This article, prepared by the Shivbodh Trust, presents a detailed account of Shivala Ghat – its mythological roots, historical evolution, architectural features, present-day significance, and the daily Ganga Aarti that the Trust has been organising for years. The information is gathered from authentic sources, including archival records and local oral traditions.

The name Shivala is derived from Shiva + ālaya (abode of Shiva). According to local belief, Lord Shiva graced this spot with his meditation. The ghat was first built in the 18th century by King Balwant Singh of Banaras (r. 1740–1770). Later additions were made by his successor Chet Singh and the Nepalese king Sanjay Vikram Shah, who constructed a palace and a Shiva temple nearby. During the British crackdown after the 1770 rebellion, Chet Singh's properties were seized, but the ghat continued to be a centre of religious and cultural activities.

Until the mid‑20th century, Shivala Ghat was famous for the Budhwa Mangal festival, when the ghat would be illuminated with countless lamps and decorated boats, hosting musical gatherings. The ghat also served South Indian pilgrims: King Balwant Singh established the Brahmendra Math (monastery) for them, which still exists today.

Shivala Ghat is a traditional stepped ghat on the western bank of the Ganges. The present stone structure was reconstructed in 1988 by the Uttar Pradesh Irrigation Department. The ghat is adorned with several historic edifices:

• Nepali Raja's palace (19th century) – now a private property, but its facade remains majestic.
• Shiva temple adjacent to the ghat, along with shrines of Hayagriva Keshav, Svapneshwari, Svapneshwar, and Hanuman in the upper area.
• Brahmendra Math – an active monastery for South Indian ascetics.

Over the past decade, under the Swachh Ganga initiatives, the ghat has seen major improvements. The municipal corporation now cleans the ghat in three shifts daily, and both locals and visitors note that the water and surroundings are considerably cleaner. According to official figures, tourist footfall in Varanasi increased from 5.48 million in 2014 to over 146.9 million by September 2025, benefiting local livelihoods such as boatmen and small vendors.

Every evening, the Shivbodh Trust conducts the Ganga Aarti on the main steps of Shivala Ghat. The ceremony begins at sunset (approximately 6–7 PM, varying with season). Unlike the crowded Dashashwamedh Ghat, Shivala offers a more intimate and peaceful experience, allowing visitors to absorb the spiritual atmosphere without haste. The aarti includes fire, incense, conch shells, and melodious hymns.

Note: Visitors are welcome; arriving 20 minutes early is recommended for a good spot.

• Gularia Ghat – built in 1819 by merchant Laluji Agrawal. Named after an old banyan (gular) tree.
• Dandi Ghat – constructed in 1821 by Laluji Agrawal and Babu Sagarmal. It is associated with Dandi sadhus (ascetics carrying a staff).

Shivala Ghat is not merely a flight of stone steps; it is a living repository of faith, history, and culture. The daily aarti by Shivbodh Trust continues a tradition that has endured for centuries, inviting everyone to partake in the divine energy of the Ganga. We hope this article enriches your understanding and inspires you to visit this sacred ghat.

🙏 Har Har Mahadev 🙏