Ancient Ritual of Varanasi – Ganga Aarti

Every evening before sunset, thousands of people gather at Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness this special ceremony. This tradition has been a part of the River Ganges for several hundred years. The River Ganga, or the Ganges, is an important holy river for Hindus. People consider this river as a Goddess. This ritual is a salutation to the Goddess of the river. Young priests are only allowed to perform this ritual. They are draped in saffron-colored satin robes and start the ritual in a synchronized manner. Many oil lamps will be lit and swung in a synced motion while chanting mantras in chorus. Lamps will be lit, incense sticks will be burnt in large numbers and the place will be filled with bright colors.

Marigolds, roses, and other flowers are offered to the river. By the end of the ceremony, the priests pour milk from the podium into the river. This marks the end of the ritual, and all the people near the river let go of small lamps on leaves on the river, along with flowers. The river will be filled with thousands of floating lamps. Photographers from international destinations visit Varanasi to witness and capture this moment. Tourists take up boat ride during the arti ceremony to get a good view from the water.

When to visit?

With no regard to the climate or natural calamities, the ceremony is conducted during sunset, every day. To get a good view, it is better to visit the Ghat by 5:30 pm. The ceremony stretches for 45 minutes. The crowd is guaranteed. The ceremony starts around 6:45 pm. In winter, the sunset occurs early and the ceremony starts at 6 pm.
If you want to get a good full-fledged vacation, visit during October or November. This is the festival-rich season in India and you can spot many rituals during this season. Moreover, it is the winter season, and the climate will be pleasing.

Varanasi Morning Aarti

What is the Ticket Price of the Maharaja Express?

Varanasi Travel Guide :

How to reach?

Varanasi is an important destination in the country. There is a domestic airport in Varanasi. The nearest international airport is located in Delhi. Varanasi is connected to many cities in the country directly or through Delhi by air. From the airport, many road transportation are available to reach the main city.

Many surrounding cities like Delhi, Agra, and others have direct buses to Varanasi. Cabs and other transportation can be hired to reach the market. Beyond this, the city has to be scaled on foot. The city is connected to the surrounding states and cities through a well-maintained road system.

Varanasi railway station receives frequent trains from many important cities in the country. From the railway station, there are numerous road transportation options to reach the river area or the market area. A tuk-tuk ride from the station to the river area would cost around INR 100. The cost would be higher during festival seasons.

You can also reach this place by the world’s leading luxury train, the Maharajas Express.

Maharajas Express

Read On: Amazing Facts About the Maharajas Express Train

Tips to know

Varanasi is one of the holiest places according to Hindus and has numerous temples. This is the main reason why the place becomes extremely crowded and congested during festival seasons. Beware while traveling with children and infants.
To avoid crowds, you can rent a hotel near the Ghat and watch the ceremony from the rooftop.
Boat rides during the Aarti will be costlier than at any other time. Bargain to get a good deal.
Although bathing in the Ganges is said to be a pious act, it is better to avoid children bathing in the river due to pollution.

Here’s everything you need to know about its route, itinerary, booking process, and ticket details. Visit here