Situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganga in Varanasi, Bhadaini Ghat is solely a timeless allure. The historic stone steps witness proceedings of several devotees visiting these ghats from the entire nation. Visitors are blended into this place with both spirituality and cultural significance. Unlike other ghats which accommodate large crowds, Bhadaini Ghat is comparatively peaceful and offers its pilgrims a serene and soothing environment to immerse themselves in this tranquil place. Visitors can see troops of priests performing their daily rituals along the banks of the River Ganga. Locals living around this place are embodied with a sense of sacredness and purity.
History Of Ghats
Varanasi is one of the oldest inhabited cities in India with a strong historic presence around.
It accounts for numerous ghats that are located along the banks of the river Ganga. These ghats are a hub for all the spiritual activities, religious chores and daily rituals of priests who immensely chant with a beaded string of Rudraksha. Dating back centuries, the making of ghats in Varanasi was primarily done for Hindu pilgrimage and learning. Numerous kings and nobles had contributed to the building of these ghats.
Bhadaini Ghats were built many years ago when the city flourished as a place of learning and trade. This ghat too like others has been built by local rulers and nobles who wanted to contribute to this place by providing residents and pilgrims access to the holy water of Ganga, the rituals and cremation.
The ghats have witnessed several surviving wars in the past and have been a site of religious and social gatherings.
Must Read: Things To Do In Varanasi
Places To Visit Near Bhadaini Ghat
While Bhadaini Ghat itself is an amazing place to sit by, there are several other places around it to explore and visit.
1. Assi Ghat
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It is a very short walk from Bhadaini Ghat. This place is typically known for its vibrant atmosphere. Both locals and visitors can explore the nearby markets, dance performances, local traditions and costumes, live music of bhajans, and daily rituals being performed at the ghat. The local practitioners in and around this area also provide yoga and meditation sessions on request.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location: Nagwa Rd, Assi ghat, Shivala, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221005
2. Banaras Hindu University
Image Credit: Kuber Patel, Rosehub for Wikimedia Commons
This university is very close to Bhadaini Ghat. It is one of India’s premier educational institutes and is a hub of cultural activities. One can find many museums, libraries, art galleries and temples inside the premises. While you are here, do not forget to visit this stunning place for a surreal experience.
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Suggested Read: Tulsi Ghat
3. Sarnath
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It is a short drive from Bhadaini Ghat. The place is a Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha is believed to have delivered his first sermon. There are ancient stupas and monasteries which can be explored by the visitors. One of the renowned stupa is Dhamek Stupa which has left behind the legacy of Buddhism. If you are interested in Buddhism, visit this place for a enthralling experience.
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Location: Northeast Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Temples To Visit In Bhadaini Ghat
Varanasi is home to numerous temples which have an individual identity and folklore that still prevail. A few temples on the Ghat that require a visit are:
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
Image Credit: Kuber Patel, Rosehubfor Wikimedia Commons
Located just a few kilometres away from Bhadaini Ghat, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the holiest shrines of Hinduism. The distinct architecture of this temple along with the divine presence of god attracts a lot of pilgrims and devotees.
Best Time To Visit: All year round
Location: Vishwanath Gali, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
Suggested Read: Panchganga Ghat
2. Sankat Mochan Temple:
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This temple is at a very short distance from Bhadiani Ghat in Varanasi. Sankat Mochan Temple is solely dedicated to Lord Hanuman, who is believed to take away one’s troubles and bring peace and prosperity in life. This temple offers a scenic retreat to all the devotees.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
3. Tulsi Manas Temple:
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Tulsi Manas Temple is named after the poet Tulsidas. This temple is known for its typical marble carvings that show scenes from Ramayan. Visitors can meditate, seek peace and reflect on the preachings of Lord Rama.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Varanasi
Local Cuisine Served In Bhadaini Ghat In Varanasi
In addition to the charm and glory that this place provides, Bhadaini Ghat also caters to the taste buds of visitors. The place serves mouth-watering dishes as a part of local cuisine.
- Kachori Ki Sabzi: Kachori Ki Sabzi is served as a breakfast dish. The crispy kachori is filled with a spicy lentil or potato mixture which is either served with green coriander and pudina chutney or a tangy aromatic potato curry that is deliciously made with spices.
- Litti Chokha: This dish comes from a neighbouring state in Bihar but is served as a part of local cuisine in Varanasi. Liiti is made from wheat flour and is stuffed with a mixture of roasted gram flour. It is roasted till it turns golden brown. Litti is served with Chokha, which is a smoky mash of brinjal, tomatoes, onions and garlic which serves a savouring taste to your taste buds.
- Malaiyo: A visit to Varanasi is incomplete without tasting the dessert dish called Malaiyo. Malaiyo is a culinary dessert that has been served for many years. It is a frothy dish that is made from thick creamy milk and saffron. It is whipped till it is thick enough, garnished with chopped dry fruits and served chilled.
- Thandai: Locals of this place serve chilled Thandai to the visitors. This is a traditional beverage made from milk, saffron, almonds, spices and chopped nuts.
Each dish that is served reflects the unique flavour and aromas of Varanasi. The dishes listed above should be a must-have for everyone visiting Bhadaini Ghat in Varanasi.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Varanasi In 2 Days
Bhadaini Ghats offers you an immersive experience that is so amazing and puts you in a peaceful state of mind. The essence of incense is so strong that it pretty much takes you through a timeless visit to the city of Varanasi. This ancient city not only provides a sense of spirituality in but also some broad vistas of the River Ganges making sure that your trip to Varanasi is going to be a worthy one.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Bhadaini Ghat
Which is the cleanest ghat in Varanasi?
Assi Ghat is regarded as the cleanest ghat in Varanasi. It is supposed to be one of the mythological ghats of Varanasi. It was brought back to its original presence after constant cleaning and a massive cleanliness drive for three months by Sulabh International.
Which ghat is best for Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
Exceptional Aartis and rituals are performed on Tuesdays and on religious days, occasions and festivals at Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi. The Ganga Aarti starts immediately after sunset and lasts for 45 minutes. In summer, Aarti starts around 7 pm and in winter it starts around 6 pm.
Which is the death ghat in Kashi?
Referred to as the Burning Ghat, Manikarmika Ghat is one of the special ghats in Varanasi where dead bodies are cremated. The ash from the pyre is later used in the Kashi Vishwanath Temple where it is believed that the ones cremated shall achieve salvation.
Which is the most beautiful ghat in Varanasi?
Dashashwamedh Ghat is situated very near to Vishwanath Temple. This ghar is believed to be one of the most sacred ghats of Varanasi. Mythology says that Lord Brahma performed ten Ashwamedha Sacrifices here. Ganga Aarti is performed here.
Which is the oldest ghat in Varanasi?
Harish Chandra Ghat is one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi and according to Hindu Mythology, it is named after the king Harish Chandra. It is believed that the king worked at this ghat to spread the values of truth and charity.
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