Ghats refer to a series of steps leading down to a water body, usually a river. In Varanasi, the Ghats are specifically constructed along the western bank of the Ganges River. Built centuries ago, these Ghats serve various purposes, including religious and spiritual ceremonies, bathing, cremation, and ferry points.

The construction of the Varanasi Ghats dates back centuries and has played a significant role in shaping the city as we know it today. Many Ghats have been built, destroyed, and rebuilt over time by various rulers, philanthropists, and merchants. To this day, locals dedicate their time to cleaning, decorating, and maintaining the Ghats as a mark of respect for their city.

Today, over 84 Ghats line the holy Ganges in Varanasi, each whispering an untold secret of the past. Unlock the history of the Ghats and explore the riverside architecture with Anantakashi.

Ravidas Ghat

Sant Ravidas Ghat is a renowned ghat located in Varanasi, India. It is named after the 14th-century saint and poet Sant Ravidas, who is highly revered by the Dalit community in India.

Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, the ghat is considered a sacred site by Hindus. It is believed that taking a dip in the waters of the Ganges at Sant Ravidas Ghat can cleanse one’s sins and provide spiritual purification.

The ghat is also known for its historical and cultural significance. It is home to several temples and shrines, including the Sant Ravidas Temple, dedicated to the saint. The temple serves as a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Sant Ravidas.

Sant Ravidas Ghat is celebrated for its vibrant and lively atmosphere. Visitors can witness various activities, including religious rituals, cultural events, and glimpses of daily life in Varanasi. The ghat is especially crowded during festivals such as Diwali and Holi, when thousands of devotees gather to offer prayers and participate in the celebrations.

In summary, Sant Ravidas Ghat is a significant and revered site in Varanasi, serving as an important cultural and religious landmark in India.

Assi Ghat

Confluence of Rivers, Cafes and Youth

History of Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat finds its mention in Purans and ancient texts of the Gahadavalas dynasty(11th century). It is one of the most prominent sites of the annual Panchkroshi Yatra and Surya Shashi. Before the 19th century, the ghat was a green land covered by trees and shrubs. The area was divided into 2 parts when the queen of Bihar bought the southern side in 1902 and constructed her palace(Present-day hotel Ganges View).

A few other structures came into existence nearby by but It was only in 1988 that the Ghat became pucca by efforts of the irrigation department. Later, it witnessed heavy construction around the area as more ashrams and businesses started flourishing.

In 2014 district administration developed the southern end of Assi and converted it into a stage-like pavilion with Yagshala to host the “Subah-e-Banaras” festival, a year-round event that takes place before dawn.

Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat

Subah Banaras morning Aarti is performed every day at the Assi Ghat from 5 AM to 6 AM. 

The evening Ganga Aarti is performed at 6:30 PM at both ends of the Ghat. The event is later followed by Deep Daan (the act of offering earthen lamps and flowers to the Ganga river). In contrast to the morning Aarti, the Evening Aarti is attended by a large number of locals and travellers.

Assi Ghat Hangout Spot

Assi Ghat if seen as a fabric of time you will find it divided into slots by age. As the sun starts rising the ghat is flocked by middle and old age people to take a morning dip and perform rituals. In the afternoon it becomes deserted and you will find old people taking a nap under the shades. As the sun goes down youngsters take over the place. At night, all these slots merge into one and you will find everyone at Assi cherishing life, eating snacks, having tea, and witnessing evening aarti together just like one big family.

Cafes of Assi Ghat

Those who have been to Assi would know the fact the major chunk of the area is today dominated by cafes. from fast food to different cuisines you will be able to find any place to suit your taste buds within a radius of 500 meters. Cafes like Pizzeria Vatika, Diljeet Cafe, and TeaQuilla are only to name a few. This growing culture has not just brought business opportunities for the locals but has also transformed their way of living. The area today looks more like a western city in contrast to the vibes of central Varanasi.

How to Reach Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat is located 3 km away from Vishwanath Temple and 2 km away from BHU. It is well connected to all the Railway stations, Airport and the bus stand via road. You can reach Assi crossing by shared auto-rickshaw, and take a 5-minute walk to the Assi Ghat. You can also take a boat ride from any ghat to the Assi Ghat or just walk.

Ganga Mahal Ghat

Ganga Mahal Ghat  is one of the main ghats on the Ganges River in Varanasi. Constructed in 1830 CE by the Narayan dynastyGanga Mahal Ghat is situated on the bank of the Ganges. It is 6 kilometers southeast of Varanasi Junction railway station and 100 meters north of Assi Ghat. The Narayan dynasty, in 1830, constructed a palace by the river Ganga in Varanasi. The palace was called “Ganga Mahal” (Mahal means palace in Hindi). Since the Mahal (palace) was housed on the ghat, the ghat was named “Ganga Mahal Ghat”. Stone steps between Assi Ghat and Ganga Mahal Ghat separate the two ghats. This palace houses the design studio of Hemang Agrawal whereas the upper floors are used by the “Indo-Swedish Study Centre” organized by Karlstad University.

Tulsi Ghat

Tulsi Ghat is a famous ghat located on the banks of the holy river Ganges in the city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is named after the great poet Tulsidas, who is said to have lived and written the famous Hindu epic Ramcharitmanas in this area.

The ghat is also famous for its beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Ram, which is believed to have been built on the spot where Tulsidas used to meditate. This temple attracts a large number of devotees, especially during the festival of Ram Navami, which celebrates the birth of Lord Ram.

Tulsi Ghat is also known for its serene atmosphere, and many people come here to take a dip in the holy Ganges and perform various rituals and ceremonies. The ghat is also popular among photographers and tourists who come here to capture the stunning views of the river and the surrounding areas.

Mir (Meer) Ghat

The former name of this ghat was Jarasandha Ghat, which is mentioned in the Girvanapadmanjari. Around 1735 AD, the huge fort located at Ghat and Ghat was built by Mir Rustam Ali, the then Faujdar of Kashi. Due to the construction of Mir Rustam Ali Ghat, it was later called Mir Ghat. It is first mentioned by Prinsep by the name Mirghat. The second major temple on the ghat is that of Vishalakshi Devi. This is the second temple of Kashi, which has been constructed in the South Indian temple architectural tradition consisting of Gopuram and Dravid Shikhar. Vishalakshadevi is one of the Nav Gauris of Kashi.

Man Mandir Ghat

Man Mandir Ghat is a historic ghat located on the banks of the River Ganges in the city of Varanasi, India. The ghat was built in the early 17th century by the Maharaja of Jaipur, Raja Man Singh. It is named after him, as “Man” means “Man Singh” and “Mandir” means “temple” in Hindi. The ghat was used as a royal observatory and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.

Man Mandir Ghat has several important landmarks, including the Man Mandir Palace, which was once a royal palace and is now a museum. The palace is famous for its impressive architecture and intricate stone carvings. Other notable landmarks at the ghat include the Jantar Mantar observatory, which was built by the astronomer King Sawai Jai Singh II, and the Chandra Mahal, which is a beautiful palace built in the Mughal style.

The ghat is also an important spiritual destination for Hindus, who come here to take a holy dip in the Ganges and perform religious rituals. It is said that taking a bath in the waters of the Ganges at Man Mandir Ghat can wash away sins and bring good fortune. The ghat is particularly crowded during festivals like Diwali, Dussehra, and Kartik Purnima.

Rajendra Prasad Ghat

Rajendra Prasad Ghat is a famous ghat located in the holy city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, India. It is named after Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India.

The ghat is located on the banks of the river Ganges and is a popular spot for religious ceremonies, rituals, and bathing. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges at this ghat can cleanse one’s sins and lead to salvation.

Rajendra Prasad Ghat is also known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. 

Darbhanga Ghat

Darbhanga Ghat is a famous ghat (riverbank) situated on the banks of the river Ganges in the city of Varanasi, India. It is named after the royal family of Darbhanga who built it in the 18th century.

The ghat is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate carvings, and stunning views of the Ganges. It is also considered one of the most sacred ghats in Varanasi, and many people come here to take a dip in the holy river or perform rituals.

Darbhanga Ghat is located near the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple and is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. It is a popular tourist destination and a must-visit place for anyone visiting Varanasi.

Ahilyabai Ghat

Ahilyabai Ghat is a famous ghat (a series of steps leading down to the river) located on the banks of the River Ganges in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is named after the famous queen of the Maratha Empire, Ahilyabai Holkar, who was a great patron of the city and is credited with the construction of many ghats and temples in Varanasi.

Ahilyabai Ghat is a popular spot for taking a dip in the holy river and performing various religious rituals. It is also known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings on the steps and pillars. The ghat is particularly beautiful during the evening aarti (a Hindu religious ceremony) when hundreds of devotees gather to offer prayers to the river.

Janaki Ghat

Janaki Ghat is a popular ghat (a series of steps leading down to a body of water) located on the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi, India. It is named after Goddess Sita, also known as Janaki, the wife of Lord Rama from the epic Ramayana.

Janaki Ghat is considered a holy place by Hindus and is frequented by pilgrims who come to take a dip in the Ganges to cleanse their sins and perform rituals. The ghat is also known for its beautiful temples, including the Janaki Temple and the Nepali Temple.

Kedar Ghat

The Mandala of Kashi

Kedar Ghat, home to the Gauri Kedareshwar temple, is one of the five sacred ghats in Varanasi. Dashashwamedh, Panchganga, Manikarnika, and Adi Keshav are the other four major ghats. 

Just as Kashi is believed to be the mandala of India’s devotion, Kedara is believed to be the mandala of Kashi-  Kedar Khand. As Kashi is divided into three major Devotion circles – Kedar Khand, Kashi Khand, and Omkareshwar Khand. Each Khand has its own primal deity- Kedareshwar, Vishweshwar and Omkareshwar respectively. 

The Kedar Ghat houses the Gauri Kedareshwar Temple & Gauri Kund. History of Kedar Ghat

The ghat is a major attraction among South Indian devotees as it is associated with Kumaraswamy Mutt. You may notice many South Indians taking a dip in the holy Ganges near this ghat. It is neighboured by Vijiyanagaram Ghat, built together in the 18th Century by King Vijayanagar. It was rebuilt in the mid-20th century by the Uttar Pradesh Government. The Maharaja of Vijayanagar is said to have developed it and in 1958, the state government made it a pucca ghat.

The Kedara is assumed to be older than the Kashi Vishwanath because of its mention in the early Puranas and it is widely believed that the temple survived the devastation in the late 17th century by Aurangzeb, inferring that the present Kedareshwar temple is older than the present temple of Vishwanath.

Gauri Kedareshwar Temple

This ghat has one of the very old temples, Gauri Kedareshwar Temple, from where it gets the name, Kedar Ghat. Gauri Kedareshwar Temple is dedicated to lord Eshwar and goddess Parvati. The main temple has a Shivling and Nandi. Kedareshvara is also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple is famous for being the replica of the lingam at Kedarnath Himalayan temple. The Shivalinga in the inner sanctum of the temple is not an ordinary one, with a lumpish outcropping of rock with a white line through it. Traditionally believed to be a ‘self manifest’ linga, giving the same virtue as the other Kedarnath temple in Uttarakhand.

How to reach Kedar Ghat?

Kedar ghat is situated between Vijayanagaram and Chauki ghat which can be reached through the lanes of Bengali Tola or via boat. This place is 5.5 km from Varanasi Cant. Junction.

Pandey Ghat

The Silent Story Telling Ghat of Kashi

Located between the bustling Dashashwamedh and the quieter Darbhanga Ghats, Pandey Ghat is a serene yet culturally rich area along the Ganges in Varanasi.

Historical Significance and Cultural Heritage

Named after the famous wrestler Babua Pandey, who established a wrestling arena (akhara) here in the early 19th century, this ghat combines Varanasi’s historical allure with its vibrant local life. Despite being close to some of the city’s busiest ghats, Pandey Ghat has its unique calm that attracts those looking to unwind and absorb the spiritual atmosphere.

Pandey Ghat was originally referred to as Sarveshwar Ghat, connected to the Sarveshwara Temple nearby.

Unique Features and Architecture

Unlike the grandeur of some of the larger ghats, Pandey Ghat’s simplicity is part of its charm. The ghat has stone steps leading to the river, which offers an uninterrupted view of the Ganges, and is a favorite spot for locals and tourists seeking a quieter riverside experience. At the top of the ghat, there’s a large pipal tree under which several stone naga idols are placed, adding a mystical touch to the surroundings.

Visitors can also find the Naga Kupa, or “Snake Well,” a stone structure that is part of the local belief system and often visited by those with devotion to the serpent deity, Naga. This element of the ghat’s architecture showcases the mix of traditional worship practices and the Varanasi locals’ reverence for nature.

Activities at Pandey Ghat

1. Akhara Observation: Watch traditional kushti sessions at the Pandey Ghat akhara, where wrestlers train early in the morning. This practice keeps alive the traditional Indian martial art and connects visitors with the local athletic culture.
2. Sunrise and Sunset Views: Pandey Ghat is less crowded, making it ideal for sunrise and sunset views along the Ganges.
3. Photography: The blend of stone architecture, rituals, and natural elements provides excellent photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours of dawn and dusk.

NaradaGhat

The Marriage Breaking Ghat of Kashi

Situated between Mansarovar and Raja Ghat, Narad Ghat is known for its quirky myths. It was previously known as ‘Kuvai Ghat’. Constructed by a Monastery chief Dattatreya Swami in 1788, this ghat is named after Devarshi Narad. It is believed that Narad emerged from Brahma’s forehead and is considered as his son. He practiced life-long celibacy and dedicated his life to self-culture

Interestingly, there are two contrasting myths about this ghat. First, married couples are not suggested to bathe here because the consequences might include major issues in their marital life. Probably because Narad was a Brahmachari(celibate), another contradictory belief by some people is that they see it as a place to end toxic relationships or marriages. It is these trivial weird practices make Varanasi so interesting 

Manikarnika Ghat

The Burning Ghat of Kashi

Manikarnika Ghat, nestled along the holy Ganges in Varanasi, isn’t just a ghat; it’s a poignant window into life’s final journey. As one of Varanasi’s busiest and most significant ghats, it houses an eternal fire, believed to have blazed since ancient times, serving as an open crematorium steeped in sacred Hindu rituals.

Like any other component present in the city of light, the ghats too are very religious and considered a platform for liberation and the end of human misery. There are around 84 ghats. If the blessings of life start at Dashashwamedh Ghat then they end at Manikarnika Ghat; a unique combination of life and death in the desire for salvation attracts the pilgrims. Paradoxically, it is the only city on earth that is famous for death and salvation.

“Even after a thousand cycles of life and death, one is not sure if he gets salvation or not.” It is attainable in a single birth in Kashi (Varanasi). This is a great saying for Kashi.

History of Manikarnika Ghat

Mani of Shiva

The name ‘Manikarnika’, as the scriptures suggest, came when the ‘Mani’ of Shiva and ‘Karnika’ of Parvati, while bathing in that Kund, slipped off and fell in it. The decision of Shiva to retain the task of granting salvation is seen in the broader perspective here in Manikarnika.

It is said that here in this ghat, Lord Shiva, himself directs the soul of the dead to crossover the world towards the path of salvation by speaking the ‘Taraka Mantra’ in the ears of the dead. This belief is the lifeline of the ghat, which makes it a special place for cremation.

Story of Sati

Another narrative claims that Mata Sati sacrificed herself by positioning her body on fire after one of the sons of Lord Brahma, Raja Daksh Prajapati, tried to dishonor Lord Shiva in a Yagnya (a ritual within which offerings are made into a dedicated fire).

Later, Lord Shiva carried Mata Sati’s body toward the Himalayas. During this journey, her body started to fall onto the earth. Shakti Peeth (a place of worship to the divinity Sati/Shakti) was then established in each place her body parts had fallen.

In this story, Mata Sati’s earring fell at Manikarnika Ghat and the name is derived from it.

The Manikarnika Ghat, popularly known as the “Maha Smashaan” or ”great cremation ground” is one of the main ghats present on the long stretch of the holy river of Ganga flowing past the city of Varanasi.

The ghat is the site of the most important of the two cremation grounds of Varanasi, and of the sacred tank beside which Lord Vishnu performed his cosmogonic austerities. “While in India, the cremation ground is generally on the periphery or outside the area of human settlement, in Kashi, it is at the very hub. Just as India is said to be the navel of the world and Kashi is the navel of India, so Manikarnika is the navel of Kashi.” Crossing the area one can reach Manikarnika Kund (water tank), the original identity of this ghat. This Kund is believed to have been made by Lord Vishnu himself in the age when life on the planet was in its preparatory stage. Today, Manikarnika Ghat is serving as many as 400 cremations per day.

Importance of Manikarnika Ghat

• Religious Significance: Manikarnika Ghat is considered the holiest cremation ground among Hindus. It is believed that Hindus who get cremated here are liberated from the cycle of life.
• Shakti Peeth: Manikarnika Ghat is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, revered pilgrimage sites where body parts of Sati are believed to have fallen. This connection further elevates its religious significance.
• Ancient History: The ghat’s origins are ancient, dating back to the Vedic period (1500-500 BCE). Its historical significance makes it a site of cultural and archaeological importance.
• Social Significance: The ghat serves as a microcosm of Indian society, with individuals from all walks of life coming together for cremations. It reflects the ritualistic and social aspects of death in Hindu culture.
• Livelihood: The ghat provides livelihood for hundreds of families involved in various activities related to cremations, including wood collection, flower-selling, and officiating rituals.
• Tourism: Manikarnika Ghat is a major tourist attraction, offering insights into Hindu culture and death rituals. It generates revenue for the local economy and attracts visitors from around the world.
• Cultural Heritage: The ghat is a repository of cultural heritage, with traditional practices and rituals being observed for centuries. It helps preserve and transmit this cultural heritage to future generations.
• Spiritual Center: Manikarnika Ghat serves as a spiritual center for many, offering solace and helping one understand the true meaning of life.
• Symbol of Mortality: The ghat serves as a powerful symbol of mortality, reminding us of the impermanence of life. It encourages introspection and contemplation on the meaning of life and death.

How to Reach Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika Ghat is located in Lahori Tola. It is well connected to all the Railway stations, Airport and the bus stand via road. The best way to reach Manikarnika Ghat is on foot via Ghats as it’s very near to Dashashwamedh Ghat. One can also take a boat from any ghat to the Manikarnika Ghat.

Panchganga Ghat

Where Five Rivers Meet

Panchganga Ghat or Bindumadhav Ghat is a famous ghat located in Varanasi, India. It is situated on the banks of the Ganga river and is named after the five holy rivers that are said to confluence at this spot: Ganga, Saraswati, Dhupapapa, Yamuna, and Kirana.

Presently, only the Ganga remains visible, while the others are thought to have disappeared or transformed into ethereal manifestations.

Panch Ganga ghat is one of the 5 oldest and most important ghats in Varanasi and is believed to have been built by the sage Bhrigu during the time of the Mahabharat. Pilgrims visit this ghat to take a dip in the holy waters of the Ganga and offer prayers to the gods. It is believed that bathing in the waters of the Panch Ganga Ghat can wash away one’s sins and help attain salvation.

The Panch Ganga Ghat is also known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the river Ganga. The ghat is lined with rows of steps that lead down to the river, and it is surrounded by several grand old buildings and temples such as Alamgir Mosque, Bindu Madhav Temple, etc. The soul-stirring Ganga Aarti at sunrise illuminates the ghat’s spiritual essence, honouring the sacred Ganga River. Festivals during Vaishakh (April-May) and Kartik (Oct-Nov) witness devotees, especially women, partaking in sacred baths. Special rituals on Ganga’s birthday and the offering of oil lamps to ancestors during Kartik month signify the depth of devotion upheld by the Ghatiyas (ghaṭ-priests).

History of Panchganga Ghat

The earliest mentions of the ghats are in an 11th-century text known as “Kashi Khand” from the Skand Puran. The Kashi Khand describes Panchganga as the second most important ghat after Dashaswamedh Ghat. Around the time of the Gahadavala dynasty(11th-12th century), the royal families preferred Panchganga over the Dashashwamedh ghat. It was known as Bindumadhav Ghat because of the glorious golden temple of Vishnu that was present at the Ghat.

Vishnu Temple or the Bindu Madhav temple was destroyed by Aurangzeb and converted into Alamgir Mosque in 1673. The present temple was re-established on the right side of the mosque.

Prominent Figures Connected to Panchganga Ghat

The Panchganga Ghat has a strong association with several important figures in Hinduism, as well as other spiritual leaders. These individuals have made significant contributions to the religious and cultural heritage of India and are remembered for their teachings, wisdom, and influence.

Tracing its history, the ghat was once graced by the presence of a revered teacher of Vedanta, Ramananda, whose monastery still stands as a testament to his legacy. It was here that Kabir, the eminent reformist bhakti poet, found guidance under Ramananda’s tutelage, shaping the course of spiritual thought.

1. Adi Shankaracharya – He was a Hindu philosopher and theologian who established the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta. Shankaracharya is said to have visited the Panch Ganga Ghat and performed spiritual practices there.
2. Tulsidas – He was a Hindu poet-saint and philosopher who wrote the Ramcharitmanas, an epic poem in the Awadhi language. Tulsidas is said to have visited the Panch Ganga Ghat and performed rituals in honor of Lord Rama.
3. Kabir – He was a 15th-century Indian mystic poet and saint whose writings influenced Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism. Kabir is said to have visited the Panch Ganga Ghat and sang devotional songs in praise of the divine.
4. Ravidas – He was a 15th-century Indian saint and poet whose devotional songs and verses are still popular among the people of India. Ravidas is said to have visited the Panch Ganga Ghat and performed spiritual practices there.
5. Guru Nanak – He was the founder of the Sikh religion and is considered to be one of the greatest spiritual leaders in Indian history. Guru Nanak is said to have visited the Panch Ganga Ghat and meditated there, gaining spiritual enlightenment.
6. Trailanga Swami– He was often seen sitting on the steps of Panchganga Ghat, meditating and offering blessings to devotees who came to see him. It is said that he would often disappear for long periods, only to reappear at the ghat when he felt called to do so.

These important figures have all left their mark on the Panch Ganga Ghat and are remembered for their teachings and wisdom. Their association with this site has helped deepen its spiritual significance and made it a revered place of pilgrimage for millions of people worldwide.

How to Reach Panchganga Ghat

Panchganga Ghat is located just 6 minutes walking distance from the Burning Ghat. You can also take a walk from the Kachori Gali to Panchganga Ghat via the streets to explore the older part of the area. The ghat can also be reached via boat from any Ghat in the city.

Harischandra Ghat

 A Story  of Truth & Duty

Significance of Harishchandra Ghat

Raja Harishchandra was known for keeping his word and he never left the path of truth. According to the legends, he once worked as an undertaker at the cremation ground here to fulfill his promise. He also gave away his throne, lost his family, and agreed to become a slave. But eventually, seeing his perseverance the Gods rewarded him with his lost kingdom and his dead son

History of Harishchandra Ghat

Harishchandra Ghat is one of the two cremation ghats in Varanasi, also known as Adi Manikarnika (the original Manikarnika or the original cremation ground); there still exists Adi Manikarnika Tirtha.

In  1986-87, an electric crematorium was opened here, however, a side-by-side funeral on a wood fire is also continuing.  At the top of the shrines,  there are images of Harischandreshvara, Rohiteshvara, Adi  Manikarnikeshvara, and  Vriddha  Kedara.  In  1740, Narayana Dikshit,  a religious guru of Peshavas renovated this ghat and made this partially pucca

It lies between (Hanuman) ghat and (Lali) ghat. Since it is a historical ghat, it draws a good amount of travelers from across the world.

How to reach Harishchandra Ghat

Harishchandra Ghat is located 2 km away from Vishwanath Temple and 3 km away from BHU. It is well connected to all the Railway stations, Airport and the bus stand via road. You can reach the Ghat by shared auto-rickshaw or can also take a boat ride from any ghat to the Tulsi Ghat or just walk.

Nandeshwar Ghat

        The Shooting Ghat of Kashi

 Nandeshwar Ghat, the Bollywood’s favourite shooting location in Varanasi is located near Raj Ghat. Away from all the city madness and chaotic ghats, Nandeshwar ghat holds the essence of Varanasi which is why more than 50 films and short films have been shot here like Raanjhaana, Mukti Bhawan and much more

Even after being in so many movies and hosting so many actors, Nandeshwar Ghat is not very popular among the locals and tourists. The ghat remains peaceful all around the year except for the Nag Panchami when wrestling matches are hosted in its Akhada. Nandeshwar Ghat is also called Nandu Ghat and it appears as the same in Google Maps.

From Akhada to temples and from haveli to the Ganges, Nandeshwar Ghat has all the elements of Varanasi. Adding the low footfall makes it the perfect place to shoot in Varanasi.

How to Reach

Ghat is located near Rabindranath Tagore Road/ Machodari Road. It is well connected to all the railway stations, Airport and the bus stand via road. It can be reached by shared auto-rickshaws which are available throughout the city. One can also ride a boat from any ghat to the Nandeshwar ghat.

Hanuman Gadi Ghat

Education is Free Here

Hanuman Gadi Ghat is a new addition to the long list of ghats in Varanasi. Earlier, it was part of the Gaay Ghat and locals used to wash their cows here. This part of the ghat had no religious importance and was inhabited by Shyamalal Mahatyagi Baba of Bihar.  In 1950 Baba built a Hanuman Temple here with the help of Hanuman Gadi temple Trust, Ayodhya and that’s how this Ghat got its name.

How to Reach Hanuman Gadi Ghat

Hanuman Gadi Ghat is located near Gai Ghat road in Ghasi Tola area. It is well connected to all the Railways stations, Airport and the bus stand via road. You can reach here by shared auto-rickshaws which are available from Maidhagin Chowk. One can also take a boat ride from any ghat to the Gaay Ghat.

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Yagshala of Lord Brahma

Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of Varanasi’s oldest, sacred, and most visited Ghat. It is famous for hosting the Ganga Aarti event where hundreds of devotees and travelers participate every evening throughout the year. Its proximity to the famous Vishwanath Gali makes it a go-to ghat for devotees who wish to take a dip before worshiping Shivling at Vishwanath temple.

History of Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat which precisely means the Ghat of 10 sacrificed horses (Dash – ten, Ashwa – Horses, Medh – Sacrifice) was earlier known as Rudrasaras in Indian scriptures. Lord Brahma sacrificed 10 horses at Rudrasaras and installed two Shivlings. The place was later renamed Dashashwamedh Ghat to pay respect to him.

Another perspective through the historical records marks the Dashashwamedh Ghat as the first historically documented site connected to the Bharasiva king of the Naga dynasty. The Bharatiya performed horse sacrifice at the Dashashwamedh Ghat after defeating the Kushan empire to please their deity, Shiva.

The first pucca ghat was built by Balaji Bajirao in 1738-40 and was later renovated by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar in 1765. The present stairs were later installed by the government in 1965.

Story of Dashashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat holds immense religious importance for Hindus due to an incident that took place here as per the scriptures. When Shiva was living in Mandrachal or Mount Mandara, Kashi was ruled by king Devodasa. He asked Lord Brahma to keep all Gods and celestial beings away from Kashi till the time he was ruling it. Lord Brahma agreed to his terms on a promise that the king would help all the people living and visiting Kashi in their religious pursuits. Devodasa proved to be a very generous and religious king and turned Kashi into one of the happiest places on the earth.

On the other hand, Lord Shiva was saddened by the fact that he couldn’t visit Kashi and decided to provoke the king to commit some mistake. Shiva sent 64 Yoginis to create a ruckus in town but upon reaching the Kashi the Yoginis got so mesmerized by the beauty of Kashi that they thought it to be part of heaven. After spending some time in the city the Yoginis decided to settle down in Kashi failing on the task given to them.

Shiva when got to know about the failure of 64 Yoginis got annoyed and sent Surya to Kashi. Lord Surya came to Kashi to create a disturbance so King Devodasa could be defeated in his resolve and Shiva could return. Surya tried to test the king by disguising himself as a scholar, a Brahmin, a businessman, etc. but couldn’t find any flaw in the Devodasa. Feared by the fact that Shiva will not like it when he tells him about the failure he decides to settle down in Kashi.

After some time when Shiva realized that Lord Surya had also failed he sent the lord Brahma to complete the task. Lord Brahma disguised as old Bhramin visited the king and shared his desire to perform Ashwa Medha Yagya and requested to provide the material. King agreed to this and with his help, Lord Brahma was able to perform 10 Ashwa Medha Yagra at Rudrasaras/Rudra Sarovar. With this task also being completed by the king, even Lord Brahma failed and the Rudra Sarovar became Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Evening Ganga Aarti at Ghat

The famous Ganga Aarti of Varanasi is performed at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. It is organized by an NGO Ganga Seva Nidhi and commences at 6:30 pm every evening. The Ganga Aarti is one of the main attractions of Varanasi and hundreds of tourists and devotees participate in it.

How to Reach Dashshwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat is located just 5 minutes away from Vishwanath Gali. It is well connected to all the Railway stations, Airport and the bus stand via road. You can reach Godowlia by Taxi, or shared auto-rickshaw, and take a 5-minute walk to the Dashashwamedh Ghat. You can also take a boat ride from any ghat to the Dashashwamedh Ghat.