Getting familiar with the ghats

When you first approach the ghats of Chandod, you'll realise these aren't just stone steps leading to the Narmada River but living archives of history and spiritual significance. Take the Mallharao Ghat, for instance, which stands as a testament to a remarkable royal drama from centuries ago.

Legend has it that during the reign of Malhar Rao Holkar, his most trusted minister was caught embezzling a large sum from the state treasury. Instead of harsh punishment, an extraordinary twist of fate occurred. When the stolen money was discovered beneath a sacred tulsi plant, Malhar Rao made an unusual decision. Rather than simply punishing the minister, he transformed the scandal into something constructive. The recovered funds were used to build this magnificent ghat – a 60-foot-wide structure with 64 carefully crafted steps that now symbolise redemption and architectural beauty.

Named after Malhar Rao himself and connected to the legendary Ahilyabai Holkar's lineage, this ghat whispers stories of governance, forgiveness, and unexpected transformation. Alongside it, the Chakrapani, Yama, Harijan, Kapileshwar, and Swami Ghats complete Chandod's riverside narrative.

A sacred journey beyond life and death

If you make a list of India's most profound spiritual destinations, you must secure a spot for Chandod. Here, at the banks of the Narmada, you stand at a remarkable crossroads of life and the afterlife, where Hindus consider performing the final rites of their departed loved ones a sacred duty and spiritual liberation. Known as "Chanod-Karnali", this location is not just a riverbank but a hallowed ground where souls are believed to find their ultimate peace. People travel from across India to perform the last rites, believing that rituals conducted here help the departed soul's journey towards moksha or spiritual freedom.