Location: One of the oldest ghats of Varanasi, Harishchandra ghat is located at the river bank in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, at a distance of about 3 Km from Varanasi Cantt.
Description: Harishchandra Ghat, sometimes known as Adi Manikarnika, is named after Raja Harish Chandra, a mythological king, who once worked at this ghat to preserve charity and truth. For his servings, Gods rewarded him with his lost throne and son, who had died earlier. Being one of the two cremation grounds of Varanasi, Hindus bring dead bodies of their near and dear ones from distant places here for cremation as it is believed that the person gets moksha if he or she is cremated at this ghat. Often pundits are seen at Harishchandra Ghat performing the last rites of deceased. The temples located at this ghat have images of Harishchandreshvara, Adi Manikarnikeshwara, Rohiteshvara and Vrddha Kedara. Devotees and tourists visit these temples to perform Pooja and participate in traditional rituals.
Activities: Because of its proximity to local markets, tourists can spend their time shopping for traditional items and enjoying local cuisine. Boating in the Ganga River, surrounded by calm ambience, is one of the best ways to relax. Chanting of mantras and flickering earthen lamps, floating in Holy River awaken the feeling of spirituality.
.jpg)
.jpg)
