Home » Places of Interest » Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi in Varanasi

Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi in Varanasi

Summer: 32 to 46° C (Very Hot)

Winter: 5 to 15° C (Chilled)

Monsoon: July to September

Best time to visit:  October to March

Opening Time: 05:30 a.m.
Closing Time: 11:00 p.m.
Weekly Holiday: Open all year round

Entry Fees for Indians Adults:  N/A
Children:  N/A
Cameras:  N/A
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Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals Adults:  N/A
Children:  N/A
Cameras:  N/A
Video Camera:  N/A
Considered to be the symbol of morality, Manikarnika Ghat is one of the only two burning Ghats in the holy city of Varanasi. The Ghat represents both creation (life) and destruction (death). The Cakra-Pushkarini Kund created by Lord Vishnu brings glory to the Ghat.
Famous for its serene environment, Manikarnika Ghat is believed to be the holiest spot in Varanasi to attain salvation. According to a Hindu belief, the burning of dead bodies is the religious way to attain Moksha (salvation).
Attracts numerous visitors every year, the cremations performed by Doms on the Ghat is quite popular among foreigners. Other nearby attractions includesHarishchandra Ghat, Vishwanath Galli, Tulsi Ghat, Alamgir mosque, Vishwanath Temple Benares Hindu University, and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.

Connectivites

Road: State transport and private buses connect nearby cities like Gorakhpur, Gaya, Allahabad, Lucknow and Delhi to Manikarnika Ghat. Tourists can hire cycle rickshaws or auto rickshaws from Varanasi station as well. Frequent and regular buses are available.

Railway: Varanasi Railway Station (located about 3 km.) is the nearest railhead to reach Manikarnika Ghat. Many express trains connect Manikarnika Ghat with major cities of the country like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai.

Airway: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (located about 28 km.) is the nearest airport to reach Manikarnika Ghat.Tourists can book an A/C or non-A/C cab to reach the airport. Buses are also available to reach the airport.