Introduction

Located at the union of the River Ganga and Assi river, Assi Ghat is known for its historical importance and mythology. The ancient history reveals that the Goddess Durga threw her sword in the river after killing the demon Shumbha-Nishumbha after which the place was named Assi ghat. The Assi Ghat also finds its roots and mentions in the holy Kashi Khand as Assi “Saimbeda Tirtha ”, which means the one who takes bath in this divine river gets the Punya of all other prominent thirthas.

The ghat contains a massive Shiva lingam that is situated under the peepal tree. People often visit the place to offer their prayers to the Shiva lingam after taking a holy bath in the river. Assi ghat has been also described in ancient Hindu literature such as in the Matsya Purana, kurma Purana, Padma Purana, Agni Purana and Kashi khanda.

History & Significance

Apart from its historical significance, this place is also heaven to the eyes. One can witness some of the beautiful and eye-captivating scenes and nature from the riverbank site and can freely walk around the ghat to enjoy the panoramic view of the Ganga river.

This is the second most popular ghat in the City after Dashashwamedh ghat. Visitors can enjoy the divine Arti and Hindu rituals to feel the holy aesthetic of the place.

Assi ghat is everyone’s preferred ghat located in the south of Varanasi to spend hours without any disturbance. People from all the corners of the country as well as the globe visit this place for its deep significance and holiness.

Best Time To Visit

Located at a distance of 7.2 km from the city , one can visit Assi Ghat on Shivratri and during festivals to enjoy the vibrancy and the beauty of the old Hindu tradition and culture. Some of the great festivals such as Mahashivaratri, Ganga Dashahara, Ganga Mahotsav etc attract a huge crowd in Varanasi at this ghat. You must visit Assi Ghat once to take beautiful insights into the place and cherish your memories for a lifetime.