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Banaras Ghats, Varanasi

4.4
#2 of 37 in Historic Sites in Varanasi
Landmark Religious Site
At Banaras Ghats, see nearly 100 riverfront steps which Hindu devotees use to access their sacred river to perform religious rituals. Observe the native people as they cleanse their spirits in the holy waters, honor their deities, and sometimes even cremate the dead. Take a boat ride on the river to witness the ceremonies from a different perspective. Some of the ghats remain private and closed for visitors, but others welcome both newcomers and regulars. Avoid bathing in the river, however, since it has became alarmingly contaminated in recent decades. Use our Varanasi itinerary builder to visit Banaras Ghats on your trip to Varanasi, and learn what else travelers and our writers recommend seeing nearby.
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  • I think that it is amazing from what I've seen on my trip to India in the morning people bathing on the banks and the city glows with a special light that brings out the colors of the ghats recommend not to miss the spectacle of dark that you can see it there, full of music and color
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  • When we hear the word Banaras then full excitement comes to our mind. Banaras ghats are situated at the bank of Ganga river. Banaras ghats start with Assi Ghat and ends with Dasaswamed ghat. In betwee...  more »
  • A magic place - life and death is all around you - feel the mystic and spiritual power of the place and let it captivate you - To do this take you time and talk to the locals. Great for photography - ...  more »
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Where to stay in Varanasi

The old city of Varanasi has a long history of pilgrimage and tourism, and its range of accommodations has developed to a high degree to meet the vast demand from across India and further afield. Perhaps the most interesting and atmospheric place to stay can be found in the area surrounding the ghats on the west bank of the river. You can find an eclectic mix of simple hotels and guesthouses all the way from this point up to the main train station. North of the station sit the most luxurious of the city's accommodations, with views of the tributary that runs through the north, and a range of additional facilities.
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