Why watch the aarti from the river
The aarti lasts about 45 minutes. From a boat you see the lamps, the priests and the crowd on the steps together, from a calm position, and the lamps reflect on the water.
- 1.5 to 2 hours
- Most popular
Ganga Aarti Boat Ride in Varanasi: Watch the Evening Aarti from the Water
Watch the evening Ganga aarti from a boat on the water with a reserved spot.
DurationAbout 2 hours
Best timeEvening, usually 5:00 to 7:00 PM; board about 30 minutes before the boat time
Boat typeHand-rowed boat (up to 6) or private motor boat (up to 10)
CapacityThe fare is for the whole boat, not per person
Overview
An evening boat ride to watch the Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat from the water.
- Evening ride, usually 5:00 to 7:00 PM; board 30 minutes early
- Aarti: about 45 minutes (6:00 PM winter, 6:30 PM summer)
- Boat: hand boat (up to 6) or motor boat (up to 10)
- A life jacket for every passenger; the fare is per boat
Read the full description
Watch the evening Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat from a boat on the river. Evening rides run roughly 5:00 to 7:00 PM, and we suggest boarding about 30 minutes before the boat time from Assi, Ravidas or Namo Ghat. A hand boat takes up to 6 and a private motor boat up to 10, with life jackets for everyone. Share your date and group size for a free quote.
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Highlights
Highlights of the Ganga aarti boat ride
- Evening ride, usually 5:00 to 7:00 PM
- Ganga aarti watched from the river
- Hand boat (up to 6) or private motor boat (up to 10)
- Life jacket for every passenger
Where you go
Places covered on the Ganga aarti boat ride
Photos
Photos
Good to know
Planning your Ganga aarti boat ride: what to expect
Aarti timings
Timings change with the season, so we confirm them for your date.
- Evening aarti: 6:00 PM in winter, 6:30 PM in summer
- Boarding: about 30 minutes before the boat time
Boarding points
Most rides start from Assi, Ravidas or Namo Ghat. Some can start from Dashashwamedh Ghat. We plan the boarding point around where you are staying, and the walk to the ghat through Godowlia Market is also possible if you prefer.
What you get
Included
What is included in the Ganga aarti boat ride
- Private boat with boatman
- Life jackets
- Position in front of Dashashwamedh Ghat for the aarti
What is not included
- Hotel transfers
- Tips
- Offering lamps (available on the river)
Trip details
Quick facts
- Route
- A ride along the ghats, then a position in front of Dashashwamedh Ghat for the aarti
- Safety
- A life jacket for every passenger
- Availability
- Daily; book early for weekends and festivals
Ready to book or have questions?
Call or message us on WhatsApp. We reply quickly and can customise any plan.
Prefer a call back?
Before you go
Practical information for the Ganga aarti boat ride
Safety on the water
Life jackets are on board. Stay seated while the boat is moving and follow the boatman's instructions. During the monsoon, high water levels can change routes or pause rides, and we will tell you if that applies on your date.
What to wear and carry
- Warm layer for dawn and winter evenings
- Cap and sunscreen for daytime rides
- Secure strap for your phone or camera
- Respectful clothing near the ghats
Shared vs private boats
A shared boat splits the cost among several guests and follows a standard route. A private boat belongs to your group and you can set the timing and route. Private is better for families, photographers and elders.
Respect and photography
The ghats are sacred places. Avoid photographing cremations and always ask before photographing people. Your boatman will guide you on what is appropriate.
Rates are shared in a written quote after you enquire, based on your dates, group size and requirements.
Frequently asked questions about the Ganga aarti boat ride
Is the aarti better from a boat or from the steps?
The boat gives a calmer, wider view of the lamps and the crowd. The steps are closer but more crowded, and you can also walk to Dashashwamedh through Godowlia Market if you prefer.
Which ghat do boats start from?
Most start from Assi, Ravidas or Namo Ghat, and some can start from Dashashwamedh. We plan the boarding point around your hotel.
Does the boat stop at Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
No. Kashi Vishwanath is a walk from the river in the old city, so we plan the temple visit separately.
Is the boat ride safe for children and elders?
Yes. A life jacket is provided for every passenger and the rides suit families, children and senior citizens. If anyone needs help getting in and out of the boat at the ghat, tell us in advance.
What time should I board for the Ganga aarti?
Evening rides run roughly 5:00 to 7:00 PM. Board about 30 minutes before the boat time. The aarti is at 6:00 PM in winter and 6:30 PM in summer and lasts about 45 minutes.
Is the fare per person or per boat?
The fare is for the whole boat, not per person. We confirm the final fare on WhatsApp or by phone before booking, and the meeting point and boatman's contact are shared once the booking is final.
Still have a question? Ask us on WhatsApp
Ready to book or have questions?
Call or message us on WhatsApp. We reply quickly and can customise any plan.
Prefer a call back?
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