Manikarnika Ghat, nestled in the heart of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the oldest and holiest ghats on the River Ganges. It holds immense spiritual, religious, and cultural significance, especially in the context of Hindu funeral rites and beliefs about moksha (liberation).
Tourists from around the world, particularly those interested in spiritual tourism in Uttar Pradesh, flock to this mysterious and deeply sacred site. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about Manikarnika Ghat tourist places, nearby attractions, spiritual significance, and travel tips.
🛕 What is Manikarnika Ghat?
Manikarnika Ghat is one of the main cremation ghats in Varanasi, also called the “burning ghat” due to the continuous cremations that take place here, 24 hours a day. According to Hindu belief, anyone cremated here attains moksha — freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
Unlike other tourist spots, Manikarnika is not meant for casual sightseeing; it’s a place that makes you reflect on life, death, and eternity.
📖 Mythological Significance of Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika’s spiritual aura is rooted in Hindu mythology. It is said that:
- Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati visited this spot.
- While bathing, Parvati’s earring (mani = gem, karna = ear) fell into the Ganges, hence the name Manikarnika.
- Lord Vishnu dug a kund (sacred well) nearby using his chakra to please Lord Shiva.
- Shiva whispered the Taraka Mantra in the ears of the dying, helping them attain salvation.
This is why religious tourism in Varanasi almost always includes Manikarnika Ghat in the itinerary.
🔥 Cremation at Manikarnika Ghat: Rituals and Beliefs
Cremations here are not seen as tragic but rather as celebrations of liberation. Hindus believe that dying in Varanasi or being cremated at Manikarnika helps the soul break free from samsara (the cycle of rebirth).
Each day, 100 to 150 cremations take place. Bodies wrapped in orange and white cloth are carried through narrow alleys with chants of “Ram Naam Satya Hai”, then laid on funeral pyres built from sacred woods like sandalwood.
Families gather to offer their final prayers, priests chant mantras, and the Ganga witnesses another soul being set free.
🏛️ Architectural Beauty and Sacred Spots at Manikarnika
While the main focus is the cremation area, Manikarnika Ghat is surrounded by intriguing architectural and religious landmarks:
📌 Manikarnika Kund
This sacred tank is believed to have been created by Lord Vishnu and is still considered holy. Pilgrims often visit it before or after attending funeral rites.
📌 Charan Paduka Temple
This temple features footprints of Lord Vishnu, reinforcing the belief in divine presence at the ghat.
📌 Manikarnika Mahashamshan Nath Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is located near the cremation area. It’s believed that Lord Shiva himself resides here to bless the departing souls.
📍 Top Tourist Places Near Manikarnika Ghat
Varanasi is filled with spiritual and cultural gems. After visiting Manikarnika Ghat, here are some places to visit nearby:
🛕 Kashi Vishwanath Temple
One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, just 5 minutes’ walk from the ghat. A must-visit for all devotees.
🌊 Dashashwamedh Ghat
The site of the famous Ganga Aarti every evening. The spiritual energy during the ceremony is mesmerizing.
🛕 Scindia Ghat
Right next to Manikarnika, it features sunken temples, partially submerged by the Ganges.
🏯 Kathwala Temple (Nepali Temple)
Constructed in Nepalese architecture using wood, this quiet temple is a peaceful contrast to the burning ghat.
🧘 Unique Experiences at Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika isn’t your typical tourist attraction. Instead, it offers raw, unfiltered insights into Indian spirituality:
👁️ Witnessing Final Rites
It might be confronting, but witnessing a cremation here is a deeply humbling experience. It puts life in perspective.
🕯️ Participate in Silent Reflection
Sit quietly near the ghat steps (away from cremations) and observe the spiritual rituals, smoke swirling in the sky, chants echoing — a powerful meditative moment.
📿 Interact With Sadhus
If you’re respectful, sadhus (holy men) may share stories, mantras, or life philosophies with you.
📆 Best Time to Visit Manikarnika Ghat
The best time for spiritual tourism in Uttar Pradesh is:
- October to March: Pleasant weather.
- Early morning (5–8 AM): Less crowd, more peace.
- Avoid monsoons (July–September): The ghat steps are often submerged.
🚍 How to Reach Manikarnika Ghat
Getting to Manikarnika Ghat is easy via multiple transport options:
✈️ By Air
- Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (~25 km from ghat)
- Take a prepaid taxi or cab to Godowlia, then walk through narrow lanes.
🚂 By Train
- Major Railway Stations: Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Kashi Station
- From the station, take a rickshaw or e-auto.
🛣️ By Road
- Varanasi is well-connected to cities like Lucknow, Allahabad, and Delhi.
- Public buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are easily available.
🏨 Hotels Near Manikarnika Ghat
There are several accommodation options close to the ghat:
💸 Budget Hotels
- Shiva Guest House
- Stay Banaras
💰 Mid-Range
- Hotel Alka
- Ganpati Guest House
💎 Luxury
- BrijRama Palace (on the ghat itself)
- Taj Ganges, Varanasi
Choose a hotel near the ghats for a full immersive Varanasi experience.
📸 Visitor Tips and Cultural Etiquette
Tourists are welcome at Manikarnika, but it’s essential to be respectful.
⚠️ Dos:
- Maintain silence during cremations
- Dress modestly
- Ask locals before taking photos
❌ Don’ts:
- Do not click photos of cremations
- Don’t make jokes or laugh around the burning pyres
- Don’t touch or disturb ritual items or priests
🙏 Spiritual Impact: What You’ll Take Home
Unlike other attractions, Manikarnika is about letting go — of ego, fear, attachment. You come here not to enjoy, but to understand the cycle of life and death.
Most visitors leave feeling humbled, emotional, and spiritually awakened. You may even find yourself questioning what really matters in life.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the importance of Manikarnika Ghat in Hinduism?
Manikarnika Ghat is considered the most sacred place for cremation. Hindus believe that cremation here grants moksha, ending the cycle of rebirth.
2. Can tourists visit Manikarnika Ghat?
Yes, tourists can visit. However, photography of cremations is not allowed and visitors are expected to maintain respectful behavior.
3. Are there any rituals tourists can take part in?
Tourists can take part in Ganga Aarti, donate wood for cremation, or sit for silent prayers or reflection. Active participation in funerals is not permitted.
4. What is the best time to visit Manikarnika Ghat?
October to March is the best time, especially early mornings, for a peaceful and spiritual experience.
5. Is it safe for solo travelers to visit the ghat?
Yes, but stay vigilant of guides demanding high fees. It’s best to hire a verified local guide or go with a small group.