Who built Bhonsale Ghat?
Bhonsale Ghat is associated with the Maratha Bhonsle rulers of Nagpur, who are said to have built it in the late 18th century. It is known for its massive stone building with small windows high above the river, and for the temples within it. It is part of the historic northern riverfront, near Scindia Ghat.
Bhonsale Ghat
- Location
- Northern riverfront, near Scindia Ghat, Varanasi
- From Kashi Vishwanath
- About 1.5 km (approximate)
On this page
History
Historical accounts associate the ghat with the Bhonsle rulers of Nagpur and date it to the late 18th century, a period when Maratha patrons built extensively along Kashi's riverfront — including Ahilyabai Holkar, who built the present Kashi Vishwanath.
Architecture
The ghat is dominated by a tall stone building with small windows and ornamental carving, which gives it a fortress-like appearance from the river. Temples within the complex are described as including a Lakshmi Narayan temple.
Best time to visit
From a boat at sunrise, when the stone takes on a golden colour.
How to reach
On a walk along the northern ghats between Manikarnika and Panchganga, or by boat.
Etiquette on the ghats
- Dress modestly and remove shoes where others do, near shrines and bathing areas.
- Ask before photographing people, especially those bathing or performing rites.
- Don't photograph cremations.
- Decline persistent offers politely; agree boat fares before boarding.
- Keep the river clean — no plastic or litter.
Frequently asked questions
Can you enter Bhonsale Ghat's building?
Parts of the building are private or used by institutions; access varies. Enjoy it from the steps or a boat.
Sources and further reading
We link to primary and authoritative sources. External links open in a new tab.
- Ghats in Varanasi (encyclopaedia entry with cited references) (opens in a new tab)
Wikipedia — Reference work, checked September 2026
Written and maintained by the KashiVishwanathTemple.net Editorial Team. Last updated . Found an error? Tell us — see our editorial policy.
Related guides
- Scindia GhatScindia Ghat guide: the Shiva temple that sank into the river during construction, the ghat's history, its quiet atmosphere and its place on a northern ghat walk.
- Panchganga GhatPanchganga Ghat guide: the tradition of five rivers meeting, the Kartik month of hanging lamps, its historical landmarks and the story of Kabir and Ramananda.
- Ahilyabai HolkarWho was Ahilyabai Holkar, why she rebuilt Kashi Vishwanath Temple around 1780, and her wider legacy of temples, ghats and pilgrim facilities across India.
- ArchitectureA visitor's guide to Kashi Vishwanath Temple architecture: the nagara-style spire, the gold-plated domes, the sanctum and the shrines and features around it.
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