Imagine standing by the holy Ganga river in Varanasi as the sun sets. The sky slowly turns orange, bells start ringing, conch shells blow, and hundreds of priests dressed in saffron and white hold large brass lamps in their hands. The sound of chants fills the air, and the sight of golden flames dancing on the river feels almost magical.
This divine experience is none other than the Ganga Aarti of Varanasi – a ceremony that every traveler dreams of witnessing at least once in their lifetime.
What is Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
The Ganga Aarti is a spiritual ritual performed daily on the banks of the Ganga River.
- It is mainly held at Dashashwamedh Ghat, the most famous ghat in Varanasi.
- The ceremony is performed by priests (pandits) dressed in traditional dhotis and kurtas.
- Large brass lamps, incense sticks, conch shells, and flowers are used to honor Maa Ganga (Mother Ganga).
- Thousands of devotees, travelers, and photographers gather here every evening to feel the divine energy.
Spiritual Significance:
The spiritual significance of Ganga Aarti lies in the deep belief that the River Ganga is not just a river, but a living goddess who purifies all sins and blesses her devotees. For Hindus, offering prayers to the Ganga means showing gratitude to Mother Nature for sustaining life. The lighted lamps represent the removal of darkness and ignorance, while the chants and ringing bells create a vibration that brings peace to the mind and soul. People believe that simply witnessing the Aarti with faith can bring good fortune, inner calm, and a sense of connection with the divine. Even if you are not religious, the powerful atmosphere makes you feel like you are part of something bigger than yourself.
Why it’s a must-experience:
- The synchronization of chants, lights, and rituals creates a once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere.
- It connects you to the spiritual heartbeat of India.
- Even if you are not religious, the vibe and energy will leave you speechless.
Varanasi Ganga Aarti Timing (Daily Schedule)
The daily Ganga Aarti in Varanasi takes place twice: early morning and evening, with exact timings varying by season and location (Assi Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat).
2025 Daily Schedule (Typical Timings)
| Season | Morning Aarti | Evening Aarti | Main Ghat Locations |
| Summer | 5:00–5:30 AM | 6:45–7:30 PM | Dashashwamedh, Assi |
| Monsoon | 5:00–5:30 AM | 6:30–7:15 PM | Dashashwamedh, Assi |
| Winter | 5:15–5:45 AM | 5:45–6:30 PM | Dashashwamedh, Assi |
- At Dashashwamedh Ghat, evening aarti is the grandest and begins at sunset, lasting 45 minutes.
- Morning aarti at Assi Ghat is quieter and peaceful, starting just before sunrise.
- Arrive 30–45 minutes early at the ghat for the best view.
- Entry is free for all; VIP seating and boat rides available for a fee.
Special Festival Days (2025)
- Dev Deepawali: November 12, evening aarti starts early and lasts longer.
- Ganga Dussehra: June 5, special rituals and aarti.
- Kartika Purnima: November 15, evening aarti amidst large crowds and lit diyas.
Digital boards at most ghats display updated timings; check with hotels or guides for festival adjustments.
For the most popular evening aarti, head to Dashashwamedh Ghat by sunset—the ceremony is a visual and spiritual highlight of Varanasi.
Best Place to Watch Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
the main ghat where the ceremony is performed. This is where you can feel the energy up close – the priests, the flames, the chants, everything happens right in front of you. You can watch the Aarti from three main spots:
- Dashashwamedh Ghat (Front Row) – Most popular, closest to the action.
- Boat on the Ganga – Unique experience, floating view with reflection of flames on water.
- Nearby Rooftop Cafes/Hotels – Comfortable seating with aerial views.
📌 Tip: Watching from a boat is often considered the most magical way.
Best Time to Visit for Ganga Aarti
- October to March (Winter season): Pleasant weather, perfect for exploring ghats.
- Avoid May–June afternoons as Varanasi gets very hot (40°C+).
- Special Aartis are also held on Makar Sankranti, Kartik Purnima, Diwali, and Dev Deepawali, where thousands of lamps light up the ghats.
How to Reach the Ganga Aarti Location
The Ganga Aarti takes place at Dashashwamedh Ghat, the most famous ghat in Varanasi. No matter how you come – by flight, train, or bus – your final stop will always be Godowlia Chowk, from where the ghat is just a short walk away.
It’s very easy to reach. Here’s how:
- By Air (Flight):
- Book a flight to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (Varanasi Airport).
- From the airport, take a taxi, cab, or auto (around 45 minutes) to Godowlia Chowk.
- From Godowlia Chowk, the ghat is just 5–10 minutes walking distance (vehicles are not allowed inside).
- Book a flight to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (Varanasi Airport).
- By Train:
- Get down at Varanasi Junction (Cantt Station) or Banaras Railway Station.
- Take an auto-rickshaw or e-rickshaw to Godowlia Chowk.
- Walk straight towards Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- Get down at Varanasi Junction (Cantt Station) or Banaras Railway Station.
- By Road (Bus/Car):
- Reach Varanasi bus stand or drive to the city.
- Park or get dropped near Godowlia Chowk.
- From there, walk to the ghat (lanes are narrow, so vehicles don’t go till the river).
- Reach Varanasi bus stand or drive to the city.
Easiest Hack: If walking feels confusing, just ask anyone in Varanasi: “Dashashwamedh Ghat kidhar hai?” (Where is Dashashwamedh Ghat?). Locals are very friendly and will guide you straight.
👉 Remember: Always aim to reach Godowlia Chowk first. From there, the way to Dashashwamedh Ghat is a short, simple walk.
Tips for Attending Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is very popular, and thousands of people come every evening. Because of the huge crowd, it’s better to plan a little so that you can actually enjoy the experience instead of just struggling to find space.
Reach Early: Go at least 1 hour before the Aarti starts, as the ghats get crowded.
Pick Your Spot: Sit at Dashashwamedh Ghat for the closest view, take a boat for a peaceful experience, or choose a rooftop café for comfort.
Wear Comfortable Clothes: Light clothes and easy footwear are best since you may walk and sit on steps.
Carry Water: It can get hot and crowded, so keep a small bottle with you.
Book Boats in Advance: If you want to watch from the river, book early to avoid last-minute hassle.
Stay Respectful: Keep calm, avoid pushing, and don’t block others during the rituals.
Family Tip: For kids and elders, boats or rooftops are better than crowded ghats.
Varanasi Ganga Aarti – Cost & Tickets
- Entry at Ghats: Free of cost.
- Boat Ride (per person): ₹100 – ₹300 (shared), ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 (private).
- VIP Seating on Ghat: ₹500 – ₹1,000 (arranged by local organizers).
Important Facts that will Amaze You
- Daily Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat attracts up to 50,000 visitors per evening during regular days, with numbers surging on festival days like Dev Deepawali and Kartika Purnima.
- Major festival days (Dev Deepawali, New Year’s Day) can draw over 5 lakh (500,000) visitors to the ghats and city, as seen on January 1, 2025.
- During peak seasons (December-January, Diwali, Shivratri), the city witnesses 30–40 lakh (3–4 million) daily visitors—many attend the Ganga Aarti as part of their pilgrimage circuit.
- Due to overwhelming crowds during Kumbh Mela and other events, authorities sometimes reduce aarti duration (from 1 hour to 10 minutes) and suspend public participation for crowd control.
- On high-attendance days, crowd management includes additional security, dedicated parking, and restricted access to main viewing areas.
- The main Ganga Aarti ritual features 7 Brahmin priests, lasts about 45 minutes, and is performed daily after sunset.
- Spectators include domestic pilgrims, international travelers, and locals—with boats packed along the riverbank and ghats jammed with devotees for prime viewing.
- Varanasi’s Ganga Aarti ranks among India’s top spiritual attractions, drawing both pilgrims and tourists year-round, especially during auspicious occasions when visitor numbers spike well above normal levels.
The Ganga Aarti remains one of the world’s largest daily spiritual gatherings, with attendance often rivaling major festivals and public events in scale, especially at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Nearby Attractions After Ganga Aarti
Once you witness the Aarti, you can explore nearby:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
- Manikarnika Ghat – Famous cremation ghat, deeply spiritual.
- Assi Ghat – Popular among youngsters and morning yoga lovers.
- Banaras Silk Market – Famous for Banarasi sarees and handicrafts.
Varanasi Ganga Aarti Photos & Videos (Experience the Magic)
When the Ganga Aarti begins in Varanasi, the whole scene looks like a painting that has come alive. The glowing lamps, the priests moving in rhythm, the sound of conch shells, and the reflection of lights on the river create a magical atmosphere. Many travelers capture this moment in photos and videos, but honestly, being there feels far more powerful than any picture. Still, if you love photography, carry a camera or a good phone because the Aarti is one of the most photogenic events you will ever see. Watching the flames dance against the night sky and hearing the chants in the background is an experience you will want to keep with you forever.
Also Read: Somnath to Nageshwar Distance – Complete Travel Guide (2025)
Conclusion
The Ganga Aarti of Varanasi is not just a ritual – it’s an emotional and spiritual journey. Whether you’re a pilgrim, a traveler, or just a curious explorer, this experience will touch your soul.
If you are visiting Varanasi, make sure you don’t miss it – because watching the Aarti once will stay in your memory forever.
FAQs on Varanasi Ganga Aarti Timing
Q1. What time does Ganga Aarti start in Varanasi?
👉 Around 6 PM in winter and 7 PM in summer.
Q2. How long does the Ganga Aarti last?
👉 Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Q3. Is there any dress code?
👉 No strict code, but modest and traditional attire is preferred.
Q4. Do I need to book tickets for Ganga Aarti?
👉 No for ghats, but yes for boats or VIP seating.
Q5. Can children attend Ganga Aarti?
👉 Yes, but keep an eye as the ghats get very crowded.
