Manikarnika Ghat, Hindu cremation ghat in Varanasi, India
The stone steps of Manikarnika Ghat descend into the Ganges River, with multiple funeral pyres burning continuously throughout the day and night.
The ghat appears in ancient texts from the 5th century Gupta period, establishing its position as a central cremation site in Varanasi.
Hindu believers consider cremation at Manikarnika Ghat as a direct path to liberation from the cycle of rebirth, known as moksha.
The Dom community manages all cremation ceremonies at the ghat, maintaining sacred fires and assisting families with traditional funeral procedures.
According to Hindu mythology, the ghat received its name when Shiva's earring fell into the Manikarnika well during a ritual bath.
Location: Varanasi
GPS coordinates: 25.31087,83.01409
Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:18
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
350 m
Gyanvapi Mosque
370 m
Ratneshwar Mahadev temple
115 m
Dashashwamedh Ghat
559 m
Kaal Bhairav Mandir, Varanasi
4.1 km
Assi Ghat
2.6 km
Vishalakshi Temple
242 m
Bharat Mata Mandir
2.6 km
Alamgir Mosque
612 m
Durga Mandir, Varanasi
2.9 km
Annapurna Devi Mandir
4.1 km
Hindu temples in Varanasi
2.9 km
Malviya Bridge
2.4 km
Man Singh Observatory
489 m
Baba Keenaram Sthal
2 km
Nepali Mandir
170 m
Sankata Devi Mandir
235 m
Munshi Ghat
714 m
Tulsi Ghat
2.5 km
Parshvanath Jain temple, Varanasi
1.9 km
Lalita Ghat
126 m
Scindia Ghat
157 m
Lalita Gauri Mandir
126 m
Jagadamba Nepali Dharmashala
605 m
Tomb of Lal Khan
2.7 km
St. Mary’s Cathedral
3.8 km
Shivala Ghat
1.7 km
Guradham Mandir
2.4 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes