FAQ
Varanasi Ghats FAQ
Quick answers to help you navigate the Ganges riverfront and plan your boat rides.
How much does a boat ride cost in Varanasi?
Fixed boat rates range from ₹345 per person for shared rides up to ₹2,500 to ₹3,500+ for private motorboat bookings. Prices can increase during the July-September high water levels. See our Boat Ride Prices guide for more details.
What time is the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat?
The evening Aarti timings change seasonally. It generally occurs between 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM in the winter. In the summer, it shifts to 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Are you allowed to take photos at Manikarnika Ghat?
No. Photography and videography are strictly discouraged or prohibited at Manikarnika and Harishchandra ghats. These are active cremation sites, and taking photos is considered highly disrespectful.
Which is the best ghat to visit in Varanasi?
It depends on what you want to see. Dashashwamedh Ghat is best for the evening Aarti. Assi Ghat is preferred for morning rituals and sunrise views. Read Assi vs Dashashwamedh for a comparison.
How many ghats are there in Varanasi?
Varanasi has between 84 and 88 ghats. They form a 7-kilometer network lining the western bank of the Ganges River.
What is the best time to visit Varanasi?
The best time to visit is from October to March. This period offers cooler, dry weather and includes major festivals like Dev Deepawali in November.
How far is Varanasi airport from the ghats?
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is located approximately 25 kilometers from the ghats. The drive takes about 50 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.
What is the difference between a morning and evening boat ride?
A morning boat ride focuses on the quiet sunrise and early bathing rituals along the eastern banks. An evening boat ride is motorized and focuses on securing a viewing spot for the busy Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Which ghat is famous for the sunrise in Varanasi?
Assi Ghat is famous for the sunrise. It hosts the morning Aarti (Subah-e-Banaras), which starts around 5:00 AM to 5:30 AM.
How long is a typical boat ride on the Ganges?
Private motorboat tours typically last 1.5 to 2 hours. This provides enough time to cover the main stretch from Assi Ghat to Namo Ghat.