Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghat: Which Ganga Aarti Should You Choose?
The holy city of Varanasi, or Kashi, is a timeless destination where spirituality and tradition echo through every street, temple, and ghat. One of the most iconic and soul-stirring experiences the city offers is the Ganga Aarti — a powerful ritual performed on the banks of the sacred River Ganga. For travelers visiting Varanasi, the question often arises: Which Ganga Aarti should I attend — Dashashwamedh Ghat or Assi Ghat?
In this blog, we explore the rituals, timings, ambiance, crowd, and spiritual essence of both locations to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a solo traveler, a photographer, or a cultural explorer, this guide is your key to experiencing the best of the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi.
Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghat: A Spiritual Showdown on the Ganges
Ganga Aarti is a deeply revered Hindu ritual performed daily to honor the River Ganga, believed to be a goddess and the giver of moksha (liberation). The ceremony involves chanting, the lighting of oil lamps (deepams), blowing of conch shells, and synchronized movements by Brahmin priests. The flames rising against the twilight sky and the rhythmic chants create an atmosphere that connects the earthly to the divine.
While several ghats perform the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, Dashashwamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat are the most popular, each offering a unique vibe and spiritual flavor.
Dashashwamedh Ghat: The Grand Spectacle
Located near the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most renowned ghat in Varanasi and hosts the grandest version of the evening Ganga Aarti.
Ritual and Ambiance
At Dashashwamedh, the Ganga Aarti is a meticulously choreographed performance. Seven or more priests dressed in traditional saffron attire conduct the aarti in perfect unison. They hold massive multi-tiered brass lamps, swirl incense, and chant Sanskrit mantras. The entire ritual is a theatrical expression of devotion.
Timings:
Evening Aarti: Starts between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM (varies seasonally)
Duration: Around 45 minutes
Best Viewing Spots:
Front Steps: Arrive early to secure a place on the ghat
Boat Ride: Hire a boat for a floating front-row seat (recommended for photography)
Pros:
Grand and visually stunning
Popular among both Indian and foreign tourists
Best for first-time visitors who want the complete Varanasi experience
Cons:
Can be overcrowded
Touristic vibe may reduce personal spiritual connection
Assi Ghat: The Peaceful & Cultural Retreat
Located at the southern end of Varanasi, Assi Ghat is a calm and spacious alternative for witnessing the Ganga Aarti in a more tranquil and local setting.
Subah-e-Banaras: The Morning Aarti
Assi Ghat is especially famous for the morning Ganga Aarti, known as Subah-e-Banaras. This unique event includes classical music, yoga, Vedic chants, and a small-scale aarti. Watching the sunrise while experiencing these rituals is serene and unforgettable.
Evening Aarti
The evening aarti at Assi Ghat is modest compared to Dashashwamedh but still spiritually moving. It’s ideal for those who wish to avoid large crowds and experience a local flavor.
Timings:
Morning Aarti: 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM (includes yoga & music)
Evening Aarti: Around 6:30 PM (varies by season)
Best Viewing Spots:
Steps of the ghat (ample space)
No need for boats due to fewer crowds
Pros:
Peaceful and less crowded
Great for spiritual seekers and solo travelers
Cultural immersion with music and yoga in the morning
Cons:
Less grand than Dashashwamedh
Fewer facilities and tourist services
Assi Ghat: The Peaceful & Cultural Retreat
| Feature | Dashashwamedh Ghat | Assi Ghat |
|---|---|---|
| Scale | Large-scale, dramatic | Small-scale, intimate |
| Timings | Evening only | Morning & evening |
| Crowd Level | High (very crowded) | Low to moderate |
| Best For | Tourists, photographers | Spiritual travelers, culture lovers |
| Accessibility | Near main temples & markets | Slightly farther but accessible |
| Vibe | Tourist-heavy, festive | Peaceful, local |
| Photo Opportunity | Excellent from boat | Beautiful during sunrise |
TripOneF Recommendation
At TripOneF, we believe every traveler is unique — and so should be your spiritual journey. If you’re visiting Varanasi for the first time, we recommend attending both Ganga Aartis:
Assi Ghat in the morning for a peaceful, soulful start to your day
Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening to experience the grandeur of devotion
We offer customized packages including:
Sunrise boat rides
Aarti viewing arrangements
Guided temple tours
Heritage walks
Contact us to book your Ganga Aarti in Varanasi experience today!
Tips for Attending Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
Arrive Early: At least 45–60 minutes early to get good spots
Respect the Ritual: Avoid loud conversations and photography during mantras
Carry Minimal Items: Avoid large bags; security checks are common
Dress Modestly: It’s a spiritual environment, dress accordingly
Hire a Guide or Agency: To understand rituals and navigate crowds with ease
How to Book Your Ganga Aarti Experience with TripOneF
Booking with TripOneF gives you:
Hassle-free transportation
Pre-reserved boat rides for evening aarti
Local guides who explain every step of the ceremony
Sunrise yoga + classical music sessions at Assi Ghat
👉 Visit www.triponef.com | 📞 Call/WhatsApp: +91-8756401155
Final Thoughts
Both Dashashwamedh and Assi Ghat offer captivating versions of the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi. Your choice depends on what kind of experience you’re seeking — visual grandeur or spiritual serenity. With TripOneF as your guide, you don’t have to choose. We’ll help you enjoy the best of both worlds.Embark on your spiritual journey today. Witness the magic, feel the devotion, and carry the peace of Varanasi in your soul.