20 important and interesting ghats in Varanasi
Ghats in Varanasi are riverfront steps leading to the banks of the River Ganges. The city has 87 ghats. Most of the ghats are bathing and puja ceremony ghats, while a few are used as cremation sites. Most Varanasi ghats were built after 1700 AD, when the city was part of Maratha Empire. Many ghats are associated with legends or mythologies while many ghats are privately owned. This is the list of important and interesting ghats in Varanasi with photo and description.
Ahilyabai ghat
In 1778-1785 Kevalagiri Ghat was extended and was completely re-built by the patronage of Queen Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Madhya Pradesh. In honour and memory the ghat is named after her. There is a palace and residential district inside the compound. The service court is situated in front of the palace, which continues down towards the ghat built on the Ganga River. In addition to the palace, there is a huge residential compound and a Hanuman temple and also the two temples at the ghat. In the open porch and the veranda of the Hanuman temple there are many divine images. The Shiva temple in the upper part, is built on the raised roof. There is also servants’ quarters, some of which are used as akhara – wrestling site.
Assi ghat
Assi Ghat is known for being a place where long-term foreign students, researchers or tourists live. It is one of ghats often visited for recreation and during festivals. About 300 people visit Assi Ghat every hour in the mornings on typical days and on festival around 2500 people arrive per hour. The ghat accommodates about 22,500 people at once during festivals like Shivratri. Accorking to a belief, goddess Durga after slaining demon Shumbha- Nishumbha had thrown her sword. The place, where sword had fallen resulted in flowing of big stream known as asi river. The on confluence place of river Ganga and Asi known as Assi ghat.
Darabhanga ghat
Sridhara Narayana Munshi, a finance minister in the estate of Nagpur had built this ghat and partly the palatial building. It was called Munshi ghat after his name. In 1915 the Brahmin king of Darbhanga bought this ghat and developed in the form of Darbhanga Ghat. The palatial building is made of sandstone with a beautiful porches and Greek pillars. In 1994 the Darbhanga palace was bought by the Clarks Hotel Group, who named it as Brajrama Palace, and planned to transform it into five star hotel. They have already demolished almost half of the structure from the back. Thanks to some activist organization which with the support of local people and judiciary presently stopped the demolishing and conversion process into hotel.
Dasaswamedh ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is known as the main ghat in Varanasi. It is located close to Vishwanath Temple and is probably the most spectacular ghat. Two Hindu theologies are associated with it: According to one, Lord Brahma created it to welcome Lord Shiva. According to another legend, Lord Brahma sacrificed ten horses during Dasa – Ashwamedha yajna performed here. Jantar Mantar lies close to the ghat. It is an observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh. At this ghat group of priests perform “Agni Pooja” (Worship to Fire) daily in the evening. Dedication is made to Lord Shiva, River Ganga, Surya (Sun), Agni (Fire) and the whole universe. Special artist are held on Tuesdays and on religious festivals.
Digpatia ghat
The lower portion of Causatthi Ghat was built in 1830 by the king of Digapatiya that is how this is known as Digpatia Ghat. A beautiful and architecturally designed palace was built by the king at the ghat is an example of Bengali art and style. There are porches on both sides of the palace. This ghat had privilege to provide shelter to a great Sanskrit scholar, Madhusudan Sarasvati. In the temple compound there are old images of Kali, folk goddesses, Shiva, Ganesha and Kartikeya. Among the 64 Yogini images, that are considered to be the most ancient group of goddesses, only 16 presently exist in Varanasi. Two of them are on the steps of the ghat. On 12th dark-half of Caitra (March-April) many pilgrims pay visit to the Yogini temple and take ritual bath at this ghat. Another important occasion is the evening on the day of Holi when homage ritual is performed at the ghat.
Ganga Mahal ghat
Ganga Mahal Ghat is one of the main ghats in Varanasi. It was constructed in 1830 CE by the Narayan dynasty and was originally constructed as an extension to Assi Ghat. The palace was called “Ganga Mahal”. Since the Mahal was housed on the ghat, the ghat was named “Ganga Mahal Ghat”. There are stone steps between Assi Ghat and Ganga Mahal Ghat which separates them. This palace is now used by the educational institutions. The first floor is used by the “World Literacy program of Canada” and the upper floors are used by the “Indo-Swedish Study Centre” organized by Karlstad University.
Harishchandra ghat
Harish Chandra Ghat is one of the oldest Ghats of Varanasi. Harish Chandra Ghat is name after a mythological King Harish Chandra, who once worked at the cremation ground here for the perseverance of truth and charity. It is believed that the Gods rewarded him for his resolve, charity and truthfulness and restored his lost throne and his dead son to him. Harish Chandra Ghat is one of the two cremation Ghats and is some times referred as Adi Manikarnika, which means the original creation ground. In Hindu mythology it is believed that if a person is cremated at the Harish Chandra Ghat, that person gets salvation or “moksha”. The Harish Chandra Ghat was somewhat modernized in late 1980’s, when an electric crematorium was opened here.
Chet Singh ghat
Chet Singh Ghat is a historical fortified Ghat. The place has witnessed a battle between the troops of Warren Hastings and Chet Singh in 1781. The fort and Ghat were taken from British by Maharaja Prabhu Narayan Singh in the later half of 19th century. Originally this Ghat was known at Khirki Ghat. Now it has four parts known as Cheta Singh Ghat, Niranjani Ghat, Nirvani Ghat and Shivala Ghat. It has three Shiva temples. Till first half of 20th century it was culturally quite important. The famous Budhwa Mangal festival which is celebrated for seven days is organised here. Due to sharp current of Ganga people avoid bathing here.
Jain Ghat
Jain Ghat was named after the 7th Jain Tirthankara Suparshvanatha who was believed to be born in the neighbourhood. In memory a temple of Surapshvanath was built in the upper part in 1885. Prior to 1931 this was part of Vaccharaja Ghat, but when Babu Shekhar Chanda has built this part separately and given the name with the support of Jain monks, that is how it is called Jain Ghat. The ghat renovated and re-constructed in 1988 by the irrigation department of the government of Uttar Pradesh. The nearby area is inhabited by boatmen who were responsible for polluting the area, but in the recent past mass awakening have prevailed in better way to improve the situation. There is huge red swastika painted on the stairs of the ghat.
Manikarnika ghat
When Mata Sati sacrificed her life and set her body ablaze after Raja Daksh Prajapati tried to humiliate Lord shiva in a Yagya practiced by Daksh. Lord Shiva took her burning body to the Himalaya. While going to the Himalaya Mata Sati’s parts of body started falling on earth. Lord Shiva established Shakti Peeth wherever Sati’s body had fallen. At Manikarnika ghat, Mata Sati’s Ear’s ornament had fallen. It is one of the most famous, sacred and oldest ghat in the Varanasi. Manikarnika is the main burning ghat and one of most auspicious places that a Hindu can be cremated. The cremation process is crucial in achieving nirvana, and the ritual’s many stages must be completed correctly or the soul will not transition to the afterlife.
Manmandir ghat
Man Mandir Ghat was built in 1600 by Raja Man Singh, but was poorly restored in the 19th century. Huge brown ghat is known primarily for its magnificent eighteenth-century observatory, equipped with ornate window casings, and built for the Maharaja of Jaipur. It has a fine balcony at the north end of the Ghat. Famous temples such as Sthuladanta Vinayaka, Rameshwara and Someshwara temples are located near this ghat.
Mansarovar ghat
Like Manmandir Ghat, Mansarovar Ghat was built by Raja Man Singh of Amber in 1585. The king also added a pool nearby called Mansarovar Kund. It was believed that the water in the pool gave equal merit as the sacred Lake Mansarovar in Tibet. Thus the nearby ghat was also given the name Mansarovar. The ghat was rebuilt multiple times by the king’s descendants and by the government of Uttar Pradesh. While the ghat became pucca, the pool became smaller due to lack of space and turned into a well called Mansarovar Kupa. In 1962, the upper part of the ghat was purchased by the Kumaraswamy Matt. The Matt has now constructed a building with shrines and rest houses for pilgrims.
Narad ghat
The old name of this Ghat is Kuvai Ghat. This was constructed by a monastery chief Dattatreya Swami in 1788. The four important idols on Narad ghat are Naradeshvara, Atrishvara, Vasukishvara and Dattatreyeshvara. The legend says that anybody bathing along with spouse in Narad Ghat is not advised because of the myth of contention between the couple in future!
Pandey ghat
Ghat was made pucca in late 19th century by Kavindra Narayan singh. There is a magnificent view at the top a compound of five-temples. Presently this ghat is the neglected one with respect to religious and cultural festivities. Even for daily sacred bath this ghat is not preferred by the visitors. In its vicinity lies the old water-front site of Prabhasa Tirtha, but presently the rituals on the name of Prabhasa Turth are performed near the Raja Ghat. The scene of this ghat has been dominated prominently by the Dhobis (washermen) so much that it was usually described as Dhobi Ghat. The wrestling place opened by Babua Pande is the landmark at this ghat. There is also a guesthouse for pilgrims. There a temple of Someshvara in the vicinity. The ghat was reconstructed in 1965 by the government of Uttar Pradesh.
Raja ghat
The ghat was built by Rajirao Balaji in 1720. Now, the northern side is the palace and the southern part is the Annapurna Math. These two sections are divided by the stairway. Till 1980 there was a tradition to feed Brahmins, Sanskrit students and ascetics but when the INTACH started its programe and the Clarks Hotel use it for promoting a special group of tourists, the earlier traditions vanished. In 1965 the Government of Uttar Pradesh has renovated this ghat and built the steps made of red stones. A refectory is built for the Brahmins at the main entrance area. It is a two-storied building with a terrace roof. On each floor are a kitchen, a storeroom and a large hall in the centre of square courtyard. Presently the Clarks Hotel organizes various cultural evenings like Ganga Arati Ritual. It is oil lamp celebration in honour of the Ganga. There are three temples in the building compound, on the terraces: of Annapurna, Lashminarayana and Shiva.
Rajendraprasad ghat
Earlier this was part of the Dashashvamedha Ghat. In 1979 in memory and honor of Rajendra Prasad, the first president of India, this was named after him and made pucca by the Municipal Corporation of Varanasi. According to Kashiprasad Jaiswal, in the 3rd century CE the Bharshiva Naga kings had performed horse sacrifice ritual. Servants and the main horse took bath at this site, thus the name “Ghoda” (horse) ghat. Till 1958 at the bank there was a huge image of the horse. It is believed that this horse-image is shifted to Sankatamocan temple from where it is vanished, and yet no trace has been found. It is also notable that during 7th-19th century this was a known site for the marketing of horses; for transporting horses boats were used. Till early 1980s this ghat was also used as the ferry station dealing with the business of wood, sand and stone plates. The renovation and restructuring were done in 1984 by the government of Uttar Pradesh. Pilgrims take bath here too but their number is negligible. On the upper portion in the vicinity, there are three shrines of Durga, Rama Pancayatana and Shiva. The newly built stage for cultural performance there no way fits to the heritage tradition, but to shift or demolish such structure is rather impossible in the present political set up. On the name of promoting tourism it turned to the loss of heritage. It is expected that by the support of active people participation, awareness to save the age-old rich heritage, and development under the Master Plan the ghat heritage will be protected and conserved for the better befit to the society.
Scindia ghat
Ghat borderds Manikarnika to the north with its Shiva temple lying partially submerged in the Ganges River as a result of excessive weight of the ghats’ construction, about 150 years ago. The ghat is named after the Scindias, who built it. Above the ghat, several of Kashi’s most influential shrines are located within the tight maze of alleys of Siddha Kshetra – Field of Fulfillment. According to mythology, Agni, the Hindu God of Fire was born here.
Shivala ghat
In the historical past Shivala Ghat was wide spread over the nearby ghats, and by the mid 19th century this area got divided into five ghats. First of all the king of Banaras, Balwant Singh had made this ghat pucca in 1767. For the well being of the pilgrims from south India the king of Banaras has built a monastery named Brahmendra Math. In the upper part neighbourhood there are shrine of Hayagriva Keshava, and temple of Svapaneshvari, Svapaneshvara and Hanuman. Till mid 20th century this ghat was part of the great celebration of Budhva Mangal (“the old Tuesday”), on which occasion the area between Chet Singh Ghat and Shival Ghat was full of decorated boats where different parties of musical concerts performing their art. This tradition is now no more.
Tripura Bhairavi ghat
Tripura Bhairavi Ghat is a sacred spot for South Indian pilgrims particularly for those coming from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. It derives its name from Tripura Bhairavi, the fifth great cosmic power of the Hindu pantheon, whose shrine is located on the Ghat. Shrine of Varahi, who is one of the nine mother-goddesses, is also located here.
Vijayanagaram ghat
Vijayanagaram Ghat was named after the erstwhile Vijayanagaram princely state of South India. The Maharaja of Vijayanagaram provided the funds for the construction of this ghat in 1890. This is the only ghat that represents Andhra Pradesh. There are the temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Nishpapeshvara. The two specific properties along the ghat are owned by the respective trusts – the houses and other properties by the inhabitants and the ghat area is owned by the Municipal Corporation.
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[…] more beautiful ones by foot and then take a river boat trip to get a different view of the ghats. Path Is My Goal provides a good guide on some of the interesting ghats to visit. The ghats vary tremendously […]
[…] visited the holy city of Varanasi for the second time in my life. When I was there at first, I was annoyed by all the hustle, […]
Holy city varanasi is a beautiful city…its ghat ganga arti is most attractive …. i have seen most of the ghat of varanasi..
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Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, is renowned for its ghats—riverfront steps leading to the banks of the Ganges River. These ghats hold significant religious, historical, and cultural importance, each with its own unique story. Here’s a list of 20 important and interesting ghats in Varanasi:
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Significance: One of the most famous and oldest ghats, it is believed that Lord Brahma performed the Dasa-Ashwamedha Yajna (sacrifice of ten horses) here.
Highlight: Known for the grand Ganga Aarti performed every evening, attracting both locals and tourists.
2. Manikarnika Ghat
Significance: The main cremation ghat in Varanasi, where Hindus believe dying here ensures moksha (liberation from the cycle of life and death).
Highlight: The eternal flames of cremation are a profound sight, reflecting the cycle of life and death.
3. Assi Ghat
Significance: Located at the confluence of the Assi River and the Ganges, it’s a popular ghat for pilgrims and tourists.
Highlight: Famous for its morning aarti and as a spot where pilgrims bathe before paying homage to Lord Shiva.
4. Harishchandra Ghat
Significance: Another cremation ghat, it is named after King Harishchandra, who is said to have worked here in the cremation grounds.
Highlight: It is believed that cremating here helps the soul attain salvation.
5. Scindia Ghat
Significance: The ghat is named after the Scindia family who built it.
Highlight: Known for the submerged Shiva temple that is partially in the river due to the ghat’s sinking.
6. Kedar Ghat
Significance: Named after the Kedareshwar Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva) located on the ghat.
Highlight: Popular among South Indian pilgrims and known for its serene atmosphere and religious significance.
7. Tulsi Ghat
Significance: Named after the great poet-saint Tulsidas, who wrote the Ramcharitmanas here.
Highlight: Known for its association with Ramayana and the annual Ramlila performance.
8. Panchganga Ghat
Significance: Believed to be the meeting point of five sacred rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhutpapa.
Highlight: Home to the Alamgir Mosque and a popular site for religious activities.
9. Raja Ghat
Significance: Built by the king of Varanasi, Raja Mansingh.
Highlight: Known for its beautiful architecture and the royal history associated with it.
10. Munshi Ghat
Significance: Built by Sridhara Narayana Munshi, the finance minister of the Nagpur estate.
Highlight: Adjacent to Darbhanga Ghat, it’s known for its elegant palatial structure.
11. Darbhanga Ghat
Significance: Built by the royal family of Darbhanga (Bihar).
Highlight: Known for its luxurious hotel that was once a royal palace.
12. Bhonsale Ghat
Significance: Constructed by the Bhonsale dynasty of Nagpur.
Highlight: Features a shrine with intricate carvings and is known for its architectural beauty.
13. Mansarovar Ghat
Significance: Named after the holy lake Mansarovar in Tibet.
Highlight: Known for its serene ambiance and is a quieter ghat compared to the others.
14. Maan Mandir Ghat
Significance: Built by Raja Man Singh of Amber in 1585.
Highlight: Features an observatory called Jantar Mantar, built by Jai Singh II.
15. Chet Singh Ghat
Significance: Site of a historic battle between the British and Chet Singh, the king of Varanasi.
Highlight: Known for its historical significance and the fort-like structure.
16. Bhagwan Ghat
Significance: Named after the Bhagwan (Lord) Shivaji of the Maratha empire.
Highlight: Known for its Maratha-style architecture and its association with the Maratha rulers.
17. Adi Keshav Ghat
Significance: Located at the confluence of the Varuna River and the Ganges.
Highlight: Known for the Adi Keshav temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
18. Ram Ghat
Significance: Associated with Lord Rama, who is believed to have visited this ghat during his exile.
Highlight: Known for its spiritual atmosphere and the presence of several small temples.
19. Hanuman Ghat
Significance: Believed to have been founded by Lord Hanuman himself.
Highlight: Known for the large Hanuman statue and the ghat’s popularity among wrestlers.
20. Ganga Mahal Ghat
Significance: Built by the Maharaja of Benaras.
Highlight: Known for its palace which has now been converted into a museum showcasing Varanasi’s history.
Summary
Each of these ghats has a unique story and atmosphere, making them essential stops on any visit to Varanasi. Whether for spiritual reasons, historical interest, or simply to soak in the vibrant culture, these ghats offer a deep connection to the soul of the city.
This is a fantastic guide! You’ve beautifully captured the essence of Varanasi’s ghats, making it easier for travelers to appreciate their significance.
Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world, is known for its sacred river, the Ganges, and its numerous ghats—steps leading down to the river. Each ghat has its unique history, significance, and stories. Here are 20 important and interesting ghats in Varanasi:
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Significance: One of the oldest and most important ghats in Varanasi, it is believed that Lord Brahma performed a sacrifice (yajna) here.
Highlights: Known for the daily Ganga Aarti, which is a grand spiritual ceremony that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists.
2. Manikarnika Ghat
Significance: The most sacred cremation ghat, where it is believed that those cremated here attain moksha (liberation from the cycle of life and death).
Highlights: Associated with various myths, including one that says the earring of Lord Shiva’s consort, Sati, fell here.
3. Assi Ghat
Significance: Located at the confluence of the Ganges and Assi rivers, this ghat is a popular spot for both pilgrims and tourists.
Highlights: Known for its tranquil ambiance, it’s a hub for cultural and spiritual activities, including yoga sessions.
4. Harishchandra Ghat
Significance: Another prominent cremation ghat, named after the legendary King Harishchandra, who is said to have worked here.
Highlights: It is believed that this ghat is equally powerful as Manikarnika Ghat for attaining moksha.
5. Tulsi Ghat
Significance: Named after the poet-saint Tulsidas, who is said to have written parts of the Ramcharitmanas here.
Highlights: The ghat is a center for cultural and literary activities, particularly associated with the life and works of Tulsidas.
6. Kedar Ghat
Significance: Named after the Kedareshwar (Shiva) temple nearby, this ghat is popular among South Indian pilgrims.
Highlights: The ghat is known for its beautiful architecture and the adjacent temple’s vibrant South Indian influence.
7. Panchganga Ghat
Significance: Believed to be the meeting point of five sacred rivers: Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhupapapa.
Highlights: Known for its historic significance and the Alamgir Mosque, which is situated on the ghat.
8. Scindia Ghat
Significance: Named after the Scindia (Shinde) family, who built part of the ghat.
Highlights: The ghat has a partially submerged Shiva temple, which is a result of the ghat sinking in the 19th century.
9. Man Mandir Ghat
Significance: Constructed by Maharaja Man Singh of Amber in 1600, this ghat is known for its exquisite Rajput architecture.
Highlights: The ghat has an observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh II, featuring various astronomical instruments.
10. Bhonsale Ghat
Significance: Built by the Bhonsale dynasty of Nagpur, this ghat is noted for its architecture and historical significance.
Highlights: The ghat has several small temples and shrines dedicated to Hindu deities.
11. Chet Singh Ghat
Significance: Named after Raja Chet Singh, this ghat witnessed a historic battle between him and the British in 1781.
Highlights: The ghat has a fort built by Chet Singh, which adds to its historical allure.
12. Darbhanga Ghat
Significance: Built by the royal family of Darbhanga (Bihar), this ghat is known for its luxurious palatial structure.
Highlights: The ghat’s palace is a stunning example of Rajasthani architecture and adds a royal charm to the riverfront.
13. Munsi Ghat
Significance: Originally part of Darbhanga Ghat, it was later renamed after Sridhar Narayan Munshi, a former Divan of the Maharaja of Darbhanga.
Highlights: The ghat is known for its serene atmosphere and proximity to cultural landmarks.
14. Raj Ghat
Significance: An ancient ghat with historical significance, it’s located near the Malviya Bridge.
Highlights: Known for its peaceful surroundings and less crowded compared to other ghats.
15. Lalita Ghat
Significance: Constructed by King of Nepal, this ghat is named after Goddess Lalita.
Highlights: The ghat houses a beautiful Nepali-style temple made of wood, dedicated to Pashupatinath (Shiva).
16. Ahilyabai Ghat
Significance: Named after the Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, who made significant contributions to the restoration of various temples and ghats in Varanasi.
Highlights: Known for its historical importance and the adjacent temple built by the queen.
17. Narad Ghat
Significance: Named after the sage Narada, it is believed that couples should not bathe here as it may lead to discord.
Highlights: The ghat is known for its mythological associations and the Naradeswar temple nearby.
18. Ganga Mahal Ghat
Significance: Part of the palace built by the Maharaja of Varanasi, this ghat is known for its historic and architectural value.
Highlights: The ghat has a museum displaying artifacts related to the history of the region.
19. Rana Mahal Ghat
Significance: Built by the Rana of Udaipur, this ghat reflects the grandeur of Rajput architecture.
Highlights: The ghat is a quiet spot with a beautiful palace that showcases the intricate architectural style of Rajasthan.
20. Jain Ghat
Significance: Associated with the Jain community, this ghat is believed to be the birthplace of Suparshvanatha, the seventh Jain Tirthankara.
Highlights: The ghat has several Jain temples and is an important pilgrimage site for Jains.
Each of these ghats contributes to the rich tapestry of Varanasi’s cultural, spiritual, and historical landscape, making the city a profound and vibrant destination.
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Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, is renowned for its ghats—a series of steps leading to the Ganges River. These ghats are not just places for bathing but also hold immense religious, historical, and cultural significance. Here are 20 important and interesting ghats in Varanasi:
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Significance: The most famous ghat in Varanasi, associated with Lord Brahma, who is believed to have performed the Dashashwamedha Yajna here.
Highlights: The grand Ganga Aarti performed every evening attracts thousands of devotees and tourists.
2. Assi Ghat
Significance: Located at the confluence of the Assi River and the Ganges, this is the southernmost ghat and a hub for pilgrims and spiritual seekers.
Highlights: Known for its serene atmosphere and morning yoga sessions.
3. Manikarnika Ghat
Significance: One of the most sacred ghats, it is the main cremation ghat of Varanasi. It is believed that souls cremated here attain moksha (liberation).
Highlights: Eternal flame that never dies and the spiritual aura of the cremation rituals.
4. Harishchandra Ghat
Significance: Another important cremation ghat, associated with King Harishchandra, who is said to have worked here as a cremator.
Highlights: Known for its historical and mythological importance.
5. Scindia Ghat
Significance: Famous for its partially submerged Shiva temple due to a collapse over 150 years ago.
Highlights: Offers a serene environment and fewer crowds compared to other ghats.
6. Kedar Ghat
Significance: Named after Lord Kedarnath, it is a pilgrimage site for devotees of Shiva.
Highlights: Known for its South Indian-style temple and vibrant atmosphere.
7. Tulsi Ghat
Significance: Associated with the saint-poet Tulsidas, who composed the Ramcharitmanas here.
Highlights: Hosts cultural performances and has a literary connection.
8. Panchganga Ghat
Significance: Said to be the confluence of five sacred rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Dhutpapa, and Kirana.
Highlights: Home to the Alamgir Mosque, a blend of Mughal and Hindu architecture.
9. Hanuman Ghat
Significance: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman and popular among wrestlers and bodybuilders.
Highlights: Strong associations with physical and spiritual strength.
10. Darbhanga Ghat
Significance: Known for its architectural beauty, built by the royal family of Darbhanga, Bihar.
Highlights: Offers a scenic view of the river and luxury accommodations nearby.
11. Raj Ghat
Significance: Marks the historical site where Lord Buddha crossed the Ganges.
Highlights: Close to the famous Rajendra Prasad Ghat.
12. Munshi Ghat
Significance: Built by Sridhara Narayana Munshi, the finance minister of Darbhanga.
Highlights: Known for its beautiful architecture and proximity to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
13. Bhonsale Ghat
Significance: Built by the Maratha king Bhonsale of Nagpur.
Highlights: Noted for its ancient temples and detailed stonework.
14. Lalita Ghat
Significance: Built by the King of Nepal and named after Goddess Lalita.
Highlights: Houses the Nepali Temple, known for its intricate wood carvings.
15. Jain Ghat
Significance: A sacred site for Jains, as it is believed to be the birthplace of Suparshvanatha, the seventh Jain Tirthankara.
Highlights: Peaceful surroundings ideal for meditation.
16. Ganga Mahal Ghat
Significance: A royal ghat built by the Narayan dynasty.
Highlights: Part of a palace that is still in use by the royal family.
17. Chet Singh Ghat
Significance: Known for its historical significance as the site of a battle between Warren Hastings and Raja Chet Singh.
Highlights: Its fortified appearance adds to its charm.
18. Man Mandir Ghat
Significance: Built by Raja Man Singh of Jaipur in the 16th century.
Highlights: Houses an observatory with ancient astronomical instruments.
19. Ahilyabai Ghat
Significance: Renovated by the Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar.
Highlights: Known for its clean and well-maintained steps.
20. Rana Mahal Ghat
Significance: Built by the King of Udaipur, this ghat reflects the Rajputana style of architecture.
Highlights: Offers a tranquil environment and stunning views of the river.
Tips for Visiting the Ghats
Timing: Sunrise and sunset are the best times for experiencing the ghats.
Boat Ride: Take a boat ride to view the ghats from the river.
Etiquette: Respect the religious and cultural practices, especially at cremation ghats.
Photography: While photography is allowed, avoid taking pictures of cremation rituals.
The ghats of Varanasi offer a glimpse into the city’s spiritual essence, cultural heritage, and vibrant everyday life. Each ghat has a story to tell, making them integral to the city’s timeless charm.
20 Important and Interesting Ghats in Varanasi
Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest living cities, is famed for its ghats along the sacred River Ganga. Each ghat holds spiritual, historical, and cultural significance. Here’s a list of 20 important and intriguing ghats you must explore:
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Known for the spectacular Ganga Aarti, it is one of the most vibrant ghats, brimming with spiritual energy and rituals.
2. Manikarnika Ghat
The primary cremation ghat of Varanasi, symbolizing the cycle of life and death, deeply revered by Hindus.
3. Assi Ghat
A tranquil ghat popular with pilgrims and tourists for its peaceful ambiance and yoga sessions.
4. Harishchandra Ghat
Another cremation ghat named after the legendary King Harishchandra, known for his commitment to truth.
5. Rajendra Prasad Ghat
Adjacent to Dashashwamedh, it provides a quieter alternative for experiencing the holy river.
6. Scindia Ghat
Known for its partially submerged Shiva temple, which adds a mystical aura to the surroundings.
7. Lalita Ghat
Famous for the Nepali Temple, showcasing unique architecture reminiscent of Kathmandu.
8. Kedar Ghat
Associated with South Indian devotees, it has a small shrine of Lord Shiva and draws many pilgrims.
9. Panchganga Ghat
Believed to be the confluence of five sacred rivers, this ghat is historically and spiritually significant.
10. Munshi Ghat
A serene spot with splendid old-world architecture, perfect for photography enthusiasts.
11. Tulsi Ghat
Dedicated to Tulsidas, the author of Ramcharitmanas, this ghat hosts cultural and literary events.
12. Man Mandir Ghat
Built by Maharaja Man Singh, this ghat features an observatory with fascinating astronomical instruments.
13. Darbhanga Ghat
Known for its stunning palace-like structure, a favored spot for photography and luxury stays.
14. Bhonsale Ghat
Constructed by the Maratha rulers, this ghat features intricate carvings and temples.
15. Shivala Ghat
A historical ghat with links to the Maratha king Raja Balwant Singh, known for its tranquility.
16. Gai Ghat
Named after a cow (gai in Hindi), it holds cultural importance and is believed to grant salvation.
17. Hanuman Ghat
Associated with Lord Hanuman, it attracts devotees, especially during Tuesdays and Hanuman Jayanti.
18. Jain Ghat
Significant for the Jain community, it marks the birthplace of the 7th Tirthankara, Suparshvanath.
19. Narad Ghat
Known for its legend of marital discord, couples are advised not to bathe here together.
20. Rewa Ghat
A peaceful and lesser-crowded ghat, perfect for those seeking solitude along the Ganga.
Each of these ghats offers a unique perspective on the timeless spiritual legacy of Varanasi. Exploring them is an unforgettable journey through the city’s sacred heart.