The Varanasi riverfront with its series of ghats is a perfect blend of spirituality, culture and architecture. But you must be thinking about “how many ghats are there in Varanasi?” There are 84 ghats in total that stretch for nearly 6.8 kilometers along the holy Ganges. These are not just steps to the river but spaces that hold centuries of tradition, myth and history. Ghats in Varanasi are the place where countless religious rituals, festivals and cremation ceremonies are held. They are the lifeline between the living and the divine. Ghats are the essence of Varanasi, the oldest living city in the world and deeply rooted in Hindu philosophy.
Quick Facts about Varanasi Ghats
In this Kashi guide, get to know details of best ghats where people visit in big number to attend Ganga Aarti rituals which takes place in morning and evening. For a memorable Cultural tour in India, do not miss to explore these ghats.
| Particulars | Details |
| Total Ghats in Varanasi | 84 |
| Oldest Ghat | Dashashwamedh Ghat (2nd century CE) |
| Largest Ghat | Assi Ghat |
| Most Sacred Ghat | Manikarnika Ghat (for cremation and moksha) |
| UNESCO Recognition | The Riverfront Varanasi |
| Primary Use | Ritual bathing, cremation, festivals, religious ceremonies |
| Evening Ritual | Ganga Aarti, held daily at Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghats |
| Major Patronage | Maratha rulers (notably Ahilyabai Holkar) |
| Notable Festivals | Dev Deepawali, Chhath Puja, Makar Sankranti |
| Geographical Stretch | 6.8 kilometers along the Ganges River |
| Connectivity | Accessible via major roads in Varanasi, linking to temples |
History and Significance of Ghats in Varanasi
The ghats in Varanasi are an integral part of India’s cultural and spiritual heritage. You can see the strong roots of these ghats in the ancient scriptures. You may be seeing the physical structures but these places are a sacred spaces that connect the human soul with the divine. Over the centuries they have evolved under the patronage of kings, saints and devotees. Dashashwamedh Ghat one of the oldest is linked to a mythological horse sacrifice performed by Lord Brahma. Manikarnika Ghat is considered as the gateway to liberation (moksha) and is associated with both Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva.
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Details of 5 Important Varanasi Ghats
Although there are almost 84 total ghats in the Varanasi. But out of these, there are few ghats which are widely famous for their history, significance and purposes. Let’s get into the details of the top 10 ghats of Varanasi:
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the main and oldest ghats of Varanasi which is situated near Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The name Dashashwamedh means “the ghat of ten horses sacrificed” and is based on a legend where Lord Brahma is said to have performed a ten horse sacrifice to welcome Lord Shiva.
This ghat is famous for its lively atmosphere and the grand Ganga Aarti every evening. Pilgrims, tourists and sadhus gather here to see this beautiful ritual where priests offer prayers with fire lamps, incense and chanting. Historically Dashashwamedh Ghat has been a hub of cultural and spiritual activity. It was renovated by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao in 1748 and later by the queen of Indore, Ahilyabai Holkar in the 18th century.
This ghat is also the starting point for boat rides on Ganges and offers stunning views of the river and other ghats making it the focal point of Varanasi’s spiritual landscape.
Location- Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Ghats of Varanasi, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
2. Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat at the southern end of Varanasi is a place of great cultural and spiritual importance. The ghat gets its name from the Assi River which meets the Ganges here. According to legend Goddess Durga after killing demons threw away her sword here and that’s how the Assi River was formed.
Assi Ghat is especially sacred for devotees who want to wash away their sins by taking a dip in the confluence. It is mentioned in ancient texts like Padma Purana and Kashi Khanda. The ghat is a hotspot for tourists and scholars alike where one can sit and do yoga and cultural events. Morning and evening Aarti adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
This is a great place for travellers to explore the artistic and cultural side of Varanasi with many cafes and bookshops around. The ghat seamlessly blends tradition with modernity and is the essence of the holy city.
Location- Nagwa Rd, Assi ghat, Shivala, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005
3. Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat is the most sacred burning ghat in Varanasi and one of the holiest places for Hindus. Mythologically it is said that Lord Vishnu created this ghat while digging a kund (pond) for Lord Shiva. While doing so his earring (Manikarnika) fell into the kund and that is how the ghat got its name.
This most visited ghats in Varanasi represents the cycle of life and death, Hindus believe that cremation here gives moksha (liberation) from the cycle of birth and death. The continuous burning of the pyres here reminds us of the transience of life and the eternity of the soul. Historically Manikarnika Ghat has been a very important religious site, devotees, ascetics and even kings would come here for spiritual redemption.
Nearby is the Manikarnika Kund and Vishnu Charan Paduka (imprints of Lord Vishnu’s feet) which are also pilgrimage sites. The spiritual gravity of this ghat along with its history makes it an integral part of Varanasi.
Location – Near Lalita Ghat, Ghats of Varanasi, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Domari, Uttar Pradesh 221001
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4. Man Mandir Ghat
Man Mandir Ghat was originally called Someshwar Ghat and was built in the 17th century by Maharaja Man Singh of Amber. The Rajput style palace above the ghat is a masterpiece of that era. The palace has a Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh II in 1710 which has instruments to study celestial bodies.
Man Mandir Ghat has been a part of Hindu rituals and ceremonies, especially those of Lord Shiva. The ghat offers a beautiful view of the river Ganga and is a favourite spot to watch the sunrise or to meditate. The combination of historical architecture and spiritual significance is what makes Varanasi a city of science, art and religion.
Location – D31/178, Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Bhairavi ghat, Bangali Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
5. Tulsi Ghat
Tulsi Ghat is named after the great poet-saint Goswami Tulsidas and is a very important landmark in Varanasi. It is said that Tulsidas composed some parts of his Ramcharitmanas here. Originally known as Lolark Ghat, it got its present name after Tulsidas. The ghat is associated with the rituals of Lolark Kund, a sacred tank nearby where devotees come to pray for progeny and health. During the Nag Panchami festival in monsoon, special pujas are performed here.
In the 20th century, Tulsi Ghat became a hub of cultural renaissance where Ramlila and other devotional plays were performed. The ghat is a unique blend of spirituality and art where the peaceful atmosphere inspires poets and musicians.
Location – B 2/40, Tulsi ghat, Assi Rd, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
Are you also interested to explore these famous Ghats? Find this Travel Guide for Delhi to Varanasi Tour
Why Ghats of Varanasi are famous tourist spot?
The ghats in Varanasi are the icons of India’s spiritual and cultural heritage. They are not just sacred spaces for religious rituals but also living bridges of history, tradition and community. For travellers looking for booking a Varanasi Tour Package, including visit to some important ghats is the ultimate experience, the embodiment of rituals of faith and celebration of life’s impermanence. Their history and their modern role as cultural hotspots make them an integral part of the pilgrim’s journey and the exploration of India’s heritage. These riverfront steps remind us of the flow of life, just like the Ganges itself, and leave an indelible mark on every soul they touch.
So, if you are planning to travel to this holy city with your group then consider hiring a Tempo Traveller on rent in Varanasi is best way to explore various sightseeing places. These tourist vehicles will not only provide you a comfortable and luxurious travel experience but also a budget-friendly option for your whole group.
