Ghats to Visit in Varanasi
A Spiritual Journey
Varanasi, regarded as India’s core, is globally recognized for its eternal Ghats of Varanasi—a collection of holy steps along the riverbank that embody the city’s heritage, customs and sacred aura. Whether your aim is to witness the sunrise over the Ganga, participate in the majestic evening Aarti visit landmarks or embark on a spiritual stroll beside the river, the renowned ghats in Varanasi provide an incomparable experience.
If you are planning a Varanasi Ghat Tour, this guide will help you explore the best ghat in Varanasi, understand which ghat is famous in Varanasi, and discover the top ghats in Varanasi for photography, spirituality, rituals, and sightseeing. For travelers who want seamless arrangements, Varanasi Tourism Centre provides guided tours, boat rides, and transportation for all major ghats.
Why Are Ghats Important to Varanasi Sightseeing?
Ghats serve as the heart of Kashi. They are more than stairways descending to the Ganga—they represent vibrant cultural hubs where ceremonies, heritage, celebrations and spirituality merge. The known ghats in Varanasi draw millions of devotees and visitors annually eager to experience the city’s timeless allure. From the spiritual intensity of Manikarnika Ghat to the vibrant evenings at Dashashwamedh Ghat, each ghat carries a unique story and significance.
Top Ghats to Visit in Varanasi – The Complete List
Here is a well-researched guide to the most famous ghats in Varanasi you must not miss.
1. Dashashwamedh Ghat – The Most Famous Ghat in Varanasi:- Dashashwamedh Ghat stands as the core of Kashi and is famously recognized as the most renowned ghat, in Varanasi. It is the spot to experience the globally celebrated Ganga Aarti, held every evening by priests who use lamps, incense and holy chants.
Why Visit?
- Best location to watch the Evening Ganga Aarti
- Crowded with pilgrims, saints, and travelers
- Beautiful for photography and sunrise views
If you ask, “Which ghat is famous in Varanasi?”—the answer is always Dashashwamedh Ghat.
2. Assi Ghat – Popular Among Tourists and Students:- Assi Ghat stands as the southernmost ghat in Kashi recognized for its peaceful ambiance, cultural festivities and lively early hours. It is a place among young people, tourists and those on spiritual journeys.
Highlights:
- Morning Subah-e-Banaras program
- Yoga sessions by the river
- Boat rides during sunrise
- Cafes, music, and cultural gatherings
For those asking, “Which ghat in Varanasi’s the best to see?” Assi Ghat offers an ideal mix of spiritual essence and contemporary appeal.
3. Manikarnika Ghat – The Oldest and Holiest Ghat of Kashi:- Manikarnika Ghat serves as the cremation site, in Varanasi and represents the cycle of existence and release. It is thought that individuals cremated at this location attain moksha.
Why It Is Significant:
- Considered the most sacred ghat for Hindus
- Mentioned in ancient scriptures
- Reflects Varanasi’s spiritual depth
Travelers frequently inquire, “What is the importance of Manikarnika Ghat?”—it symbolizes everlasting freedom and the city’s standing customs.
4. Harishchandra Ghat – A Historic Cremation Ghat:- Harishchandra Ghat, another cremation ground derives its name from the famed King Harishchandra. It is more peaceful compared to Manikarnika yet holds the importance for ceremonial rites.
Best For:
- Learning about Hindu funeral rituals
- Observing centuries-old traditions
5. Panchganga Ghat – A Heritage Ghat in Varanasi:- This ancient ghat gets its name from the confluence of five sacred rivers believed to meet here. It is a heritage-rich location filled with temples, shrines, and architectural beauty.
6. Scindia Ghat – Beautiful and Peaceful:- A Shiva Temple, underwater at this ghat makes it one of the most captivating riverfront ghats in Varanasi. Its serene atmosphere is ideal for meditation.
7. Rajendra Prasad Ghat – Perfect for Photography:- This ghat lies close to Dashashwamedh. It is perfect for visitors seeking the finest view of the Aarti away from large crowds.
Why Visit?
- Great angles for photography
- Perfect for morning rituals
- Popular among foreign tourists
Top Ghat in Varanasi for Sunrise & Photography:
1. Assi Ghat
2. Dashashwamedh Ghat
4. Panchganga Ghat
4. Manikarnika Ghat
These ghats offer the most beautiful sunrise experiences along the Ganga.
FAQs – Ghats to Visit in Varanasi
1. What are the most famous ghats in Varanasi?
Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat.
2. Which is the best ghat to visit in Varanasi?
Dashashwamedh Ghat for Aarti and Assi Ghat for sunrise.
3. Which ghat is famous for Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
Dashashwamedh Ghat is famous for Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
4. How many ghats are there in Varanasi?
There are around 84 ghats in Varanasi, each holding historical, cultural, and spiritual importance. The major ghats include: Assi Ghat, Ganga Mahal Ghat, Rewan Ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Bhadaini Ghat, Janaki Ghat, Mahanirvani Ghat, Jain Ghat, Nishadraj Ghat, Prabhu Ghat, Anandmayee Ghat, Vaccharaj Ghat, Jain Ghat, Chet Singh Ghat, Niranjani Ghat, Shivala Ghat, Gularia Ghat, Dandi Ghat, Hanuman Ghat, Prachina (Old) Hanuman Ghat, Kedar Ghat, Mansarovar Ghat, Narad Ghat, Raja Ghat, Khori Ghat, Pandey Ghat, Chausatti Ghat, Rana Mahal Ghat, Brijrama Ghat, Darbhanga Ghat, Babua Pandey Ghat, Chhunin Ghat, Vijayanagaram Ghat, Prayag Ghat, Rajendra Prasad Ghat, Manmandir Ghat, Tripura Bhairavi Ghat, Mir Ghat, Phuta Ghat, Nepali Ghat, Lalita Ghat, Ganga Mahal Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Bajirao Ghat, Scindia Ghat, Sankata Ghat, Meer Ghat, Bulbul Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Prayagwal Ghat, Rajaji Ghat, Jalasen Ghat, Ahilyabai Ghat, Shitala Ghat, Sindhia Ghat, Gai Ghat, Mangala Ghat, Bhaironath Ghat, Prahlad Ghat, Adi Keshav Ghat, Asighat Extension Ghats, and many more that continue downstream such as Panchganga Ghat, Durga Ghat, Brahma Ghat, Rameshwar Ghat, Trilochan Ghat, Telianala Ghat, Nandeshwar Ghat, Jatar Ghat, Raja Gwalior Ghat, and Panchkota Ghat. Together these 84 sacred ghats form the spiritual riverfront of Kashi, each associated with traditions, rituals, history, mythology, and daily life along the Ganga.
5. What is special about Dashashwamedh Ghat?
It is the center of Varanasi’s Ganga Aarti and main rituals.
6. Why is Assi Ghat popular among tourists?
Because of its peaceful mornings, cultural events, and accessibility.
7. Which ghat is good for boating in Varanasi?
Assi Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat.
8. What are the top ghats for Varanasi sightseeing?
Assi, Dashashwamedh, Manikarnika, Scindia, and Panchganga.
9. Which is the safest ghat to visit in Varanasi?
Assi Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat.
10. Which ghat is best for photography and sunrise views?
Assi Ghat and Rajendra Prasad Ghat.
11. What is the most historical ghat in Varanasi?
Manikarnika Ghat is the most historical ghat in Varanasi.
Manikarnika Ghat.