According to Hindu tradition, people cremated at the Manikarnika Ghat after death will be freed from the chain of life and death. That explains the chaos, mystery, indifference, noise and everything surrounding this area which is said to be the abode of Lord Shiva. The name Manikarnika goes back to the story where Shiva dropped his earrings at the well here during his transcendental dance and it came to know as Manikarnika Kund. The cremations take place without break and fills the air with the smell of burning flesh which is surprisingly not repulsive. Foreigners from all around the globe watch the activities here with much intrigue and the locals take it with compassion though not without a fragment of disdain. The apparent indifferent face of death is reinforced with the underlying philosophy of material transition and is something that has to be experienced.
This is the unofficial yet lionized home of long-term backpackers, researchers and students who have chosen to stay on for extended periods of time in Varanasi. The southernmost ghat on the long stretch of ghats, life at Assi is as indulgent as the water buffaloes who wallow around for hours on end in the Ganges. Despite its distance from the main burning ghats, travelers head here for a break from the intrusive touts, guides, fake holy men, beggars, boat men, masseurs and even children who participate with great fervor in the contrived chaos. Assi has a large Jewish community and this is reflected through the hotels and cafes with names such as Haifa and Yafah which serve up typically Middle Eastern dishes like hummus, falafel, baba ghanoush and kawwah (Arabic Coffee). Assi Ghat has been mentioned in the ancient Indian Vedic texts and commands the respect of Indian pilgrims too who arrive here in boats or on foot for a holy dip.
With a shrine of Lord Shiva and the famous 'well' named after his consort, Parvathi, this ghat is a prominent site of pilgrimage. The holy well, known as Parvati Kund or Kedar Kund, is believed to have healing properties and lot of visitors take a dip here. Built by the Maharaja of Vijayanagar, these vintage steps leading to the Ganges evoke vivid memories of the old spiritual tradition that flourished here. Divine and charming, do visit this architectural marvel to experience another time and sensibility.
Made in the 19th Century by Maharani Kunwar of Sursand, Janki Ghat has an evident nostalgic charm to it. The rustic building with a vintage design evokes memories of the past quite effortlessly. Called as Nagamber Ghat in the past, this is one of the cleanest points along the long stretch of ghats on the banks of the holy river. With a small green pasture on its side, this ghat close to the renowned Assi Ghat and historic Tulsi Ghat, sees a lot of pilgrims taking a holy dip.
Previously known as Lolark Ghat, Tulsi Ghat is one of the prominent ones which enjoys its association with ancient India's most revered saint and poet - Tulsidas who composed the Ramcharitramanas right here. In fact, the little house where he lived has still been preserved with a few personal belongings as well as a piece of wood from the boat used to cross the river. This ghat comes alive in October and November which are both auspicious months in the Hindu calendar. Spiritual discourses, Indian classical concerts, dance recitals and even wrestling matches bring together foreigners and locals who participate rapturously in the riverfront festivities.
A seat of Buddhist studies, Vajra Vidya Institute in Sarnath has a captivating architectural style based on the ancient Nalanda Monastic Institute in Bodhgaya. Created by Thrangu Rinpoche in 1999, this monastery conducts short term classes in various Buddhist disciplines. The large shrine at the center of the campus is the highlight of the place; it is amazingly adorned with red, green and golden color schemes with a large Buddha statue. Small golden statues of Buddha are also visible. The serene and calm campus has guesthouses and a cafe inside. It is located close to attractions like Deer Park, Thai Temple, Chaukhandi Stupa and Kapil Mandir.