Complete Guide to Ganga Aarti in Varanasi: Timings, Best Ghats & Insider Tips

The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is one of the most spiritually moving experiences in India. Every evening, as the sun sets over the ancient city, priests perform an elaborate fire ritual on the banks of the Ganges that has been unbroken for over 400 years. This guide covers everything you need to plan your visit.

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

The most famous Ganga Aarti takes place at Dashashwamedh Ghat, the main ghat of Varanasi. Here's what you need to know:

• Timing: Every evening at 6:45 PM (winter) / 7:00 PM (summer)
• Duration: Approximately 45 minutes
• Best arrival time: Reach at least 30-45 minutes early to secure a good spot
• Cost: Free to watch from the steps; private chairs ₹100-200

Five to seven priests perform the ceremony simultaneously, wielding large multi-tiered brass lamps (deepam) weighing several kilograms. The synchronized movements, accompanied by conch shells, bells, and devotional chants, create an unforgettable sensory experience.

Morning Aarti at Assi Ghat

For a more intimate experience, attend the Subah-e-Banaras (Morning of Banaras) ceremony at Assi Ghat:

• Timing: 5:00 AM (summer) / 5:30 AM (winter)
• Duration: About 1 hour including cultural performances
• Crowd level: Much smaller than evening aarti
• Bonus: Includes classical music, yoga, and sunrise views

Best Ways to Watch Ganga Aarti

1. From the Ghat Steps (Free)

Arrive 45 minutes early and sit on the steps directly facing the priests. This gives you the closest view and allows you to feel the heat from the flames. The downside is the crowd can be intense, especially during festival season.

2. By Boat on the Ganges (₹200-500/person)

This is the most recommended way to experience the aarti. A boat ride gives you a panoramic view of the entire ceremony along with the illuminated ghat skyline. Book through Varanasi On Wheels for hassle-free boat arrangements with pickup from your hotel.

3. From a Rooftop Restaurant

Several restaurants near Dashashwamedh Ghat offer elevated views paired with dinner. This is ideal for those who prefer comfort over proximity.

Photography Tips

• Use a fast lens (f/1.8 or f/2.8) — the aarti lighting is dramatic but dim
• ISO 1600-3200 is typical for handheld shots
• A boat gives the steadiest platform and best angles
• Golden hour (30 minutes before aarti) is perfect for ghat architecture shots
• Respect the ceremony — avoid flash photography near the priests

How to Reach

The ghats can be tricky to navigate for first-time visitors. Varanasi On Wheels provides comfortable drop-off and pickup services:

• From Airport: 25 km, approximately 45-60 minutes (₹850-1350)
• From Railway Station: 4 km, approximately 15-20 minutes (₹300-500)
• From Hotels: Most Cantonment/Sigra hotels are 3-5 km away

Pro Tip: Vehicles cannot enter the narrow lanes near the ghats. Your driver will drop you at Godowlia Chowk or the nearest accessible point, from where it's a 5-10 minute walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Book your Varanasi sightseeing with Varanasi On Wheels for a seamless spiritual experience. Call 7800664900 or plan your trip online!