

25. Nandeshwar Ghat

Located near Lalita Ghat, Nandeshwar Ghat offers a serene atmosphere away from the bustling crowds. Photographers can capture the quietude of this ghat, along with its architectural details and the gentle flow of the Ganges. If you love to travel, why not do what you love for a living? Take a look at all the possible Travel Jobs and decide which one calls out your name.

26. Photography Spots in Varanasi in the Markets of Varanasi

Varanasi’s markets, such as the Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazar, are bustling hubs of activity and vibrant colors. Photographers can capture the hustle and bustle of daily life, the array of goods on display, and the interactions between vendors and customers.

27. Silk Weaving Workshops in Madanpura

Madanpura is renowned for its silk weaving industry, and visiting the workshops here provides photographers with an opportunity to capture artisans at work, intricately weaving Banarasi silk sarees on traditional handlooms.

28. Ramnagar Fort from Across the Ganges

Photographers can capture stunning views of Ramnagar Fort from the opposite bank of the Ganges, especially during sunrise or sunset when the fort is bathed in golden light against the backdrop of the river.

29. Evening Activities at the Ghats

In the evening, the ghats come alive with various activities, including Ganga Aarti ceremonies, musical performances, and religious rituals. Photographers can capture the vibrant atmosphere and the interplay of light and shadows as dusk falls over the river.

30. Photography Spots in Varanasi in the Hidden Alleys of Varanasi

Exploring the lesser-known alleys and lanes of Varanasi’s old city reveals hidden gems and authentic glimpses of local life. Photographers can document the architectural details, street art, and everyday scenes that characterize these narrow passages.

These Best photography spots in Varanasi offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture, spirituality, and timeless charm, providing ample inspiration for photographers seeking to capture its essence through their lens.

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Interesting Facts About Varanasi

1. Oldest Inhabited City

Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates back over 3,000 years. It is considered one of the holiest cities in India and holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus.

2. City of Ghats

Varanasi is renowned for its ghats, which are a series of steps leading down to the banks of the sacred river Ganges. There are over 80 ghats in Varanasi, each with its own unique significance and history.

3. Spiritual Capital of India

Varanasi is often referred to as the spiritual capital of India. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges in Varanasi can cleanse one of sins and lead to moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

4. Center of Learning

Varanasi has been a center of learning for centuries and is home to the prestigious Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. The university attracts students from all over the world to study a wide range of disciplines.

5. City of Temples

Varanasi is dotted with thousands of temples dedicated to various deities. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most revered temples in the city and attracts millions of pilgrims each year.

6. Cultural Hub

Varanasi is a melting pot of culture and traditions. It is famous for its classical music, dance, and arts, with numerous music and dance festivals held throughout the year. The city’s rich cultural heritage is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals.

7. Silk Weaving Industry

Varanasi is renowned for its silk weaving industry, particularly the production of Banarasi silk sarees. These exquisite sarees are known for their intricate designs and craftsmanship and are highly sought after by women across India and abroad.

8. City of Festivals

Varanasi celebrates numerous festivals with great fervor and enthusiasm. One of the most spectacular festivals is Dev Deepawali, which takes place on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartik. During this festival, the ghats are adorned with thousands of earthen lamps, creating a mesmerizing sight.

9. Historical Significance

Varanasi has been a witness to numerous historical events and has been ruled by various dynasties throughout its history, including the Mauryas, Guptas, Mughals, and British. The city’s historical monuments, palaces, and forts bear testimony to its rich past.

10. City of Sages and Scholars

Varanasi has long been a haven for sages, scholars, and spiritual seekers. It has been a center of philosophical and theological discourse for centuries, attracting luminaries such as Adi Shankaracharya, Kabir, and Tulsidas.