Keshi Ghat is the main surviving historic ghat of Vrindavan, a long flight of stone steps leading down to the Yamuna River, framed by old temples and Rajasthani-style palaces. In the early morning and at sunset, devotees bathe, offer arati, float diyas and join in kirtan boats that gently move along the river, giving a very atmospheric view of Vrindavan’s skyline. The ghat is considered one of the best places to experience the connection between Krishna’s leelas and the sacred Yamuna, especially during Kartik and Holi when thousands gather for special rituals.
About this place
History & highlights
According to the Bhagavata tradition, Keshi Ghat marks the site where Krishna killed the horse demon Keshi sent by Kansa, saving the people of Braj and purifying the river. The present stone ghat, however, dates to the late 17th century, built by Queen Laxmi Devi of Bharatpur in a richly ornamented Rajasthani style with domes and balconies overlooking the river. Over time, many small shrines and maths were added along the steps, and Keshi Ghat became the main focus of Yamuna worship in Vrindavan, especially after other older ghats disappeared. Today, despite environmental pressures on the Yamuna, Keshi Ghat remains a symbol of Vrindavan’s riverfront heritage and a key stop for pilgrims performing parikrama.
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