Plan your visit
Planning Your Day in Varanasi
The ghats stretch 7 kilometers along the river. Navigating the narrow lanes and busy ceremonies requires a bit of preparation.
Ganges River and Ghats of Varanasi
Dashashwamedh Ghat Road, Varanasi
GPS 25.3167, 83.0104
Open directionsGetting there
Getting to the riverfront.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Prepaid taxi or app-based cab from Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) to the ghats area | 50-60 mins | ₹600-₹1200 | Cars cannot enter the final narrow lanes near the river, so you will be dropped off at main intersections like Godowlia or Assi. |
| Boat: Hire rowboats or motorboats directly from main ghats like Assi or Dashashwamedh, or book ahead online | 1-2 hours | ₹345+ per person shared, ₹2,500+ private | Fares can increase during high water levels (July-September) when currents are stronger. |
| Auto: Auto-rickshaw from Varanasi Junction Railway Station to Godowlia crossing | 20-30 mins | ₹100-₹200 | Expect heavy traffic. From the drop-off points, you will need to walk or take a cycle rickshaw to reach the actual riverfront. |
When to go
- J
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
October to March provides the most comfortable weather for walking the ghats and taking boat rides. Winter mornings (December to February) can be chilly, so bring warm layers for sunrise boats. Fares and currents increase during the July to September high water levels.
What to bring
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Cars cannot enter the narrow lanes near the river.
Expect to walk or take a cycle rickshaw from intersections like Godowlia or Assi.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries for your visit.
Experience the quiet side of Varanasi before the crowds arrive.
- Assi Ghat
Watch the Subah-e-Banaras morning Aarti.
- Sunrise Boat Ride
Row north along the river to see the ghats in the early light.
- Breakfast
Enjoy local chai and breakfast near Dashashwamedh.
- Explore the Northern Ghats
Walk up to Scindia Ghat to see the submerged Shiva temple.
Secure a spot for the nightly ceremony.
- Arrive at the River
Navigate the traffic to reach Godowlia crossing.
- Board the Boat
Get on a motorboat early to claim a good viewing position.
- Ganga Aarti
Watch the ceremony from the water in front of Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- Dinner
Head back into the city for an evening meal.
Rules and Etiquette
Varanasi is an intense and sacred city. Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and knees. You must remove your shoes before stepping onto temple platforms and specific sacred areas.
The cremation ghats, Manikarnika and Harishchandra, require extreme respect. Photography and videography are strictly discouraged or prohibited here. Do not touch or disturb the funeral pyres, priests, or mourning families.
Easiest way to do it
Private Full-Day Varanasi Tour with Boat Ride
12 h 4.9 (98)
- Private transportation
- Morning Boat Ride
- Bottled water
- Air-conditioned vehicle
From$70per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How far is Varanasi airport from the ghats?
The ghats are approximately 25 kilometers from Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS). The drive takes 50 to 60 minutes. A prepaid taxi costs ₹600 to ₹1200.
What time is the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat?
Timings change seasonally. In winter, it typically runs from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. In summer, the ceremony starts later, usually between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
Which is the best ghat to visit in Varanasi?
Dashashwamedh Ghat is best for the grand evening Aarti. Assi Ghat is ideal for peaceful morning rituals. Manikarnika is the primary cremation site for observing local spiritual practices from a respectful distance.