Manikarnika Ghat - Manikarnika Mahashamshan Ghat image

Manikarnika Ghat - Manikarnika Mahashamshan Ghat

Heritage building โ€ข Pilgrimages place โ€ข Cremation service

One of the city's oldest ghats, this iconic site is a storied spot for traditional Hindu cremations. People often mention Ghat, Manikarnika, ghat, Varanasi, life, cremation, visit, ghats, sacred, death,


Address

near Lalita Ghat, Ghats of Varanasi, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Domari, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India

Website

kashiarchan.com

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (7.3K reviews)

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Working Hours

  • Friday: Open 24 hours
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Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Ghat (59) Manikarnika (53) ghat (46) Varanasi (37) life (27) cremation (23) visit (22) ghats (15) sacred (13) death (13)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Divya J. 2 years ago on Google
    The Burning ghat. Must visit & stay there for an hour. The pyre, the body, the people & the Energy there make you realise the actual truth of life.......that is every chapter has to come to an end......Life is one of those chapters whose ending is Death.
    34 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Akshat M. 1 year ago on Google
    Such a beautiful ghat it is. Banaras is the city you fall in love with. This ghat is build on the banks of River Ganga. This Ghat is actually cursed that it will always be burning. So 24ร—7 someone funeral is happening here. It it always burning here.
    8 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Prayag T. 1 year ago on Google
    ๐Ÿ•‰๏ธOM NAMAH SHIVAYA ๐Ÿ™ The manikarnika ghat is greatest and purest cremation ghat of the whole world. This ghat is one of the ancient and holy places and it is actually a door for humanity to reach the abode of lord and get free from the cycle of rebirth. Spirituality, meditation , knowledge , civilization ,worship. I am posting some images that evening.
    7 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Aryann 2 years ago on Google
    The greatest and purest cremation ghat of the whole world. This ghat is ancient and it is actually a device for humanity to reach the abode of lord and get free from the cycle of rebirth. Spirituality, meditation , knowledge , civilization ,worship.
    6 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 bharat b. 2 years ago on Google
    Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest cremation grounds among the sacred riverfronts, alongside the river Ganga
    6 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 sarada m. 1 year ago on Google
    The most sacred and the most crowded Ghat in Varanasi , where , according to mythology, Siva grants moksha . The Ghat has been in existence since Gupta times (5th Century) , but the buildings on the Ghat seen now were built by AhilyaBai Holkar . Dozens of corpses are cremated here everyday , mountains of firewood can be seen stacked all around and the smoke never clears. True, the place is chaotic, messy , slippery ; there are groups of foreign tourists gawking at the "spectacle of burning bodies" , there are fleecing touts , anxious and stressed out bereaved families . For all that , the Ghat evokes a sense of serenity and is an unforgettable experience.
    6 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 Arnab B. 2 years ago on Google
    Manikarnika Ghat Believed to be the holiest cremation ground in varanasi. For me its a must visit place (won't recommend everyone). Just go and spent 15-20 mins at the ghat trust me it will be worth. On an average daily 180-200 bodies are burnt to ashes here. It is said that the fire at Manikarnika Ghat has not been extinguished till now since it was established.
    5 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Poonam C. 1 year ago on Google
    Manikarnika ghat Religious place. This place have its own values. This ghat is oposite to kashi vishwanath temple. Must visit in the evening you will see a good crowd over there. You will get to know the exact truth of our life. You will get there a reality check. That is very important to know the value of others and the main purpose of life. You will realise there life is nothing.So live gently, do value of others equally,stay calmly,stay happy. And if you are in varanasi. Thn plz visit this place to know the reality. Must visit this point and spend some time there.Trust me you will feel the vibes and you will be very quiet.
    5 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Niket R. 1 year ago on Google
    Manikarnika Ghat is also know as the Shamshaan Ghat of Banaras. The place has a very strong and different level of energy around it. Visualls of the dead bodies burning can be very disturbing so one should be mentally prepared for it. Also if you are planning to visit make sure you learn the story behind the Ghat this will definitely help you give you the vibe when you visit the place
    4 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Shivansh R. 1 year ago on Google
    At a distance of 1 km from Dasashwamedh Ghat and 6 km from Varanasi Junction, Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest ghats in Varanasi along the banks of River Ganga. Situated just beside Dasashwamedh Ghat, it is the main cremation ghat and also one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi.Popularly called as Mahasmasana, Manikarnika Ghat is one of two burning Ghats in Varanasi while the other one is Harishchandra Ghat. According to Hindu mythology, Manikarnika Ghat is believed to be the place where the ear ornament worn by Sati fell down when Lord Shiva was carrying her to the Himalayas.Manikarnika Ghat is among the pivotal places of interest in Varanasi. According to the religious beliefs, burning the dead bodies at this ghat is a way to attain Moksha, the salvation.
    4 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Subhadip B. 7 months ago on Google
    Nestled along the banks of the holy Ganges River in the spiritual city of Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat stands as a timeless symbol of life, death, and rebirth in Hinduism. This sacred site has drawn pilgrims, seekers, and curious travelers for centuries, and my recent visit left an indelible mark on my soul. Join me as I share my experiences and insights from my visit to the iconic Manikarnika Ghat. A Glimpse into History: Manikarnika Ghat is not just a place; it's a profound chapter in the rich history of Varanasi. Legends say that it was here that Lord Shiva's earring (Manikarnika) fell, hence the name. The ghat is also associated with the Great Cremation Ground, where Hindus believe that cremating the deceased leads to liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. As I approached, I was struck by the fusion of spirituality and mortality that permeates the air. The Rituals and Ceremonies: The heart of Manikarnika Ghat beats with the rhythm of rituals and ceremonies. I witnessed the continuous cremation pyres, each telling a story of a life lived and a soul on its journey to moksha (liberation). The sight was intense and thought-provoking, a reminder of the impermanence of life. The locals explained the rituals with reverence and grace, sharing their deep-rooted beliefs. The Aura of Spirituality: Walking through the labyrinthine alleys leading to the ghat, I was enveloped by the aura of spirituality. Sadhus and pilgrims clad in saffron robes wandered the streets, offering blessings and sharing their wisdom. The resonance of bells, the aroma of incense, and the constant chants created an otherworldly atmosphere that transported me to a realm beyond the physical. A Lesson in Acceptance: Manikarnika Ghat taught me the importance of embracing the inevitable cycle of life and death. It's a place where one can reflect on the impermanence of existence and the necessity of letting go. The acceptance of death as an integral part of life is a lesson that Manikarnika Ghat imparts with unparalleled depth. Conclusion: My visit to Manikarnika Ghat was a journey into the heart of spirituality, mortality, and the human experience. It's a place where life and death dance together in a sacred harmony that challenges our perception of the world. While it may not be an easy visit for everyone, it is undoubtedly a transformative one. Manikarnika Ghat stands as a timeless testament to the profound mysteries of existence, inviting all who come to contemplate the circle of life and death. In the end, my journey to Manikarnika Ghat left me with a sense of humility and a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of life. It's a destination that will forever remain etched in my memory, a place where the soul is stirred and the spirit finds solace.
    3 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Aniket N. 4 months ago on Google
    A Spiritual Odyssey at Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi Nestled along the sacred banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi, the Manikarnika Ghat stands as a poignant testament to the spiritual and cultural richness of India. This ancient cremation ground, also known as Manikarnika Mahashamshan Ghat, is a place where life and death intertwine in a mesmerizing dance, creating an experience that is both profound and unforgettable. As one of the oldest and most revered ghats in Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat is a powerful reflection of the city's deep-seated spiritual heritage. The air is thick with the fragrance of incense, and the sounds of temple bells and chanting priests create a mystical atmosphere that transports visitors to a different realm. The ghat is a surreal tapestry of rituals, traditions, and beliefs that have been upheld for centuries. Witnessing the age-old practice of cremation along the riverbanks is a humbling experience, offering a glimpse into the cycle of life and death as understood in Hindu culture. The spiritual energy is palpable, and the ghats play a pivotal role in the collective consciousness of those who visit. Lalita Ghat, adjacent to Manikarnika Ghat, adds another layer of enchantment to the experience. This smaller ghat is adorned with intricate carvings and offers a serene space for contemplation. The juxtaposition of the intense activity at Manikarnika Ghat with the peaceful ambiance of Lalita Ghat provides a well-rounded and immersive encounter with the spiritual tapestry of Varanasi. Exploring the broader Ghats of Varanasi, especially Lahori Tola, reveals the city's vibrant diversity and the coexistence of various religious and cultural practices. The intricate architecture and the constant flow of pilgrims and tourists contribute to the dynamic and ever-evolving character of these ghats. Varanasi's Lahori Tola, with its narrow lanes and vibrant marketplaces, further enriches the visit by offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the locals. From traditional crafts to aromatic street food, the area encapsulates the essence of Varanasi beyond its spiritual significance. In conclusion, a visit to Manikarnika Ghat and its surrounding ghats is a transformative journey that transcends the ordinary. It provides a deep understanding of the cultural and spiritual fabric of Varanasi, making it an essential destination for those seeking a profound and immersive travel experience. The ghats of Varanasi are not merely physical locations; they are living embodiments of India's rich heritage, inviting visitors to connect with the eternal flow of life along the sacred Ganges.
    3 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 Amit 10 months ago on Google
    Don't be a tourist here. Be a seeker. Life is dynamic and Manikarnika ghat makes you realise the same. This place is heaven for spiritual people. Please don't click the cremation process. Just sit and witness.
    3 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 PRASHANT T. 2 years ago on Google
    This ghat will show you why actually Varanasi or Kashi so famous is, Where death is celebrated too. It is believe that the person who cremate here will certainly going to Moksha. Once you will be here you can exactly understand the meaning of Moksha.
    3 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Amol P. 1 year ago on Google
    Don't be a tourist here. Be a seeker. Life is dynamic and Manikarnika ghat makes you realise the same. This place is heaven for spiritual people. Please don't click the cremation process. Just sit and witness. Har Har Mahadev
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Aaryan Soni (. 8 months ago on Google
    Ultimate Experience. Marnikarnika Ghat is Calming and With powerful Energy. Itโ€™s safe for Everyone you can Visit here in Night time also. I had Visited and Stayed there on ghat whole night. 24*7 Police Personnel Available there for our Security.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Shaloni D. 6 months ago on Google
    Must visit during your stay in Banaras. One of the holiest cremation grounds among the sacred riverfronts (ghats), located on the Ganges, in the city of Varanasi of Uttar Pradesh. In Hinduism, death is considered a gateway to another life marked by the result of one's karma. The feel is absolutely different which is difficult to put in words.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Dilip Kumar B. 1 year ago on Google
    The Manikarnika ghat is greatest and purest cremation ghat of the whole world. This ghat is one of the ancient and holy places and it is actually a door for humanity to reach the abode of lord and get free from the cycle of rebirth. At a distance of 1 km from Dasashwamedh Ghat and 6 km from Varanasi Junction, Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest ghats in Varanasi along the banks of River Ganga. Situated just beside Dasashwamedh Ghat, it is the main cremation ghat and also one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi. Popularly called as Mahasmasana, Manikarnika Ghat is one of two burning Ghats in Varanasi while the other one is Harishchandra Ghat. According to Hindu mythology, Manikarnika Ghat is believed to be the place where the ear ornament worn by Sati fell down when Lord Shiva was carrying her to the Himalayas. Manikarnika Ghat is among the pivotal places of interest in Varanasi. According to the religious beliefs, burning the dead bodies at this ghat is a way to attain Moksha, the salvation.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Pratik 1 year ago on Google
    State of being emotional and emotionless at the same time! As it was much harder to recognise the emotions. That's the kind of energy I've experienced here. Truly this place is beyond imagination. Must visit to understand valuable understandings of life here. Grateful!
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Himanshu 4 months ago on Google
    This ghat will actually make you realise about the importance of living a purposeful life rather than having a busy life with all the chaos . The eternal burning on Manikarnika Ghat speaks of how in Kashi, even in the death there is a sense of celebration. This means clearing your karmas .
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Nive 10 months ago on Google
    Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most important ghats in Varanasi. It is located on the banks of the Ganges River and is a major cremation ground. Hindus believe that being cremated at Manikarnika Ghat will help them achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. Manikarnika ghat Varanasi The ghat is said to have been named after the earring of Parvati, the wife of Shiva, which fell into the Ganges River at this spot. It is also said that the ashes of Vishnu, one of the three main gods of Hinduism, were scattered here. The ghat is a busy place, with cremations taking place around the clock. The bodies of the dead are brought to the ghat on bamboo stretchers and are cremated on wood pyres. The ashes of the dead are then scattered in the Ganges River. Manikarnika Ghat is a fascinating place to visit, but it can also be a sobering one. It is a reminder of the cycle of life and death, and of the importance of living a good life.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Kara H. 5 months ago on Google
    Surreal experience watching the cremation ceremonies take place by the side of the river Ganges. This is a holy place and there is no sombre feelings here. To learn more about it on our walking tour was incredible and everything done in front of you has a special purpose / meaning. Do not let people approach you here to โ€˜tell you moreโ€™ or โ€˜show you a better viewโ€™ as they will be scammers trying to get money out of you.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 Ritu W. 4 months ago on Google
    One of the oldest ghat of Varanasi is Manikarnika ghat. This is the main cremation ghat of Varanasi where cremation happens 24 x7. Ghat is always busy. Authorities can try to keep the ghat clean but yes it's not easy. This ghat is also one of the 51st Shakti peeth in India. Please keep the place clean when you visit ๐Ÿ™
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 ABHISHEK K. 1 year ago on Google
    View from Manikarnika Ghat (เคฎเคฃเคฟเค•เคฐเฅเคฃเคฟเค•เคพ เค˜เคพเคŸ) which is one of the holiest cremation grounds among the sacred riverfronts (ghats), alongside the river Ganga, in the city of Varanasi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Vivek A. 1 year ago on Google
    I'll giving it 5star just because it's importance spiritual factor in Hinduism and history of Banaras. Everyone who visit Banaras wants to see this place once this is the place where they realise humans have nothing they came on earth with empty hands and they depart with empty hands. No Mayas , No Mohas ! If you visit Varanasi book a boat and visit this place and see the fire emerging from the chitas you feel and face with truth of life .

  • 5/5 Asha Latha K. 1 year ago on Google
    Manikarnika ghat also called as Mahashamshan Ghat. Every one should visit this place in varanasi. And spend some time here you will get to know about what is life actually. In Manikarnika Ghat 24ร—7 someone's funeral is happening here. It always burning here without any break. Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest cremation grounds among the sacred riverfronts, alongside the river Ganges, in the city of Varanasi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh.

  • 5/5 raveen k p. 6 months ago on Google
    Was a truly eye opening experience of visiting a ghat known for 1000s of years for its significance to the moksha, karma, Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest cremation grounds among the sacred riverfronts (ghats), located on the Ganges, in the city of Varanasi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. In Hinduism, death is considered a gateway to another life marked by the result of one's karma. It is believed that a human's soul attains moksha, and hence breaks the cycle of rebirth when cremated here. The water level at this month of September was full due to which you will see the one of the mandir submerged. Nonetheless take time to sit here for 60min and feel the essence of life & death

  • 5/5 Puneet C. 1 year ago on Google
    Visiting Manikarnika Ghat was a profound experience. Witnessing the cremation rituals reminded me that life is fleeting, and we will all end up as ashes. It made me reflect on the impermanence of life and the importance of living each day to the fullest

  • 5/5 Pathik Kumar M. 1 year ago on Google
    Varanasi, also known as Banaras and Kashi, is an ancient city in India that is steeped in history and culture. I visited the city in January 2022 and was blown away by its beauty and spirituality. Varanasi is known as the 'city of light', and it's easy to see why. The city is situated on the banks of the Ganges, and the river truly shines in the sunlight. The city is full of ancient temples, vibrant markets, and fascinating historical sites. I especially enjoyed visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in India. The people of Varanasi are incredibly welcoming and friendly, and I felt at home in this city of Supreme Gods. If you're looking for a truly authentic experience of India's rich culture and spirituality, I highly recommend visiting Varanasi.

  • 5/5 Subhasree C. 9 months ago on Google
    Manikarnika Ghat is one the famous & oldest ghats in Varanasi, UP. It is mentioned in a Gupta inscription of 5th century. According to the belief, when Shiva Parvati was observing the pond, the gem of Parvati's ear fell in Chakrapushkarni. It was named Manikarnika because of the fall of Parvati's ear gem. Presently, this ghat of Kashi is famous for both pilgrimage & cremation ground. In all there are 52 Shakti Peethas all over India, and Manikarnika Ghat is one of them, as Sati's earrings fell at this spot.Every day, more than 300 bodies are cremated in this ghat.Hindu mythology teaches that the ghat is especially sacred and that people cremated there receive moksha. The well at the ghat is called Manikarnika Kund and was built byย Lord Vishnu. The Manikarnika shrine is an important place of worship forย Shaktism sect of Hinduism. It is near to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.ย The Shakti of Manikarnika is addressed as Vishalakshi & Manikarni.

  • 5/5 mani d. 9 months ago on Google
    Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most important ghats in Varanasi. And it's a major cremation ground. Hindus believe that being cremated at Manikarnika Ghat will help them achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of reincarnation. And they believe that every day at time of 12 noon all the gods and goddesses devathas Rishi's they take bath in holy river Ganga in this ghat in that time heavy rush very slippery I think they have to clean the river bed of ghat the clothes and mainly bangles will hurt to ur feet ๐Ÿพ the the temple near ghat is half in water and bending one side very nice to see how our ancestors built proud to be an Indian... Hara Hara Mahadeva

  • 5/5 gyanendra j. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the most sacred and holy places on our planet. You have funeral pyres burning here 24x7. People go to extreme lengths to ensure that their last rites and funeral take place at this ghat!


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