3 days
Varanasi Ghats
Varanasi
Varanasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world and the holiest place in Hinduism. More than eighty ghats, the stone steps leading down to the Ganges, line its riverfront, where pilgrims bathe at dawn, priests perform rituals and cremations take place day and night.
Most visitors spend two nights here, usually flying in from Delhi or Agra. The essential experiences are the Ganga Aarti ceremony at dusk and a rowing boat ride along the ghats at sunrise.
What to see and do
- Sunrise boat ride. Glide past the ghats as the city wakes, with bathers, yoga and morning prayers on the steps.
- Ganga Aarti. Each evening priests at Dashashwamedh Ghat perform a synchronised fire ceremony with lamps, bells and chanting. Watch from the steps or from a boat.
- The old city lanes. Narrow alleys behind the ghats lead to temples, silk weavers and tiny tea stalls.
- Sarnath. About ten kilometres away, where the Buddha gave his first sermon. Most tours include a half day visit.
Etiquette
- Do not photograph cremations at Manikarnika and Harishchandra ghats. Ask your guide where you can stand respectfully.
- Dress modestly, and remove shoes before entering temples.
- Expect crowds, cows and touts. A local guide makes the old city far easier to navigate.
Multi-day tours that visit Varanasi Ghats
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Varanasi Ghats: questions
What time is the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi?
It starts around sunset every evening, roughly 6 to 7 pm depending on the season, and lasts about 45 minutes. Arrive early for a good spot, or watch from a boat.
How many days do I need in Varanasi?
Two nights is ideal: an evening aarti on arrival, a sunrise boat ride and old city walk the next morning, and Sarnath in the afternoon.
Can I add Varanasi to a Golden Triangle tour?
Yes. Many tours add two nights in Varanasi, usually with a flight from Delhi or an overnight train from Agra.