Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat, located at the southern end of Varanasi, stands as the city’s one of the famous ghat. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike, known for its peaceful atmosphere and rich cultural significance. Assi Ghat is important place as it is where the river Ganga (Ganga maiya) meets with the Assi River. On daily basis thousands of peoples visit assi ghat to enjoy the morning ganga aarti as well as evening ganga aarti and spent hours with and bothered.
| Morning Aarti( Summers) | 5:00 AM |
|---|---|
| Morning Aarti (Winters) | 5:30 AM |
| Evening Aarti ( Summers) | 6:30 PM |
| Evening Aarti (Winters) | 6:00 PM |
| Aarti Duration | Approx 45 Minutes |
The Ganga aarti in Varanasi is a beautiful view of devotion and joy that allows us to feel the presence of the divine around us. Throughout history, the holy Ganga River has been respected every single day. It’s a must-see event for every traveler.
The Aarti begin with the priests dressing in traditional attire – dhoti and kurta, well-tied with a long gamcha (towel). They arrange five elevated planks and gather ritual items such as a brass lamp, the idol of Ganga Devi, flowers, and incense sticks. The aarti is conducted by knowledgeable pundits of the Vedas and Upanishads, led by the priest of the Gangotri Seva Samiti.
The ceremony begins with the lighting of the traditional brass lamps, accompanied by rhythmic chanting of holy mantras. Some priests blow conch shells (Shanakh) to purify the atmosphere, while others wave incense sticks to honor Mother Ganga. After the initial mantras, the priests perform the aarti with the brass lamps, using camphor to light them. The mesmerizing aarti fills the air with a sense of purity and peacefulness, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness it.
Shubh-e-Banaras at Assi Ghat
Morning aarti at Assi Ghat is also famous by the name of Shubh e banaras. Morning of Varanasi starts with lively vibes, natural beauty, and spiritual vibes
Subah-e-Banaras began on November 24, 2014, initiated by the Honorable Minister of State of Uttar Pradesh. This initiative has brought together people from all walks of life to experience the divine presence of nature in the early hours. A committee was formed to promote and celebrate the spiritual moments of Subah-e-Banaras, further enriching the spiritual development of those involved.
Popular Times for Pilgrimage
Devotees flock to Assi Ghat especially during the sacred Hindu months of:
Magh (January–February)
Chaitra (March–April)
And also on auspicious occasions like:Makar Sankranti
Probodhini Ekadashi
Solar and Lunar Eclipses (Surya Grahan and Chandra Grahan)
During these times, the ghat sees a surge of pilgrims seeking blessings, cleansing sins, and attaining spiritual merit.
| Start Time | 05:00 AM (Summer) | 05:30 AM (Winter) |
|---|---|
| End Time | 07:00 AM (Summer) | 07:30 AM (Winter) |
| Entry Fee | No Entry Fee |
| Duration | Approx 2 Hrs |
| Activities & Programs |
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How to Reach Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat is situated 3 km from Vishwanath Temple and 2 km from Banaras Hindu University (BHU). It’s easily accessible by road, connecting to all railway stations, the airport, and the bus stand. You can hop on a shared auto-rickshaw to Assi crossing, then it’s just a 5-minute walk to Assi Ghat. Alternatively, you can enjoy a boat ride from any ghat or simply walk there.
By Air:
- Fly to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport.
- Taxi or ride-share to Assi Ghat approx 45 mins.
By train:
- Arrive at Varanasi Junction.
- Take an auto-rickshaw or cycle rickshaw to Assi Ghat approx. 30 mins.
By Road:
- One can take Taxi, auto-rickshaw, or cycle rickshaw to Assi Ghat from any part of Varanasi.
- You can also use your private car, you can park your car near assi ghat.
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Gallery & Images - Assi Ghat
Assi ghat evening ganga aarti
Evening ganga aarti at assi ghat
Boats at assi ghat
Assi ghat temple
Assi ghat stairs
Assi ghat morning aarti
Assi ghat river view
Assi ghat morning aarti ceremony
Assi ghat ganga aarti
Boat ride at assi ghat
History of Assi Ghat
Assi Ghat is one of the southernmost and most spiritually significant ghats in Varanasi, deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and revered by pilgrims and tourists alike.
Mythological Origins
According to ancient legends, Goddess Durga, after slaying the demons Shumbha and Nishumbha, threw her sword into the nearby river. That river came to be known as the Assi River, and the sacred site where it meets the Ganga River became known as Assi Ghat. This symbolic connection gives the ghat immense spiritual importance in Hindu culture.
Mention in Ancient Scriptures
The Kashi Khanda, a supplement of the ancient Skanda Purana, refers to Assi Ghat as “Assi Saimbeda Tirtha.” It is believed that taking a single holy dip at this ghat is equivalent to receiving the spiritual benefits (punya) of bathing in all other sacred Hindu tirthas (pilgrimage sites).
In addition to the Kashi Khanda, other revered Hindu texts such as the Matsya Purana, Kurma Purana, Padma Purana, and Agni Purana also mention Assi Ghat, confirming its religious and cultural significance since ancient times.
Modern-Day Importance
Today, Assi Ghat is not only a religious hotspot but also a cultural hub. It is the main venue for the famous “Subah-e-Banaras” program—held every morning—which includes yoga sessions, Vedic chanting, classical music, and aarti. The ghat is also a favorite spot for locals and tourists to relax, meditate, or enjoy scenic boat rides on the Ganges.
FAQ :Assi Ghat
The morning aarti at Assi Ghat is a spiritual experience.
Timing: Usually starts around 5:00 AM to 5:30 AM, depending on the season.
The early morning aarti is accompanied by chanting, conch sounds, and sunrise rituals, making it a must-attend for tourists.
The evening Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat is one of the most beautiful attractions in Varanasi.
Timing: Generally begins at 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM in winter and around 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM in summer.
The aarti includes traditional music, fire lamps, and Vedic chanting, offering a divine atmosphere.
Yes, both morning and evening aarti at Assi Ghat are open to all visitors. There is no entry fee, and you can attend the aarti for a spiritual and cultural experience.
The best time to visit Assi Ghat is early morning for sunrise and morning aarti, or in the evening during sunset and aarti ceremonies.
Yes, boat rides are available from Assi Ghat. You can enjoy both sunrise boat rides and evening rides during the Ganga Aarti. Charges vary based on shared or private bookings.
Assi Ghat is a prominent and easily accessible ghat in Varanasi. Here's how you can reach from key locations:
From Varanasi Junction (Cantt Station):
Distance: ~6.5 km
Options: Auto-rickshaw, taxi, or e-rickshaw (takes around 20–30 minutes depending on traffic).From Banaras Hindu University (BHU):
Distance: ~1.5 km
Options: Walking, e-rickshaw, or cycle-rickshaw (approx. 5–10 minutes).From Godowlia Chowk:
Distance: ~3.5 km
Options: Shared autos or private rickshaws are available.From Dashashwamedh Ghat:
Distance: ~3 km
Options: Take a boat ride along the river (scenic), or use road transport like auto/e-rickshaw.
Assi Ghat offers a blend of spiritual, cultural, and leisure experiences:
Morning Yoga Sessions (free for tourists)
Subah-e-Banaras Program (cultural event)
Boat Rides (sunrise & sunset views)
Photography & Filming Spot
Street Food & Local Shopping
Puja and Rituals on the banks of the Ganga
No, entry to Assi Ghat and the aarti ceremonies is free. However, donations are welcome and help support local organizers.