ghat

Ghat is a term used in the Indian subcontinent with more than one related meaning. In common usage, a ghat refers to a set of steps leading down to a river or other body of water, typically built from stone and maintained by local communities. River ghats are found along many rivers and are especially associated with ritual bathing, prayer, and ceremonies in Hindu practice. Notable examples include ghats along the Ganges in cities such as Varanasi and along other rivers where temples, platforms, and cremation grounds may be present. Ghats can be active daily sites as well as focal points for religious festivals.

The word ghat also denotes a mountain pass or route through hills or mountains. In Hindi and related languages, the term is used to describe passages through ranges such as the Western and Eastern Ghats. Mountain ghats are often characterized by steep grades, winding roads or rail lines, and scenic or strategic importance for trade and travel. Notable examples include the Bhor Ghat on the Mumbai–Pune corridor, among other passes that connect different geographic regions.

The usage of ghat varies across languages in the region, including Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, and Nepali. While riverfront ghats emphasize ritual and social activity by water, mountain passes emphasize transit and connectivity through difficult terrain. In both senses, ghats are embedded in cultural, religious, and logistical contexts, reflecting local geography and practices.