Okay, so I wanted to experience the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, but I wasn’t sure about the exact timing. Here’s how I figured it out and what I saw, from start to finish.
Figuring Out the Timing
First, I looked up “ganga aarti time varanasi” online. I found out some general info, most sites said it happens around sunset. But, I wanted to be sure.
So I started digging a little deeper. I read some travel blogs and forum posts. People were saying different things, some said 6:00 PM, others 6:30 PM, even 7:00 PM! It seemed like it changes with the seasons.
Getting There
I decided to play it safe and head to the Dashashwamedh Ghat (that’s the main one) around 5:30 PM. I figured I could grab a good spot and watch the preparations.
- I took an auto-rickshaw. Traffic was, well, Varanasi traffic.
- The closer I got, the more crowded it became.
- I paid the driver and hopped out, following the crowds.
The Experience
I found a decent spot near the steps. It was already pretty packed! People were setting up cameras, chatting, and just soaking in the atmosphere.
Then the preparations started. Priests in saffron robes began arranging the lamps, incense, and other ritual items. There was a lot of chanting and bell ringing, it was pretty mesmerizing.
The actual Aarti started around 6:45 PM. It was getting dark, and the flames from the lamps looked amazing against the twilight sky. The priests performed the synchronized movements, offering the fire to the Ganga River. It was a powerful and beautiful sight.
The whole thing lasted for about 45 minutes to an hour. After it was over, the crowd slowly dispersed. I walked around for a bit, just taking it all in, before heading back to my hotel.
So, the Ganga Aarti time in Varanasi? It’s around sunset, but definitely check the specific time for the season you’re visiting. And go early to grab a good spot! It’s totally worth it.