Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India is home to the sacred Dashashwamedh Ghat on the Ganges River. This riverside Hindu temple is open 24 hours a day, where the daily ritual of Ganga Aarti, which involves offering prayer to the Ganges River, is held in the evening. In addition to this daily ritual, special aartis are held on Tuesdays and religious festivals. Dashashwamedh Ghat is a must-visit attraction for anyone travelling to Varanasi. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about this beautiful place.
Things to do/ highlights:
Ride a boat: Embark on a boat ride during sunrise or sunset. Start at Assi Ghat and end your trip at Manikarnika Ghat, then make your way to Dashashwamedh Ghat to catch the Ganga Aarti.
Take a bath:
Locals believe that bathing in the ghat in the morning washes away sins. Observe how others do it, and follow along. Ask friendly locals for help if you need clarification.
Snap photos:
Take photos of the ongoing activities at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Sit by the steps and observe the traditional rituals, including flower offerings. Varanasi in general is a photographer’s paradise, with unique subjects all around you.
Where to eat:
AnnTripti: It is a multi-cuisine restaurant in Varanasi that prioritises fresh food and customer satisfaction. They offer Indian and Continental dishes, including Banarasi specialities, with changing menus every day. Buffets are not served to ensure freshness. Come and indulge in the unique culinary experience at AnnTripti!
Spicy Bites Restaurant: A four-minute walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat, Spicy Bites Restaurant serves local and international food and offers several vegetarian options. Open from 7 am to 10 pm daily, the restaurant is known for its cleanliness and tasty food.
Varanasi Cafe & Restaurant: A minute away from Spicy Bites Restaurant, Varanasi Cafe & Restaurant is the perfect breakfast place. Try their homemade peanut butter and papaya jam before visiting Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Vatika Cafe: It offers a serene outdoor seating area and a delicious vegetarian menu that includes Indian and continental cuisine, coffee, and tea. It’s known for its warm hospitality and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Sushi Cafe And Continental Restaurant: A three-minute walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat, this restaurant offers Japanese, Korean, Italian, and Chinese cuisine.
Things to buy:
Glass beads: Varanasi is home to the world’s largest manufacturing unit of glass beads. Find handmade bracelets or jewellery that represent India from the many shops near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Rudraksha Mala: A necklace-like item made from the seeds of a Rudraksha tree, believed to be the tears of the Hindu deity Rudra. Worn by devotees in ancient times, it is a unique piece of jewellery.
Silk: Banaras is renowned for its exquisite silk sarees and fabrics, making it the perfect place to shop for silk. Haggling with vendors is expected, and there are various types of silk available, including Katan, Organza, and Georgette.
Flutes: Take home a flute from Varanasi to remember famous Indian musicians like Ravi Shankar and Girija Devi, who were born in Varanasi.
Travel tips:
Do not drink from the Ganges River: The water is not pure, even though it is considered holy. Avoid consuming water, especially if you are travelling with children.
Stay clear if you have sensitive skin: The water is not clean and may result in skin inflammation for those with sensitive skin.
Places to watch the Ganga Aarti:
Watch the Ganga Aarti from the steps of Dashashwamedh Ghat, a hired boat, or a rooftop hotel near the ghat if you want to avoid crowds.
Where to Stay:
Experience the real essence of Varanasi and immerse yourself in its unique culture with our unmatched Junior Suites at our Resort in Varanasi. From cruising the river to attending a live sarod concert, this city demands sensitivity, spirituality, and an open mind. With our suites spanning around 650 sq. ft. and designed in a local architectural style, you can enjoy luxury, space, and privacy. Plus, our large private sit-out overlooking the gardens, kund, and open spaces offers an unforgettable stay. Book now to make the most of this rare experience!
Dashashwamedh Ghat is a place of worship and a popular attraction in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The daily Ganga Aarti ritual is held here, making it a must-visit destination for travellers. Experience the beauty of the ghat by taking a boat ride, observing traditional rituals, or capturing.
