Saraswati Ghat is a prominent and sacred ghat on the banks of the river Yamuna in the holy city of Prayagraj. The Saraswati Ghat holds a significant place in the heart of Hindu devotees. Thousands of pilgrims visit the ghat every year to take a holy dip in the river Yamuna and seek blessings from Goddess Saraswati. Saraswati Ghat is one of the numerous ghats that line the river Yamuna in the divine city of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh. The ghat holds immense cultural, Historical, and religious importance and thousands of scholars, devotees, and tourists visit the ghat to witness its magnificence and allure. It is believed that taking a holy dip in the calm waters of the River Yamuna can wash away your sins and purify your soul. Visit the alluring Saraswati Ghat in Prayagraj to dive into the immense cultural and aesthetically pleasing beauty of the Ghat. Let us learn more about this unique place with this blog!
Historical Significance Of The Saraswati Ghat
Image Credit: juggadery for Wikimedia Commons
The Saraswati Ghat is a newly constructed ghat on the banks of the River Yamuna in Prayagraj. The name of the ghat comes from the Hindu goddess Saraswati, the consort of Lord Brahma. Goddess Saraswati is linked with knowledge, wisdom, truth, and creative arts. The devotees worship Goddess Saraswati to seek blessings for good understanding and wisdom. Basant Panchami, a Hindu sacred festival, is connected with Goddess Saraswati. The Saraswati Ghat at Prayagraj also holds various cultural events and rites during the Basant Panchami festival. The devotees visit the Saraswati Ghat to take a holy dip in the serene waters of River Yamuna to experience tranquillity and wash away their sins. Nestled on the confluence of three rivers, The Ganga, The Yamuna, and the Saraswati, the Saraswati ghat in Prayagraj holds immense religious and spiritual significance for the Hindu devotees.
Must Read: Allahabad Fort
Places To Explore Near Saraswati Ghat
There are several sightseeing places and exotic tourist spots to explore near Saraswati Ghat in Prayagraj, which will further make your vacation trip to this alluring city more thrilling and exciting. Some of them are listed below-
1. Akbar Fort
Image Credit: Vinayakaprabhu for Wikimedia Commons
Located at a distance of 800 m from the Saraswati Ghat, The Akbar Fort is the largest fort built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1583. The Akbar Fort in Prayagraj is an example of architectural ingenuity due to its unique design, and craftsmanship. The Akbar Fort has three galleries flanked by high towers. The fort also houses a Zenana, Palace of Mariam-uz-Zamani, Ashoka Pillar that dates back to the 3rd century, Saraswati Koop, and the Patalpuri Temple. Located on the banks of the Yamuna River, the Akbar Fort is also the location of the much revered Akshayavat or the immortal tree. It is believed that if anyone jumps from this sacred and old Banyan tree, he is sought to attain immortality. The civilians are not allowed to see this Banyan tree for safety reasons.
Timings- 7 am to 6 pm.
Entry Fees- Free Entry
2. Mankameshwar Temple
Image Credit: IAshishTripathi for Wikimedia Commons
Located at a distance of 6 km from the Prayagraj Railway Station, Mankameshwar Temple is a revered Hindu Temple located on the banks of river Yamuna near the Saraswati Ghat and also forms an important part of the Prayagraj Darshan. Also known as the Pishach Mochan Tirtha, the Mankameshwar Temple in Prayagraj is dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to one such mythological legend, Goddess Sita desired to pray to Lord Shiva after her ritual bathing in the Sangam River. Since there was no temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Rama fulfilled her wish by constructing the Mankameshwar Temple near the banks of the Yamuna River and Saraswati Ghat. It is still believed that wishes made at this temple are fulfilled.
Timings- 6 am to 10 pm.
Entry Fees- Free Entry
Suggested Read: Prayagraj Sangam Tat
3. Anand Bhawan Museum
Image Credit: Balasub for Wikimedia Commons
The Anand Bhawan Museum is located at a distance of 5 km from Prayagraj Railway Station. Anand Bhawan in Prayagraj city was the ancestral home of former Prime minister of India, Jawahar Lal Nehru. The double-storeyed mansion was exquisitely designed by Motilal Nehru. Adorned with wooden furniture imported specially from China and Europe, Anand Bhawan has some rare artefacts that further enhance the mansion’s beauty. The Anand Bhawan was also the major center of discussion and meetings and was frequently visited by various Freedom Fighters during India’s struggle for Independence. The white and blue coloured home also has a grand library filled with diverse books and anecdotes. The complex also housed the Jawahar Planetarium, which hosts space and celestial shows and can accommodate 80 people at a time.
Timings- 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. Closed on Public Holidays and Mondays.
Entry Fees- Rs 20 for Ground Floor, Rs 70 for Both Floors Rs 60 for the Planetarium show.
Further Read: Non-Veg Restaurants In Allahabad
Now that you have a complete guide to the sacred Saraswati Ghat with the historical and religious importance of the ghat, Go ahead and book your tickets for a trip to Allahabad and experience the serenity amidst the peaceful waters of the Yamuna River at the Saraswati Ghat. A newly constructed ghat near the confluence of the three holy rivers of India, The Ganga, The Yamuna, and The Mystical Saraswati, merge at a holy point known as the Triveni Sangam. What are you waiting for? Go ahead and book your tickets at the earliest for a spiritual vacation in Prayagraj city.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Credit: Ms Sarah Welch for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Saraswati Ghat
Which is the nearest airport to The Saraswati Ghat in Prayagraj city?
The nearest airport to The Saraswati Ghat in Prayagraj City is the Allahabad Airport or the Bamrauli Airport. Easy transport is available from the airport to the Saraswati Ghat.
Which is the best time to visit The Saraswati Ghat in Prayagraj city?
The best time to visit the Saraswati Ghat is during October - February. For the best sightseeing, visit the town from October to February, when the weather is cold and pleasant. Also if you want to experience the cultural delights and religious rites at the temple, visit the temple during Basant Panchami and Saraswati Puja when the ghat experiences a divine and alluring atmosphere.
What are some affordable accommodations near The Saraswati Ghat in Prayagraj city?
Here are some of the best accommodations that offer a budget-friendly and comfortable stay to its guests.
- The Legend, Prayagraj
- Hotel UR
- Max hotels Prayagraj
- Fabhotel New Shanti, Prayagraj
- Hotel Sangam View
What are some famous tourist spots in Prayagraj city?
The nearby attractions in Prayagraj City include the Saraswati Ghat, Akbar Fort, Chandrashekhar Azad Park, PVR Vinayak, Khusro Bagh, Anand Bhawan Museum, Triveni Sangam Prayagraj, Nehru Planetarium, Allahabad Fort, and the Allahabad Museum.
How much time is required to cover the Saraswati Ghat and other tourist spots in Prayagraj city?
The Saraswati Ghat requires 1-2 hours for proper sightseeing. The other tourist spots in Prayagraj city can be covered in 3 days.
What are the entry fees and timings of the Saraswati Ghat in Prayagraj city?
The Saraswati Ghat has free entry and is open to all the people visiting the Ghat for an enthralling experience. The Saraswati Ghat is open throughout the day. It is recommended to visit the ghat during sunrise or after sunset when the Saraswati Ghat holds an evening aarti. You can also visit the Mankameshwar temple and other temples located in the close vicinity of the Saraswati Ghat for a further heavenly experience.
People Also Read:
Assi Ghat Manikarnika Ghat Chet Singh Ghat
We all have to begin somewhere. This is where I start and I hope that my writings encourage you to begin. To new beginnings and conquering new places!