Assi Ghat
If you are a poetry lover, you must visit Assi Ghat in Varanasi. It is believed to be the place where legendary Tulsidas, the creator of Ramcharitamanas took his last breath.
Situated at the southernmost end of the city, this ghat is very beautiful and quite popular among tourists. You can easily get the boats to explore the river here. You can pick from motor boats or paddle boats, depending on your preference. There is an option to do a group tour with other tourists or book a private row boat for yourself alone.
You can even go on a hot air balloon excursion from this ghat, which will give you a lovely view of the city. The best time to do this would be in the evening to witness the glorious sunsets.
Taking a dip in the river at this ghat is said to purify the soul. The small eateries and shopping stalls near the ghat will round up the whole experience. You can explore a score of local restaurants and eateries at this place.
Manikarnika Ghat
One of the oldest cremation areas in Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat puts you face-to-face with the reality of life and death. It gives you an enthralling experience of witnessing what death means in Hindu culture, the devotion of people to their loved ones and belief in God. It is said that getting cremated at Manikarnika Ghat ensures Moksha – the end of the life-and-death cycle, separation from the evils of the world, and the end of all mortal sins.
While it might sound like a dark and grim place to be at, you cannot miss visiting Manikarnika Ghat if you want to know Varanasi for what it really stands for. As you walk away from the ghat, there are several small and big temples in walking distance, which can be clubbed with the experience. You will feel more grounded after this excursion, definitely!