Ghat

A ghat, also known as a stepped embankment or a series of steps leading down to a water body, is a place where people engage in religious activities like bathing, praying or offering prayers to the Gods near a river, a lake, or the sea. Ghats are usually found in India, specifically near the holy rivers, such as the Ganges, Yamuna, and Godavari.

The steps leading down to the water are uneven and usually made of stone or concrete. The word 'ghat' comes from the Sanskrit word for steps. There may also be small temples or shrines along the ghats, where people can offer flowers or incense as part of their religious practices. Some of the most famous ghats are in Varanasi, where people from all over the world come to bathe in the sacred Ganges water or even to cremate their loved ones.

Ghats are also used for various other activities or events such as festivals, cultural performances, boat rides, or just to enjoy the scenic beauty while sitting on the steps. People visit ghats to escape the heat or just to enjoy the cool breeze which flows from the water body. It is customary for people to take off their shoes before entering the ghat out of respect for the holy nature of the place.

In summary, a ghat is a special place near a river or lake in India where people can engage in religious activities, including bathing, praying, and making offerings to the gods. It usually consists of steps that lead down to the water, and may also have shrines, temples, or cultural performances. Ghats are significant for people in India, especially those who believe in the sanctity of the water and the importance of religious practices.