Ganga Aarti in Varanasi: Assi and Dashashwamedh Ghat Timings

Varanasi is one of the oldest and most spiritual cities in India. Also known as Kashi or Banaras, it is located on the banks of the holy River Ganga. Moreover, it is famous for its Ganga Aarti, filling the city with energy, devotion, and deep-rooted tradition.

The most special and peaceful experience in Varanasi is the Ganga Aarti. Every day, thousands of people gather at the ghats to watch this magical ceremony.

In this blog, you will learn all about Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, the best ghats to visit, their aarti timings, and how to make your trip spiritual and smooth.

What Is Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?

 

Ganga Aarti is a spiritual ritual performed to worship the River Ganga. It is performed by priests at the riverbanks, usually during sunrise or sunset. Furthermore, the aarti involves chanting of mantras, ringing of bells, lighting of lamps, and offering flowers and incense to the river.

This ceremony creates a divine atmosphere. The fire from the lamps, the sound of chants, the fragrance of incense, and the flow of the river together make it a breathtaking sight.

Ganga is not just a river for Hindus. She is considered a goddess and a mother. Therefore, Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is not just a ritual—it is an emotional, spiritual connection between people and their faith.

Why Is Ganga Aarti So Popular?

There are many reasons why this ceremony is world-famous:

• It is performed with full devotion.

• It has a visual and emotional beauty.

• It connects people to peace and hope.

• It brings everyone together, locals and tourists alike.

Many travelers visit Varanasi only to witness this magical moment. It’s not just about religion. It’s about experiencing calmness, healing, and inner peace.

 

Best Places for Ganga Aarti in Varanasi

There are over 80 ghats in Varanasi, but two of them are most famous for the Aarti:

 

1. Assi Ghat

 

2. Dashashwamedh Ghat

 

Both are amazing in their own ways. Let’s understand what makes them special and what are their aarti timings.

Assi Ghat – For a Peaceful Morning

Assi Ghat is located at the southern end of Varanasi. It is less crowded than Dashashwamedh Ghat. If you want to begin your day with peace and devotion, Assi Ghat is perfect for you.

🕗 Assi Ghat Aarti Timings

• Morning Aarti (Mangala Aarti): 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM

• Evening Aarti (Sandhya Aarti): 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Timings may vary with seasons. In winter, it may start a bit later, and in summer, it may start earlier.

What Happens at Assi Ghat Aarti?

The day starts early with Subah-e-Banaras – a program that includes:

• Morning yoga

• Classical music and dance

• Spiritual lectures

• Ganga Aarti at sunrise

Priests dressed in orange perform the Aarti with oil lamps, conch shells, and chants. It is very soothing and helps you connect deeply with your soul.

Why Choose Assi Ghat?

• Less crowded

• Peaceful vibe

• Great for morning spiritual start

• You can sit for long without disturbance

Dashashwamedh Ghat – The Grand Evening Show

Located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most famous ghat in Varanasi. This is where the most grand Ganga Aarti in Varanasi happens.

 

Dashashwamedh Ghat Aarti Timings

 

• Evening Aarti (Sandhya Ganga Aarti): 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM

During major festivals like Dev Deepawali or Kartik Purnima, the Aarti lasts longer and becomes more beautiful.

What Happens at Dashashwamedh Ghat Aarti?

Here, seven priests perform the Aarti together. They move in the same rhythm, hold heavy brass lamps, and chant Vedic mantras.

The energy is powerful. Hundreds of oil lamps are lit. The flames glow in the dark. At the same time, the sound of bells and chants fills the air. It feels like the river herself is being celebrated.

How to Watch Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat?

You can either sit on the ghat steps or watch from a boat on the river. Both views are amazing. However, if you want to take photos or enjoy peace, the boat view is better.

Tip: Come early (at least 1 hour before) to find a good seat.

Best Time to Watch Ganga Aarti in Varanasi

You can watch Ganga Aarti throughout the year. But some months make it more special.

Best Months

 

• Sawan (July–August): Special spiritual vibes

• Dev Deepawali (November): Most beautiful Aarti night

• Kartik Purnima: Thousands of diyas float on Ganga

The temperature is also better during these times. So, your trip becomes more comfortable.

What Should You Bring for the Aarti?

You don’t need to carry much. But here are a few tips:

• Water bottle

• Small cushion or mat to sit

• Phone or camera for pictures

• A small flower lamp if you want to float it in the Ganga

• Scarf or mask (to avoid smoke near lamps)

Dress modestly. Avoid shorts or sleeveless clothes. Respect the culture.

Ganga Aarti: More Than Just a Ritual

Let’s understand the deep meaning behind this ceremony.

 

This is why people often become emotional during Aarti. It helps them release pain and feel peace.

Planning a Spiritual Visit?

We offer guided tours that include not just the Aarti but also visits to important temples.

Our Special Spiritual Packages Include:

Shri Durga Kund Temple
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Evening Ganga Aarti with Boat Ride
Kaal Bhairav Temple and Aarti
Rudra Abhishek Puja Booking at Vishwanath Ji’s Temple

We make sure your journey is smooth, spiritual, and safe. Everything is arranged for you.

Book now and make your Sawan Yatra truly divine!

Rudra Abhishek at Kashi Vishwanath

If you want to offer special prayers, we also provide Rudra Abhishek Puja bookings.

It is a powerful ritual performed for:

• Peace

• Prosperity

• Health

• Removal of obstacles

Our team arranges everything—pandit, samagri, and temple booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any ticket to attend Ganga Aarti?

No, it is free. But special boat rides or VIP seats may cost between ₹200–₹1500 depending on the view.

Can we perform Aarti ourselves?

Only priests do the main Aarti, but you can offer flowers, lamps, or chant from your seat.

What is the duration of Aarti?

Usually, 45 minutes to 1 hour. Come 30–60 minutes early to get a good place.

Which Aarti is better – Assi or Dashashwamedh?

Both are good. Assi is peaceful and best for morning. Dashashwamedh is grand and best for evening.

Can I take part in Rudra Abhishek as a visitor?

Yes. We arrange the entire process with proper guidance.

Travel Tips for Visiting Varanasi

 

• Book your hotel near the ghat for easy access

• Wear comfortable walking shoes

• Respect local traditions

• Hire a trusted guide

• Avoid single-use plastic near the ghats

• Be kind to other travelers and locals

Final Thoughts from Narayanam

Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is not something you just watch. It’s something you feel in your heart. Moreover, the sound of the bells, the glowing lamps, the chants—they stay with you long after the ceremony ends.

Whether you attend the calm Assi Ghat Aarti at sunrise or the vibrant Dashashwamedh Ghat Aarti in the evening, the moment becomes a beautiful memory in your spiritual journey.

You don’t need to be religious to feel the power of the Ganga Aarti. You just need to be present.

Let us help you explore Varanasi with ease. From temple visits to puja bookings and boat rides, we make it all smooth and memorable.

Want to Book a Guided Tour?

Ganga Aarti View from Boat
Rudra Abhishek at Vishwanath Temple
Walk Through Spiritual Varanasi

Contact us now and let Ganga’s divine flow cleanse your soul.

This blog is written by Narayanam
Helping you experience the soul of Varanasi — one step, one chant, one prayer at a time.