Situated on the banks of the Ganga, this tranquil spot is of considerable historical and religious importance. According to Hindu scriptures Lord Brahma came to Utpalaranya, as it was known then, for the creation of mankind. The place which first witnessed the creation of mankind came to be known as “Brahmavarta” or the seat of Brahma. Brahma installed a Shivalinga which is worshipped as “Brahmesh
war Mahadeva” at the principal Ghat of Bithoor, The Brahmavarta Ghat. A nail of the horse shoe which is embedded in the steps of the Ghat is an object of special reverence for devotees, considered to be of Brahma's horse, while going for “Ashwamedha Yajna.” On the completion of the Yajna, the forests of Utpalaranya, became known as Brahmavarta, from which the popular name, Bithoor is derived. In later centuries Brahmavarta flourished as the capital of the kingdom of Utpalaranya, over which ruled the emperor Uttanpad. His son Dhruva penanced here in order to please Brahma. The place is pointed out to be “Dhruva Teela.”
There is a small pool inside Valmiki Ashram, famous as Sita-Kund. Sita 'Rasoi' is still preserved, near which stands 'Swarga Naseinee' or Deep Malika Stambha, studded with niches all around for illumination. The tower has about 48 steps leading to its top which is surmounted by a cupola, from where one can have a panoramic view of the entire area. The existing Valmiki temple is said to have been rebuilt by Baji Rao Peshwa in the 19th century. Bithoor is famously known for Rani Laxmi Bai, Baji Rao Peshwa, Nana Sahib, Tatya Tope who fought against The English. One can even witness their damage fort at Nana Rao Park. The historic town of Bithoor, once famous by the name of 'Bavan Ghaton ki Nagri', (city of 52 Ghats) today left with only 29 Ghats. Season: October-March
Clothing: (Summer) Cottons, (Winter Woolens)
Transport: Buses/Tempo/Taxi/Auto Rickshaw
Language: Hindi
Eateries: Indian Veg Foods
Festivals: Kartik Poornima, Magh Poornima, Makar Sankranti Mela, All holy bath in The Ganga. Places to visit
Valmiki Ashram
This ashram is located at a height and accessible by a flight of stairs known as the "stairway to heaven". A panoramic view of Bithoor can be enjoyed from this ashram. Brahmavart Ghat
This is considered the holiest Ghat of Bithoor. Devotees of Lord Brahma pray at the altar of the "Wooden Slippers" after a ritual dip in the Ganga. Patthar Ghat
The foundation stone of this red sandstone Ghat was laid by Tikait Rai, a minister of Awadh State. There is a massive temple her dedicated to Lord Shiva. The shivlinga in the temple is made of "Kasauti" or the philosopher's stone. Dhruva teela
This marks the place where the child Dhruva meditated single mindedly as he stood on one leg. As a reward, God granted Dhruva the divine boon to shine for all time as a star. Other places of interest include Ram Janki temple, Luv-Kush temple, Haridham Ashram and Nana Rao Smarak.
