Varanasi or Kashi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, is known for its ghats along the Ganges River. Ghats are a series of steps leading down to the river, and they hold immense cultural, religious, and historical significance. Ghats are important bathing spots for Hindu devotees. Here are 10 popular ghats in Varanasi:
Dashashwamedh Ghat: This is one of the oldest and
most prominent ghats in Varanasi. It is known for its religious ceremonies, and
the Ganga Aarti held here every evening is a major attraction.
Assi Ghat: Located at the confluence of the Ganges
and Assi rivers, Assi Ghat is a favorite spot for pilgrims and tourists. It is
also a popular place for yoga and meditation.
Manikarnika Ghat: This is one of the holiest ghats in
Varanasi and is associated with Hindu cremation rituals. It is believed that a
person cremated here attains moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and
death).
Panchganga Ghat: It is believed that five rivers,
Ganges, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhupapapa, converge at this ghat.
Pilgrims believe that taking a dip in the waters here cleanses them of sins.
Harishchandra Ghat: Similar to Manikarnika Ghat,
Harishchandra Ghat is also used for cremation purposes. It is named after the
legendary King Harishchandra known for his unwavering devotion to truth.
Darbhanga Ghat: This ghat is known for its impressive
architecture and the Rana Mahal, a palace built by the royal family of
Darbhanga.
Tulsi Ghat: Named after the famous poet-saint
Tulsidas, this ghat is known for its connection to literature and is a peaceful
spot for contemplation.
Rajendra Prasad Ghat: This ghat is named after the
first President of India, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. It is a relatively quieter ghat
and offers a serene view of the Ganges.
Dandi Ghat: This ghat is famous for the Dandi
Kshetra, a sacred peepal tree where pilgrims perform rituals.
Scindia Ghat: It is known for the Shiva temple and
the historic Shinde Maharaja's palace. The ghat has a unique blend of
spirituality and architectural beauty.
These ghats collectively contribute to the unique charm and
spiritual aura that Varanasi is known for. Each ghat has its own stories,
legends, and rituals associated with it, making Varanasi a significant
pilgrimage and cultural destination.
Some of other popular ghats -
Raj Ghat: This ghat is named after the Maharaja of Kashi,
who built it in the 16th century. It is a beautiful and serene ghat, with a
large temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and a number of smaller shrines.
Manmandir Ghat: This ghat is named after the Manmandir
Observatory, which was built by Maharaja Jai Singh II in the 18th century. The
observatory is one of the oldest in India and is still used today by
astronomers.
Kedar Ghat: This ghat is named after Lord Shiva, who is also known as Kedarnath. It is a popular spot for bathing and performing rituals, and it is also the site of a number of temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Durgakund Ghat: This ghat is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is a popular spot for worship.