Dashashwamedh Ghat

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

According to legend, Brahma performed the Dasha Ashwamedha Yajna (ten horse sacrifices) here when Shiva returned to Varanasi. The ghat comes alive before dawn with pilgrims taking a holy dip in the Ganga, followed by Surya Puja (sun worship). The evening Ganga Aarti — conducted by seven priests simultaneously with giant brass diyas, conch shells, and Vedic chanting — draws thousands of devotees and travellers from across the world. Boat rides on the Ganga offer views of all 84 ghats, the burning Manikarnika and Harishchandra ghats, and the ancient skyline of Kashi. The ghat is steps away from Kashi Vishwanath Temple.