Referred to in the Matsya Purana, one of the important religious texts of the Hindus the Assi Ghat, Varanasi is one the most promising places of Hindu worship. Assi in Hindi means eighty. Not only does the Matsya Purana mention the existence of this Ghat from the origin of life, but one can also find references to it in the Kurma Purana, Padma Purana and Agni Purana.
The southernmost Ghat in Varanasi is called the Assi Ghat. It is located at the confluence of the Ganga and the Asi River. During the Panch Tirtha Yatra a pilgrim is required to dip once into the sacred Assi River to complete the entire circle of his pilgrimage. The Assi Ghat India ranks first in the Manikarnika Pilgrimage.
History of Assi Ghat, Uttar Pradesh, India
Assi Ghat, that constitutes one of the principal sites of Tourist Attractions in Varanasi, has a Mythological connection. It is said that Goddess Durga threw her sword here after slaying the demon Mahishasura. Assi Ghat, Uttar Pradesh is also called Saimbeda Tirtha. A holy dip into this River during the sacred month of Chaitra is said to be highly auspicious.
The oldest Lolarka Kund, which is integrally associated with the origin of Hinduism, one among the only two sun sites in India, is located here. It is also among the oldest sites in Varanasi and becomes alive during the Lolarka Fair. Couples for want of a son come here because it is said to be auspicious for them. The presiding deity blesses them with a son and they return happily.
Description of Assi Ghat, Uttar Pradesh, India
This beautiful Lolarka Ghat is divided into 12 divisions during the Buddha Purnima when visitors visit here with their offerings and prayers. The Lolarka Kund is also called the Tank of the Trembling Sun. this tank is 15 meters deep and can only be approached by a flight of staircases. The Assi Ghat, Uttar Pradesh, which lies beside it, has a mighty Shiva Lingam placed right inside. It is placed beneath the Pipal Tree and is worshipped by followers who come here.
Time for visiting the Assi Ghat in Varanasi
The auspicious month of Chaitra is regarded as the apt time for visiting this place. During this time thousands of pilgrims takes a dip into the holy Ganges. Chaitra (March/ April) and Magh (Jan/Feb) and other important occasions like solar/ lunar eclipse, Ganga Dussehra, Probodhoni Ekadashi, and Makar Shankranti etc are time for pilgrim visit over here.
