Assi Ghat, Varanasi
At the junction of Ganges River and Assi Rivers, Assi Ghat is the southernmost altar in Varanasi. Famous as a sacred place for the Ganges River bank tour, Assi Ghat is worth visiting in Varanasi. Near Assi Ghat, a statue of Shiva Lingam stands. Pilgrims would come here early in the morning and have a bath in Assi River, then worship the statue representing God Shiva Lingam. For many tourists, Assi Ghat is famous for its long-term residence of foreign students, scholars, and tourists. It was here that the Indian poet Tulsidas wrote his famous poem Ramcharitmanas. The Ganga Aarti Ceremonies begin when night falls down and many tourists will take cruises and appreciate from a long distance. Assi Ghat is an epitome of Indian cultures, and authentic Indian cultures can be felt here.What to Do at Assi Ghat?
As a typical religious ghat in Varanasi, Assi Ghat has the similar functions with other ghats scattered along the Ganges River. Hindus take morning bath, worship Shiva Lingam, appreciate the marvelous sunrise of Ganges River, and also participate Ganga Aarti Ceremony here. Full of religion atmosphere, Assi Ghat is an amazing place to visit for tourists.Experience the Baptism of Holy Water
Water passing by Assi Ghat is the mixture of Ganges River and Assi River. Every morning, many believers come here to bathe. Everyone no matter poor and rich come here and accept the baptism of holy water. For those tourists coming here out of religious believing, it is a good place to have mind refreshing, experience the baptism of holy water, and get refreshed by the peace and tranquilness brought by holy water.
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Near Assi Ghat stands a statue of Shiva Lingam. All over India, Shiva temples and Shiva shrines worshiped all take Lingam as the symbol of God Shiva. It is said that Indians believe that Lingam creates Indian civilization, therefore, Lingam is worshiped everywhere in India and devout believers consecrate the statue with fresh flowers, clean water, grass, fruits, leaves and rice. At Assi Ghat, you can appreciate the statue of Shiva Lingam, closely feel the piety of Hindus, and experience Indian cultures.
Experience Ganga Aarti Ceremony
As a sacred ghat, Assi Ghat also serves as a site of Ganga Aarti Ceremony. When night falls, Hindus and tourists will gather together and wait for the ancient religious rituals. It is suggested to take a cruise and appreciate the Ganga Aarti Ceremony from a long distance. You can also sit nearby, listen to the beautiful religious music, and appreciate the ancient and vivid forms of sacrifice. You will also see 14 Brahmin priests perform the ritual by singing and dancing with candles, conchs and other instruments. Later, milk would be poured into river, and also wishes can be made when lighting lanterns.
How to get to Assi Ghat
1. From the old city of Varanasi, passengers can walk there directly.2. Along the stone steps by Ganges River, passengers can get there easily.
Admission Fee
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Entry fee |
Free |
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Timing |
All day |
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Suggest Duration of a Visit |
1-3 hours |
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Best Time to Visit |
Shiva Festival/Ganga Aarti Ceremony every night |