The Ganga Aarti is the most moving sight in Varanasi. Every evening, as the sun sets, priests offer fire, flowers and chants to Mother Ganga while thousands watch from the steps and from boats on the river. Here's everything you need to know to see it well.
At a glance
Evening aartiJust after sunset
DurationAbout 45 minutes
EntryFree
Morning aartiAssi Ghat, at sunrise
Main ghatDashashwamedh Ghat
PhotosAllowed (no flash)
In this guide
What is the Ganga Aarti?
Aarti is a Hindu ritual of offering light to the divine. In Varanasi, it is offered to the Ganga, worshipped as a goddess and a mother. Young priests in saffron robes stand on wooden platforms facing the river and move large brass lamps in unison, to the sound of conch shells, bells and Sanskrit hymns.
The ritual is performed every single day of the year, and watching it is free for everyone.
Ganga Aarti timings
The evening aarti starts just after sunset, so the time changes through the year. The morning aarti at Assi Ghat begins before sunrise as part of Subah-e-Banaras.
| Season | Evening aarti (approx.) | Morning aarti at Assi (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Apr – Sep) | 6:45 – 7:15 PM | 5:00 AM |
| Winter (Oct – Mar) | 6:00 – 6:30 PM | 6:00 AM |
Please note: These times are approximate and follow sunset and sunrise. During monsoon floods the aarti is often moved to higher steps or rooftops.
Where to watch: Dashashwamedh or Assi?
| Ghat | Best for | Crowd |
|---|---|---|
| Dashashwamedh Ghat | The grandest evening aarti with seven priests | Very high |
| Rajendra Prasad Ghat | Clear side view of the same aarti | Medium |
| Assi Ghat | Smaller evening aarti and the sunrise Subah-e-Banaras | Low to medium |
Watching the aarti from a boat
- 1Book your boat early
Go to Dashashwamedh or a nearby ghat about an hour before sunset and agree on the fare and duration first.
- 2Choose a rowing boat or motorboat
Rowing boats are quieter; motorboats are quicker if you also want to see the ghats on the way.
- 3Take a short ghat tour
Many boatmen first show you Manikarnika and the nearby ghats, then park in front of Dashashwamedh.
- 4Watch from the river
The boats line up facing the platforms, giving you a clear, uncrowded view of the whole aarti.
- 5Float a diya
Buy a small leaf-boat diya with flowers and float it on the Ganga with a prayer.
Tip: If you are alone, share a boat with other travellers to bring the cost down.
Tips for a good experience
Carry
- Arrive 45–60 minutes early for a spot on the steps
- Keep your phone and wallet in a front pocket
- Sit down so people behind can see
- Carry a little cash for the boat and diya
Not allowed
- Use flash photography during the aarti
- Climb onto the priests' platforms
- Pay anyone for a 'reserved seat' on the steps
- Leave plastic or litter on the ghat
How to reach Dashashwamedh Ghat
Take an auto, e-rickshaw or cab to Godowlia Chowk, as vehicles are not allowed closer in the evening, and walk about 10 minutes down to the ghat.
Frequently asked questions
What time is the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
The evening Ganga Aarti starts just after sunset, roughly 6:00–6:30 PM in winter and 6:45–7:15 PM in summer, and lasts about 45 minutes.
Is there a ticket for the Ganga Aarti?
No, watching the Ganga Aarti from the ghat is free. You only pay if you choose to watch from a boat.
Which is the best ghat for Ganga Aarti?
Dashashwamedh Ghat hosts the grandest evening aarti. For a calmer experience, watch the morning aarti at Assi Ghat.
Does the Ganga Aarti happen every day?
Yes, it is performed every day of the year, including during the monsoon, when it may be moved to higher ground.
