Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, also known as Manikarnika Burning Ghat, is one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in the holy city of Varanasi, India. It is believed that this ghat is the place where Goddess Parvati dropped her earrings (Manikarnika) while bathing in the holy waters of the Ganges. The ghat is famous for its cremation ceremonies, where Hindus come to perform the last rites of their loved ones and attain moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
History of Manikarnika Ghat
The history of Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi dates back to ancient times. According to Hindu mythology, the ghat is considered to be one of the holiest places in India, as it is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati themselves come to bathe in the holy waters of the Ganges.
During the medieval period, the ghat was patronized by the Kashi Naresh, the king of Varanasi. He built several temples and guest houses near the ghat to accommodate the pilgrims who came to Varanasi to perform their religious rituals.
In the 18th century, the ghat was renovated by the Maratha ruler, Malhar Rao Holkar. He built several structures, including the main gate, the platform for the funeral pyres, and the Manikarnika Kund, a sacred pond where the devotees take a dip before performing the last rites.
Importance Of Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat holds immense importance in Hindu mythology and culture. It is believed that if a person is cremated here, their soul attains moksha or liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The ghat is also believed to be the place where Lord Shiva himself comes to bathe in the holy waters of the Ganges.Manikarnika Ghat is such a ghat in Banaras where the fire of the pyre never goes out.
Today, the ghat is a major tourist attraction, and thousands of visitors come here to witness the cremation ceremonies and pay their respects to the departed souls. The ghat is also a hub of spiritual activities, where people come to meditate .
What is so special about Manikarnika Ghat?
Tourists visit Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi for various reasons, including its religious significance, cultural importance, and historical significance. Here are some of the main reasons why tourists come to Manikarnika Ghat:
Witnessing Cremation Ceremonies: Manikarnika Ghat is famous for its cremation ceremonies, and many tourists come here to witness these ceremonies. It is a unique and fascinating experience for many, as cremation is an important part of Hindu culture.
Spiritual Activities: Manikarnika Ghat is a hub of spiritual activities, where people come to meditate and seek spiritual enlightenment. Tourists who are interested in spirituality and Indian culture often visit the ghat for this reason.
Cultural Experience: Manikarnika Ghat is a significant part of Indian culture and history, and tourists often come here to learn about the local customs and traditions. The ghat is also home to several temples and shrines, which offer a glimpse into the rich religious and cultural heritage of India.
Photography: The colorful and vibrant atmosphere of Manikarnika Ghat attracts many photographers and artists. The ghat provides a unique and picturesque backdrop for capturing the essence of Varanasi and its people.
Overall, Manikarnika Ghat is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the unique blend of spirituality, culture, and history that Varanasi has to offer.
Manikarnika ghat Timings
There is no time to come to Manikarnika Ghat. You can go to this ghat anytime, there is always a crowd on this ghat and it is said on this ghat that the pyre always keeps burning, that is, the pyre has been burning here for centuries. has been.
Stay Near the Manikarnika Ghat Varanasi
There are several accommodation options available near Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi with WiFi ,on site restaurant and 24 hour room service.Visit any popular website to book your stay.One of the popular one is booking.com
Read More About the Various Ghats Click Here
How to Reach Manikarnika Ghat
After coming to Banaras, you can easily get an auto rickshaw or cab from anywhere for Manikarnika Ghat. This facility will be available 24 hours. You may face difficulty in getting an auto rickshaw at night but there is no problem in getting a cab.
Some Important Points
Name Manikarnika Ghat
Location Varanasi, India
Significance – One of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi
- Believed to be the place where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati bathe in the Ganges
- Site of cremation ceremonies, where Hindus come to attain moksha or liberation from the cycle of birth and death
History – Dates back to ancient times - Patronized by the Kashi Naresh, the king of Varanasi, during the medieval period
- Renovated by the Maratha ruler, Malhar Rao Holkar, in the 18th century
Importance – Has immense religious, cultural, and historical significance - Site of social, cultural, and political movements in India
- Major tourist attraction and hub of spiritual activities
Conclusion
In conclusion, Manikarnika Ghat is not just a place where Hindus come to perform the last rites of their loved ones, but it is also a tourist place where tourist comes Witnessing Cremation Ceremonies, Phtography, Spiritual Activities, Cultural Experience and Etc Etc