On the banks of the Ganges River in the Indian city of Varanasi, Assi Ghat is a well-known ghat (a set of steps leading down to a body of water). It is renowned for its cultural and religious significance and is one of Varanasi’s most well-known ghats.
Assi Ghat, also known as Assi Sangam Ghat, is thought to be the city’s southernmost point. Hindu mythology holds that Lord Shiva landed here after vanquishing the monster “Tripurasur.” The Assi River, which merges with the Ganges here, inspired the ghat’s name.
Both visitors and residents alike enjoy visiting the ghat. Visitors can participate in the well-known Ganga Aarti ceremony, which is held every evening, take a boat ride on the Ganges, and admire the breathtaking sunrise and sunset vistas. The ghat is a bustling and energetic site to visit because it is bordered by numerous stores and eateries.
How to reach Assi Ghat
By many different modes of transportation, Assi Ghat is easily reachable. Here are some methods for getting to Assi Ghat:
By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, which is around 26 km from Assi Ghat, is the closest airport to Varanasi. To get to Assi Ghat from the airport, you can either hire a cab or use a pre-paid taxi.
By Train: The main railway station in Varanasi, Varanasi Junction, has excellent connections to important Indian cities. You can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to go to Assi Ghat from the railway station.
By Road: Major Indian cities are easily accessible from Varanasi via roads. To get to Assi Ghat, you can take a bus, or a cab, or rent a private vehicle.
When you get to Varanasi, you can inquire about the route to Assi Ghat. The ghat is situated close to the meeting point of the Ganges and Assi rivers in Varanasi’s southern region. The majority of residents and taxi drivers will be able to direct you to the ghat because it is a well-known location.
Best time to visit in Assi Ghat
The winter season, which lasts from October to March, is the ideal time to explore Assi Ghat in Varanasi. This time of year is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities due to the lovely weather and moderate temperatures. Between 5°C and 25°C are the temperature ranges for these months.
Wintertime trips to Assi Ghat also provide you the chance to participate in some of Varanasi’s most significant celebrations, including Diwali, Dussehra, and Holi. The well-known Ganga Mahotsav festival, a five-day cultural celebration honoring the spiritual and cultural importance of the river Ganges, is also held in November or December every year and is a fantastic time to travel to.
It can be difficult to tour Varanasi during the day when it is 45°C outside during the summer, which lasts from April to June. It can also be rather humid and rainy during the monsoon season, which lasts from July to September, which makes sightseeing challenging. So the best time to visit Assi Ghat and take advantage of everything Varanasi has to offer is during the winter.
History of assi ghat
Varanasi’s Assi Ghat has a long, illustrious history that goes back several centuries. The ghat is thought to have been constructed in the early 18th century, under Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao’s time as Maratha monarch.
Hindu legend holds that Lord Brahma, the universe’s creator, created the Assi river, which empties into the Ganges at Assi Ghat. The ghat also has a connection to Lord Shiva, who is thought to have visited the location after vanquishing the demon Tripurasur. The Assi river, which merges with the Ganges here, inspired the ghat’s name.
Additionally, Assi Ghat has been a significant location for religious and cultural events. At Sarnath, a town close to Assi Ghat, it is thought that Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Hindu pilgrims who travel to the ghat to bathe in the Ganges’ sacred waters are another frequent visitor group.
Assi Ghat has undergone numerous renovations and restorations over the years. The ghat is currently a dynamic and energetic site with shops, restaurants, and cultural events happening all year round thanks to its development as a well-liked tourist destination. Assi Ghat is currently one of Varanasi’s busiest ghats, drawing tourists from all over the world.
Neared place in assi ghat
Assi Ghat is situated in Varanasi’s southern region, close to where the Assi and Ganges rivers converge. While visiting Assi Ghat, travelers can explore a number of neighboring locations. Some of the locations closest to Assi Ghat are listed below:
The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is a well-known shrine to the monkey god Lord Hanuman. It is a must-visit location for visitors and devotees alike and is only 2 km from Assi Ghat.
Tulsi Manas Temple: This temple, which is devoted to Lord Rama, is about 4 km from Assi Ghat. The Ramcharitmanas, a well-known Hindu epic penned by poet Tulsidas, is etched on the temple’s walls.
The Banaras Hindu University campus, which is around 5 kilometers from Assi Ghat, is where the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum is situated. The museum features a noteworthy collection of artwork and antiquities, which includes textiles, paintings, and sculptures.
Ramnagar: Approximately 6 miles from Assi Ghat, on the opposite bank of the Ganges, is a fort called Ramnagar. The 18th-century fort houses an intriguing collection of antique vehicles, weapons, and clothing.
Stay option
Guesthouses: A number of guesthouses that provide economical lodging are situated close to Assi Ghat. Shiva Ganges View, Ganpati Guest House, and Kedar Guest House are a few of the well-known inns.
Budget Hotels: A number of clean, pleasant, and reasonably priced budget hotels are available close to Assi Ghat. Hotel Haifa, Hotel New Temple’s Town, and Hotel Ganesha are a few of the well-known low-cost accommodations.
Boutique Hotels: A number of boutique hotels that provide a distinctive and tailored experience are situated close to Assi Ghat. The Palace on Ganges, Suryauday Haveli, and BrijRama Palace are a few of the well-known boutique hotels.
Homestays: A number of homestays that provide a more genuine and immersive experience are situated close to Assi Ghat. Popular homestays include Vinnu’s Homestay, Varanasi Home Stay, and Nadesar Palace Homestay.
Luxury Hotels: There are a number of luxury hotels close to Assi Ghat if you’re seeking for a more opulent lodging option. The Gateway Hotel Ganges, Radisson Hotel Varanasi, and Taj Nadesar Palace are a few of the well-known luxury hotels.
FAQ about Assi Ghat?
What time of year is ideal for visiting Assi Ghat?
Assi Ghat is best visited between the months of October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
What are Assi Ghat’s primary draws?
Boat rides on the Ganges river, the evening aarti ceremony, and the bustling neighborhood markets are Assi Ghat’s main draws.
At Assi Ghat, is it safe to take a dip in the Ganges River?
Hindus regard the water in the Ganges river as holy, yet because of pollution and contamination, swimming in the river is not advised.
At Assi Ghat, are there any close eateries or coffee shops?
Yes, there are a number of eateries in the area of Assi Ghat that serve both local and foreign cuisines.
Is it permitted to take photos at Assi Ghat?
At Assi Ghat, photography is permitted, but it is advised to get consent before taking images of people or religious rituals.
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