Manikarnika Ghat, also known as Mahasmasana, in Varanasi is a sacred spot on the Ganges. Hindus believe cremation here offers liberation. It's a powerful place to witness!
Boat Ride On The Ganges
Explore Nearby Temples
Observe Hindu Rituals
Witness Cremation Ceremonies
October-to-March
All-Day
₹500 per person
Manikarnika Ghat's history is steeped in Hindu mythology and tradition. The name is derived from the legend of Goddess Parvati losing her earring (manikarnika) here. It's considered the primary cremation ghat in Varanasi, with cremations taking place 24/7 for centuries. The constant burning pyres and the rituals surrounding death are a stark reminder of the cycle of life and death. The ghat has been mentioned in ancient scriptures and has been a significant site for pilgrims for centuries. The ghat's historical significance and spiritual importance make it a unique and powerful place.
Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi is one of the most revered sites. As one of the primary cremation ghats along the Ganges River, it holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism. Visitors are drawn to this sacred place not only for its historical and religious importance but also for its raw, unfiltered representation of life and death. The ghat offers a stark yet enlightening view of the cycle of existence, embodying the acceptance of mortality and the pursuit of spiritual liberation. People appreciate its authenticity and the way it encapsulates the essence of Varanasi's unique blend of life, death, and rebirth.
Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi is one of the most profound and spiritually significant places I have ever visited. As one of the main cremation sites in the city, it is said that around 400 people are cremated here daily. The continuous burning of funeral pyres creates an atmosphere that is both intense and humbling. Being here is a stark reminder of the impermanence of life. The significance of this place is not just in the rituals performed, but in the powerful way it confronts you with mortality. It’s believed that at Manikarnika, the ego of the deceased burns away along with their physical body, symbolizing the ultimate release from the cycle of life and death. The experience of witnessing the cremations can be overwhelming, but it is also deeply meditative, as it invites you to reflect on the transient nature of existence and the eternal journey of the soul. Manikarnika Ghat is not just a place, but a profound spiritual experience that leaves a lasting impact. The ghats are easy to reach from the roads and from other ghats as well. Beware of scammers and thieves along the ghats area.
Among India's most thought-provoking destinations, this 24-hour cremation ground is a must-visit for its profound impact on one's outlook on life. While the surroundings may be unrefined, the experience is transformative and humbling. Be prepared for a poignant encounter that will challenge your perceptions and leave a lasting impression. Despite the unpolished environment, the significance and intensity of this site make it an unforgettable experience.
“I’m was there at Manikarnika Ghat, a place that truly reveals the only inevitable truth of life. The feeling here is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Though there were bodies being cremated, there was a strange sense of peace, silence, and love in the air. Words fail to capture the atmosphere—it’s something you have to feel to understand. Visiting this place is an experience beyond description, and I believe everyone should witness it at least once.”