One of the oldest ghats of Varanasi the Badri Narayan Ghat derives its name from a temple located in the southern part of it. The temple which is a replica of the Badri Narayan (Badrinath temple), Kumaon region of Uttarakhand was built by Rana Shamsher Bahadur in the early 19th century.
Rana also built a palace in the upper portion of this ghat which was later bought by Ramkrishna Dalmia so his mother could spend her last days there. This Palace has three Shiva temples on its roof. Presently, the property is being used a guesthouse and a School.
In early 19th-century Malavaji Narasimha Rao Shitole, a finance minister of Gwalior state built the northern portion of this ghat. His wife’s name was Balabai Shitole due to which this portion is called Balabai Ghat. later in 1965 govt made this ghat pucca.
Today, pilgrims take a dip here followed by having a glance at Badri Narayan Temple. It is believed that doing this brings the same amount of benefits which one gets by visiting the original temple. The same spot is also mentioned in Puranas as Nageshvara and Narayana Tirtha.
This ghat is very much popular among the Nepali and South Indian tourists. A festival is organized here on full moon nights of December and January in honor of Lord Vishnu.
How to Reach
Badri Narayan Ghat is located near Gai Ghat road. It is well connected to all the Railways stations, Airport and the bus stand via road. You can reach here by shared auto-rickshaws which are available from Maidhagin Chowk. One can also take a boat ride from any ghat to the Badri Narayan ghat.
What to See
- Badri Narayan Temple
- Nageshvara
- Mukh Nirmalika mandir
Nearby Ghats
Gaay Ghat, Trilochan Ghat
