The Ghats are the stairs leading to the river banks, where you can witness traditional religious customs.
The pilgrims gather at ghats for ritual baths and meditation in the most incredible positions. The Brahmins offer blessings; families come to cremate bodies of their beloveds.
There are 5 main ghats, where pilgrims are obliged to take baths at a certain time of the day and in a certain order (Asi, Dasaswemedh, Barnasangam, Panćaganga, Manikarnika). Moreover, worth visit is Harishćandra (Smaśan Ghat) where bodies are cremated by untouchables. Be careful not to take any photographs there.
The Golden Template of Shiva is located close to Jalsain Ghat. It was built in 1776 by Ahalya Bai, in a place where earlier was a template destroyed by Muslims in 1600.
The temple is the holy place for Hindu and most important place to visit for pilgrims. Non-Hindu tourists are not allowed inside.
The proximity with the Ganges let tourists enjoy many activities when in Varanasi.
Boat cruises at Ganges river are a must for tourists. The best time is the early morning to catch the sun rise.
The boats gather by largest ghats. Hiring of a boat for 4 people should not cost more than 50 rupees, as prices are regulated by government.
However, make sure you agree the price beforehand.
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