Manikarnika Ghat

Varanasi's holiest cremation ground. Perched along the banks of the river Ganga lies Manikarnika Ghat, a powerful symbol of life and death, as it serves as one of the holiest sites for cremation in Hindu tradition. It is here that you witness the eternal cycle of life and death unfold with solemn reverence.

This ghat holds the story of Lord Shiva and maa parvati (his wife) where she dropped a bangle in the river. Unable to find the bangle, she cursed the ghat with death pyres burning forever for 24x7. Apparently, this ghat has the largest cremation grounds for Varanasi and the fire never extinguishes here.

Dasaswamedh Ghat is the heart of the action and the top attraction in Varanasi. One of the oldest and holiest Varanasi ghats, it's where the famous Ganga aarti takes place every evening.

Yes, tourists can visit Manikarnika Ghat, but it is essential to do so with utmost respect and sensitivity. It is a place of mourning, not a tourist attraction. Photography is strictly prohibited.