The must visit ghats of Varanasi along river Ganga & their mystic stories

Itihash se bhi purani,

Moksha ki Nagari !!

Shiv ki pyari,

Swadon ki gagari !!

Ganga ki god me basne wali,

Kashi, Banaras, Varanasi….

Varanasi (Also known as Banaras and Kashi) is one of oldest inhabited cities of the world. Some even call it older than history. Located on the banks of the majestic river Ganga, Varanasi is one of the most important places for Hindu religion. There are numerous “ghats” along the city of Varanasi on the banks of the river Ganga. Almost 84 of them. Some are better known and some less. Some have very interesting stories associated with them. While some of these stories will give you chills, others will swell you with emotions.

So, how do you get to see these ghats of Varanasi and know about them, particularly with limited time? The best way to do this is via a boat ride on the river Ganga. More on that later in the blog. Right now, let me introduce you to some of these spectacular ghats of Varanasi.

 

 

What are the Ghats of Varanasi

The ghats of Varanasi or Banaras are the steps leading to the banks of the holy river Ganga. These ghats have been built over a course of not just years but centuries. Each one of these has a particular significance. These ghats are dedicated to different Gods and Goddess. And were built by different royal families across North India and South India as well as the kings of Nepal. As such the temples, palaces and forts along these ghats immensely differ from each other in their architecture. But when they all come together, lining the confluence of Kashi and Ganga, together they create a mesmerising scene like none other.

PS: 5 of these ghats are deemed the most important – Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Panchganga Ghat, Rajendra Prasad Ghat and Adi Keshav Ghat

With that, let me take you through the interesting stories of these ghats. As narrated by my guide. While we took a ride on a motor boat along the banks of the river Ganga crossing these ghats one by one, one fine evening in Varanasi.

 

PS: To avoid the hassle of planning your own ghat hopping tour around Varanasi, you can also take this guided tour around Varanasi which also includes a ride on the river Ganga. And if you want to also visit Sarnath (Which we missed), book this day trip to Varanasi and Sarnath together. It also includes a ride on the river Ganga.

 

Tulsi Ghat

This is the Ghat where Maharshi Tulsidas wrote Ramcharitmanas and Hanuman Chaliasa – two of the most important epic and prayer books of Hindu religion. This is also the ghat where he was cremated after he absolved his body. The ghat is closely linked to the devotion and worship of Lord Rama and is associated with the Ramlila performances, which re-enact scenes from the Ramayana. Although, it is a quieter ghat, but during the festival season, especially during Ramlila, it becomes a lively cultural spot.

Harischandra Ghat

The ghat where satyavadi Raja Harischandra worked under “Dom Raja”, cremating people. And one day when his wife came here with his own dead son, he refused to cremate his own son without money. His wife tore a piece of her saree pallu and presented it as a payment for the cremation. Seeing this, the Gods presented themselves in front of him and also blessed him with eternal salvation on this ghat, in bodily form.

The ghat serves as a reminder of King Harishchandra’s virtues and continues to be used for cremation rituals, especially by those who believe in the virtues of sacrifice and truth.

Manikarnika Ghat – the burning ghat of Varanasi

Located right besides the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Manikarnika Ghat is where corpses are continuously cremated. So much so that, there is never a second when you won’t see a pyre lit up on this ghat. It is believed that God Shiva blesses the dead here, leading to their moksha (Salvation).

 

 

The story goes that once Shiva and Parvati came to take a bath on this ghat. Goddess Parvati lost her earring in the waters. Shiva tasked the 7 brahmans present on the ghat to find the earrings. Although they found it, they lied that they didn’t. Shiva and Parvati were so angry that they cursed the Brahmins to become Doams. And tasked them with the job of burning the pyres of dead on this ghat. They also cursed that no living person will ever take a bath on Manikarnika Ghat. It will be a place for the dead to take their last bath.

Owing to the fearsome scene of burning corpses, women are not allowed to visit Manikarnika ghat. However, if there’s one place there you can see the cycle of life and death the closest, which can help you understand the ultimate truth of life and overcome the fear of death – it is Manikarnika Ghat.

A beautiful quote that you see written on Manikarnika Ghat –

“Janma Lena bhagya ki baat hai,

 Mrityu aana samay ki baat hai,

 Mrityu ke baad logon ke dil me rahna – karm ki baat hai”

(To be born is a matter of one’s fate,  To die is a matter of one’s time, To remain alive in people’s heart after death is a matter of one’s karma)

Dashaswamedh Ghat – the most important of the ghats of Varanasi

Definitely the most famous ghat of Varanasi is Dashaswamedh Ghat. It is believed that Lord Brahma performed the sacrifice of ten horses (Dashashwamedh) here to welcome Lord Shiva. After which the name “Dashashwamedh” was given to this ghat.

Dashaswamedh ghat is world famous for it’s spectacular Ganga Aarti – an evening prayer devoted to river Ganga, performed by priests with such precise synchronisation that it gets one completely mesmerised. Around 5 in the evening, people start gathering on the ghats to witness this great event every evening. The arti is performed right after the sunset. And continues for some 45 minutes. During this time, the priests perform different rituals. One of which include swaying lit multi-diya in all directions. No matter what the weather be, even in storms and rains and cold winters, the aarti is performed on it’s schedule with the same rituals.

Assi Ghat – the most beautiful of the ghats of Varanasi

Located at the confluence of the Assi River and the Ganges, this is a popular spot for pilgrims and tourists alike. The ghat is mentioned in several ancient texts, including the Puranas. According to mythology, Goddess Durga after slaying the demon Shumbha-Nishumbha threw her sword in the river, and the place where it fell became the Assi Ghat.

Assi Ghat is often less crowded than others and offers a peaceful environment. It is a hub for spiritual gatherings, yoga sessions, and the morning Subah-e-Banaras (a cultural and musical program). There are a lot of hotels and guest houses also located around Assi Ghat. And it looks particularly beautiful from across the river in the evening when the diyas lit up on the ghat. Also, there is a Ganga aarti performed at Assi Ghat as well. So, if you want to skip the crowd of Dashaswamedh Ghat and yet see a spectacular Ganga Aarti, you can do so at Assi Ghat.

Panchganga Ghat

This ghat is where five sacred rivers are believed to converge—Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Dhutapapa, and Kirana. According to Hindu belief, taking a dip at Panchganga Ghat during auspicious times cleanses one’s sins. This ghat is also associated with various saints and philosophers, including Sant Kabir and Ramananda. It is considered one of the holiest ghats, and its spiritual significance draws pilgrims throughout the year.

Kedar Ghat

This ghat is dedicated to Lord Shiva, in his form as Kedarnath. Kedar Ghat is revered particularly by South Indian pilgrims. It is believed that bathing here brings spiritual cleansing and the blessings of Lord Shiva. The ghat’s distinctive architecture, with its colorful temple dedicated to Shiva, and its relatively peaceful environment compared to the busier ghats.

Bhonsale Ghat

This ghat was constructed by the Bhonsale rulers of Nagpur. The Bhonsale dynasty of Maharashtra built this ghat in the 18th century. It is famous for its beautifully carved stone structures and pavilions, showcasing the architectural grandeur of its time. The ghat’s architecture, including its well-preserved historical buildings and shrines, is the main draw for visitors. The architecture reminded me of the Udaipur City Palace, lying on the banks of lake Pichola. That I visited during my trip to Udaipur. And which had very similar vibes.

Scindia Ghat – by Scindia royal family among the ghats of Varanasi

This ghat is partially submerged and named after the Scindia (Sindhia) dynasty. According to legend, the ghat collapsed under the weight of a massive temple that sank into the river due to its overwhelming size. The remains of this temple can still be seen underwater. The sunken temple and the relatively peaceful atmosphere make Scindia Ghat popular among visitors who want to experience Varanasi’s mystical charm without the bustling crowds.

Darbhanga Ghat – by Bihar royal family among the ghats of Varanasi

A ghat built by the prince of Darbhanga, Bihar. This ghat can easily be distinguished by the presence of the Darbhanga Palace, a massive and luxurious palace, also built by the same prince. The palace now serves as a luxurious 5 star hotel. It would be indeed such a pleasure to stay in this palace, right on the banks of Ganga. And see the life go by through the lifeline of Banaras – day and night. Apart from Darbhanga Ghat, Janaki Ghat is another ghat built by the royal families of Bihar.

Chet Singh Ghat

A ghat named after Maharaja Chet Singh, the ruler of the region when Banaras was a princely state. Since, he comissioned the building of this ghat. Along the ghat lies the mostly intact structure of a massive fortress. That looks all the more mysterious as you pass through it during the sunset hours.

Jain Ghat – by Jain devotees among the ghats of Varanasi

Also known as Vaccharaja Ghat, this ghat in Varanasi was initially built by Vaccharaja. And later bought by the jain community. And hence renamed as Jain Ghat. The Jain community uses these ghats for their own religious ceremonies till date.

Mansarovar Ghat

A lot of places in Varanasi, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Mansarovar Ghat are attributed to Maharaja Jai Singh II of Jaipur. He is the same king who also built the engineering marvel of Jantar Mantar in Jaipur, Jalmahal inside the Mansagar Lake in Jaipur and the reconstruction and expansion of Amer Fort and Jaigarh Fort. Near Mansarovar Ghat, he also constructed a small fresh water pool – Mansarovar Kund – and thus the name of the adjoining ghat also came to be Mansarovar Ghat.

Rajendra Prasad Ghat

Clearly a ghat named to honour the first president of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad, The Rajendra Prasad Ghat is a relatively small ghat, with not any major architectural elements. But you will find painted here the colorful pictures of Hindu Gods and Goddess.

Lalita Ghat

Also known as Nepali Ghat, as this ghat was constructed by the then king of Nepal. Thus the temple that you see at Lalita Ghat is wooden. Like how most of the temples of Nepal and Kathmandu are. And some believe that it closely resembles the Pashupatinath Temple of Nepal.

Kedar Ghat – by Vijaynagara empire among the ghats of Varanasi

A ghat built by the Vijaynagara Kingdom of South India. The same empire who built several important temples of South India, across the ancient empire of Hampi and the town of Badami. Including the Virupaksha Temple, the Vittala Temple of Hampi and some of the landmark temples in the Pattadakal Group of Monuments. No wonder, if you closely look at the temples along the Kedar Ghat, you will see a close resemblance to the Dravidian style of architecture that is popular in South India.

The Kedar Ghat is also famous for its holy water pool – Gauri Kund or Parvati Kund that is believed to have medicinal values.

Chousatti Ghat

Its name is derived from the number “Chousatti,” which means sixty-four in Hindi, and is linked to the worship of the 64 Yoginis, mystical female deities in Hindu tradition, particularly in Shakti and Tantric traditions. As, these goddesses are believed to represent different aspects of the divine feminine and are closely associated with power and transformation. There are several Chausath Yogini temples across India. Like the one we visited during our trip to Bhedaghat and Jabalpur during our Madhya Pradesh trip.

Chousatti Ghat ((also spelled as Chausaththi Ghat) can be easily recognised as it has colorful steps – something that definitely sets it apart from the other ghats of Varanasi. There are several small temples around Chousatti Ghat dedicated to the 64 yoginis, including one dedicated to Goddess Kali. In the 18th century, the King of Nepal is said to have renovated this ghat. His contribution to the development of Chousatti Ghat links it with the royal legacy, adding to its historical significance.

Ganga Mahal Ghat – by Maharaja of Banaras among the ghats of Varanasi

It is one of the many historical and lesser-crowded ghats of Varanasi. It is located near the more prominent Assi Ghat and holds its own significance due to its association with a royal palace and its serene atmosphere. The ghat is named after the Ganga Mahal, a palace that was constructed by a Maharaja (royal) in the early 19th century. The palace was built by the Maharaja of Benaras, and its grandeur reflects the opulence of that era.

Though not as famous as Dashashwamedh or Assi Ghats, Ganga Mahal Ghat is popular among pilgrims and tourists who seek a quieter and more peaceful place by the Ganges. The ghat also hosts various religious ceremonies and is a good spot for performing ritual baths in the holy river. It’s quieter settings and the architecture of the Ganga Mahal makes it a must visit among the ghats of Varanasi. In fact, Ganga Mahal is often included into historical and heritage walking tours around Varanasi as a significant landmark.

Today, Ganga Mahal is used as an educational institution for Sanskrit and Hindu studies. It is part of the broader landscape of Varanasi, where religious learning and traditional Indian education continue to thrive.

Adi Keshav Ghat

This is one of the oldest and most revered ghats in Varanasi, located at the confluence of the Varuna and Ganga rivers, in the northern part of the city. The ghat holds great historical and spiritual significance due to its connection with Lord Vishnu. The ghat is named after Adi Keshav, an ancient form of Lord Vishnu. According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Vishnu first set foot in Varanasi at this very spot, making it a sacred site for Vishnu devotees. The word “Adi” means “ancient,” and “Keshav” is one of the names of Vishnu, emphasizing the ghat’s ancient roots.

Adi Keshav Ghat is considered a significant pilgrimage site, especially for followers of Vaishnavism (devotees of Vishnu). It is believed that taking a dip at this ghat can purify the soul and lead to spiritual upliftment. Also, adjacent to the ghat is the Adi Keshava Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Adi Keshava form. The temple is one of the oldest Vishnu temples in Varanasi, believed to date back thousands of years. The temple’s presiding deity is a black stone image of Lord Vishnu. Pilgrims visit the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings.

The temple is a fine example of ancient Indian architecture. Though modest in size, it holds immense importance for its historical connection to Vishnu worship in Varanasi. The ghat is located on the confluence of Ganga and Varuna river. It is one of the most peaceful ghats of Varanasi.

Hanuman Ghat

The Hanuman Ghat is named after Lord Hanuman, the devoted follower of Lord Rama and one of the most important deities in Hindu mythology. It is believed that the ghat was originally established by Tulsidas, the famous poet-saint who wrote the Ramcharitmanas, a retelling of the Ramayana in Hindi. Tulsidas was a devout follower of Lord Hanuman, and the ghat became a center for Hanuman worship.

The ghat is considered highly sacred for those devoted to Hanuman, who is revered as a symbol of strength, devotion, and selfless service. Devotees come to this ghat to seek his blessings for courage and protection. It is said that Tulsidas himself installed a Hanuman idol here, and the temple became a major spot for the worship of Hanuman in Varanasi. The temple is relatively simple but holds immense spiritual significance, especially during festivals like Hanuman Jayanti. There are several Hanuman Temples around this ghat.

Karnatak Ghat – by the royal family of Mysore among the ghats of Varanasi

Karnatak Ghat is a significant yet relatively quiet ghat in Varanasi, closely associated with the royal family of Mysore (in the state of Karnataka), who built and maintained it. This ghat holds particular importance for pilgrims from the southern states of India, especially Karnataka, who visit Varanasi for religious reasons. The ghat is used for performing rituals, bathing in the sacred Ganges, and paying homage to ancestors. Karnatak Ghat is home to several small temples and shrines, where rituals and prayers like Tarpan (offering to ancestors) are conducted. These temples often feature deities worshipped by South Indians, such as Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Parvati.

Karnatak Ghat is less commercialized and crowded compared to more famous ghats like Dashashwamedh and Manikarnika. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for pilgrims seeking a quiet space for meditation, prayer, or rituals. The temples on this ghat resemble the Dravidian style of architecture.

Boating through the ghats of Varanasi

Like I said in the beginning, the best way to explore the ghats of Varanasi with the least time at hand is to take a boat ride in the river Ganga. And see all the ghats from the waters. You can hire a boat from morning until dark in the evening from most of the major ghats. Two ghats from where the most number of boats ply include Assi Ghat and Dasashwamedh Ghat. Although, you will need to have a good negotiation skill to get a good deal. If you are visiting during the morning or evening hours of Ganga Aarti, the package may include witnessing the aarti from the waters. The overall ride in the river takes around 25 minutes to 45 minutes. And the aarti takes around 45 more minutes.

As to the size and capacity of the boats, there are small motor boats to large size vessels all cruising through the river. Whichever boat you choose, please make sure of the following –

1. The boat is not overloaded or overcrowded than it’s capacity.
2. There are good quality functioning life jackets available on the boats.

Our near death experience boating in Varanasi

It so happened with us that we took a smaller motor boat. Whose engine ceased midwater. We were left at the mercy of the waves for another 30-40 minutes. Before another boat arrived and toed our boat to the banks. To be honest anything could possibly have happened during this time  – the boat could have capsized, we could have been drowned. Every single moment during this time was like a nightmare. Even a police boat patrolling the area came nearby, but didn’t really help us. They just instructed the boatmen to move us to the banks and went away!! This incident has left us with serious doubts on the maintenance of the boats and the overall way the whole boating on Ganga is operated.

I am not narrating about this experience here to scare you. The purpose is to make you aware that anything can happen, anything is really possible. So, take all security measures and be very careful when taking this or similar boat rides in India.

In conclusion, if in Varanasi, do make time to visit these beautiful ghats basis the time and priority that you might have. It will be an experience of a lifetime. Ours surely was 🙂

 

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