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Nestled along the revered Ganges River, Varanasi boasts nearly 100 ghats, each adorned with steps leading to the sacred waters. Among these, a prominent group of around 25 ghats stretches from the tranquil Assi Ghat in the southern precinct to the revered Raj Ghat in the north. Rooted in history, these ghats trace back to the 14th century and underwent extensive reconstruction during the 18th century under the Maratha rulers. Privately owned or steeped in Hindu mythology, they serve as focal points for bathing and religious ceremonies, with a couple, namely Manikarnika and Harishchandra, dedicated solely to cremations.
For an enriching experience, a dawn boat ride from the main Dashashwamedh Ghat is highly recommended, allowing visitors to immerse in the spiritual ambiance of the Ganges River. Embarking on a leisurely stroll along the Varanasi ghats offers a fascinating sojourn, albeit accompanied by vendors and occasional filth. To enhance the experience and receive expert insights, a guided riverside walking tour by Varanasi Magic ensures an enriching encounter with the city's cultural tapestry.
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Assi Ghat
Discover Assi Ghat at the confluence of the Ganges and Assi Rivers, offering a serene and spacious ambiance away from bustling crowds. It holds immense significance for Hindu pilgrims who engage in ritualistic bathing before worshipping the formidable lingam of Lord Shiva beneath a pipal tree. The ghat's allure extends to trendy boutiques and cafes, with Vaatika Cafe presenting delightful pasta and pizza options coupled with splendid vistas. Additionally, Assi Ghat hosts the revered Ganga aarti ceremony, enriching the spiritual experience. A short 20-minute walk northward leads to the bustling Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Chet Singh Ghat
Embracing historical importance, Chet Singh Ghat's significance emanates from an 18th-century battle between Maharaja Chet Singh, the ruler of Varanasi, and the British forces. Despite constructing a small fort at the ghat, Chet Singh faced defeat, leading to his capture and imprisonment within the very fort. Legend has it that he escaped using a makeshift rope crafted from turbans, adding a touch of intrigue to the ghat's narrative.
Darbhanga Ghat
Photographically enchanting, Darbhanga Ghat entices visitors with its architectural grandeur, housing the opulent BrijRama Palace hotel. Originally constructed as a fort by Shridhara Narayana Munshi, the estate minister of Nagpur, it was later acquired and transformed into a palace by King Rameshwar Singh Bahadur of Darbhanga. After an elaborate 18-year restoration by Indian hospitality company 1589 Hotels, the structure now graces travelers with its timeless allure. The ghat's cinematic charm is further showcased in Satyajit Ray's film "Joy Baba Felunath."
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Pulsating with energy, Dashashwamedh Ghat takes center stage as Varanasi's oldest and holiest ghat, witnessing the famed Ganga aarti spectacle every evening. Steeped in Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Brahma consecrated this ghat to welcome Lord Shiva, while also conducting a sacred horse sacrifice ritual near the sacred fire. The vibrant atmosphere attracts an incessant flow of pilgrims, Hindu priests, flower vendors, and beggars, offering a captivating carnival of sights and sounds. The bustling marketplace surrounding the ghat adds to its allure.
Manikarnika Ghat
Known as the burning ghat, Manikarnika remains the most poignant and confronting ghat, where the majority of cremations in Varanasi take place, amounting to approximately 28,000 annually. Hindus believe that cremation at this ghat liberates souls from the cycle of death and rebirth. The solemnity of the site confronts visitors with the stark reality of mortality, as fires continuously burn and the doms, a caste designated to handle corpses, perform their duties. For the intrepid and curious, witnessing the cremations is possible for a fee, guided by local priests, though negotiating the fees is advised.
Panchganga Ghat
At the northernmost stretch of the ghats lies Panchganga Ghat, deriving its name from the merging of five rivers: the Ganges, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhutpapa. This serene ghat holds profound religious significance and features the samadhi temple honoring the revered Hindu yogi Trailinga Swami. Additionally, the 17th-century Alamgir Mosque, constructed by Mughal ruler Aurangzeb over a Vishnu temple, graces the area. During the holy Hindu month of Kartik, visitors can witness the ghat adorned with candle-filled baskets, culminating in the celebratory Dev Deepavali on Kartik Purnima.
Unravel the tapestry of spirituality and cultural heritage as you explore the iconic ghats of Varanasi, a city etched in timeless reverence along the sacred Ganges River.
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