Scindia Ghat Leaning Shiva Temple
Home to the iconic Leaning Shiva Temple, Scindia Ghat offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and captivating Ganges views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Scindia Ghat Leaning Shiva Temple
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Home to the iconic Leaning Shiva Temple, Scindia Ghat offers a unique blend of history, spirituality, and captivating Ganges views.
"The leaning temple adds a mystical charm, making it a must-visit for history buffs and spiritual seekers."
📸 Capture the Lean
The Leaning Shiva Temple is a photographer's dream! Get creative with angles to emphasize its unique tilt.
🚶♂️ Walk the Ghats
Easily accessible by foot from other major ghats. Enjoy the journey and soak in the atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Leaning Shiva Temple
Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple
This iconic temple dramatically leans into the Ganges, partially submerged for much of the year. A truly unique sight!
Proximity to Manikarnika Ghat
Adjacent to Manikarnika Ghat
Witness the intense spiritual energy and rituals of the famous burning ghats from a respectful distance.
Ganges River Views
Scindia Ghat waterfront
Enjoy panoramic views of the sacred Ganges and the bustling ghat life, especially captivating during sunrise/sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Scindia Ghat
Navigating Varanasi's Ghats
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Lean
The Leaning Shiva Temple is a photographer's dream! Get creative with angles to emphasize its unique tilt.
🚶♂️ Walk the Ghats
Easily accessible by foot from other major ghats. Enjoy the journey and soak in the atmosphere.
🚤 Boat Ride Perspective
See the sunken temple and ghats from the water for a different, often striking, viewpoint.
🧘♀️ Respect the Sacredness
Be mindful of religious ceremonies and the proximity to Manikarnika Ghat. Dress modestly.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Lean
The Leaning Shiva Temple is a photographer's dream! Get creative with angles to emphasize its unique tilt.
🚶♂️ Walk the Ghats
Easily accessible by foot from other major ghats. Enjoy the journey and soak in the atmosphere.
🚤 Boat Ride Perspective
See the sunken temple and ghats from the water for a different, often striking, viewpoint.
🧘♀️ Respect the Sacredness
Be mindful of religious ceremonies and the proximity to Manikarnika Ghat. Dress modestly.
💧 Cleanliness Varies
While cleaner than some, be prepared for typical ghat conditions. Facilities are basic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Scindia Ghat is celebrated for its unique Leaning Shiva Temple and its spiritual ambiance, offering a more tranquil experience than some other Varanasi ghats. Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the captivating views of the Ganges, though the proximity to Manikarnika Ghat can be emotionally intense for some. Basic facilities and varying cleanliness are noted.
"Famous for the Tilted Shiva Temple, the Scindia Ghat is one of the historic ghats of Varanasi. Situated right adjacent to the powerful Manikarnika Ghat, it can be easily accessed by walking. Due to its close proximity to Manikarnika Ghat, you can see many Aghori Sadhus covered with ash, roaming or sitting in meditation. Please note that this place can be emotionally overwhelming, because the funeral pyres of Manikarnika Ghat are clearly visible. Try to visit here during the day and try to avoid night time. Recommended.🔥"
Samrat Chattopadhyay
"This is the ghat where people specially take bath after funeral rites.
This is one of cleanest ghat and good for bath. Actually people take holy dip in the ganga river at Scindia ghat.
Adjacent to manikarnika ghat. Water is here clean compared to nearby ghat.
Changing room facilities are not here.
The camera is Installed there for security purposes."
Manish upadhyay
"Scindia Ghat in Varanasi is renowned for its historical and spiritual significance. Built by the Scindia dynasty in 1830, this ghat features the famous Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, which is partially submerged in the Ganges. This "leaning temple" adds a unique charm and mystique to the location. The temple is believed to be over 150 years old and has been sinking due to the weight of the ghat's construction."
Binindita Das
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Scindia Ghat is located between the Scindia Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat. You can easily walk to it from nearby ghats like Dashashwamedh Ghat or take a boat ride along the Ganges for a scenic approach. Local auto-rickshaws and taxis can get you to the general area, but the final approach to the ghats is often on foot.
Yes, Scindia Ghat is generally accessible by walking from other prominent ghats. However, be prepared for uneven steps and crowds, especially if you are visiting during peak times or festivals.
Absolutely! A boat ride along the Ganges is a popular and highly recommended way to see Scindia Ghat and the famous Leaning Shiva Temple from a unique perspective.
Walking along the ghats is the most immersive way to experience them. For longer distances or to get a different view, boat rides are excellent. Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are available for travel within the city to reach the ghat areas.
If arriving by vehicle, aim for the roads near Dashashwamedh Ghat and walk towards Scindia Ghat. Be aware that the ghats themselves are pedestrian zones.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to visit Scindia Ghat. It is a public space and part of the vibrant city of Varanasi.
Scindia Ghat is accessible 24/7 as it's an open public area. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better visibility.
The temple itself is part of the ghat and accessible when the ghat is open. Its submerged state varies with the river's water levels. Visiting during daylight is best for viewing and photography.
While generally open, be respectful of religious ceremonies and local customs. Avoid photography of cremation rituals at Manikarnika Ghat if they are too close or sensitive.
Yes, Varanasi is a significant pilgrimage site for immersing ashes. Scindia Ghat, being a ghat on the Ganges, is a place where such rituals can be performed, though it's advisable to inquire locally about specific procedures or permissions if needed.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Scindia Ghat is famous for the unique Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, which leans significantly into the Ganges and is often partially submerged. It offers a more serene experience compared to some other busy ghats.
You can admire the leaning temple, observe religious rituals, take photos, enjoy views of the Ganges, and experience the spiritual ambiance. Its proximity to Manikarnika Ghat also allows you to witness its intense atmosphere.
It can get crowded, especially during festivals or popular times. However, it's often described as less crowded than some of the more central ghats, offering a slightly more peaceful experience.
The temple is believed to have sunk due to the weight of the ghat's construction or being built on silt. It's a unique architectural marvel and a subject of local legends.
The ghat is generally safe, but like any crowded tourist spot, be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. The steps can be slippery, so tread carefully.
📸 📸 Photography
The leaning temple itself is the prime subject. Try different angles from the ghat steps, the riverbank, and especially from a boat for unique perspectives.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be sensitive when photographing religious ceremonies or people, and always ask for permission if unsure. Avoid intrusive photography of the cremation rituals at Manikarnika Ghat.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the ghat and the river. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions, especially during sunrise/sunset.
Drone usage is often restricted in sensitive religious and public areas in India. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when the atmosphere is less somber. Boat rides on the Ganges can be a fun and engaging activity for the whole family, offering a different perspective of the ghats without being too close to the more intense rituals. Ensure children are supervised closely due to the uneven steps and proximity to the water.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers
Many visitors find the atmosphere conducive to meditation and reflection. The less crowded nature compared to some other ghats allows for a more personal connection with the divine. Participating in or observing rituals, or simply sitting by the river and absorbing the energy, can be a deeply moving experience.
📸 Photographers
Golden hour light during sunrise and sunset provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting conditions. Consider a boat ride for unparalleled perspectives of the sunken temple and the entire ghat panorama. Be mindful of capturing sensitive moments respectfully, and always seek permission before photographing individuals up close.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystique of the Leaning Shiva Temple
The temple's precarious angle is attributed to various factors, including its construction on soft silt or the sheer weight of the ghat itself. Regardless of the exact cause, the sight of this partially submerged, leaning structure against the backdrop of the sacred river is truly captivating and a must-see for any visitor to Varanasi. It's a testament to the enduring spirit and unique architecture found along the Ganges.
Photographers flock to Scindia Ghat to capture this iconic landmark. The best shots often come from the ghat steps or, even better, from a boat on the Ganges, offering a different perspective of the temple's immersion and tilt. Visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset can add an ethereal quality to your photographs.
Scindia Ghat's Spiritual and Historical Context
According to local legends and Puranic texts, Scindia Ghat is also considered the birthplace of Agni, the Hindu god of fire. This association further enhances its sacred status. The ghat is a place where devotees perform various rituals, including taking holy dips in the Ganges, especially after funeral rites. The waters here are often described as cleaner than some neighboring ghats, making it a preferred spot for certain spiritual practices.
While the leaning temple draws much attention, the ghat itself offers a glimpse into the daily life and spiritual rhythm of Varanasi. It's a place for quiet contemplation, observing ancient traditions, and understanding the profound connection between life, death, and spirituality that defines this ancient city.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit