The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is like the grand finale of a day spent exploring one of the world’s oldest and most fascinating cities. As the sun sets, the steps leading down to the River Ganges, known as ghats, become the stage for an extraordinary performance that lights up the evening. Imagine standing by the river as hundreds of small lamps (diyas) float on the water, and priests in vibrant attire perform rituals with fire to honour the Ganges, India’s most sacred river. This ceremony, filled with music, chants, and the rhythmic movement of lamps, creates a mesmerizing spectacle that draws both locals and travellers from all corners of the globe. It’s not just an event; it’s an experience that connects you to the heart and soul of Varanasi, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life of the city and the timeless traditions of India.
History of Varanasi
As per Hindu mythology, Varanasi was introduced by Lord Shiva. It was the time of a fight between Shiva and Brahma. Lord Shiva cut one among the five heads of Shiva. Lord Shiva reveals his victor by carrying that cut head in his hand. To disrespect the Brahma, Lord Shiva also kept the bridle in his mouth. When Shiva went to a city that is named Varanasi, the Brahma’s head fell from Shiva’s hand. After that, the decapitated head disappeared into the land. Since that day, this city is known as the holiest city.
Presently, if you explore the Varanasi, it is essential to attend the Ganga Aarti of Varanasi. Approximately thousands of individuals visit Varanasi to become a part of Ganga Aarti. The duration of Ganga Aarti is around 45 minutes. During this Aarti, you will surely find yourself in another world which is free from all the worries.
About Ganga Aarti:
In Hindu Mythology, the Ganga is known as the holiest river and it is. This is a reason that people believe that taking a dip in the Ganga River will clear their sins. While visiting the ghats at Varanasi, you will observe that almost all of the devotees doing “Snaan” in this holy river. There are chains and poles to protect the individuals against being borne away. The flow of the Ganga River is quite high.
During the evening time, priests of Varanasi do the mesmerizing aarti on the Ganga Ghats. Among all the ghats, the most popular one is Dashashwamedh Ghat. It is situated right next to the prominent Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Devotees can watch the Ganga Aarti from the Assi Ghat and Rajendra Prasad Ghat.
There is a lot of hustle and bustle to find the accurate place to see the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat. One of the best parts of Ganga Aarti is Shankh or conch blown. At the beginning of Aarti, when the conch blows, it grabs the attention of devotees. The Ganga Aarti of Banaras is mainly for the River Ganga and is done at one platform among many. Along with it, the blend of bell sound, chanting, lighting Diya, and incense sticks is stunning.
The priest who performs Ganga Aarti has a great synchronization that is the backbone of the Aarti. Along with it, they perform Ganga Aarti in front of more than thousands of people for numerous years. It is complex for devotees to take their eyes away from the Aarti. The view and chanting make this Aarti the best. You should attend this Aarti once in your life.
Timing of Ganga Aarti Varanasi:
The Ganga Aarti starts after the sunset. It is performed in the evening time. There are different timings of Ganga Aarti in summer and winter that is 7 PM and near about 6 PM respectively. The main focus of evening Aarti is on Dashashwamedh Ghat. On the other hand, the central point of morning Aarti is on Assi Ghat.
As it commences before dawn and long into the daybreak, there is less audience as compared to evening Aarti. You will enjoy different activities that include Vedic chants, yoga, and raga. The morning aarti timing during the summer is 5 am to 7 am and during the winter is 5:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
How to attend Varanasi Ganga Aarti?
To become part of Ganga Aarti, people start reaching early nearly 5:00 PM. By reaching early, one can easily secure the spot. Along with it, there is an immense crowd. Along with it, an ideal way to attend this Aarti is by Boat from the Ganga River. Keep the one thing in mind, make a booking for boating in advance. There are numerous shops which give their balconies for rent to tourists seeing Ganga Aarti.
By doing so, you will surely enjoy Ganga Aarti peacefully. Along with it, you will surely enjoy the unique culture of that place. A maha Aarti performs at a high level in Varanasi at the end of every year on the occasion of Kartik Purnima. The morning Aarti is organized by Subah-e-Banaras. If you are a morning bird, you can attend the morning aarti too.
Things to see during the Ganga Aarti Ceremony:
Doubtlessly, Ganga Aarti is a spectacular ritual that each person should attend. The whole Ganga Aarti is categorized as a visual treat. It is done in a choreographed way. There are numerous things that you can become witness including:
- Saffron Robes
- Golden Brass Lamps
- View of incense sticks
- Synchronized action of light lamp
Ganga Aarti at Varanasi: Dashashwamedh Ghat
The aarti is done at the holy Dashashwamedh Ghat which is closer to the Kashi Vishwanath temple. It is not complex to find the way to the ghat. Additionally, if you face a problem, you can get guidance from locals. They will surely reveal the way to you.
Cost/Entry Fees of Ganga Aarti Varanasi:
There is no entry charge for watching and enjoying Ganga Aarti. Tourists can donate as per their wish. If you want to watch Aarti from river, hire the boat. Along with it, boat rides are quite expensive so take the decision wisely or come early to book your spot.
The Ganga Aarti is done in the evening time. Besides this, these timings are changed as per the sunset time. So, do not miss out on the chance to explore Ganga Aarti mainly when you are in Varanasi. You will feel blessed and get rid of all the worries after the Aarti. Devotees take the bath here and attend the aarti.
Guide to Reaching Dashashwamedh Ghat for Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
Getting to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is an adventure in itself, taking you through the vibrant and bustling streets of one of the oldest living cities in the world. Here’s how you can reach Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti:
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi.
- From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw to reach Dashashwamedh Ghat. The distance is about 25 kilometers (around 15.5 miles), and it usually takes about an hour, depending on traffic.
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Varanasi Junction (also known as Varanasi Cantt Railway Station).
- After arriving at the railway station, opt for a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or even a cycle-rickshaw to get to the ghat. It’s roughly 4 kilometers (about 2.5 miles) away, making it a short journey of about 20 to 30 minutes.
By Road:
- Varanasi is well-connected by road to major cities. If you’re coming from within the city or from nearby areas, local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are readily available. Due to the narrow and crowded streets near Dashashwamedh Ghat, walking the last stretch might be necessary, especially during busy hours.
Walking:
- If you’re staying close to the ghats or in the old city, walking might be the best option. It’s an excellent way to soak in the sights and sounds of Varanasi’s ancient lanes. Just follow the signs or ask locals for directions to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Tips for the Journey:
- Plan Ahead: The Ganga Aarti takes place every evening just after sunset. It’s wise to arrive at least an hour early to secure a good viewing spot as the area gets extremely crowded.
- Dress Modestly: Being a religious ceremony, it’s recommended to dress respectfully.
- Consider a Boat Ride: For a unique perspective, you can watch the Aarti from a boat on the Ganges. Boats can be hired from various ghats.
- Stay Hydrated: Varanasi can be quite warm, especially during the summer months. Carry water with you.
Experiencing the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a spiritual and cultural highlight for many travelers to Varanasi. The journey to get there is just the beginning of what promises to be an unforgettable experience.
List of Nearby Hotels of Varanasi Ghat:
- Brij Rama Palace Varanasi
- Radisson Hotel
- Taj Nadesar Palace
- Taj Ganges
- Ramada Plaza by JH
- The Clarks
Final Verdicts
Varanasi is a beautiful city and has great value. Thousands of individuals come to this city mainly to attend Ganga Aarti. Besides this, by exploring this city, one can easily find themselves closer to nature and God too. So, whenever you go to Varanasi, take a bath and attend a spectacular aarti.
More about Varanasi:
- Top 10 Reasons to Visit Varanasi Once in Your Lifetime
- List of Famous Ghats in Varanasi
- Best Tourist Places to See in Varanasi
- 12 Most Famous Museums in Varanasi
- 5-Star Hotels in Varanasi Near Ghat
- Things to do in Varanasi
- List of Most Popular Temples in Varanasi
- Alaknanda: Varanasi Luxury Cruise in River Ganga
- Best Way to Go to Varanasi from Delhi
