Kusha Ghat

Among the various ghats of Haridwar, the ghat which is often visited by the devotee is "Kusha Ghat". Commonly known as Kushavarta Ghat, it is primarily used by the deceased family members for performing the Shraadh and last rituals of the deceased. Due to its significance and importance, Kusha Ghat is frequented by many devotees daily, especially during the Pitru Paksh. It is believed that performing Shraadh rituals particularly at this ghat grants the utmost salvation to the deceased.
 

Like Har Ki Pauri and Vishnu Ghat, Kusha Ghat is also considered one of the most sacred ghats in Haridwar. Located around 550 meters from Vishnu Ghat, Kushavarta Ghat is situated on the banks of Holy Ganges. Pilgrims from afar often visit this place to perform the Shradh rituals of the deceased. After this, devotees take a holy dip in the sacred Ganges river.
 

Mythology of Kusha Ghat
 

In Haridwar, many place are somewhere connected to the Puranas, Ramayana and Mahabharata and Kusha Ghat is no exception. According to legend, Lord Rama visited this ghat to perform the Shradh ceremony of his ancestors, further increasing the spiritual significance of this place.
 

Another belief suggests that the revered Sage Dattatreya often visited this place. It is said that he performed intense penance here for many years, standing on one foot to please the supreme being.
 

History of Kusha Ghat
 

Most of the ghats in Haridwar are built by many prominent names and Kusha Ghat is one of them. According to the details, Kushavarta Ghat was constructed in the early 18th Century by the Maratha Queen Ahilyabai Holkar.
 

Location and Connectivity
 

Kusha Ghat is located in Haridwar, which is located around 1 km walking distance from Har Ki Pauri. Haridwar is well connected by both rail and road making it feasible for the pilgrims to reach the place easily from every part of the country.
 

Accommodation near Kusha Ghat
 

Near Kusha Ghat, various accommodations are easily available for devotees. From budget hotels to premium stays, a range of choices can be easily found. Additionally, several Dharamshala's doors remain open round the clock for visitors.
 

Things To Do
 

Primarily the Kushavarta ghat is visited by pilgrims who come to perform the Shraadh rites and rituals for the deceased. If time permits, visitors can also explore following prominent religious places near the ghat.
 

Temples
 

• Mansa Devi Temple, one of the Panch Tirth of Haridwar is often visited by devotees seeking the blessings of Goddess. It is located around 3.3 km from Kusha Ghat and can be easily accessed by Auto and E-rickshaw.
• Chandi Devi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chandi is just 3.6 km away from Kusha Ghat, and also the second Panch Tirth of Haridwar.
• After visiting Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi, devotees can also visit Maya Devi Mandir, another significant Shakti Peeth.
• The Pawan Dham Temple, is located around 3 km from the Ghat, and is one of the most frequented temples after performing the rituals at Kusha Ghat.
   

Ashrams
 

• One can also visit prominent ashrams, if seeking inner peace and mental retreat : -
  • Sapt Rishi Ashram which is around 8 km from the ghat.
  • Shanti Kunj, and
  • Prem Nagar Ashram.

Ganga Aarti in Haridwar
 

• Well you can skip other activities, but attending the evening Ganga Aarti near Har Ki Pauri is a must for all, which provides you a truly spiritual and mesmerizing experience.
   

Important Tips for Travellers
 

• Kusha Ghat is open round the year, but visiting during peak summers and monsoon seasons will be challenging.
• Extreme heat can bring serious challenges to day time visitors. It is advisable to reach the ghat early in the morning.
• As the ghat is known for Shraadh rites and other last rituals, it can feel crowded on regular days.
• During Pitru Paksha, the place may feel extremely overcrowded, as the number of pilgrims throng here to perform Shradh Rites.
• Visitors will easily find the Priest (Purohit) to perform rituals, but if possible bring your own priest.
• While taking the dip, hold the chain tightly as the surface under the water is slippery and cause injury.
• Do not litter in open and maintain the sanctity of the place.