Gau Ghat is located on the southern part of Subhash Ghat and is relatively less crowded. The ashes of Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru were cremated at this ghat. It is a common belief among Hindus that killing a cow is a sin equal to killing a Brahman. Devotees visit Gau Ghat to cleanse themselves of the sin of killing a cow, hence the name.

Gau Ghat is also visited by people who want to offer solace to their departed family members. Since it is located just 2 km from Haridwar Railway Station and very close to Har ki Pauri, it is very accessible to reach Gau Ghat.