Why it matters
Manikarnika is the principal cremation ghat of Kashi, where fires burn day and night. In Hindu belief, a cremation here carries deep spiritual significance.
- 10 to 15 minutes from the boat
- Seen from a boat in the morning or evening.
Manikarnika Ghat Varanasi: Meaning, Visiting Etiquette & Boat View
The main cremation ghat of Varanasi, best seen with respect from the river as part of a boat ride.
LocationCentral ghats, near Dashashwamedh
Time needed10 to 15 minutes from the boat
Best timeSeen from a boat in the morning or evening.
EntryFree
Overview
The main cremation ghat of Varanasi, best seen with respect from the river as part of a boat ride.
- Best time: Seen from a boat in the morning or evening.
- ui.facts.timings: Active day and night; viewed from the water or the upper steps.
- Time needed: 10 to 15 minutes from the boat
- Dress code: Modest and quiet
- Nearby: Dashashwamedh Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath
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Good to know
Visiting Manikarnika Ghat: what to know
Visiting respectfully
Do not photograph the cremations. A boat gives a respectful vantage point, and your boatman will tell you where to keep a distance. Dress modestly and be quiet.
Boat view
The Kashi Darshan boat ride passes the ghat at a respectful distance and the boatman explains its meaning.
Photos
Photos
Trip details
Quick facts
- Dress code
- Modest and quiet
- Nearby
- Dashashwamedh Ghat, Kashi Vishwanath
- Photography
- Not allowed for cremations
- Timings
- Active day and night; viewed from the water or the upper steps.
Frequently asked questions about Manikarnika Ghat
Can I take photos at Manikarnika Ghat?
No. Photographing cremations is not allowed and is disrespectful. Your boatman or guide will tell you where cameras should be put away.
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Add to your trip
Tours and trips that include Manikarnika Ghat
Varanasi 1 Day Tour Package
Kal Bhairav, Kashi Vishwanath, Annapurna and Sankat Mochan darshan, an evening boat ride and the Ganga aarti in one day by private cab.
- Darshan at Kal Bhairav, Kashi Vishwanath, Annapurna and Sankat Mochan
- Evening boat ride from Assi Ghat
- Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Varanasi Sunrise Boat Ride
Row along the ghats at first light, from Assi to Dashashwamedh and back.
- Sunrise ride, usually 5:30 to 7:00 AM
- Hand boat (up to 6) or private motor boat (up to 10)
- Boarding from Assi, Ravidas or Namo Ghat
Varanasi 2 Days 1 Night Tour Package
Day one in the old city and on the river, day two for Durga Temple, Sankat Mochan, BHU and Sarnath.
- Kal Bhairav, Kashi Vishwanath and Annapurna darshan
- Evening boat ride and the Ganga aarti
- Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas and Sankat Mochan
Ganga Aarti Boat Ride
Watch the evening Ganga aarti from a boat on the water with a reserved spot.
- Evening ride, usually 5:00 to 7:00 PM
- Ganga aarti watched from the river
- Hand boat (up to 6) or private motor boat (up to 10)
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