Scaling the Ghats: Discovering Varanasi’s Spiritual Jewels Along the Ganga
River Varanasi, located on the banks of the Ganga river in northern India, is one of the most sacred cities in the country and a hub of spirituality. The city is known for its ghats (stone steps leading to the river), where people flock to bathe in the holy water, perform religious ceremonies and cremate their dead. Scaling the Ghats: Discovering Varanasi’s Spiritual Jewels Along the Ganga
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The Ghats
Scaling the ghats along the Ganga river is an unforgettable experience and a spiritual journey to discover the city’s precious jewels. It provides an insight into the city’s rich history, culture and traditions. Scaling the Ghats: Discovering Varanasi’s Spiritual Jewels Along the Ganga
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Features and Significance
As one proceeds towards the north, several ghats unfold, each with its unique features and significance. The Tulsi Ghat is named after the famous poet Tulsi Das, who is believed to have composed the Ramayana at this spot. The Kedar Ghat is where Lord Shiva is said to have established his lingam, a symbol of his divine presence. Scaling the Ghats: Discovering Varanasi’s Spiritual Jewels Along the Ganga
Assi Ghat
Starting from the Assi Ghat, located at the south end of the city, one can walk along the riverbank, soaking in the atmosphere and witnessing the devotion of the worshippers. The Assi Ghat is one of the oldest ghats, and it is believed that Lord Shiva took a dip here at the confluence of the Ganga and the Assi rivers. Scaling the Ghats: Discovering Varanasi’s Spiritual Jewels Along the Ganga
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The Manikarnika Ghat
The Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most popular ghats, is the main cremation ghat in Varanasi. Hindus believe that being cremated here brings liberation from the cycle of rebirth. It is a busy and chaotic place, but it is not open to the public during the cremation process. Scaling the Ghats: Discovering Varanasi’s Spiritual Jewels Along the Ganga
The Boat Ride
The Walkers and Tourists can also hop on a boat ride to explore the ghats from the river. The boat ride provides a scenic and serene view of the ghats, from where one can witness the verve and beauty of the river with the setting sun in the background. Scaling the Ghats: Discovering Varanasi’s Spiritual Jewels Along the Ganga
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Lifeline of This City
As one scales the ghats, it becomes apparent that the river is the lifeline of this city. The spiritual significance of the ghats and the river for the people is immense. It is a pilgrimage that every Hindu wishes to undertake at least once in a lifetime. The peace and calmness that it brings to the heart are phenomenal. Scaling the Ghats: Discovering Varanasi’s Spiritual Jewels Along the Ganga
The Dasaswamedh Ghat
The Dasaswamedh Ghat is the most prominent among the ghats, and it is where the Ganga Aarti, a grand prayer ceremony, is performed every evening. The ceremony is a mesmerizing sight, with hundreds of devotees offering prayers to the river, accompanied by lively music and incense smoke. Scaling the Ghats: Discovering Varanasi’s Spiritual Jewels Along the Ganga
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Conclusion
In conclusion, Varanasi’s ghats and the river Ganga provide a unique and spiritual experience for the visitors. It is a place that showcases the essence of India’s culture, tradition, spirituality and faith. Scaling the Ghats is an absolute must-do for every traveler, to unlock the secrets and gems of Varanasi. Scaling the Ghats: Discovering Varanasi’s Spiritual Jewels Along the Ganga
