The glory of these top ghats of Prayagraj is unmatched; one dip brings salvation.
Introduction:
The Kumbh Mela, an ancient Hindu pilgrimage, holds a special place in the hearts of millions of devotees worldwide. Among the many rituals observed during this grand festival, the sacred act of bathing in the holy waters is paramount. In Prayagraj, formerly known as Allahabad, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers creates a divine atmosphere for this ritual. As the Kumbh Mela of 2025 approaches, pilgrims from every corner of the globe are gearing up to immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance of this ancient city.
In the city of Prayagraj, known for its pilgrimage sites, there are many places of historical and mythological importance. In addition to Triveni Ghat, which is located where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet, there are numerous other ghats where locals and visitors come to participate in rituals, bathe, and give alms to earn blessings. The number of devotees increases greatly during special festivals, with millions of people attending events like the Kumbh, Ardh Kumbh, and Magh Melas.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the top ghats in Prayagraj where devotees can partake in this deeply meaningful act of purification.
Top Ghats of the Ganga
1. Sangam or Triveni Ghat
The confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers is known as Triveni or Sangam Ghat. Due to its religious significance, crowds of bathers gather here throughout the year. The numbers increase substantially during special festivals. Because of the sacred confluence of rivers, people’s faith is associated with this ghat. Devotees wish to take a dip here.
Sangam Ghat stands at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, making it the holiest bathing spot during the Kumbh Mela. Devotees believe that bathing here cleanses them of their sins and liberates them from the cycle of rebirth. The atmosphere at Sangam Ghat during the Kumbh Mela is electrifying, with sadhus, saints, and pilgrims from all walks of life coming together to participate in this sacred ritual.
Triveni Sangam Ghat, also known as the Triveni Ghat, is another revered spot for bathing during the Kumbh Mela. It is believed that a dip at this ghat washes away all past sins and bestows spiritual blessings upon the devotee. The sight of thousands of lamps floating on the waters of Triveni Sangam during the evening aarti is a mesmerizing experience that leaves a lasting impression on every pilgrim’s soul.
2. Rasulabad Ghat
Rasulabad Ghat is located on the banks of the Ganges in the Rasoolabad locality in the northern part of the city. A solid ghat has been built here where people bathe and perform last rites. This ghat holds historical significance as it is where the final rites of many famous personalities, including the immortal martyr Chandrashekhar Azad, are performed.
3. Shankar Ghat
Shankar Ghat is situated near Rasoolabad, in the Teliyarganj locality, on the banks of the Ganges. Temples of Nageshwar Mahadev and other deities like Hanuman, Ganesha, and Goddess Durga can be found here. People from rural areas across the Ganges also visit this ghat to bathe.
4. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Located on the Ganges in front of the Dara Ganj locality, Dashashwamedh Ghat holds special significance. It is believed that Lord Brahma performed ten Ashwamedha Yajnas in this area. The establishment of the Dashashwameshwar Shiva is also noted. Due to mythological beliefs, bathers come here throughout the year. During the month of Sawan, a large number of Shiva devotees from all around come here to collect water from the Ganges for Lord Shiva’s Jalabhishek.
Dashashwamedh Ghat, named after the ancient ritual of performing the Dashashwamedh Yagna, is another prominent bathing ghat in Prayagraj. Devotees believe that a dip in the waters of this ghat during the Kumbh Mela absolves them of their sins and paves the way for spiritual enlightenment. The vibrant atmosphere at Dashashwamedh Ghat, coupled with the chanting of hymns and the fragrance of incense, creates an aura of divine grace.
5. Draupadi Ghat
Draupadi Ghat is located in the Cantt Thana area, on the banks of the Ganges. Bindu Madhav, one of the 12 Madhavs in Prayagraj, can be found here.
6. Ram Ghat
Ram Ghat is situated on the Ganges in the Sangam area. It can be reached directly from Kali Sadak in the Triveni area. This ghat is popular among daily bathers.
7. Shivkoti Ghat
Shivkoti Ghat is located near Teliyarganj, in the Shivkuti locality, on the banks of the Ganges. Nearby are Narayan Ashram Ghat, Sitaram Dham, and Koteshwar Mahadev Ghat, where crowds gather during the Teej festival.
8. Daraganj, Shamshan Ghat,
Daraganj, Shamshan Ghat, is situated between the Eastern Railway Bridge connecting the city to Varanasi and the Shastri Bridge. People usually do not bathe here but perform last rites.
Top Ghats of the Yamuna
1. Saraswati Ghat
Located near Akbar’s fort on the banks of the Yamuna River, Saraswati Ghat features a scenic park nearby. Visitors come here not only for bathing but also for boating. Boats are available at all times to take people to Sangam. Additionally, there is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva named as Mankameshwar Mahadev near this ghat.
2. Arail Ghat
This ghat, located in the Naini area, has been recently renovated. In the evenings, a large number of couples and singles can be seen at this ghat. Nearby is the Someshwar Mahadev temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, where people visit for evening prayers. During the Kumbh Mela festival, many people come to this ghat to bathe in the Ganga river. You can relax and enjoy the pleasant weather by sitting on the steps along the ghat.
3. Balua Ghat
Located on the banks of the Yamuna River in the old city, Balua Ghat has paved stairs that lead down to the river. There is also a temple dedicated to Yamuna Ji at this location. The beauty of the Baradari Ghat adds to the charm of this place. A fair is held here during the Kartik month, attracting a large crowd of bathers.
4. Gau Ghat
Situated near the railway bridge on the Delhi-Howrah railway line, Gau Ghat is a popular spot for locals to bathe in the Yamuna River throughout the year. There is also a boat club nearby where visitors can enjoy boating. The Triveni Mahotsav is also organized at this ghat.
5. Bargad Ghat
Bargad Ghat, built on the banks of the Yamuna, is one of the most peaceful places. Unlike other ghats, there is no crowd here. For this reason, it is one of the best places for those sitting alone. This ghat is built near an old banyan tree. Being away from the main city, not many people go here, due to which you get to see a very peaceful atmosphere.
Taking baths and making donations brings merit
Rajendra Palival, the Chief Priest of Prayagraj and the Grand Minister of the Prayagwala Sabha, explains that bathing and donating on the ghats along the sacred rivers of Prayagraj hold religious significance. People from various religions come here to participate in rituals and gain spiritual merit. Prayagraj is known as the ultimate pilgrimage destination, so performing these acts on any ghat here results in increased benefits. The Sangam and Dashashwamedh Ghats are especially revered for their magnificence. It is believed that simply taking a dip in these waters can lead to salvation.
Conclusion:
As the Kumbh Mela of 2025 approaches, pilgrims from all corners of the world are preparing to embark on a journey of spiritual renewal and enlightenment in Prayagraj. The ghats mentioned above are just a few among the many sacred bathing spots that dot the landscape of this ancient city. Each ghat carries its own significance and history, providing devotees with an opportunity to connect with their faith and tradition in a profound manner. Whether it’s the bustling atmosphere of Sangam Ghat or the tranquil surroundings of Varuna Ghat, every dip in the holy waters of Prayagraj during the Kumbh Mela is a step towards spiritual liberation and divine grace.
So whenever you go to Prayagraj, definitely go to spend time at these ghats. So this was our article today; if you liked it, then like and share it. Also, stay connected with Prayag Pedia to learn about such beautiful places.
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