Read More on Dashashwamedh Ghat
History
Dashashwamedh Ghat, which literally translates to "Ghat of Ten Sacrificed Horses" (Dash – ten, Ashwa – Horses, Medh – Sacrifice), was previously known in Indian scriptures as Rudrasaras. At Rudrasaras, Lord Brahma sacrificed ten horses and installed two Shivlings. To honor him, the location was later christened Dashashwamedh Ghat.
The Dashashwamedh Ghat is the first historically known place associated with the Bharasiva monarch of the Naga dynasty, according to historical documents. After overthrowing the Kushan kingdom, the Bharashiva sacrificed horses at the Dashashwamedh Ghat to appease their deity, Shiva.
Balaji Bajirao erected the first pucca ghat in 1738-40, and Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar rebuilt it in 1765. The current stairwell was built by the government in 1965.
Architecture
Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of Varanasi's most popular ghats due to its proximity to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Its name appears frequently in Hindu mythology writings, and locals love the evening aarti. There are several platforms created where every evening people stand there with respect to the holy river. This is a very long ghat where places have been made for bathing.
Activities
- You can witness the beautiful Ganga Aarti.
- Visitors can also worship and give offerings.
- People go there to eat the famous Banarasi paan.
- You can take a ride on a boat from where you can see the Ganga Aarti taking place.
- You can take a dip in the river to get rid of all your sins.
Tips for visiting
- Try to reach the ghat one hour ahead of the Ganga aarti.
- Do not go into the water with your shoes on.
- Be careful near the water and if you have kids with you keep them away from the river.
Best time to visit
The winter months are the greatest time to visit Varanasi (November to February). Although it is a fact that it becomes quite cold during the winters, this is the greatest time to visit the holy city because it is the least tiring. The low temperature is around 5°C on average.
Nearby Atractions
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad Ghat
- Man Singh Observatory
- Chousatti Ghat
- Assi Ghat
- Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Nearby market/ shopping places
- Dashashwamedh Market: in this market, you can get various street food stalls and also traditional clothing at a cheap price.
- Ashutosh Market: this market is famous for varieties of bangle shops.
- Daalmandi Market: In this market, you can get lehengas and sarees at a very reasonable price and they are good quality-wise.
Nearby Hotels
- Ganga Darshan Hotel
- Dwivedi Hotels Palace On Steps
- Hotel Rudra
- Liberty Guest House
- Wander Station Varanasi
Interesting Facts About Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Lord Brahma sacrificed ten horses here, hence the name 'Dashashwamedh.'
- In 1740 AD, Bajirao Peshwa I is claimed to have had the ghat repaired. It was later rebuilt in 1774 by Ahilyabai Holkar, the queen of Indore. This ghat is located near the well-known Vishwanath Mandir.
