The Old Gossip
So, they say Shiva and Parvati were chilling, and she drops her earring—boom, that’s Manikarnika. Now it’s where folks get cremated, been that way forever. Another bit’s about Vishnu sweating it out here to make Shiva happy. Shiva’s like, “Cool, Varanasi’s untouchable now.” That’s why it feels huge.
That Crazy Fire
There’s this fire—Akhand Dhuni, they call it—that just won’t quit. Shiva lit it, they reckon, and it’s been going strong. They burn bodies with it, and it never fades. People say if you go out here, you’re done—no more reborn nonsense. Seeing it’s like, how’s that even real?
Why It’s a Thing
- Moksha Deal: Die here, burn here, you’re free. That’s the word.
- Nonstop: 200+ bodies a day, no breaks. Nuts.
- Doms: These Dom guys keep it running, passing it down like a family gig.
- The Kund: Little tank nearby—Vishnu dug it, they say. Adds to the vibe.
How to Roll Up
Wanna go? Here’s how:
When: Winter’s good—October to March. Not hot, not sweaty. Morning or night’s spooky but chill.
How:
- Plane: Varanasi airport’s 25 km out. Auto or taxi, you’re set.
- Train: Junction’s like 5 km away. Close enough.
- Road: Autos, rickshaws, whatever. Or boat it—way cooler.
Stuff to Know:
- Chill Out: It’s a cremation spot—don’t be a jerk.
- No Pics: Leave the camera off, seriously.
- Scams: Watch for dudes asking for cash. Stick to legit stuff.
- Boat It: Sunrise or sunset on the river—do it.
Last Bit
Manikarnika’s nuts. It’s deep—myths, fire, life, death, all that. You into spiritual stuff or just nosy? Go. Stand by that fire, feel the weirdness. It’s Varanasi’s secret sauce.
Hit up Ritik Sharma India for more on places like this!
