A quaint site of active spirituality, the Scindhia Ghat charms with the orchestrated flight of steps to the holy river Ganges. Previously known as Vireswara ghat, this spiritual abode was renovated in the 18th, 19th and 20th Centuries by different rulers. Being in the proximity of the cremation site, Manikarnika Ghat, this ghat sees a lot of pilgrims coming here for a holy dip in the river. There are platforms specifically made for religious rituals. Local wrestlers exercising in the platforms is an interesting early morning sight here. The Sinking Temple, Vireswara Mandir , Dattatreya Paduka Mandir and Siddh Hanumanji Nyas are the major religious attractions which have this ghat as their base. Another conspicuous presence here is the popular Scindhia Guest House, which offers budget accommodation with impressive river views.
Sharing a close proximity to the more touristy Panchganga Ghat is Ram Ghat which pays homage to one of India's most beloved Gods - Ram. The Sanga Veda School which imparts a sound knowledge of the Vedas lies close by, while aspiring musicians tend to head to the Shanti Niketan Insitute of Music & Culture which also lies right here.
An arresting structure with an ascending dome and marvelous carvings on the wall, Durga Temple near Ramnagar Fort is a mystifying sight of Indian spirituality. Also known as Sumeru Temple, this temple has a history dating back to the early 19th Century. The wall carvings lure visitors with fine detailing and beautiful design. Chinnamastika Temple, another prominent site in the pilgrims' list, is located in the same compound. Akshir Sagar, a beautiful pond, is located right next to the temple's gate. A walk around the temple premises in the evening will be refreshing to the senses.
The ingenuous design of St Mary's Cathedral was the handiwork of architect Krishna Menon who successfully conceptualized and executed an architecture which would not be typically Christian but which would also allude to elements of Indian architecture. As opposed to the traditional spire that's common to European cathedrals, this one has a number of sloping roofs tiled with red mangalore tiles. An aerial view presents an interesting geometric pattern that represents a many-sided star. This Roman Catholic church is popular with tourists who often stop by at the basement to view the permanent collection of religious art work.
Ahilyabai Ghat has the distinction of being the first ghat named in honor of a person, namely, the warrior queen Ahilyabhai Holkar of Indore who actually built it in 1778 along with a number of temples and spiritual residences throughout the city of Varanasi. The best time to come here is in the morning when Indian worshipers take a holy dip in the river to cleanse themselves of sins in hope of attaining moksha.
Kabir Chaura Math Varanasi is a composite collection of the immortal memories of the 15th-century mystic Kabir. The highlight here is the Samadhi-Mandir, a temple where the mortal remains of the saint is kept. Kabir-Hut and Kabir Chabutara, two platforms where the saint used to talk to his followers, is another sight visited with reverence here. Beejak Temple, has a collection of Kabir's scriptures and Neeru Teela, has his parents' remains preserved in a temple-like atmosphere. The complex also has a library and sculptures around a beautifully curated garden. The atmosphere is serene and evokes an interest to go deeper into Kabir's teachings.