As Chhath Puja approaches, the riverbanks of Bihar transform. They become open-air temples of devotion, glowing with lamps and echoing with folk songs as lakhs gather to honour the Sun God in one of India's most ancient, moving festivals.
Gandhi Ghat, Patna
One of Patna's
most prominent and well-developed riverfronts, Gandhi Ghat is a major focal point for Chhath celebrations. Historically significant as the place where Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed, its spacious, paved steps attract thousands of devotees, or 'vratis', for the evening (Sandhya Arghya) and morning (Usha Arghya) rituals. The ghat is known for its organised Ganga Aarti on regular days, and during Chhath, this spiritual atmosphere is amplified, making it one of the most photographed and visited sites in the city. Its accessibility from central Patna ensures it is a perennial favourite for families.
Collectorate Ghat, Patna
Known for its vast, open space, Collectorate Ghat is designed to accommodate the immense crowds that define Chhath in the capital. Located in the city's central stretch, it is a historically important gathering point. After being closed for a couple of years due to high water levels, the ghat has been restored and often merged with the adjacent Mahendru Ghat to create a single, expansive complex. The administration focuses heavily on this ghat, setting up watchtowers, lighting, and dedicated parking, making it one of the most organised venues for devotees to offer prayers.
Digha Ghat, Patna
Situated in western Patna near the Digha-Sonpur Bridge (JP Setu), Digha Ghat serves the dense residential areas of the city's western suburbs. It is one of the longest continuous stretches used for Chhath, offering serene and expansive views of the Ganga. This ghat is particularly preferred for its relatively peaceful atmosphere compared to the central ghats. During the festival, the area buzzes with activity as families arrive with their bamboo baskets ('soop' and 'daura') filled with traditional offerings like thekua, fruits, and sugarcane, creating a captivating scene at sunrise and sunset.
Mahendru Ghat, Patna
One of the oldest and most traditional ghats in Patna, Mahendru Ghat retains an old-world charm. Located near Patna University, it is deeply connected to the local community, and the rituals here are followed with meticulous, age-old customs. Though smaller than Collectorate or Gandhi Ghat, its historical character provides a more intimate setting. Devotees and families decorate the approach lanes, and the air is thick with devotion, offering a glimpse into the festival's deep-rooted traditions passed down through generations.
Kastaharni Ghat, Munger
Moving beyond Patna, Kastaharni Ghat in Munger holds immense religious importance. The name itself translates to 'the ghat that removes pain'. Located along the Ganga near the historic Munger Fort, it attracts a large number of devotees. The site is also linked to the Ramayana; local belief holds that Goddess Sita performed Chhath rituals here, at a spot now marked by the Sitacharan Temple on a rock in the middle of the river. This deep mythological connection makes it a special pilgrimage point during the festival.
Deo Surya Mandir, Aurangabad
While not a river ghat in the traditional sense, the area around Deo Surya Mandir in Aurangabad is one of the most significant Chhath destinations in Bihar. This ancient Sun Temple, which uniquely faces west, becomes the epicentre of a massive fair, or 'mela', drawing lakhs of devotees. Worshippers gather at the temple's sacred pond, the Surya Kund, to perform the Arghya rituals. The sheer scale of the gathering and the ancient heritage of the temple make it a vital centre for Chhath observances, with people travelling from across the state.
Sun Ghat, Gaya
Set on the banks of the Phalgu river, Sun Ghat (or Surya Ghat) in the holy city of Gaya is another revered destination for Chhath Puja. While Gaya is worldnded for postndural rites during Chhath it transforms into a hub of devotion to many Sun God. Thousands of devotees stand knee deep in river to offer prayers to setting and rising sun. The air fills with sound of hymns and traditional songs and sight of countless earthen lamps floating on water creates unforgettable spiritual spectacle.
Patna College Ghat, Patna
Adjacent to other central ghats like Gandhi Ghat than Patna College Ghat serves dense student population and residents around Ashok Rajpath. Its location near Patna University and other institutions makes it accessible and popular spot. As paved platform ghat it offers firm footing which is key consideration for thousands families who gather here. Like neighbours it becomes vibrant tapestry colour sound and unwavering faith embodying community spirit Mahaparv or great festival.
