Wonders of Assi Ghat, One of Varanasi’s Most Historical Ghats
You’ve probably seen photos of the ghats in Varanasi. They’re iconic—a seemingly never-ending parade of brightly coloured temples and shrines perched atop the riverbanks, with pilgrims and locals washing their clothes, bathing, and performing religious rituals below. But there’s one Ghat that’s particularly special: Assi Ghat. It’s one of the oldest and most historical ghats in Varanasi, and it’s home to some of the city’s most important temples. If you’re visiting Varanasi, be sure to make a stop at Assi Ghat. Here are must-see wonders that await you there.
Table of Contents
The History of Assi Ghat
Originally called Asi Ghat, this was one of the first ghats built in Varanasi. It’s located on the southern banks of the Ganges and is said to be one of the most historically significant ghats in the city. Assi Ghat is also one of the busiest ghats in Varanasi and is a popular spot for tourists and pilgrims alike. You’ll find several temples and shrines here, as well as a bustling market that sells everything from food to souvenirs.
What to Expect When Visiting Assi Ghat
When you visit Assi Ghat, you can expect an assault on the senses. This is one of the oldest and most historical ghats in Varanasi, and it’s full of activity from dawn until dusk. You’ll see pilgrims coming to take a dip in the holy river Ganges, priests performing religious ceremonies, and locals going about their day-to-day lives. The air is thick with the smell of incense and burning wood, and the sound of prayers and chants is always in the background. It’s an amazing place to experience Indian culture first-hand, and it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Varanasi.
The Art and Architecture
The ghats of Varanasi are a UNESCO World Heritage Site for a reason. Each of the ghats has its own unique art and architecture, and Assi Ghat is no exception. The steps of the Assi Ghat are carved with intricate designs, and the ghat is topped with a series of graceful domes. The walls of the ghat are decorated with scenes from Hindu mythology, and there are several temples located on Assi Ghat. Assi Ghat is also home to some of the most famous artist colonies in Varanasi. If you’re looking for a true taste of Varanasi culture, there’s no better place to find it than Assi Ghat.
A Guide to the Festivals
At Assi Ghat, you will quickly come to realize that spiritual festivals and fairs are held all the time. The most popular of these is the Kashi Vishwanath Fair which is celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva. During this festival, people from far and wide come together to sing bhajans and dance in devotion. You’ll be able to experience an array of captivating sights—from musicians playing harmonious tunes to artisans crafting enchanting souvenirs and devotional mementoes.
The Durga Puja celebrations at Assi Ghat are also a must-see for anyone visiting Varanasi. During this time, idols of Goddess Durga are installed in almost every house across the city, as well as along the banks of the ghat itself. Plus, you’ll be able to witness a variety of cultural activities throughout this festival. No matter when you visit, there’s bound to be some kind of spiritual celebration going on in Assi Ghat, so come prepared and with an open mind!
Explore the Markets
One of the must-see wonders of Assi Ghat is its lively and colourful markets. You can find a wide array of items from souvenirs to spices, clothes and jewellery, but the best part is that most of the products are handmade by local artisans, so you’re sure to pick up something unique! Assi Ghat also has a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can sample some delicious local cuisine.
For a real treat, try the “Raja Ji Chai wala” – a sweet lemon tea made with spices like cardamom, star anise and cinnamon. And don’t forget to take advantage of the Ghats’ cultural activities. Every year they host festivals, events and performances to celebrate important Hindu festivals. These events usually draw large crowds and provide you with an insight into Varanasi’s lively culture.
Take in the Beauty of a Sunrise
Imagine watching the sun rise over the Ganges. A pink-orange hue stretching across still waters. Sounds magical, doesn’t it? Well, that’s what you can experience at Assi Ghat. If you want to take in the full beauty of a sunrise in Varanasi, head to the northern tip of Assi Ghat and lay down your yoga mat for some early morning meditation (just remember to bring your own mat). Bring along a chai or coffee and take some time to just soak it all in. And don’t forget to keep your eyes open for any strange sights. There are lots of legends and tales associated with Assi Ghat, so be on the lookout for any surprises! After all, who knows what wonders could be waiting there for you?
When you visit Varanasi, make sure to visit Assi Ghat. It’s one of the most historical and beautiful ghats in the city. Here, you can see some of the most amazing sights and learn about the city’s history.
