Ghats of Varanasi

The holy land of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh; also referred to as Banaras and Kashi, is the most famous pilgrimage spot for Hindus for hundreds of years.

- Shivi Krishna

Known as the oldest living city, Varanasi is visited by Hindus for the peace of mind and soul and to wash away all the sins. It is the Ghats of River Ganga in Varanasi that complement the concept of divinity.

Varanasi, where Ganga reverses its flow, the 84 ghats across 7 kms stretch are an iconic image of the city. The city is in itself an organized system of pilgrimage and worship.

A Ghat is a series of steps leading down to the river. Varanasi has nearly 100 Ghats, whose steps lead to the banks of River Ganges. Ghats of Ganga are perhaps the holiest spots of Varanasi. These Ghats are full of pilgrims who come to the place to take a dip in the holy Ganges which is believed to wash away all the sins. It is at the Ghats of Ganga where we Life and Death can be seen together. Different kinds of people with different reasons, different thoughts and purpose of their visit are seen at the Ghats. If one thinks of spending a day at the Ghats, various kinds of activities can be witnessed. But by the evening, everyone has just one purpose, the 'Ganga Aarti' (prayer). Every evening a large aarti (prayer) called 'Ganga Aarti' is performed at the main Ghat - Dasaswamedh Ghat.

There are a number of temples on the banks of Ganga. Among which 'Kashi Vishwanath Temple', dedicated to Lord Shiva is the most famous one. Situated in Gadauliya, near Dasaswamedh Ghat, it is also a tourist place where people come to rest in peace and feel the spirituality in the air.

If one wishes to spend a day at Ghats, numerous kinds of activities can be witnessed. From people offering prayers to few meditating in peace. Some traveled in boats from one Ghat to another, while some repaired their boats. Whereas, some simply enjoy a cup of tea with music.