If you’ve ever dreamt of witnessing spirituality meet spectacle, nothing compares to the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi. Every evening, the ghats transform into open-air temples, where fire, chants, and devotion dance together on the banks of the sacred Ganges. And if you visit during Dev Deepavali 2025, the “festival of lights of the gods,” you’ll see Varanasi at its most magical—when over a million diyas turn the riverfront into a galaxy of flickering flames.
This guide covers Varanasi Ganga Aarti timings, the best ghats, how to watch, and what to expect during Dev Deepavali 2025. Whether you’re a pilgrim, traveler, or culture-lover, this blog will help you plan an unforgettable trip.
In this Blog
देव दीपावली 2025: Festival of the Gods in Varanasi
Date:5 November 2025 (Kartik Purnima) – exactly 15 days after Diwali.
Time: Evening muhurat is from 5:15 PM to 7:50 PM.
Significance: Dev Deepavali (also spelled Dev Deepawali) marks Lord Shiva’s victory over the demon Tripurasura. Legend says the gods descend to Earth to bathe in the Ganga on this day.
Highlight: Over 1 million earthen lamps (diyas) will illuminate 84 ghats, creating one of the most breathtaking spectacles in India.
Dev Deepavali in Varanasi 2025 falls on 5 November, with Ganga Aarti held in the evening between 5:15 PM and 7:50 PM at Dashashwamedh, Assi, and other ghats.
Expect boat parades, cultural performances, and a spiritual energy that has no parallel. Unlike regular Diwali, Banaras Dev Deepavali is entirely ghat-centric, and the city receives lakhs of visitors from around the world.
गंगा आरती समय वाराणसी 2025: Daily Timings
The daily Ganga Aarti in Varanasi happens twice: at sunrise and sunset. Timings change slightly with the seasons:
Month
Morning Aarti
Evening Aarti
September 2025
5:15 AM
6:15 PM
October 2025
5:30 AM
6:00 PM
November 2025
5:45 AM
5:45 PM
December 2025
6:00 AM
5:30 PM
Quick Fact: The evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat lasts around 45 minutes, starting just after sunset, while morning aarti at Assi Ghat coincides with sunrise.
For Banaras Ganga Aarti time updates, always check locally a day before, as festival days and special occasions may alter schedules.
Best Ghats for Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
Dashashwamedh Ghat – The Grand Stage
The most famous ghat for evening Ganga Aarti.
Seven priests perform with synchronized rituals, conch shells, incense, and fire lamps.
Best suited for first-time visitors who want the grandeur of the ceremony.
Facilities: VIP seating, live commentary, and easy accessibility.
Assi Ghat – Subah-e-Banaras Magic
Famous for morning aarti, yoga, and classical music at dawn.
Less crowded, offering a peaceful experience.
The Assi Ghat Varanasi Aarti time begins at sunrise, around 5:15–6:00 AM, depending on the month.
Rajendra Prasad Ghat – The Hidden Gem
Right next to Dashashwamedh.
Ideal for photography, offering side angles without the heavy crowds.
Manikarnika Ghat – Eternal Flames
Known more for cremations, but still sacred to witness rituals.
Deep spiritual significance; photography restricted.
Chet Singh Ghat – History Meets Serenity
Tied to the Maratha empire and local legends.
Perfect sunset views, away from the touristy rush.
The best ghat in Varanasi for Ganga Aarti is Dashashwamedh Ghat, but Assi Ghat offers a more intimate sunrise experience.
How to Experience Ganga Aarti: Ghats vs. Boats
From the Ghats
Arrive 1–2 hours early for good spots.
Free-standing space is available, but for comfort, book VIP seating (Rs. 300–Rs. 500).
Expect a 45-minute ceremony filled with chants, bells, and fire rituals.
From the Boats
Watching the aarti from the river is unforgettable.
Regular evening boats: Rs. 500– Rs. 2,000 per ride.
During Dev Deepavali 2025, prices may rise to Rs. 3,000– Rs. 10,000 per person.
Book early online or through local operators, as spots fill fast.
👉 Travel Hack: Book a shared boat ride a day before Dev Deepavali for budget-friendly front-row views.
On the eastern bank of the Ganga, Ramnagar Fort is a 17th-century sandstone marvel built by the Kashi Naresh. Today, it houses a quirky museum displaying royal palanquins, vintage cars, and weapons from a bygone era. The fort also offers sweeping views of the river, making it a scenic stop away from the bustle of the main ghats.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 20 (Indians), Rs. 150 (Foreigners)
How to Reach: About 5 km from Varanasi city; best accessed by auto-rickshaw or cab.
Lamhi Village
A short drive from Varanasi, Lamhi Village is the birthplace of legendary Hindi-Urdu writer Munshi Premchand. The village has a memorial dedicated to him, giving you a glimpse into his literary world and rustic roots. It’s an authentic slice of rural Banaras, where you can experience village life in its truest form.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
How to Reach: 10 km from Varanasi Cantt railway station; taxis or shared autos available.
Bharat Kala Bhavan
Nestled within the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus, Bharat Kala Bhavan is a treasure trove for art and history lovers. The museum showcases ancient sculptures, Mughal miniatures, textiles, and folk art. Its collection paints a vivid picture of India’s cultural evolution, far beyond what you see at the ghats.
Timings: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Sundays & university holidays)
Entry Fee: Rs. 20 (Indians), Rs. 100 (Foreigners)
How to Reach: Located inside the BHU campus; local autos can drop you near the main gate.
Chunar Fort
Perched on the banks of the Ganga, Chunar Fort is steeped in legends dating back to King Vikramaditya. It has witnessed battles between Mughals, Afghans, and British, leaving behind a fascinating blend of architecture. Walk through its massive gates, hidden tunnels, and crumbling bastions while soaking in panoramic views of the river.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 15 (Indians), Rs. 100 (Foreigners)
How to Reach: 40 km from Varanasi; accessible by road via taxis and buses.
Lakhaniya Dari Waterfall
Located about 50 km from Varanasi, Lakhaniya Dari is a hidden waterfall tucked into lush forests. A short trek through rocky trails leads you to this breathtaking cascade, best enjoyed in the post-monsoon months. It’s a refreshing natural escape when you want a break from the city’s intensity.
Timings: Best visited in daylight hours
Entry Fee: Free
How to Reach: Around 1.5 hours by cab from Varanasi; moderate trekking required.
Jantar Mantar
Built in the 18th century by Maharaja Jai Singh II, the Varanasi Jantar Mantar is part of his chain of astronomical observatories across India. Though smaller than its Jaipur counterpart, it still boasts fascinating instruments designed to track celestial movements. Visiting here is a reminder of the city’s deep ties to both science and spirituality.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 25 (Indians), Rs. 100 (Foreigners)
How to Reach: Located near Dashashwamedh Ghat, a short walk from the main ghat area.
Looking for a serene retreat after experiencing the chaos and beauty of Varanasi’s ghats? StayVista offers private villas and apartments in Varanasi, perfect for families and groups seeking comfort with a touch of luxury.
Explore वाराणसी के घाट beyond the famous ones for authentic vibes.
Don’t miss Banaras Diwali delicacies like thekua and malpua.
FAQ – People Also Ask
What time is Ganga Aarti in Varanasi today?
The evening aarti usually starts just after sunset (5:30–6:15 PM, depending on the month). Morning aarti begins at sunrise (5:15–6:00 AM).
Which ghat is best for Ganga Aarti?
Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most famous, while Assi Ghat is best for a peaceful morning aarti.
What is Dev Deepavali in Varanasi?
Dev Deepavali, on Kartik Purnima (5 Nov 2025), is when all 84 ghats are lit with diyas to celebrate the gods descending to Earth.
How to book boat rides for Dev Deepavali?
Advance booking is essential. Prices range from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 10,000 per person for premium boats. Shared boats are cheaper but fill up fast.
Is Diwali and Dev Deepavali the same in Banaras?
No. Diwali celebrates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya, while Dev Deepavali celebrates Lord Shiva’s victory over Tripurasura. In Varanasi, Dev Deepavali is considered bigger.
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is more than a ritual—it’s an experience that stays with you long after the lamps are extinguished. And in Dev Deepavali 2025, when a million flames line the ghats, Banaras becomes a living poem of devotion.
Whether you watch from the ghats, drift on a boat under the stars, or explore the city’s hidden corners, Varanasi promises a journey of the soul.
Plan ahead, book your stay, and immerse yourself in the light and spirit of the Ganga.
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