Kedar Ghat is one of the most ancient and spiritually significant ghats in Varanasi. Dedicated to Lord Kedarnath (a form of Lord Shiva), it is revered by devotees as a powerful Shiva shrine on the banks of the sacred Ganges. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful temple, and religious importance, Kedar Ghat offers a serene experience compared to the more crowded central ghats while retaining the authentic essence of Banaras.
Location of Kedar Ghat
Kedar Ghat is located on the western bank of the Ganges River in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. It lies in the southern-central stretch of the city’s famous ghats, between Harishchandra Ghat and Chaukhandi Ghat. The ghat faces eastward toward the river, with wide stone steps leading down to the water and a prominent temple complex just above the ghat.
The Kedarnath Temple here is believed to be a direct counterpart of the famous Kedarnath Temple in the Himalayas. According to tradition, taking a holy dip and offering prayers at this ghat brings the same blessings as visiting the Himalayan Kedarnath shrine.
Directions and How to Reach Kedar Ghat
From Varanasi Junction Railway Station (BSB):
Approximately 5–6 km. It takes 15–25 minutes by auto-rickshaw, e-rickshaw, taxi, or cab. Ask for “Kedar Ghat” or “Kedarnath Temple Ghat.”
From Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport:
Around 25–28 km. Taxis and pre-paid cabs take 50–70 minutes.
From Dashashwamedh Ghat:
About 1.5–2 km north. You can walk along the riverfront path or take a short boat ride.
From Assi Ghat:
Approximately 4–5 km north.
The ghat is approachable through narrow lanes (galis) of the old city. The final stretch is usually on foot. Using Google Maps or asking locals for “Kedar Ghat” is helpful.
Timings at Kedar Ghat
Kedar Ghat remains open 24 hours with no entry fee.
Temple Darshan Timings:
- Morning: 4:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM (timings may vary slightly during festivals)
Holy Bathing (Snan):
Early morning from 4:00 AM to 8:00 AM is considered most auspicious.
Evening Aarti:
A peaceful Ganga Aarti is performed around 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (depending on the season). It is less crowded and more intimate than the one at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Best Time to Visit:
October to March for comfortable weather. Early mornings are ideal for rituals and a calm atmosphere.
Spiritual Significance and Atmosphere
Kedar Ghat holds deep Shaivite significance. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva resides here in the form of Kedarnath. Many pilgrims perform special pujas, offer milk and bel leaves to the Shiva Lingam, and take holy dips in the Ganges. The ghat is also important for ancestral rituals and Shraddha.
The atmosphere is devotional and tranquil. You will find sadhus, priests conducting rituals, devotees chanting, and the gentle sound of the river. Unlike the intense energy of Manikarnika or the crowds of Dashashwamedh, Kedar Ghat offers a more meditative and peaceful experience, making it ideal for quiet prayer and reflection.
Nearby Places to Visit
Kedar Ghat’s convenient location allows easy exploration of other attractions:
- Harishchandra Ghat — One of the two main cremation ghats (very close).
- Dashashwamedh Ghat — Famous for grand Ganga Aarti (short walk or boat ride).
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple — Just 1.5–2 km away.
- Tulsi Manas Temple — Beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama.
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple — Popular Hanuman temple (few km away).
- Other Ghats — Shivala Ghat, Bhagwan Das Ghat.
A morning boat ride covering Kedar Ghat along with nearby ghats is highly recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What are the Ganga Aarti timings at Kedar Ghat?
A: Evening Aarti is usually held around 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (season-dependent). Morning rituals begin early.
Q: Where is Kedar Ghat located and which direction does it face?
A: It is located on the western bank of the Ganges in Varanasi, facing east.
Q: How to reach Kedar Ghat from Varanasi Railway Station?
A: 5–6 km; 15–25 minutes by auto-rickshaw or taxi, followed by a short walk.
Q: Is there an entry fee for Kedar Ghat or the temple?
A: No entry fee. The ghat and temple are open to all.
Q: What are the best nearby places to Kedar Ghat?
A: Harishchandra Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Q: Can I take a boat ride from Kedar Ghat?
A: Yes, boats are available for sunrise, sunset, and ghat tours.
Q: Is Kedar Ghat suitable for families?
A: Yes, it is relatively calm and family-friendly compared to other major ghats.
Q: What should I carry when visiting?
A: Water, modest clothing, small offerings (milk, flowers, bel leaves) for Shiva puja, and sunscreen.
Kedar Ghat beautifully captures the spiritual depth and peaceful charm of Varanasi. Its sacred location, easy accessibility, well-timed rituals, and proximity to other important sites make it a must-visit ghat for devotees and travellers seeking a serene connection with Lord Shiva by the holy Ganges.
