🔥 Trending Varanasi Flooding: Manikarnika Ghat and Surrounding Areas Affected by Rising Gan

As of August 19, 2026, Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi is significantly affected by rising water levels of the Ganga River ³. The situation is critical, with floodwaters submerging the ghat and disrupting traditional cremation activities ³⁴.

Current Situation at Manikarnika Ghat

• Submerged Ghats: The rapid rise in the Ganga's water level has completely submerged Manikarnika Ghat, a prominent cremation ground ³⁴.
• Cremations on Rooftops: Due to the flooding, cremations are currently being conducted on the rooftop areas of buildings near the ghat ¹³. This is a temporary measure to continue the sacred rituals despite the adverse conditions.
• Disruption of Services: Boat operations in the area have been suspended as a precautionary measure, especially given the large number of devotees arriving ¹. This further impacts accessibility and traditional practices associated with the ghat.
• Relocation of Cremation Sites: Both Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghats have had their cremation sites relocated due to the overflowing Ganga and its tributary Varuna ².
• Long Queues for Cremation: The overwhelming water levels have also led to long queues for cremations at Manikarnika Ghat, often referred to as Mahashmashan (the great cremation ground) ³.

The rising water levels are causing significant challenges for both local residents and pilgrims who come to perform final rites at these sacred sites ¹²³.