Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and a cultural epicenter of India. Nestled on the banks of the sacred Ganges River, Varanasi is steeped in spirituality, mythology, and tradition. Its labyrinthine alleys teem with vibrant colors, bustling markets, and the echoes of ancient chants. Pilgrims flock to its ghats, the stone steps leading down to the river, to perform sacred rituals, cremate their loved ones, or simply bathe in the holy waters to cleanse their sins.

Visiting these ghats is like entering a world where spirituality, culture, and the beauty of the Ganges River come together. Each ghat has its own story, providing a glimpse into Varanasi’s rich traditions.

Let’s explore the must-visit ghats in Varanasi.

Photo courtesy: CanvaDasaswamedh Ghat: Dashashwamedh Ghat, situated near the Vishwanath Temple, stands as the most renowned ghat in the area. Legend has it that Brahma conducted ten Ashwamedha sacrifices at this very site. Each evening, a vibrant aarti ceremony takes place here, honoring Shiva, the goddess Ganga, Surya, Agni, and the entirety of existence.

Assi Ghat: This ghat, once situated at the junction of the Ganges and the now-dry river Asi, serves as the traditional southern boundary of the city. Renowned for its direct link to the city via a broad street, it stands out among the few ghats with such accessibility and serves as the primary ghat nearest to Banaras Hindu University. According to some Puranas, Assi Ghat is where the goddess Durga vanquished two demons, Shumba and Nishumba.

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Photo courtesy: CanvaManikarnika Ghat: Manikarnika Ghat serves as one of the main cremation grounds, and comes with two legends. In the first, Vishnu is said to have excavated a pit with his Chakra and filled it with his sweat during rigorous penance. While observing Vishnu, one of Shiva’s earrings, or manikarnika, accidentally dropped into the pit. The second legend recounts how Parvati concealed her earrings at this very spot to prevent Shiva from wandering the world. She claimed to have misplaced them along the Ganges’ banks. According to this tale, whenever a body is cremated at Manikarnika Ghat, Shiva inquires of the departing soul if it has encountered the missing earrings.

Harishchandra Ghat: Harishchandra Ghat is believed to be named after King Harishchandra who was known for his unwavering commitment to truth. It is another significant cremation ghat. The ghat is a place of reflection and a reminder of the impermanence of life.

Photo courtesy: CanvaTulsi Ghat: Tulsi Ghat in Varanasi is not merely a typical riverside location but holds significant tourist appeal due to its rich cultural heritage. It is revered as the site where the renowned medieval saint Tulsi Das penned the Awadhi rendition of the revered epic, Ramcharitmanas, emphasising its profound spiritual significance.

Kedar Ghat: Kedarghat derives its name from the renowned temple of Kedareshwar Shiva located on its premises. This temple is listed among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Kashi, as documented in various ancient texts including the Matsyapuran, Agnipuran, Kashikhand, and BrahmavaivartaPurana. Additionally, Gaurikund is situated on the steps of the ghat, adding to its religious significance.