87 Ghats in Varanasi: Checkout List and Famous Ghats in Kashi

Varanasi is a beautiful religious and cultural city in India. The city is located on the bank of the holy river Ganga. The famous ghats in Varanasi are known for their spiritual attraction, historic temples, and flourishing cultural heritage. Millions of devotees and tourists come every year and enjoy the beauty of the famous Ganga ghat in Varanasi. We are here to explore more about the Ganga Ghats in Varanasi. if you are interested in visiting Kashhi you must know about the famous Ganga ghats in Kashi.

Introduction

There are around 87 Ganga Ghats in Varanasi. Each Ghat tells a unique story. The series of terraced embankments that lead to the river, are not only physical structures but also holy places where ceremonies, rituals, and everyday life coexist. These ghats of Varanasi are what really capture people’s attention.

List of Ghats in Varanasi

The list of ghats in Varanasi is an attractive combination of spirituality, history, and cultural significance. Every ghat has a distinct history that is weighed down by many years of ceremonies, traditions, and dedication. Here is the List of Ghats in Varanasi-

Famous Ghat in Varanasi

The Varanasi ghats offer an in-depth experience for tourists seeking a deeper connection with India’s spiritual inheritance, from the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat, where the big Ganga Aarti takes place, to the peaceful Assi Ghat, where pilgrims cleanse themselves in the holy waters. The ghats are also a hive of activity, hosting a variety of rituals and festivities in addition to lively markets and colourful boat cruises. Exploring Varanasi’s ghats is an exploration of the human spirit and the persistent obligation of faith as well as of the city’s natural beauty. Here is the list of famous Ghat in Varanasi:-

Assi Ghat

Among 87 Ganga Ghats in Varanasi, Assi Ghat is the most famous ghat. It is easily a must-visit place in Varanasi!  Located far to the south, Assi Ghat where pilgrims pay homage to Shiva by worshipping the huge lingam under the peetha tree. A ghat is a lively place, full of chaos and noise, and perfectly attracts the antiquity of Kashi. Assi Ghat is one of the most famous religious places in Varanasi. The alluring art here has made Varanasi one of the most beautiful cities in India.

Dashaswamedh Ghat

As the name implies, it is believed that this is the place where Lord Brahma Das left Ashvamedha. During the Kartik full moon, the sky lights up in the city – go to see Dev Deepavali. This ghat is most famous for the Ganga Aarti conducted every evening and hundreds of people visit it every day.  Seeing Ganga Aarti is an experience that cannot be explained in words. While in Varanasi, make sure not to miss this peaceful experience.

Also Read:- Famous Temple in Varanasi

Ahilyabai Ghat

Formerly known as Kevalgiri Ghat, the place is famous for being the first of its kind to be named after a person like Queen Ahlabai Holkar. You can visit this ghat anytime. It is one of the best places to visit in Varanasi. The best time is when you see Hindus immersed in the belief that it will cleanse their sins and witness the beauty of the ghat.

Also Read:- Famous Festivals in Varanasi

Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika: – Mani means coil and Karnam means ear. Some people say that Vishnu had dug a well here to bathe Lord Shiva and Parvati, which is now also known as Manikarnika Kund.

When Shiva was taking a bath in this pool, one of his coils fell into the well, since then this place came to be called Manikarnika (Mani means coil and Karnam means ear) Ghat.

Lord Shiva is said to have blessed Manikarnika Ghat with a boon of eternal peace. People also believe that Lord Vishnu worshipped Lord Shiva here for thousands of years and prayed that Kashi should not be destroyed even at the time of the destruction of the universe.

Pleased with the prayer of Shri Vishnu, Lord Shiva came to Kashi with his wife Parvati and fulfilled the wish of Lord Vishnu. Since then it has been believed that performing the last rites in Varanasi leads to salvation (that is, one gets rid of the cycle of life and death). So there is no doubt that this place is considered to be the holiest for funeral rites among Hindus!

It was at Manikarnika Ghat that Mata Sati offered her body to the fire and her ear jewel had also fallen there. The fire is never extinguished on this ghat.

Also Read:- Famous Food in Varanasi

Harishchand Ghat

Harishchand Ghat is famous for its own story. The cremation continues here day and night without stopping. It was at Harishchandra Ghat that King Harishchandra while working as a dome, got his wife to perform the last rites of the son. A strange combination of life and death can be seen here.

Conclusion

Varanasi’s famous ghats form an integral part of the city’s cultural and religious fabric. These sacred riverfronts beckon seekers of spirituality and explorers alike, offering an immersive experience into the essence of Varanasi. Varanasi’s ghats are not merely stone steps leading to the river; they are gateways to a realm where divinity intertwines with human existence. To visit these ghats is to witness the timeless rituals, feel the pulse of spirituality, and embrace the eternal essence of Varanasi.

Also Read:-

Varanasi:- A Religious City in India