Immerse yourself in the spiritual grandeur of Varanasi Ghats, where antiquated traditions and flowing Ganges harmonize in a magical dance of culture, piety, and heritage. Feel the timeless appeal of these sacred steps and their significance in India’s cultural heritage.
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Significance: The most popular and lively ghat of Varanasi. Lord Brahma is said to have conducted a ten-horse (Dashashwamedh) sacrifice here in order to invite Lord Shiva.Key Attractions:
Various small temples and priests performing rituals. soft waves.
The evening Ganga Aarti is a grand ritual of fire lamps, music, and chants.
The pilgrims go for a holy bath, believing their sins get cleansed.
2. Assi Ghat
Significance: A peaceful and famous ghat where the Assi River joins the Ganges.Key Attractions:
- Popular for meditation, yoga, and early morning boat rides.
- Caters to a colossal Shiva Lingam, which is worshipped by devotees.
- Less crowded compared to Dashashwamedh, offering a calm spiritual experience.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to see Subah-e-Banaras, a cultural spectacle with classical music and prayers.
3. Harishchandra Ghat
Significance: Another cremation ghat, which is dedicated to King Harishchandra, who worked here as a cremation worker to keep himself truthful and virtuous.Mythology:
Is associated with King Harishchandra’s story, who sacrificed everything for the sake of truth, even working as a cremation worker.
Importance: Considered holy as Manikarnika for last rites.
4. Kedar Ghat
Significance: This is dedicated to Lord Kedareshwar (Shiva), in similarity of the Kedarnath temple.Highlights:
- One of the most prominent pilgrim areas, with the majority of South Indian pilgrims.
- Holy well water, said to have healing properties.
Spiritual Vibes: A serene and traditional ghat, perfect for religious rituals
5. Manmandir Ghat
Architectural Beauty: Mughal and Rajput architectural blend, unique to this area.
Significance: Built by Maharaja Man Singh of Jaipur in the 16th century.
Key Attraction
Represents an ancient observatory (Jantar Mantar), built by Jai Singh II, used for the observation of celestial bodies.
Offers great views of the Ganges.
6. Bhonsale Ghat
Cultural Significance: A less populated but historically important ghat, ideal for architecture lovers.
Significance: Constructed by the Nagpur Bhonsale monarchs, indicative of Maratha architecture.
Attractions:
Features wonderful stone balconies, columns, and Hindu temples.
Has the Lakshminarayan and Yameshwar temples within its grounds.
7. Chet Singh Ghat
Ideal for photography and exploring hidden tales of Varanasi.
Significance: A historical ghat related to the struggle of Maharaja Chet Singh against the British.
History
British troops commanded by Warren Hastings attacked Chet Singh’s fort here in 1781.
The fort stands, albeit in ruins.
Attractions:
An offbeat location with a mix of history, spirituality, and scenic beauty.
8. Bhonsale Ghat
Cultural Importance: A lesser-crowded but historically rich ghat, ideal for architecture lovers.
Significance: Constructed by the Bhonsale rulers of Nagpur, reflecting Maratha architecture.
Attractions:
Features impressive stone balconies, pillars, and Hindu temples.
Home to the Lakshminarayan and Yameshwar temples.
9. Scindia Ghat
Mythology: Great sages lived here and practiced meditation.
Significance: Famous for its half-submerged Shiva temple that tilted when there was a flood in ancient times.
Attractions:
A peaceful and scenic spot, less crowded than the central ghats.
Small shrines dedicated to Hindu gods.
10. Panchganga Ghat
Unique Feature: The existence of invisible rivers according to myth makes it spiritually important.
Significance: It is said to be the confluence of five holy rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhutpapa.
Religious Importance:
Accommodating the Bindu Madhav Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Adi Shankaracharya would meditate here.