Assi Ghat

Assi Ghat is the southernmost ghat in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, located at the confluence of the Assi River and the Ganges. It is one of the city's most prominent riverfront ghats, known for its large open area, Shiva lingam under a peepal tree, and daily rituals. The ghat serves as a cultural and spiritual hub, hosting morning yoga, evening Ganga Aarti, and boat rides, attracting pilgrims and tourists year-round.

Visitors can expect a wide, open stepped riverfront on the Ganges with views of the river, boats, and daily rituals. The ghat has a large platform area, a Shiva lingam shrine under a peepal tree, and adjoining temples. Mornings feature yoga, meditation and sunrise boat rides, while evenings feature Ganga Aarti with lamps and chanting. The surroundings include food stalls, tea shops, guesthouses and lanes leading to nearby temples and Banaras Hindu University.

Assi Ghat is traditionally described at the confluence of the Assi River and the Ganges and is mentioned in Puranic literature. It is associated with the poet-saint Tulsidas, who is believed to have lived and composed works near the ghat. The ghat has long served as a bathing and ritual site and was developed with stepped embankments to facilitate access to the river.

The ghat is an important cultural and religious gathering place for daily bathing, prayers and rituals on the Ganges. It hosts a daily evening Ganga Aarti, morning yoga and meditation sessions, and occasional music and cultural programs. It is a focal point for both pilgrims and visitors experiencing the riverfront traditions of Varanasi.