In Mark Twain words,”Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than
legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together". Hindu Mythology says it is the place
where the human soul get salvation. The Ganges Ghats of this holy city holds divinity in
themselves and the holiest landmark of Varanasi. Pilgrims visit here in large numbers to take
holy dip in the Ganges, as it vanishes all the sins.
ASSI GHAT
It is located at the confluence of Ganga and Asi rivers. According to the Hindu Mythology,
Goddess Durga killed the demon Shumbha and Nishumbha and threw her sword here which
created a big stream which is famous as Assi river. Assi Ghat is located on this river. It lies in the
southern side of Varanasi. Pilgrims take bath here and paying their homage to Lord Shiva in the
form of large lingum located under a Peepal Tree. Tulsi Das, the celebrated Indian Poet had
composed the great epic Ramcharitmanas at Assi Ghat.
DASAWAMEDH GHAT
This ghat holds ultimate significance in Varanasi. The word Dasawamedh means the ghat of ten
horses which were sacrificed by Lord Brahma to let the Lord Shiva return from the period of
expulsion. Though the Ghat is said to be the thousands years old, it remain very neat and clean.
Thus it provides very spectacular view. It looks more fascinating during evening when the Aarti
is performed. Thousands of lighted earthen lamps and chanting of hymns fills the atmosphere
with holiness and make it more splendid.
HARISH CHANDRA GHAT
It is one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi. It got his name after mythological King Harish
Chandra. He worked here at the cremation ground for the sake of truth and virtue. It is said that
then God rewarded him for his firm determination towards the truth and restored his lost
kingdom and his dead son to him. It is one of the two cremation ghats and termed as Adi
Manikarnika (the original creation ground). Hindus bring the dead bodies of their relatives here
for cremation. It is said that the person who is cremated here gets Salvation “Moksha”.
MANIKARNIKA GHAT
It is the main cremation ground which is located in the center of the five tirthas and granted for
attaining Salvation. This Ghat is stood for creation and destruction. There is a holy well situated
at the Ghat, Manikarnika Kund which is said to be dug by Lord Vishnu.
TULSI GHAT
This Ghat is named after the famous poet of 16th century, Tulsidas earlier it was known as
Lolark Ghat. Tulsidas had composed the great Indian epic Ramcharitmanas at this ghat. As
myths says that when Tulsi's manuscript fell into the River Ganges, it did not sink and floating
instead. It is also said that first Ramlila was staged here. The temple of Lord Ram has been built
here.
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