If you have ever walked along the ghats of Varanasi at dawn, you will know that the city wakes gently. The river blushes with the first light, bells drift from unseen temples, and the air feels thick with prayers whispered for centuries. Amid all this divine rhythm lies Bhonsale Ghat, a place many travellers unintentionally pass by, but those who pause often feel an unexpected connection like discovering a secret chapter of Kashi’s past.
Unlike the crowded ceremonial ghats, Bhonsale Ghat greets you with calmness. It has that rare ability to make you slow down, notice things, and breathe a little deeper. Its identity is shaped by the Maratha rulers of Nagpur, whose devotion to this sacred city left behind not just structures of stone, but a legacy that continues to echo across the steps of this ghat.
Where History Meets the Quiet Side of Varanasi
Bhonsale Ghat does not shout for attention. Instead, it tells its story through details of the way its steps slope towards the Ganga, the temples rising behind it, the sandstone walls that have endured years of monsoons and rituals.
Built and renovated by the Bhonsale (Bhonsla) family of Nagpur in 1795, this ghat represents an era when the Marathas played a significant role in the cultural and religious life of Varanasi. Many travellers know about Dashashwamedh Ghat or Assi Ghat, but few realize that several ghats were shaped by Maratha patronage. Bhonsale Ghat is one of the most elegant examples of that era.
There is something humble yet regal about this place. Maybe it is the architecture inspired by Maratha styles, or the way the temples seem to guard the ghat silently. But whatever it is, you feel that this ghat was built with devotion, not grandeur.
Architecture That Reflects Strength and Stillness
A lot of ghats in the city have gone through layers of restoration, but Bhonsale Ghat still carries a rawness that feels original. The stone steps are wide, firm, and perfectly aligned. There is no unnecessary noise in the structure, just pure, clean geometry meeting divine purpose.
The architectural beauty comes alive in small moments:
- Tall temple shikharas
The sight of these temples, rising in silhouette against the river, is one of the most serene views on this stretch of Varanasi. Their slender, pointed design echoes typical Maratha influences.
- Sandstone walls glowing under sunlight
In the early morning, the ghat turns golden. This natural warmth makes the place feel both ancient and inviting.
- Steps that seem to float into the river
The ghat’s alignment with the river is beautiful, it feels like the Ganga gently embraces the steps.
- Quiet corners for rituals
Unlike the loud rush of the big ghats, Bhonsale Ghat allows space. People come here for peaceful pujas, meditation, yoga, or simple contemplation.
There’s a purity in the simplicity of this architecture that makes the ghat timeless.
Temples That Give Bhonsale Ghat Its Soul
If the architecture is its body, then the temples are its heartbeat. Three temples stand proudly here, each carrying a story, a prayer, and a piece of Varanasi’s spiritual fabric.
- Lakshminarayan Temple
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, this temple is a major landmark of the ghat. Its shikhara can be seen from passing boats, glowing beautifully during sunrise. Inside, the sanctum feels intimate simplistic but powerful.
- Yameshwar (Yameshwara) Temple
A Shiva temple with a name that intrigues visitors. The presence of Yameshwar gives the ghat a sense of cosmic balance and protection. Locals come here seeking peace from life’s burdens.
- Yamaditya Temple
This shrine is unique. Dedicated to Yamaditya, it represents justice, righteousness, and universal order. Temples with such dedication are rare, making this one of the highlights of Bhonsale Ghat.
Together, these temples embody the ghat’s spiritual identity. They stand not as monuments alone but as living places of faith where rituals, chants, and devotion continue every day.
A Cultural Treasure That Many Overlook
Many travellers chase the famous ghats, but Bhonsale Ghat has a charm that only reveals itself slowly. It’s the kind of place where you sit for a few minutes and end up staying much longer drawn by the mix of serenity and spirituality that defines it.
- A peaceful escape
If you want to experience Varanasi without the overwhelming crowds, this ghat is a blessing. It attracts devotees, artists, quiet travellers, and photographers, but rarely large tourist groups.
- Ideal for rituals and prayers
The calm atmosphere makes it one of the preferred spaces for morning pujas, pind daan, and meditation. Families appreciate its quietness and gentle environment.
A great spot for photography
Sunrise here is a visual poem:
- temple spires glowing like gold
- river reflecting shades of orange
- priests performing simple rituals
- pigeons flying over the river
Photographers often find themselves returning to this ghat because it offers both natural beauty and a deep sense of emotion.
A reflection of Maratha presence in Kashi
Bhonsale Ghat reminds visitors that Varanasi is not just a city shaped by local kings its evolution has been influenced by rulers from all across India. The Maratha contribution here is significant and beautifully preserved.
Experiencing Bhonsale Ghat as a Traveller
The beauty of Bhonsale Ghat is that it does not require a plan. You simply arrive, sit, and let the place take over. But some moments are particularly magical.
- Mornings at the Ghat
If you visit at sunrise, the entire area feels dipped in a soft golden light. The river looks calm, devotees take holy dips, and birds circle above the temples. It is one of those experiences where time seems to pause.
- Boat rides
A boat ride along Bhonsale Ghat gives you a new perspective. The temples appear taller, the steps more majestic, and the ghat’s architecture more defined. It’s also a great way to capture wide-angle photographs.
- Walking to nearby ghats
Because of its central location, you can easily explore nearby spots like:
Each one reveals another chapter of the city’s heritage.
- Evening quiet
This ghat does not host large-scale aartis, which means evenings are peaceful. You can sit here, listen to the water, watch the lamps drift by, and feel the calm side of Varanasi.
Bhonsale Ghat Through the Lens of History
In the 18th century, when the Marathas strengthened their presence in north India, Varanasi became a major centre for them not politically, but spiritually. The Bhonsale rulers of Nagpur were among the biggest patrons of Kashi.
They funded:
- rituals and pilgrimage activities
Bhonsale Ghat, renovated in 1795, stands as a symbol of their devotion. It was not only a functional structure but also a gesture of respect towards the sacred city.
Today, even after hundreds of years, the ghat continues to carry that same reverence.
Why Bhonsale Ghat Is Special
Every ghat in Varanasi has a story. But Bhonsale Ghat has something unique, a mix of historical depth, architectural elegance, peaceful energy, and spiritual authenticity.
You will love this ghat if you enjoy:
- offbeat travel experiences
It is not a loud or flashy spot. It is quiet, grounded, and deeply connected to the soul of Varanasi.
Best Time to Visit
- Sunrise – the most magical moment
The ghat transforms into a painting. Everything feels peaceful and filled with light.
- Winter mornings
Mists, soft sun, warm tea in hand, and the river looking like silk.
- Festival days
During Dev Deepawali, Kartik Purnima, Ganga Dussehra, and Mahashivratri, the ghat becomes brighter and livelier.
A Few Gentle Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes and the stone steps can be steep.
- Keep your phone or camera ready at sunrise.
- Respect local rituals; avoid taking close-up photos of people without permission.
- Combine your visit with a boat ride.
- If you love peaceful spots, visit early morning or late afternoon.
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In conclusion, some places in Varanasi are known for spectacle; others for stillness. Bhonsale Ghat belongs to the second category. It does not rush you, does not overwhelm you, and does not try to impress. Instead, it lets you settle into its silence. It lets you witness the river, the temples, the rising sun, and the gentle flow of time. For travellers who want to understand Varanasi beyond the obvious, Bhonsale Ghat is a priceless find.
It is where architecture meets devotion, where history merges with calmness, and where the Ganga seems to whisper stories only the patient can hear.