How long does it take to walk from Kedar Ghat to Assi Ghat?

The walk itself covers about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles). Including stops for photography and narration, it typically takes 90 to 120 minutes to complete the route comfortably.

Is the Southern Ghats walk difficult?

The difficulty is rated as easy, but it requires navigating many stone steps and uneven surfaces. It is a flat walk along the river, but the constant ascending and descending of ghat steps can be tiring for some.

Can I take photos at Harishchandra Ghat?

No, photography is strictly prohibited at the cremation ghats (Harishchandra and Manikarnika). It is considered highly disrespectful to the families performing last rites. Always ask for permission before photographing people at other ghats.

What should I wear for this self-guided walk?

Dress modestly as you will be visiting sacred sites; shoulders and knees should be covered. Wear comfortable walking shoes with good traction, as the stone steps near the river can be slippery or muddy.

Are there places to eat along the route?

Assi Ghat, the end of the walk, has many famous cafes and restaurants like Pizzeria Vaatika and various stalls selling local street food like 'Kachori Sabzi' and 'Lassi'.

Is it safe for solo travelers?

Yes, this stretch of the ghats is generally safe for solo travelers, especially during the busy morning hours. However, always stay aware of your surroundings in the narrow alleys leading to the ghats.

Is there an entrance fee for the ghats?

No, the ghats of Varanasi are public riverfront steps and are free to access at any time. There are no tickets required for this walking route.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

1 hr 50 min

Duration

6

Stops

Easy

Difficulty

About This Tour

As the first rays of the sun paint the Ganges in hues of molten gold, the southern ghats of Varanasi awaken in a timeless display of devotion and culture. This self-guided walk invites you to experience the city at its most ethereal. Starting at the vibrant, striped walls of Kedar Ghat, this walking route takes you through a landscape where spirituality and daily life are inextricably linked. Unlike the more crowded central riverfront, the southern stretch offers a more intimate look at the rituals that define Kashi. You will witness the cycle of life and death at Harishchandra Ghat, explore the quiet architectural beauty of Jain Ghat, and descend into the ancient depths of the Lolark Kund step-well. This neighborhood stroll is a feast for the senses, especially for those interested in photography and history. You can explore independently, moving at your own pace from the literary legacy of Tulsi Ghat to the grand, bustling platform of Assi Ghat. This walking route highlights the diverse tapestry of Varanasi, from South Indian influences to the birthplace of legendary poets. It is an essential travel experience for anyone seeking to understand the spiritual heart of India without the constraints of a group. Discover the stories of the Sun God, the legends of ancient kings, and the rhythmic chants of morning prayers. By following this self-guided adventure, you gain a deeper appreciation for the 'City of Light' during its most sacred hour. Whether you are capturing the perfect sunrise shot or reflecting on the banks of the holy river, this journey through the southern ghats provides a profound connection to the living history of Varanasi.

Highlights

Sunrise views over the Ganges River
The historic cremation rituals at Harishchandra Ghat
The striking red-and-white architecture of Kedar Ghat
The ancient, sun-dedicated step-well of Lolark Kund
Tulsi Ghat, where the Ramcharitmanas was composed
Morning Vedic chants and yoga at Assi Ghat

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Kedar Ghat

Begin your self-guided adventure at Kedar Ghat, easily recognizable by its bold red and white vertical stripes. This ghat is a significant center for South Indian pilgrims and is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his Kedar form. The steps lead down to the river where devotees perform their morning ablutions. The atmosphere here is deeply meditative; the architecture reflects the Dravidian influence, making it a unique aesthetic departure from other riverfront sites. As you stand on the steps, notice the small temples and shrines built into the stone, each housing ancient lingams that have been worshipped for centuries.

2

Harishchandra Ghat

A short walk south brings you to Harishchandra Ghat, one of the two cremation ghats in Varanasi. Named after the legendary King Harishchandra, who is said to have worked here to uphold the truth, this site represents the city's relationship with mortality. It is a place of deep solemnity where the 'eternal fire' burns. While it is smaller than Manikarnika Ghat, it is equally significant. Please be respectful here; photography of the cremation pyres is strictly prohibited. Observe the quiet dignity of the families and the rhythmic work of the doms, the traditional keepers of the flame, as they facilitate the final rites.

3

Jain Ghat

Continuing along the river, the atmosphere shifts at Jain Ghat. This peaceful stretch is marked by clean lines and a sense of tranquility. It is believed to be the birthplace of Suparshvanatha, the seventh Tirthankara of Jainism. The ghat features a beautiful Jain temple with its distinctive Shikhara reaching toward the sky. The steps here are often less crowded than those of the Hindu ghats, providing a perfect spot to sit and observe the river traffic. The presence of this ghat highlights the religious diversity of Varanasi and the long-standing Jain community that has called this city home for millennia.

4

Lolark Kund

Step away from the riverbank for a moment to discover Lolark Kund, one of the oldest and most sacred sites in Varanasi. This ancient step-well is dedicated to Lolark Aditya, the Trembling Sun. Descend the steep stone stairs into the earth to see the water where thousands of pilgrims gather during the Lolark Chhath festival. The kund is mentioned in ancient Puranic texts and is believed to have healing properties. The architecture of the well, with its deep, narrow shaft, creates a stark, dramatic contrast to the open vistas of the Ganges you just left behind.

5

Tulsi Ghat

Return to the riverfront at Tulsi Ghat, named after the 16th-century saint-poet Tulsidas. It was here that he wrote the Ramcharitmanas, the Hindi version of the epic Ramayana. You can still see the house where he lived and a small shrine containing his wooden clogs. This ghat is also famous for its traditional wrestling pit, or akhada, where local men practice the ancient art of kushti in the early morning. The blend of literary history and physical culture makes Tulsi Ghat a cornerstone of Banarasi identity. The energy here is vibrant, reflecting the city's living traditions.

6

Assi Ghat Varanasi

Your neighborhood stroll concludes at Assi Ghat, the southernmost ghat where the Assi River meets the Ganges. This is the cultural hub of modern Varanasi. Every morning, the 'Subah-e-Banaras' program takes place here, featuring Vedic chanting, a mini-Aarti, and classical music performances as the sun rises. It is a spectacular sensory experience. The wide platform is filled with locals, students, and travelers enjoying lemon tea and yoga. It is the perfect place to sit, reflect on your journey, and watch the city come to full life. The confluence of the two rivers here is considered particularly auspicious for ritual bathing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sunrise is the best time to explore the ghats. The 'Subah-e-Banaras' rituals at Assi Ghat typically begin around 5:00 AM or 5:30 AM, offering the most spiritual and photogenic experience before the heat of the day sets in.