Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is a city steeped in history and spirituality, and its lifeblood is the sacred Ganga River. Along the western bank of this revered waterway stretches a mesmerizing tapestry of ghats – stepped embankments leading down to the water. These ghats, numbering nearly 100, are not merely architectural features; they are the very soul of Varanasi, pulsating with the rhythm of daily life, religious rituals, and the timeless cycle of life and death. The main cluster of ghats, approximately 25 in number, extends from Assi Ghat in the south to Raj Ghat in the north, forming a continuous stretch of cultural and spiritual significance. While the origins of these ghats can be traced back to the 14th century, the majority were rebuilt in the 18th century, largely due to the patronage of Maratha rulers.
The ghats of Varanasi are diverse in their ownership and purpose. Some are privately owned, while others hold special significance in Hindu mythology. The primary use of these steps is for bathing, a ritual cleansing act considered auspicious by Hindus, and for performing various religious ceremonies. However, two ghats stand apart, serving a unique and somber purpose: Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats, where cremations are performed, offering the promise of liberation from the cycle of rebirth.
For visitors seeking an immersive experience, a dawn boat ride along the river, starting from Dashashwamedh Ghat (the most prominent ghat), is highly recommended. As the sun rises, painting the sky in vibrant hues, the ghats come alive with activity. Another captivating way to explore the ghats is on foot, allowing for a closer encounter with the sights, sounds, and aromas that define this unique urban landscape. However, be prepared for bustling crowds, occasional filth, and persistent vendors. For those who prefer a guided experience, several reputable tour operators offer insightful walking tours that delve into the history, culture, and religious significance of the ghats. Discover the 9 Must-See Ghats Along the Ganga River in Varanasi.
Here’s a closer look at nine of the most important and captivating ghats along the Ganga River in Varanasi, each offering a unique glimpse into the heart of this ancient city:
1. Assi Ghat:
Located at the southernmost end of Varanasi, where the Ganga River converges with the Assi River, Assi Ghat offers a more relaxed and spacious atmosphere compared to some of the more crowded ghats. It’s easily accessible and a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. Devotees often bathe in the river before offering prayers to Lord Shiva, represented by a large lingam beneath a pipal tree. The ghat has gained popularity among long-staying travelers due to the presence of trendy boutiques and cafes, offering a blend of spirituality and modern amenities. Vaatika Cafe, with its delicious pasta and pizza and picturesque views, is a local favorite. A Ganga aarti ceremony, a beautiful ritual of light and prayer, is also performed here, adding to the ghat’s spiritual ambiance.
2. Chet Singh Ghat:
Chet Singh Ghat carries a rich historical legacy, serving as the backdrop for a significant battle in the 18th century. Maharaja Chet Singh, the ruler of Varanasi, clashed with the British forces at this very location. Chet Singh had erected a small fort on the ghat, but the British ultimately prevailed, capturing the fort and imprisoning the Maharaja within its walls. Legend has it that Chet Singh ingeniously escaped his confinement using a rope fashioned from turbans, adding a layer of intrigue to the ghat’s already compelling history.
3. Darbhanga Ghat:
Darbhanga Ghat is renowned for its striking visual appeal and architectural grandeur, making it a favorite among photographers. The ghat is dominated by the majestic BrijRama Palace hotel, a luxurious property steeped in history. Originally built as a fort by Shridhara Narayana Munshi, the minister for the estate of Nagpur (the adjacent Munshi Ghat is named after him), the structure was later acquired by King Rameshwar Singh Bahadur of Darbhanga (in present-day Bihar) in 1915 and transformed into his palace. After nearly two decades of meticulous restoration, Indian hospitality company 1589 Hotels converted the palace into the opulent BrijRama Palace hotel, preserving its historical charm while offering modern comforts.
4. Dashashwamedh Ghat:
Considered the heart of Varanasi and its most prominent attraction, Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest and holiest ghats in the city. It is the epicenter of activity, drawing a constant stream of pilgrims, Hindu priests, flower vendors, and beggars from dawn until dusk. The ghat is most famous for hosting the mesmerizing Ganga aarti ceremony every evening, a spectacle of light, sound, and devotion that attracts thousands of onlookers. Hindu mythology recounts that Lord Brahma created the ghat to welcome Lord Shiva and performed a special horse sacrifice ritual there in front of a sacred fire. The vibrant atmosphere and the constant flow of life make it a place where one can sit for hours, captivated by the unfolding drama. A bustling marketplace surrounding the ghat adds to the sensory overload.
5. Man Mandir Ghat:
Dating back centuries, Man Mandir Ghat stands out for its intricate Rajput architecture. Built in 1600 by Rajput king Man Singh of Jaipur as his palace, the ghat later saw the addition of an observatory in the 1730s by Sawai Jai Singh II. The astronomical instruments within the observatory remain in excellent condition, offering visitors a glimpse into the scientific pursuits of the past. Ascending to the spacious terrace provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Ganga River, making it a worthwhile experience for both history buffs and those seeking scenic beauty.
6. Manikarnika Ghat:
Manikarnika Ghat, also known as the burning ghat, presents a stark and confronting reality. It is the primary cremation ground in Varanasi, where an estimated 28,000 bodies are cremated annually. Hindus believe that being cremated here liberates them from the cycle of death and rebirth. Visitors to Manikarnika Ghat will witness death openly, with piles of firewood lining the shore and flames continuously burning as bodies, wrapped in cloth, are carried through the lanes on makeshift stretchers by the doms, a caste responsible for handling corpses and overseeing cremations. For those who are curious and bold, it is possible to observe the cremations from a closer vantage point for a fee, often guided by priests or guides who lead visitors to upper floors of nearby buildings. Bargaining is essential to avoid exorbitant charges.
7. Scindia Ghat:
In contrast to the somber atmosphere of Manikarnika Ghat, Scindia Ghat offers a more picturesque and peaceful setting. A notable feature of this ghat is the partially submerged Shiva temple at the water’s edge, which sank during the ghat’s construction in 1830. The narrow, labyrinthine alleyways above the ghat conceal several of Varanasi’s significant temples, an area known as Siddha Kshetra, attracting numerous pilgrims seeking spiritual solace.
8. Bhonsale Ghat:
Bhonsale Ghat, constructed in 1780 by Maratha king Bhonsale of Nagpur, boasts a distinctive appearance. Its imposing stone structure features small artistic windows at the top and houses three heritage temples: Lakshminarayan, Yameshwar, and Yamaditya. The ghat has been embroiled in controversy in recent years, with the royal family facing a fraud case related to its sale in 2013.
9. Panchganga Ghat:
Located at the northernmost end of the ghats, Panchganga Ghat derives its name from the confluence of five rivers: the Ganges, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhutpapa. This relatively serene ghat requires some effort to reach but holds significant religious importance. The samadhi temple honoring the revered Hindu yogi Trailinga Swami is situated here. Above the ghat stands the 17th-century Alamgir mosque, built by Mughal ruler Aurangzeb atop a former Vishnu temple. While the mosque remains functional, access is restricted to Muslims. During the holy Hindu month of Kartik (around Diwali), Panchganga Ghat is beautifully illuminated with candle-filled baskets hanging from poles to honor ancestors, culminating in the spectacular Dev Deepavali celebration on Kartik Purnima (full moon night).
Exploring these 9 Must-See Ghats Along the Ganga River in Varanasi is an experience that transcends mere sightseeing. It’s an immersion into the heart of Hinduism, a journey through history and culture, and a profound encounter with the very essence of life and death. The 9 Must-See Ghats Along the Ganga River in Varanasi are more than just steps leading to the water; they are a gateway to understanding the soul of this ancient and sacred city.
