Dashashwamedh Ghat is Varanasi’s most famous riverfront steps, believed in legend to be where Lord Brahma performed a ten-horse sacrifice (Dasha-ashwamedha) to welcome Shiva. Framed by temples and pilgrim lodges, it comes alive every evening with the Ganga Aarti — a synchronised fire-worship ritual performed by a row of priests with multi-tiered brass lamps, drawing large crowds on the steps and in boats on the river. By day, it is equally busy with bathers, boatmen and pandas (priests) offering rituals for pilgrims. Dashashwamedh Ghat sits at an elevation of 60 m. The most favourable months to visit are February, November, December, and January, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Dashashwamedh Ghat Main Steps, Siddharth Art Gallery, and Boat Ride from Dashashwamedh Ghat. Other notable highlights include evening Ganga Aarti with fire and chanting, boat ride at sunrise along the ghats, and watching priests perform synchronized rituals. For travellers planning the trip, the nearest railway station is Varanasi Junction (Varanasi Cantt), the closest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi, and local buses run via Kashi Gate Bus Stand. It falls within Uttar Pradesh, India.
State: Uttar Pradesh
Ideal Duration: 1-2 Hours
February, November, December, January
The main ghat has a long flight of stairs, and there is no ramp, so walking down can be challenging. However, you can hire a boat from the nearby Assi Ghat or take a cycle-rickshaw to the upper level, and many boatmen will help you board with care.
There is no entry fee for the aarti itself, and you can sit on the steps for free. If you want a boat seat for the aarti, expect to pay around 200–300 rupees per person, with group discounts possible for senior travellers.
The evening Ganga Aarti begins around sunset, usually between 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM depending on the season. Arrive at least 45 minutes early to secure a good spot on the steps or book a boat in advance for a clearer view.
Carry a light shawl or jacket as it gets cool near the river, plus a small torch or phone light for the walk back. Keep your footwear in a bag since you may need to remove them near the temple area, and avoid carrying valuables as the crowd can be dense.
Yes, photography and video recording are allowed, but be respectful and avoid blocking the view of others. Flash photography is discouraged during the main rituals, so use a phone or camera with good low-light settings instead.