Panchganga Ghat

Panchganga Ghat, located at the far northern end of the Varanasi ghats, is one of the most spiritually significant and serene ghats in the city. The ghat derives its name from the sacred confluence of five rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kirana, and Dhutpapa—making it an important pilgrimage site for Hindu devotees.

Despite requiring a bit of effort to reach, Panchganga Ghat rewards visitors with a peaceful atmosphere away from the crowds. One of its major attractions is the Samadhi Temple of the revered Hindu yogi Trailinga Swami, which draws spiritual seekers from across India. Overlooking the ghat is the historic Alamgir Mosque, a 17th-century structure built by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb over a former Vishnu temple. The mosque remains active today, though entry is restricted to Muslims only.

A visit during the holy Hindu month of Kartik (around 15 days before and after Diwali) offers a truly mesmerizing experience. During this time, Panchganga Ghat is beautifully illuminated with candle-filled baskets hung on tall poles to honor ancestors. The celebrations reach their peak on Dev Deepavali, observed on Kartik Purnima (full moon night), when the ghat glows with divine light and spiritual energy.