If you want to know which ghat is the most famous in Varanasi, the answer is clear. There are over 80 ghats in Varanasi, but the most famous ghat is none other than Dashashwamedh Ghat. This ghat has a special thing about it and is the most ancient ghat. Hindus come here to do sacred rituals and the evening Ganga Aarti in Varanasi. Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi is not just a ghat but a cultural icon of the city. It is not surprising that this ghat is included in every Varanasi tour package. Our Morning Ganges Tour includes a visit to Dashashwamedh Ghat for Ganga Aarti and evening prayers. The immense spiritual importance of this ghat makes it a must-visit. You can spot international tourists here trying to grasp the cultural attraction that this ghat holds in Varanasi tourism.
Dashashwamedh Ghat at a Glance
| Information | Details |
| Location | Dashashwamedh Ghat, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001 |
| Famous For | Ganga Aarti, boat rides, religious ceremonies, spiritual atmosphere |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Ideal Visiting Hours | Sunrise (5:30–7:30 AM) and evening before Ganga Aarti |
| Ganga Aarti Timing | Daily in the evening (typically around 6:30–7:00 PM in winter and 7:00–7:30 PM in summer; timings vary by season) |
| Time Needed | 2–3 hours |
| Nearest Landmark | Godowlia Chowk |
| Nearest Temple | Kashi Vishwanath Temple (about 500–700 m) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Varanasi Junction (Cantt) – approx. 5 km |
| Nearest Airport | Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport – approx. 25 km |
| Best Way to Reach | Auto-rickshaw, e-rickshaw, taxi, or walk from Godowlia Chowk |
| Parking Availability | Parking is available near Godowlia; the final stretch to the ghat is pedestrian-only |
| Boat Rides | Shared and private boats available throughout the day |
| Photography | Allowed; ideal during sunrise, sunset, and the evening Aarti |
| Wheelchair Accessibility | Limited due to steps and uneven pathways |
| Nearby Attractions | Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat, Vishwanath Gali |
| Facilities Available | Public toilets, drinking water, shops, food stalls, ATM, police assistance |
| Recommended Dress Code | Comfortable, modest clothing suitable for visiting religious sites |
| Travel Tip | Arrive at least 45–60 minutes before the evening Ganga Aarti to find a good viewing spot, especially during weekends and festivals. |
About Dashashwamedh Ghat Varanasi
The Dashashwamedh Ghat is located on the banks of the Ganga in Varanasi. It is one of the oldest river ghats in Varanasi. Tourists get drawn to this ghat due to its scenic beauty, cultural role, and Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti. Its role in Varanasi tourism is immense and easily one of the most visited tourist attractions in Varanasi. You can feel the spiritual and devotional vibes on this ghat. The temples around the ghat add to this spiritual experience. Walk down the steps leading to the Ganga or just sit and enjoy the local life of Varanasi. Doing this will give you a cultural experience of Varanasi and of Dashashwamedh Ghat.
History of Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most ancient ghats in Varanasi. The real origin of this ghat is found in Hindu mythology. Lord Brahma is said to have originally created this ghat to welcome Lord Shiva in Varanasi. Another story tells of the Ashwamedh Yagna performed by Lord Brahma. This is a sacred ritual where ten horses are sacrificed. Thus, the name of the ghat is Dashashwamedh Ghat from Dash (ten) and Ashwamedh (sacred ritual). The Maratha rulers built this ghat during their reign, and later in 1774, Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar, the Queen of Indore, rebuilt the ghat and gave it its current structure. Dashashwamedh Ghat is famous for Ganga Aarti in the evenings. Hundreds of devotees gather here to participate and join in the aarti.
Why is Dashashwamedh Ghat Famous?
There are many reasons why Dashashwamedh Ghat is so famous in Varanasi.
- Ganga Aarti: The Ganga Aarti takes place on Dashashwamedh Ghat in the evening. You can participate in this Dashashwamedh Ghat aarti on your Varanasi tour. The priests holding burning lamps in their hands and chanting Vedic hymns are the most iconic visual of this Ganga Aarti. Hundreds of devotees join in and participate in this aarti and sing in synchrony to the clash of cymbals and beats of drums. The entire scene at Dashashwamedh Ghat turns into a devotional stage where you can feel the spirituality and culture of Varanasi.
- Holy Bath: A holy bath in the Ganga at Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most sacred thing you can do in Varanasi. You can sit on the steps on the ghat and take a holy dip in the river. The holy dip in the Ganga is so holy that it gets rid of all your sins and makes you pure. People also come to Dashashwamedh Ghat for Pind Daan or ancient death rituals.
- Boat Rides: You can go for early morning or evening boat rides at Dashashwamedh Ghat, Varanasi. The panoramic views of Varanasi from this boat ride are fit to be captured in your camera lens. The views of the Ganga River, the temples and monuments on its banks, and the various river ghats will become memorable.
- Festivals: You can visit Dashashwamedh Ghat Varanasi during festival times and experience the festive side of Varanasi. Dev Deepavali is a particularly exciting time, and you can view thousands of lamps and diyas, arranged on the steps of the ghat. Maha Shivratri is also a spiritual festival when the ghat is full of devotees praying to Lord Shiva and performing Vedic rituals.
Best Viewing Spots
Nothing can be better than getting the front rows at Dashashwamedh Ghat. It will give you the closest view of the Ganga Aarti. But even if you do not get the front rows, do not worry, as there are many other vantage points from where you can enjoy the Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti. You can book our 3 Day Private Varanasi Tour and enjoy Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Boat Ride on Ganga
The Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti boat booking can be an even better way to watch the Ganga Aarti. You can not only watch the Dashashwamedh Ghat, but also enjoy the Ganga Aarti from close quarters. You can choose from traditional wooden boats with rows, or motorboats and special luxury boats.
Tip: You should book the boat before sunset and ensure that the operator adheres to the safety guidelines. Usually, the boat is positioned 30 meters from the steps of the ghat.
Rooftop cafes and hotels
For a more relaxed experience of the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, nothing can be better than standing on a rooftop café or restaurant. You can have a top view of the entire proceedings of the aarti ceremony unfolding on the ghat. Some restaurants offer reservations to observe this Ganga aarti during the peak tourist season.
Nearby ghats
If you find Dashashwamedh Ghat too crowded, you can head to Rajendra Prasad Ghat. This ghat is near Dashashwamedh Ghat, and though you will not be close to the aarti proceedings, you can definitely enjoy the devotional vibes and atmosphere.
VIP Seating
Some tourists can pay a fee and reserve a seat in the VIP seating area. This is a special area from where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Ganga Aarti. Crowds here are also less compared to other areas. It is best for senior citizens, families with kids, and those who are looking for added comfort.
Practical Travel Tip: A cab cannot go directly to Dashashwamedh Ghat, as it is a pedestrian lane. If you are going to Dashashwmedh Ghat by cab, then get down at Godowlia Chowk, and start walking till you reach the ghat.
Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti
The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a major tourist draw. In fact, tourists make it a point to attend this Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat during their Varanasi trip. The focus of this aarti is the devotion to Goddess Ganga and singing Vedic hymns in her praise. In this Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti, priests stand on raised platforms and hold burning lamps that are huge in size. They utter Vedic hymns and sing the aarti in praise of Goddess Ganga and other gods. Hundreds of other devotees sing in synchrony with the priests, and this makes the entire atmosphere electrifying and devotional. The Ganga Aarti lasts for about 45 to 60 minutes, and this duration may vary according to seasons.
Timings
The Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti takes place at different times in different seasons. It generally lasts for 45 minutes, but it may vary according to event and season.
- Winter between October and March: 5:45 PM to 6:00 PM
- Summer between April and September: 6:45 PM to 7:00 PM
Dashashwamedh Ghat Timings
| Activity | Timings |
| Ghat Opening Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Best Time for Morning Visit | 5:00 AM – 8:00 AM |
| Boat Rides | From sunrise until late evening |
| Evening Ganga Aarti (Summer: April–September) | Around 6:45 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Evening Ganga Aarti (Winter: October–March) | Around 6:15 PM – 6:45 PM |
| Ganga Aarti Duration | Approximately 45–60 minutes |
| Recommended Arrival for Aarti | 45–60 minutes before the ceremony |
Dashashwamedh Ghat Entry Fee
| Activity | Charges |
| Entry to Dashashwamedh Ghat | Free |
| Watching Ganga Aarti from the Ghat | Free |
| Shared Boat Ride | Charges vary depending on the season and duration |
| Private Boat Ride | Charges vary based on the boat type and negotiation |
| Reserved/VIP Seating for Ganga Aarti (where available) | Optional and chargeable |
| Guided Tours | Depends on the tour operator |
Best Time to Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat
Winter is usually the best time to visit Dashashwamedh Ghat. The period from October to March is best for having the best experience of Dashashwamedh Ghat. You can also plan a visit during November at the time of Dev Deepavali for a grand aarti experience.
- Winter: October to March. Aarti starts at 6:00 PM. You should arrive at 5:00 PM.
- Summer/ Monsoon: April to September. Aarti starts around 7:00 PM. You should arrive at 6:00 PM.
- Festivals: Kartik Purnima, Dev Deepavali, Mahashivratri, and Ganga Dussehra are the best festivals for viewing Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti.
Things to Do at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat will give you a surreal experience of Varanasi. The things to do at Dashashwamedh Ghat range from spiritual and adventurous to cultural ones.
Watch Ganga Aarti
The experience of Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti is one of the major things to do. You join hundreds of other devotees in singing aarti for Goddess Ganga. The chants of Vedic hymns, the clash of gongs, the beats of drums, and the synchronized chorus of devotees all create a surreal atmosphere.
Morning boat ride
You can hire a traditional rowing boat with oars or opt for private boats. Whichever way you want, you can enjoy the panoramic views, the morning vibes, and the ghat views during the boat ride.
Sunrise photography
Photography during the early morning hours at Dashashwamedh Ghat is like capturing the essence of Varanasi. You can shoot the local life on the ghats, the cremation and rituals, scenic Ganga landscapes, and temples during this photography tour.
Temple visits
Dashashwamedh Ghat is best for temple visits. Kashi Vishwanath Temple is within walking distance from this ghat. You can visit smaller shrines too along with the major ones.
Street food
You can savour tamatar chaat or palak patta chaat at various chaat eateries near Dashashwamedh Ghat. There are halwai shops, lassi shops, and chai stalls where you can taste various street food items in Varanasi.
Shopping
The shopping experience at Dashashwamedh Ghat is vibrant. You can shop for Banarasi Silk Sarees, puja items, wooden toys, local sweets, rudraksha beads, and other items at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Meditation
Early morning (5 AM) is the best time to meditate at Dashashwamedh Ghat. You can sit on the steps and meditate or rent a traditional rowing boat and meditate while cruising on the Ganga. You can perform some rituals you want and offer something to the Ganga.
Walking tour
Take an early morning walking tour of Dashashwamedh Ghat, and you will see the real culture of Varanasi. This walking tour will reveal the authentic charm of Varanasi to you.
Bird photography
Photographing birds at Dashashwamedh Ghat is the best thing if you want a more relaxed activity. The birds that are most sighted at Dashashwamedh Ghat are black kites, gulls, egrets, herons, and kingfishers.
Boat Ride Experience at Dashashwamedh Ghat
One of the best experiences you can have at Dashashwamedh Ghat is the boat ride and cruise. It is as spiritual as it is an adventurous experience to go on a boat ride in Varanasi at Dashashwamedh Ghat. You can cruise over the calm waters of the Ganga and view the ghats, temples, shrines, and cremation grounds. Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is an event that you must attend.
- Sunrise cruise: Early morning cruise that begins from 5:30 AM to 7:30 AM. Best to experience morning rituals, temple aarti, migratory birds, sunrise, yoga sessions.
- Evening cruise: Takes place from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Best for evening Ganga Aarti. You can hire a boat and watch the aarti.
- Private Row boat: Best if you want more privacy and avoid crowds. Costs around Rs.300-500 per boat.
- Shared manual row boat: Ideal for budget travellers and can cost Rs.50-100 per person for a 30-45 minute ride.
- Motor boat/ cruises: Best to cover large distances in a short time, for example, Assi Ghat to Namo Ghat. Price for shared rides can range from Rs.100-200 per person, and private motorboats can charge Rs.1500 to Rs.3500.
Safety tips
- Be early for the morning boat ride to avoid the crowds. You should reach 30 to 45 minutes before boarding the boat.
- You will have to do a little bargaining and negotiating to fix the rates.
- Book the Varanasi boat ride through trusted platforms like Varanasi Excursion (https://varanasiexcursion.com/).
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Nearby Places to Visit
You can visit many places that are near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Just a 5-minute walk (600 meters) from Dashashwamedh Ghat. You can reach the temple by taking the Vishwanath Galli route.
- Manikarnika Ghat: You can take a 10-minute boat ride and reach the ghat. Or, take a walk for 800 meters along the ghats and reach this ghat.
- Assi Ghat: A boat ride is the convenient way of visiting this ghat. Or you can take a walk for 30 minutes and reach Assi Ghat.
- Banaras Hindu University: 6 km from Dashashwamedh Ghat. You can take a cab and reach this university.
- Ramnagar Fort: A boat ride takes longer to reach this fort. It is better to reach this fort by a road trip, which is 10 km from the ghat. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: 5 km distance from the ghat. You can reach this temple by cab or auto rickshaw.
Travel tip: Take an early morning boat ride from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Assi Ghat. Explore the gallis and take part in the morning aarti at Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
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How to Reach Dashashwamedh Ghat
- By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport, and it is 25 km from the Dashashwamedh Ghat. It will take 45 to 60 minutes by cab to reach the ghat.
- By Train: Varanasi Junction railway station (Cantt Railway Station) is the nearest railway station to Dashashwamedh Ghat. It is 5 km from the ghat. Banaras Railway Station is 6 km away from the ghat. You can take a rickshaw or cab from the railway station to Godowlia Chowk. From there, you can walk 5 to 10 minutes and reach Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- By Road: Major cities of India like Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Prayagraj are connected to Varanasi. You can park your vehicle at Godowlia parking area and continue to walk and reach the ghat.
- By Auto: You can ask the auto rickshaw driver to drop you at Godowlia Chowk and then proceed to walk and reach Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- Walking Route: From Godowlia Chowk, you will see signboards that direct you to Dashashwamedh Ghat. Walking takes 5 to 10 minutes to reach the ghat. The streets are bustling with shops, eateries, cafes, temples, souvenir shops, and local vendors.
- Google Maps tip: When you are using Google Maps, search for Dashashwamedh Ghat Varanasi. If you are coming by vehicle, then alight at Godowlia Chowk. From here, it is a pedestrian way, and you will have to walk for 5 to 10 minutes to reach the ghat.
- Parking: Dashashwamedh Ghat does not have a parking area. Rather, you will find parking at Godowlia Chowk or nearby parking areas. Walk from here and reach the ghat.
Dashashwamedh Ghat Travel Tips
We have given some travel tips for you if you are visiting Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi. These travel tips will be helpful for you in navigating through the maze of bylanes of Varanasi and reach Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Before you visit
Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat at sunrise or sunset times to get the best experience of the Ganga.
Arrive at least 40 to 60 minutes before the evening Ganga Aarti so that you can occupy the best viewing spots.
You must carry cash at all times so that you can pay for the local snacks, boat ride, entry tickets, and vendors.
You should confirm the boat ride charges before boarding the boat and the number of ghats and duration of the ride.
While exploring the ghat
Avoid disturbing people while they are doing religious rituals or cremation rituals and ask for permission before you take photographs.
Remember that Dev Deepavali, Maha Shivratri, Kartik Purnima and other religious festivals are unusually crowded and there is a great rush of tourists.
Remove footwear at designated spots near the temples before entering, and confirm that they are in safe hands.
You should get down at Godowlia Chowk if driving in a car and then walk for about 10 minutes to reach Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Safety & Convenience
Locker facilities are available at major temples and shrines in Varanasi so that you can keep your belongings safe in their secure lockers.
A safe locker facility is available at Varanasi Junction and Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya (Mughalsarai) railway station.
Private shops near the temples also offer locker facilities, but you should buy prasad from them in return.
Food & Local Experiences
The narrow lanes in Varanasi are also worth visiting, and you can find hidden temples, eateries, shrines, and the cultural life of Varanasi.
Do not forget to taste the street food of Varanasi, and especially the kachori sabzi, lassi, banarasi paan, tamatar chaat, and other items.
Local Tip: If this is your first visit to Varanasi, then book directly from Varanasi Excursion. We offer guided tours in Varanasi, and you can get to know about the culture, hidden temples, and eateries here. We also arrange for a Varanasi boat ride, Ganga Aarti, and visiting local temples.
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Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of Varanasi’s most iconic attractions, but there’s much more to discover. From the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple and peaceful Assi Ghat to the historic ruins of Sarnath and the majestic Ramnagar Fort, our guide covers the city’s must-visit landmarks along with practical travel tips to help you plan your sightseeing.
Suggested Itinerary
Varanasi Excursion offers customized tour plans for Varanasi for you, so that you can visit Dashashwamedh Ghat. A sample tour plan is given here so that you can get an idea about the itinerary and schedule.
- In the morning, go for a boat ride on the Ganga. This sunrise boat ride starts from Assi Ghat. The pickup will be at 5:30 AM, after which you will board the boat at Assi Ghat and cruise down the Ganga River. Enjoy the views of temples, ghats, and the Ganga River.
- Then visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and seek the blessings. These two temples are the most important temples in Varanasi and immensely religious temples. After visiting them, have a chai break and savour tea with snacks.
- After this, we will visit Sarnath and visit the Buddhist monuments here. The major ones you will visit are Dhamek Stupa, Ashok Pillar, Chaukhandi Stupa, and Sarnath Museum.
- You can do sightseeing in Sarnath for around 4-5 hours and then return to Varanasi. You can attend the Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti. The evening aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most famous events in Varanasi. You can enjoy the illuminated atmosphere at the ghat and join in the singing of the aarti.
- Then we will drop you back to the hotel.
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Why Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat with Varanasi Excursion?
You can enjoy Dashashwamedh Ghat more when you book a local tour agency like Varanasi Excursion. If you explore our Varanasi Tour Packages, you will come to know about our tour offerings and itinerary. You can customize these according to your travel preferences and travel budget. You can do all there is to do in Varanasi when you book a Varanasi trip with us. Things that make us the most trusted travel partner for your Varanasi tour are given below.
- We have experienced local guides with us who can share historical knowledge and local trivia about Varanasi with you.
- You will get comfortable AC SUV Cabs for local transportation in Varanasi.
- We offer private tours in Varanasi that are designed to give you an authentic Varanasi tour experience.
- We help you get the best seats during the Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti viewing.
- We have planned our Varanasi tour itinerary that covers almost all the major temples, ghats, Sarnath excursion, and other attractions.
- We offer experiential tours, heritage tours, walking tours, and cultural tours in Varanasi.
- You get local customer support that can handle your queries and make your Varanasi trip hassle-free.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti is in the evening. It starts from 6 PM in winter and 6:45 PM in the summer months.
VIP darshan at Kashi Vishwanath Temple is for Rs.300/- per person.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is famous for evening Ganga Aarti, boat ride, and religious rituals.
Yes, you can bathe in Dashashwamedh Ghat, Varanasi.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is 4 to 5 km from Varanasi City Railway Station.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is 1 km north of Manikarnika Ghat. You can reach there in 10 or 15 minutes.
Assi Ghat is best for morning Ganga Aarti in Varanasi.
The morning darshan, also called Mangala Aarti, is from 3 AM to 4 AM. This is the Brahms Muhurta and a very auspicious time for darshan.
Yes, you can bathe at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi, but it is not recommended as death rituals or cremations take place on this ghat.
Assi Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Namo Ghat, Panch Ganga Ghat are best for holy bath (Ganga Snan) in Varanasi.
The Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti is 45 minutes to 1 hour long.
Entry to Dashashwamedh Ghat Varanasi is free.
Final Thoughts
Dashashwamedh Ghat ranks among the famous ghats in Varanasi. This ghat is an important tourist attraction for anyone who is visiting Varanasi. Even those who have visited Varanasi before must visit Dashashwamedh Ghat. This is one of those ghats where you can watch the local culture of Varanasi from very close range. The experience of Varanasi culture and its devotional vibes is very strong at this ghat. Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti is the major draw for tourists who come to Varanasi. Varanasi Excursion offers guided Varanasi tours to tourists, and it includes a visit to Dashashwamedh Ghat.