Ganga Aarti

Overview

The Ganga Aarti is a nightly fire ritual of thanks to the river Ganges, held at Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi. Young priests in matching robes wave tall brass lamps, ring bells and blow conch shells in coordinated movements.

Thousands of locals and pilgrims watch from the steps and from boats on the river. A smaller aarti is held at Assi Ghat.

What to look for

• The synchronised lamp work of the priests
• Floating leaf-lamps (diyas) set on the river
• The view from a boat, with the ghat lit behind the flames
• The sound of bells, drums and chanting

Visiting tips

• Reach the ghat 45–60 minutes early for a place on the steps, or book a boat seat.
• The start time follows sunset, so it changes through the year.
• Keep bags closed and valuables inside: the crowd is dense.
• Ask your guide about larger aartis on festival days.

Why visit with a private guide

A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Ganga Aarti, and fits the visit around the rest of your day.

More photographs

Nearby

Dhamek Stupa Dashashwamedh Ghat Manikarnika Ghat Sunrise Boat Kashi Vishwanath