Varanasi is believed to be a tirtha, a crossing point between heaven and earth! The Ganga which flows through this city is considered the most sacred river to the Hindus and it's believed that a dip in this river washes away a person’s sins and cleanses their soul. Ironically, very few ghats and portions of the river in Varanasi are clean enough! So check out this list of the relatively cleaner ghats where you can easily access the river for a dip:

1. Rajendra Prasad Ghat

Picture Credits: anup kumar

Named after the first president of India, Rajendra Prasad Ghat is a pucca ghat which is perfect for a dip in the Ganga as it's relatively much cleaner than the other ghats in the city. Formerly the ghat was called Ashva or Ghoda Ghat and was an extension of the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Besides taking a dip in the holy river, you can also enjoy the famous Ganga aarti in the evenings.

Location | Dashashwamedh Ghat Road, Ghats Of Varanasi, Bangali Tola

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat

Picture Credits: Piyush Soni

Dashashwamedh ghat is one of the most important and historically interesting ghats in Varanasi. Two famous myths are associated with this ghat and its name, first being that the ghat was created by Lord Brahma to welcome Shiva and the second, where it is believed that Lord Brahma sacrificed 10 horses for a ritual at this ghat. Although it's one of the most visited ghats in the city, it is perfect for an early morning dip and evening aartis. Let’s just say you just cannot miss this ghat which is also very near to the famous Vishwanath Temple.

Location | Dashashwamedh Ghat Road, Ghats Of Varanasi, Godawlia

3. Assi Ghat

The southernmost ghat of Varanasi, Assi Ghat according to Hindus, is believed to be Saimbeda Tirtha, i.e a person who takes a dip here will get the same virtues as earned by visiting all other pilgrimages. It's one of the most peaceful places in Varanasi and also the perfect ghat to take a quiet dip in the Ganga. The ghat is at the confluence of the river Ganga and river Assi and is home to a huge lingam, a manifestation of Lord Shiva.

Location | Assi Ghat, Shivala

4. Lalita Ghat

Picture Credits: Rodrigo Barber

Built by the King of Nepal, Lalita ghat is named after Goddess Lalita. Lalita Devi is considered to be an embodiment of Goddess Durga hence it is believed that taking a dip at this ghat will relieve a person of all their problems and fill it with happiness. It is also one of the cleanest ghats in Varanasi and is home to a beautiful wooden temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Location | Near Meer Ghat, Lahori Tola

5. Darbhanga Ghat

Darbhanga ghat is a site to behold in Varanasi owing to its Greek pillar and attractive porches made out of red sandstone from Chunar. It is also home to an imposing palace that is now part of a hotel, owned by the Clarke's group. The ghat is clean and perfect for a dip at any given time.

Location | Near Ahilyabai Ghat, Bangali Tola

6. Kedar Ghat

Picture Credits: Shreyans Bhansali

One of the oldest ghats in Varanasi, Kedar Ghat is home to Gaurikund and a mythologically significant Kedareswara temple, where one of the twelve Jyotirlingas is situated. Taking a bath at this ghat’s riverfront steps is considered a pilgrimage in itself, so why not go here already? Also boat rides at the ghat offer beautiful picturesque views. *Peaceful sighs*.

Location | Kedar Ghat, Bangali Tola

7. Chet Singh Ghat

Chet Singh Ghat is divided into 4 parts namely - Cheta Singh, Niranjani, Shivala & Nirvani. This ghat houses a fortress which witnessed a famous historical battle between the troops of Warren Hastings and Chet Singh. There are also 3 Shiva temples at this ghat and a 7 day festival, Budhva Mangal is celebrated here. Although there is a sharp current in the Ganga at this ghat, it is safe for a quick dip and to enjoy a peaceful evening.

Location | Ghats Of Varanasi, Shivala

8. Scindia Ghat

Picture Credits: Rishi Jalan

According to Hindus, Scindia Ghat is the birthplace of Lord Agni. Besides this Scindia Ghat also houses a partially submerged Shiva temple and is a well known spot for early morning meditation. This 150 year old ghat formerly known as Shinde ghat, is very clean and serene making it perfect for a dip.

Location | Near Manikarnika Ghat, Ghasi Tola

9. Tulsi Ghat

Picture Credits: Sudhanshu Pandey

Named after Tulsidas, the great Hindu poet of Ramcharitmanas, this ghat abodes a temple dedicated to Lord Ram. It's also famous for rituals like Lolark Sashti which are performed by many to be blessed with sons and for their long lives. A sacred bath at this ghat is also believed to get rid of skin diseases. The house where the poet died, his memorial and many of his relics are kept preserved at this ghat.

Location | Assi road, Near Assi Ghat, Shivala

Now that you have the list of ghats that are clean, hygienic and perfect for a dip, don’t stop yourself from taking a bath in the holy Ganga the next time you visit Varanasi!

Benarasi Scout