Manikarnika Ghat, Hindu cremation ghat in Varanasi, India
Manikarnika Ghat consists of wide stone steps leading down to the Ganges, where several funeral pyres burn simultaneously. The cremation platforms sit at different levels along the riverbank, surrounded by ancient temples and red sandstone colonnades.
Ancient texts from the 5th century Gupta period already mention this site as a central cremation ground in Varanasi. The Dom community has managed the sacred fires here for centuries, passing the duty from generation to generation.
Believers hold this place as a direct path to liberation from the cycle of rebirths, known in Hinduism as moksha. Families from across India travel here to cremate their departed at this sacred site.
Cremations run around the clock without interruption, so visitors can witness ceremonies at any time. Visitors should respect the privacy of mourning families and politely ask permission before taking photographs.
Legend tells that during a ritual bath, an earring of Shiva fell into the Manikarnika well, giving the place its name. The sacred fire here is said to have burned continuously for thousands of years, passed down from the first flame lit by Shiva himself.
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