Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most revered, sacred, and ancient ghats located on the banks of the holy Ganges River in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. Known as the primary cremation ground in Varanasi, it holds immense religious significance for Hindus and attracts thousands of pilgrims, devotees, and curious travelers every year.
This blog explores the fascinating history of Manikarnika Ghat, its legendary story, religious importance, and what makes it one of the most famous ghats of Varanasi.
Manikarnika Ghat Information:
| Topic | Information |
| Location | Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Significance | Primary cremation ground in Varanasi; believed to grant moksha (liberation) |
| Famous For | Continuous cremations, spiritual importance, and the Manikarnika Kund |
| History | Over 3,000 years old; mentioned in the Puranas; current structure built in the 18th century |
| Mythological Story | Goddess Parvati’s earring (Manikarnika) fell here while Lord Vishnu created the kund |
| Best Time to Visit | November to February (winter months) for pleasant weather |
| Accessibility | Open 24x7; accessible on foot through narrow lanes or by boat on the Ganges |
| Rituals | Daily cremation ceremonies; Ganga Aarti performed at sunset |
| Nearby Attractions | Dashashwamedh Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, boat rides on the Ganges |
| Etiquette | Be respectful, dress modestly, avoid photographing cremations, and follow local customs |
| Ganga Aarti at Manikarnika | Smaller than Dashashwamedh Ghat but spiritually significant; performed with lamps & hymns |
| Manikarnika Ghat at Night | Mystical atmosphere with burning pyres, flickering lamps, and chants filling the air |
| Nearby Accommodations | Plenty of hotels and guesthouses nearby, ranging from budget to luxury |
Location of Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat is located in the heart of Varanasi along the banks of the Ganges. It is easily accessible by foot or boat ride on the Ganges, and is surrounded by other iconic landmarks such as Dashashwamedh Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and the Manikarnika Kund (sacred pool).
Why is Manikarnika Ghat Famous?
The Manikarnika Ghat Varanasi is famous as the burning ghat, where cremation rituals take place 24x7. It is believed that a person who dies in Varanasi and is cremated at Manikarnika Ghat attains moksha — liberation from the endless cycle of birth and death.
According to Hindu beliefs, this ghat serves as a gateway to heaven. People from all over India bring the bodies of their loved ones here for the final rites, making it one of the most spiritually charged places in the world.
Manikarnika Ghat Story: Mythological Origins
The story of Manikarnika Ghat is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, when Lord Vishnu was performing penance here to please Lord Shiva, he dug a pit with his chakra and filled it with his sweat. During this time, an earring (Manikarnika) of Goddess Parvati fell into the pit, and hence the ghat came to be known as Manikarnika Ghat.
Another popular belief says that the Manikarnika Kund, the sacred pool at the ghat, was created by Lord Vishnu and has the power to cleanse sins and grant salvation to those who bathe in its waters.
History of Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat history goes back thousands of years and is mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures, including the Puranas. The ghat is believed to be over 3,000 years old, making it one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi.
It is said to have been constructed during the reign of King Vikramaditya, and later renovated several times. The current structure that we see today was rebuilt in the 18th century.
The ghat’s continuous association with funeral pyres symbolizes the Hindu concept of impermanence and the cyclical nature of life and death.
Manikarnika Ghat Aarti
While Dashashwamedh Ghat is better known for its grand evening Ganga Aarti, Manikarnika Ghat also performs its own Ganga Aarti ritual every evening at sunset.
Priests perform the Aarti to honor Mother Ganga with the offering of lamps (diyas), flowers, conch shells, and incense while chanting Vedic hymns. The glowing lamps against the dark waters of the Ganges make for a mesmerizing and spiritual experience.
Manikarnika Ghat at Night
The ghat transforms into an even more mystical and hauntingly beautiful sight at night. The constant glow of the cremation pyres, the flickering of the lamps during the Aarti, and the rhythmic sounds of prayers and bells create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Watching Manikarnika Ghat at night is a humbling reminder of life’s fragility and the eternal soul’s journey beyond the physical body.
Best Time to Visit Manikarnika Ghat
The best time to visit Manikarnika Ghat is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is pleasant for walking along the ghats and taking boat rides on the Ganges.
However, the ghat is open throughout the year, and since it operates around the clock, you can visit at any time to witness its spiritual energy and rituals.
How to Reach Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat is located in the old city area of Varanasi and is accessible by narrow lanes on foot or by a scenic boat ride.
There are plenty of hotels and guesthouses near Manikarnika Ghat, ranging from budget to luxury, to suit every traveler.
Visitors are advised to be respectful of the rituals and avoid photographing the cremations, as this is a deeply sacred and emotional space for the families present.
Manikarnika Ghats Nearby Attractions
While visiting Manikarnika Ghat, you can also explore these nearby attractions:
- Dashashwamedh Ghat — Famous for its grand Ganga Aarti.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple — One of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Boat rides on the Ganges — A serene way to view the ghats and the city’s skyline.
Etiquette at Manikarnika Ghat
Since Manikarnika Ghat is a cremation ground and a place of deep religious significance, visitors must:
- Dress modestly.
- Avoid loud behavior and maintain silence where possible.
- Not photograph the cremation pyres out of respect for the grieving families.
- Remove shoes where required and respect local customs.
In Conclusion, Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi is more than just a tourist destination — it is a spiritual experience that offers a glimpse into the eternal cycle of life and death. Its profound religious significance, centuries-old rituals, and mythological stories make it a must-visit for anyone wanting to truly understand the soul of India.
A visit to Manikarnika Ghat can be a deeply moving and transformative experience. Whether you come to witness the rituals, take a boat ride, or simply soak in the spiritual energy, this sacred place will leave an indelible impression on your heart.