Discover 9 Important Ghats in Varanasi out of Total Ghats in Varanasi India

Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is one of the oldest living cities in the world, renowned for its sacred ghats along the holy Ganges River. With nearly  84 ghats in Varanasi  ( Total Ghats in Varanasi )—each with steps leading down to the river—these spots hold immense spiritual, cultural, and historical importance. While some ghats are primarily for bathing and religious rituals, others, like Manikarnika and Harishchandra, are used for cremations. Visiting these ghats offers an unparalleled experience of Varanasi’s spiritual aura.

Overview:  Ghats in Varanasi 

A boat ride at dawn from Dashashwamedh Ghat is a must-do activity for tourists. Alternatively, a walk along the ghats reveals a blend of devotion, life, and death, providing a fascinating glimpse into Varanasi’s timelessness.

Suggested Read:  Cremation Ghats in Varanasi: Explore Burning Ghats & Rituals

Here are the 9 must-see ghats in Varanasi, each with its unique significance:

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1. Assi Ghat

Located at the southernmost end of the city, Assi Ghat marks the confluence of the Ganges and Assi rivers. Unlike some of the more crowded ghats, Assi offers a peaceful space for pilgrims to bathe and worship Lord Shiva under a large lingam situated beneath a pipal tree. This ghat is particularly popular among long-staying travelers, thanks to its nearby trendy boutiques and cafes like Vaatika Cafe, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the river. The ghat also hosts a Ganga Aarti ceremony, making it a great spot for spiritual seekers.

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2. Chet Singh Ghat

Chet Singh Ghat is steeped in history, having been the site of an 18th-century battle between Maharaja Chet Singh and the British. A small fort at the ghat commemorates this event, though Chet Singh was eventually defeated and captured. According to legend, he managed to escape using a rope made of turbans. Today, the ghat is a quieter spot but holds historical allure for those interested in Varanasi’s past.

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3. Darbhanga Ghat

Known for its stunning architecture, Darbhanga Ghat is home to the luxurious BrijRama Palace, originally built as a fort by Shridhara Narayana Munshi. In 1915, it was turned into a palace by the King of Darbhanga. This ghat, with its regal charm, attracts photographers and tourists alike, offering a picturesque setting by the Ganges. The adjacent Munshi Ghat is also worth exploring.

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4. Dashashwamedh Ghat

As the most vibrant and bustling of all Varanasi ghats, Dashashwamedh Ghat is the city’s main attraction. It is said to be the site where Lord Brahma performed a grand horse sacrifice to honor Lord Shiva. The ghat is renowned for its nightly Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ritual with fire and chants that draws thousands of pilgrims and tourists. The ghat is surrounded by a chaotic marketplace, making it a lively area to explore.

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5. Man Mandir Ghat

Dating back to the early 17th century, Man Mandir Ghat is famous for its Rajput architecture. The palace here was built by Raja Man Singh of Jaipur in 1600, and an observatory was added in the 1730s by Sawai Jai Singh II. The observatory’s instruments are still in good condition and offer a unique glimpse into ancient astronomy. The terrace provides stunning views over the Ganges, making it a great spot for photography.

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6. Manikarnika Ghat

Often called the burning ghat, Manikarnika Ghat is the most significant cremation site in Varanasi. Hindus believe that being cremated here ensures liberation from the cycle of life and death. The ghat is in constant use, with funeral pyres burning day and night. It’s a stark, confronting sight, but an essential part of understanding the depth of Varanasi’s spiritual life. Visitors can observe the cremations from nearby buildings, though it’s important to negotiate prices with guides.

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7. Scindia Ghat

Scindia Ghat is known for its tranquil atmosphere and the partially submerged Shiva temple at the water’s edge, which sank during the construction of the ghat in 1830. The area above the ghat, known as Siddha Kshetra, is a maze of narrow alleyways that conceal some of Varanasi’s most important temples. This serene ghat offers a more peaceful experience compared to the nearby Manikarnika Ghat.

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8. Bhonsale Ghat

Constructed in 1780 by the Maratha King Bhonsale of Nagpur, Bhonsale Ghat stands out for its stone architecture and three notable temples—Lakshminarayan, Yameshwar, and Yamaditya. The ghat became embroiled in controversy in 2013 when the royal family was implicated in a fraud case concerning its sale. Despite the drama, it remains a fascinating stop for visitors interested in Varanasi’s complex history.

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9. Panchganga Ghat

At the far northern end of the ghats, Panchganga Ghat is where five rivers—Ganges, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhutpapa—are believed to converge. This ghat holds significant religious importance and is especially beautiful during the holy month of Kartik, when it is illuminated by candlelight. The Alamgir Mosque, built by Aurangzeb atop a destroyed Vishnu temple, stands above the ghat, adding to its historical significance.

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How to Experience Varanasi and the Ghats on the Ganges

To truly immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural richness of Varanasi, a stay of at least two days is ideal. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.

Day 0: Arrival

• Check-In: Arrive and check in at your hotel of choice. Relax and settle in.
• Explore Street Food: Head out to try some local street food options for an authentic taste of Varanasi.

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Day 1: Discovering the Ghats

Morning

• Sunrise at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Start your day by witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over the Ganges. Hire a small boat for a more intimate experience, allowing for better photo opportunities.
• Breakfast: Return to your hotel for a refreshing bath and breakfast.

Midday

• Assi Ghat Exploration: Head to Assi Ghat, the first ghat from one end. Spend some time exploring nearby ghats like Tulsi Ghat and Bhadaini Ghat on foot.
• Visit Temples: Visit notable temples such as Durga Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, and Annapurna Temple. Save the Kashi Vishwanath Temple for the next day.

Evening

• Sunset at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Return to Dashashwamedh Ghat to enjoy the sunset and explore adjacent ghats like Harishchandra Ghat.
• Ganga Aarti: Participate in the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony after sunset.
• Night Boat Ride: Consider a night boat ride to see the ghats illuminated against the night sky.
• Manikarnika Ghat: Walk to Manikarnika Ghat to observe the funeral pyres—a haunting yet profound experience.
• Street Food Dinner: Enjoy more street food before returning to your hotel for the night.

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Day 2: Cultural and Historical Exploration

Morning

• Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Start your day early at Kashi Vishwanath Temple before the crowds arrive.
• Breakfast: Return to your hotel for breakfast and a brief relaxation.

Midday

• Ramnagar Fort: Cross the Ganges to visit Ramnagar Fort, exploring its architecture and history.
• Weavers’ Colony: Visit a local weavers’ colony to see the intricate art of Banarasi weaving in action.

Afternoon

• Adikeshaba Ghat: Explore Adikeshaba Ghat and nearby ghats like Raj Ghat and Khidkiya Ghat.
• Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local eatery.

Evening

• Sarnath Visit: Travel to Sarnath, the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Start at the museum for context, then explore the Buddhist monuments and the Dhamek Stupa.
• Sunset at Sarnath: Enjoy a serene sunset behind the Dhamek Stupa before heading back to Varanasi.
• Shopping and Food: Stroll through Godowlia Market for some shopping and consider attending Ganga Aarti again or trying more street food options.

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Day 3: Departure

• Leave for Next Destination: After breakfast, check out and head to your next destination.

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Varanasi Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit:

• Season: October to March offers the best weather. December and January can be quite chilly, but it’s still enjoyable.
• Festivals: Major festivals include Maha Shivratri (February), Holi (March), and Dev Deepavali (October/November). For Buddhists, Buddha Purnima (April/May) is significant. Check specific dates before planning.

How to Reach:

• Airport: Varanasi has an airport with flights from major Indian cities.
• Train/Bus: The city is well connected by train and bus services.

Where to Stay:

• Near Ghats: Choose accommodations close to Dashashwamedh Ghat or Assi Ghat for easy access.
  • Budget Hotels: Cozy Inn Homestay, Hotel Saffron, Varanasi Heritage.
  • Hostels: Moustache, Zostel, La Vaca India.

Getting Around:

• Local Transport: Auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws are convenient. Walking is also a good way to explore the congested city.

Where to Eat:

• Street Food: Try Deena Chat Bhandar, Kachori Gali, and Blue Lassi.
• Restaurants: Enjoy meals at places like Brown Bread & German Bakery, Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, and Aum Cafe.

This itinerary offers a blend of spiritual experiences, cultural immersion, and culinary delights, ensuring you capture the essence of Varanasi.

Total Ghats in Varanasi

Total Ghats in Varanasi s along the Ganga  are a rich tapestry of history, spirituality, and culture, each with its own unique story. Your documentation captures the essence of these sacred places beautifully. Here’s a concise summary of the Total Ghats in Varanasi , along with their significance:

1. Assi Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Southernmost ghat; known for its spiritual significance. Features a Shiva linga and Hanuman shrine.

2. Ganga Mahal Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Named after a former maharaja’s palace, this ghat marks the northern end of Assi Ghat.

3. Riva (Rewan) Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Originally Lala Mishir Ghat, linked to the royal family, now a music student hostel.

4. Tulsi Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Honors poet Tulsidas; houses a monastery and Hanuman temple.

5. Bhadaini Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Recognized for its water tower; not used for rituals.

6. Janaki Ghat (  Ghats in V (  Ghats in Varanasi )aranasi )

Built by Maharani Kunwar; named after Sita, Ram’s wife.

7. Anandamayi Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Associated with saint Anandamayi; features an ashram for girls.

8. Vachcharaj Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Built by a Jain banker; significant to the Jain community.

9. Jain Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Focused on bathing, with a nearby community of boatmen.

10. Nishadraj (Nishad) Ghat

Linked to the mythical boatmen chief; home to fishermen today.

11. Prabhu Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Named after Maharaja Prabhu Narayan Singh; popular for laundry.

12. Panchkota Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Built by the King of Panchakola; features temples.

13. Chet Singh Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Historical battles took place here; originally Khirki Ghat.

14. Niranjani Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Site of a significant Akhara established in 1897.

15. Maha Nirvani Ghat

Associated with Naga Saints; believed to be where Buddha bathed.

16. Shivala Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Home to a large Shiva temple; significant south Indian community.

17. Gularia Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

One of the smallest, named after a historic Gular tree.

18. Dandi Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Known for its association with ascetics; features a nearby monastery.

19. Hanuman Ghat

Houses a temple built by Tulsidas; known for Ruru’s temple.

20. Prachina (Old Hanuman) Ghat

Birthplace of saint Vallabha; features significant Shiva Lingams.

21. Karnataka State Ghat

Built by Mysore State; includes a guesthouse for visitors.

22. Harishchandra Ghat

One of the main cremation ghats; electric crematorium present.

23. Lali Ghat

Dominated by washermen; built by the Raja of Banaras.

24. Vijayanagaram Ghat

Overlooked by a prominent ashram; renovated by Vijayanagaram State.

25. Kedar Ghat

Features Kedareshvara Linga; rich in historical texts and significance.

26. Chauki (Coawki) Ghat

Known for a large pipala tree; significant for the washermen community.

27. Ksemesvara (Somesvara) Ghat

Established by followers of Kumarasvami; a vibrant Bengali neighborhood.

28. Manasarovara Ghat

Originally built by Raja Man Singh of Amber in 1585 and renovated in 1805, this ghat is named after the sacred Himalayan lake, Manasarovar.

29. Narada Ghat

Formerly known as Kuvai Ghat, Narada Ghat was constructed by Dattatreya Svami in 1788 and is named after the sage Narada, often depicted with the one-stringed Ektara instrument.

30. Raja Ghat

Built by Maratha chief Gajirao Balaji in 1720 and gradually rebuilt with stone slabs until 1807, Raja Ghat was formerly called Amrita Rao Ghat and remains under the Amritrao Peshwa Annapurna Trust.

31. Khori Ghat

Also known as Ganga Mahala Ghat, this ghat features five temples overlooking the Ganga and was renovated in the late 19th century by Kavindra Narayana Singh.

32. Pande (Pandey) Ghat

Named after Babua Pande, a famous wrestler from Banaras who established an akhara here.

33. Sarvesvara Ghat

Erected under the patronage of Mathura Pandey in the late 18th century, this small ghat holds local significance.

34. Digpatia Ghat

Home to the Kashi Ashram, this ghat features a stately palace built in 1830 by the king of Digpatia in Bengal.

35. Chausathi Ghat

Named after the temple of 64 goddesses above it, this ghat was associated with the Sanskrit scholar Madhusudana Sarsvati and renovated by the king of Udaipur in 1670.

36. Rana Mahal Ghat

An extension of Chausathi Ghat, it was also built by the king of Udaipur in 1670 and features the temple of Vakratunda Vinayaka.

37. Darbhanga Ghat

Dominated by the Darbhanga Palace, built in 1915, this ghat includes a nearby Shiva temple and a shrine to Kukutesvara.

38. Munsi Ghat

Constructed in 1912 by Sridhar Narayan Munsi, a finance minister from Nagpur, it extends from Darbhanga Ghat and was named in his honor.

39. Ahilyabai Ghat

Previously Kevelyagiri Ghat, it was extensively renovated by queen Ahilyabai Holkar in 1778, who also constructed several temples in Banaras.

40. Sitala Ghat

Renovated by Narayana Diksit in 1740, this ghat is named after the Sitala Temple located here.

41. Dashashwamdh Ghat

Often called the main ghat, it is a bustling site where rituals and the evening aarti take place. Significant renovations occurred in the 18th century under Balaji Bajirao Peshwa and Ahilyabai Holkar.

42. Prayag Ghat

Believed to offer the same religious merit as Prayaga (Allahabad), this ghat was renovated in the 19th century by the queen of Digpatia state.

43. Rajendra Prasad Ghat

Previously known as Ghoda Ghat, it was renamed in honor of India’s first president in 1979.

44. Man Mandir Ghat

Once Somesvara Ghat, it became known after the construction of the Man Mandir Palace in 1585, which features an astronomical observatory.

45. Tripurabhairavi Ghat

Renovated in the late 18th century, this ghat is named after the Tripura Bhairavi Shrine.

46. Mira Ghat

Converted from older sites by Mira Rustam Ali in 1735, it has historical significance linked to local festivals and rituals.

47. Phuta (Naya) Ghat

Renovated by Svami Mahesvarananda in the mid-19th century, the name “Phuta” translates to “broken,” though its origin remains unclear.

48. Nepali Ghat

Named after the Nepalese Temple built by the Gorkha dynasty in 1902, it is characterized by its picturesque setting and distinctive architecture.

49. Lalita Ghat

Home to shrines dedicated to Vishnu and Ganga, as well as Lalita Devi, it is believed that seeing Lalita Devi brings immense spiritual reward.

50. Bauli Ghat

Also called Umaragiri and Amroha Ghat, it was constructed in the early 19th century by merchant Babu Kasheva Deva.

51. Jalashayi Ghat

Associated with the ritual of placing corpses in water before cremation, it was constructed in the mid-19th century.

52. Khirki Ghat

Meaning “the windows,” it features five sati shrines and a rest house for pilgrims built in 1940.

53. Manikarnika Ghat

The most famous ghat in Banaras, it has been a site for cremations for thousands of years and is historically significant.

54. Bajirio Ghat

Constructed by Bajiriao Pesava in 1735, it is known for the nearby Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple.

55. Scindia Ghat

Formerly Viresvara Ghat, it was built by Ahilabai Holker in 1780 and has undergone several renovations over the years.

56. Sankata Ghat

Originally Yameshvara Ghat, it was built by the king of Baroda in the late 18th century and renovated by Beniram Pandit’s widow in 1825.

57. Ganga Mahal Ghat

Built in the early 19th century, this ghat contains a temple dedicated to Krishna and Radha.

58. Bhonsale Ghat

Constructed by the Maratha rulers of Nagpur, it features a stunning palace with temples dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu.

59. Naya Ghat

Built by Peshwa Amrit Roa, it was a main dock and underwent renovations in 1960.

60. Ganesha Ghat

An extension of Naya Ghat, it was renovated between 1761 and 1772 and is named after the local Ganesha temple.

61. Mehta Ghat

Formed as an extension of Naya and Ganesha Ghat, it became its own entity in 1962.

62. Ram Ghat

Popular among bathers, it is named after a small Ram temple found here.

63. Jatara Ghat

Constructed by Madhorao Pesava in 1766 as part of the renovation of the ghats.

64. Raja Gwalior Ghat

Also built by Madhorao Pesava in 1766, often considered part of Jatara Ghat.

65. Mangala Gauri (Bala or Lakshmanbala) Ghat

Built in 1735 and renovated in 1807, this ghat has historical ties to the Mathara Peshwas.

66. Venimadhava (Bindu Madhava) Ghat

Part of Panchganga Ghat, it features a temple with a rich history dating back to the 10th century.

67. Panchganga Ghat

A sacred site believed to be the meeting point of five rivers, it has been renovated multiple times since its original construction.

68. Durga Ghat

Constructed by Narayana Diksit in the 1750s, it underwent renovations by Nana Phadanavisa before 1800.

69. Brahma Ghat

Built alongside Durga Ghat, it features the Kasi Matha Sansthana monastery at its top.

70. Bundi Parakota Ghat

Originally Raja Mandira Ghat, built by Raja Surajana Hada in 1580, known for its large murals.

71. Shitala Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Continuation of Bundi Parakota Ghat, also built by Raja Surajana Hada in 1580, named after the goddess of smallpox.

72. Lala Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Constructed by a wealthy merchant in the early 1800s, it features a sub-ghat built in 1935 by Baldeo Das Birla.

73. Hanumangarhi Ghat

Linked to Hanumangarhi in Ayodhya, it includes a wrestling site and a sati stone.

74. Gai (Gaya) Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Considered the southern limit of Banaras in the 12th century, it was renovated in the early 19th century.

75. Badri Narayan Ghat

Formerly Mahatha/Matha ghat, it was renovated by Balabai of Gwalior in the early 19th century.

76. Trilochan Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Named after the temple of Trilochan, the three-eyed Shiva, this ghat was a significant site for rituals and bathing during the Gahadavala rule in the 12th century. Renovated in 1750 by Narayana Dixsit and again in 1795 by Nathu Bala of Pune.

77. Gola Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Once bustling with granaries, Gola Ghat served as a ferry point since the 12th century. Its importance waned after the Malviya Bridge was constructed in 1887.

78. Nandikeshvara (Nandu) Ghat

Built in the early 20th century by local residents, this ghat features an Akhara of the same name.

79. Sakka Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Documented in the late 18th century, Sakka Ghat is predominantly used by washermen today.

80. Telianala Ghat

Famous for Hiranyagarbha, an ancient sacred site, Telianala Ghat is named after the oil-pressing caste (Teli) that settled here.

81. Naya (Phuta) Ghat

Originally Phuta Ghat, it lost its sacred status in the 18th century and was renovated in 1940 by Narsingh Jaipala Chainput-Bhabhua.

82. Prahlad Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Named after Prahlad, celebrated for his devotion to Vishnu, references date back to the Gahadava inscriptions of the 12th century. The ghat houses several shrines, divided in 1937.

83. Rani Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

One of the least popular ghats, it gained attention when Muniya Sahiba, a queen of Lucknow, built a house here. Renovated in 1988, it’s slowly gaining popularity.

84. Raja Ghat (  Ghats in Varanasi )

Once the busiest ferry ghat before the Malviya Bridge, Raja Ghat features archaeological remains of early Kashi, referenced in 11th-century inscriptions.

85. Adi Keshava Ghat

Considered the oldest site of Lord Vishnu and a favored holy site of the Gahadavala kings. Located in a rural setting, it’s connected to the Adi Keshav Temple.

Final Thoughts

Varanasi’s ghats are a window into the city’s spiritual soul. Whether you’re witnessing a Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, experiencing the stark reality of life and death at Manikarnika Ghat, or simply soaking in the history and architecture of Man Mandir Ghat, each ghat offers a unique perspective on Varanasi’s sacred landscape.

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