Chauki Ghat takes its name from the word “chauki” — a checkpoint or guard post. Long ago, this ghat served as a watch station, where the movements along the river were quietly observed, and the rhythm of Kashi’s life flowed through both surveillance and surrender. 

Also built by the Sri Kumaraswamy Mutt in the mid-19th century, this is also the seat of the ancient Naga puja or serpent worship. This Ghat is known for an old holy fig tree at the top of the steps which shelters a great array of stone figures of snakes and nagas. The ghat is also believed to be named after a saint, Chauki Baba, who is said to have meditated there. 

Locals state that Chauki Ghat once formed the edge of a boundary — a place where city met stillness, where one paused before stepping into the sacred space of deeper ghats.