Manikarnika Ghat

Overview

Manikarnika Ghat is one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi, India. It is located on the banks of the holy Ganges River and is considered the main cremation ghat in the city. Thousands of Hindus visit this ghat every day to perform funeral rites and cremate their loved ones. The ghat is always bustling with activity, with priests chanting mantras, mourners performing rituals, and the smell of incense and funeral pyres filling the air. Despite its somber atmosphere, Manikarnika Ghat is a fascinating and culturally significant place to visit in Varanasi.

Manikarnika Ghat, India

Manikarnika Ghat is one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi, India. It is located on the banks of the Ganges River and is considered to be the most auspicious place for Hindus to be cremated. The ghat is named after the goddess Manikarnika, who is believed to have the power to liberate souls from the cycle of rebirth.

Visitors to Manikarnika Ghat can witness the ancient Hindu ritual of cremation, where bodies are cremated in open-air funeral pyres. It is a deeply spiritual and humbling experience that offers a glimpse into the cycle of life and death in Hindu culture.

Aside from the cremation ceremonies, Manikarnika Ghat is also a bustling marketplace where visitors can shop for religious items, souvenirs, and traditional clothing. The ghat is a vibrant and lively place, with vendors selling flowers, sweets, and other offerings for the Ganges River.

Preferred Time to Visit

The best time to visit Manikarnika Ghat is during the early morning or late evening when the ghat is less crowded and the atmosphere is more peaceful. The ghat is open from sunrise to sunset, so visitors can plan their visit accordingly.

How to Reach Manikarnika Ghat

Manikarnika Ghat is located in the heart of Varanasi, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Visitors can reach the ghat by taxi, auto-rickshaw, or even on foot from the city center. The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, which is about 26 kilometers away from the ghat.

Where to Stay

There are several accommodation options near Manikarnika Ghat, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some popular choices include Hotel Alka, Hotel Ganges View, and Hotel Temple on Ganges. Visitors can also opt to stay in the city center and take a short walk or boat ride to the ghat.

Overall, a visit to Manikarnika Ghat is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Varanasi. From the ancient cremation rituals to the lively marketplace, the ghat is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Hindu traditions.