The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is an evening ceremony on the Ganges in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Priests perform it on elevated platforms, and you can watch from the ghat or from boats moored along the riverbank.
- Location: Dashashwamedh Ghat, on the Ganges in Varanasi.
- Hotel distance: The ghat is about 2.7 km from Padmini International.
- Duration: The ceremony lasts 45 minutes.
- Opening: open 24 hours
Where the ceremony takes place
Dashashwamedh Ghat is a riverfront ghat on the Ganges, near Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The evening Aarti is led by the head priest of the Gangotri Seva Samiti, with priests performing on five elevated planks. The ceremony lasts 45 minutes.
A legend associated with the ghat says Brahma performed ten Ashwamedh Yagyas at Shiva’s request. The story is part of the place’s traditional account, rather than a confirmed explanation of its history.
When to arrive and what to verify
Published start times vary: non-official guides place the ceremony at about 6:00 p.m. in winter and about 7:00 p.m. in summer. You can also use this guide to Varanasi’s seasons and trip planning when deciding how to organize your visit.
The ghat is open 24 hours a day, but that does not establish a ceremony schedule. Before making plans, verify any current details about viewing arrangements, fees, seating, photography, or security requirements; check the official site before you go.
Viewing from the ghat and river
You can view the Ganga Aarti from the ghat or from boats moored along the riverbank. Current boat boarding arrangements and safety guidance are not established, so confirm those locally before choosing a boat.
Small lamps set on leaf platters are part of the riverfront experience. If you want to include this, check what is currently available at the ghat rather than assuming a particular arrangement.
Access, crowds and respectful conduct
Check current access arrangements before you go, especially if you need step-free access or facilities for mobility needs. The ghat’s accessibility details, public seating rules, and ceremony-specific restrictions are not established, so follow current instructions from local staff.
Confirm photography and security rules on arrival. For broader practical context, see how to get around Varanasi.
Combining the aarti with a ghat walk
A walk along the ghat offers a chance to observe local customs and culture, with Manikarnika Ghat identified as a nearby point of interest. The Aarti lasts 45 minutes, and the ghat is open throughout the day, so you can plan a walk separately from the ceremony.
If you are fitting the riverfront into a full day, a one-day Varanasi itinerary can help with the wider sequence of stops.
FAQs
How long does the Dashashwamedh Ghat Aarti last?
The ceremony lasts 45 minutes.
Where can you watch the Ganga Aarti?
You can view it from the ghat or from boats moored along the riverbank. Confirm current arrangements before choosing a boat.
What time does the evening Aarti start?
Published schedules vary, with non-official guides placing the start at about 6:00 p.m. in winter and about 7:00 p.m. in summer. Confirm the current start time before you go.
Is Dashashwamedh Ghat open all day?
open 24 hours. Yes. The ghat is open 24 hours a day, but this does not give the Aarti’s start time.