Dasashwamedh Ghat, Varanasi - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Dasashwamedh Ghat

At a distance of 6 Km from Varanasi Junction, Dasashwamedh Ghat is a sacred ghat on the banks of River Ganga in the holy town of Varanasi. Located close to Vishwanath Temple, Dasashwamedh Ghat is the main ghat in Varanasi, and also one of the popular places to visit as part of the Varanasi luxury tours. This is also the busiest ghat. On the tenth waxing fortnight of the Jyeshtha (May/June) worship of the Ganga is celebrated on a grand scale in the Ganga temple at the top of the ghat. Dashashwamedh Ghat is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists who come to witness the sacred rituals, take part in boat rides, and soak in the spiritual ambiance of Varanasi.

History & Mythology of Dasashwamedh Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat is translated as the 'Ghat of Ten Horses.' This name originates from an ancient legend in which Lord Brahma conducted a ten-horse sacrifice, known as the 'Dashashwamedh Yajna,' to pay tribute to Lord Shiva. This tale highlights the ghat's profound ties to Hindu mythology and its significance as a site of great religious value.

Over the centuries, the ghat has experienced numerous changes. It is thought to have been constructed by Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao in 1740 CE and subsequently renovated by the Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar in 1774. These renovations have maintained its historical essence while accommodating the requirements of modern worshippers and visitors.

Things to do in Dasashwamedh Ghat

Dasashwamedh Ghat is among the oldest and most esteemed riverfronts situated along the banks of the Ganges River in Varanasi, India. This ghat is renowned for its vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, where daily rituals, aarti ceremonies, and religious processions occur. Adorned with numerous temples and sacred sites, the ghat features well-constructed steps and platforms designed for various rituals and religious activities.

Dasashwamedh Ghat is particularly famous for the Ganga Aarti held each evening, which draws many devotees and is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Ganga Aarti commences shortly after sunset and continues for approximately 45 minutes. This aarti includes a meticulously choreographed performance by priests who utilize large fire lamps, incense, and conch shells, all accompanied by hymns and chants. The synchronization of their movements, along with the resonating sound of bells, creates a mesmerizing spectacle that attracts large crowds of devotees and tourists.

Taking a dip in the Ganges at Dashashwamedh Ghat is regarded as an act of purification. This practice is particularly prominent during auspicious occasions and festivals when the ghat is bustling with individuals seeking spiritual cleansing. Another important practice at the ghat involves performing rituals for departed souls, known as Pind Daan. This ritual is believed to free the souls of ancestors, granting them peace and facilitating their journey to the afterlife. Families from across India visit Dashashwamedh Ghat to carry out these rites, highlighting the ghat's significance in linking the living with their ancestral heritage.

Festivals of Dasashwamedh Ghat

Dasashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi is especially lively during the festivals of Dev Deepawali and Kartik Purnima. Dev Deepawali, which is observed fifteen days after Diwali, is renowned for its stunning illumination featuring millions of oil lamps lining the ghats. Kartik Purnima, occurring on the full moon of the Hindu month of Kartika, typically in November, is another significant festival celebrated at the ghats. The Dasashwamedh Ghat serves as the focal point for the daily Ganga Aarti ceremony, a vibrant ritual that includes chanting, music, and the presentation of lamps to the river goddess.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Dasashwamedh Ghat

While there is no official dress code at Dasashwamedh Ghat, it is recommended to dress modestly to demonstrate respect for the religious practices taking place there. Men may opt for dhotis or long trousers paired with shirts, whereas women are encouraged to wear Sarees, Salwar Kameez, or other traditional garments that sufficiently cover their shoulders and legs. It is advisable to refrain from wearing Western clothing such as shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops.

Dasashwamedh Ghat is open to individuals of all faiths, providing a welcoming environment for tourists from various backgrounds to engage with Hindu culture and spirituality. Non-Hindus frequently have the opportunity to witness the daily rituals and ceremonies conducted at the ghat, including the evening Ganga Aarti.

Dasashwamedh Ghat Timings

Monday: 24 Hours, Ganga Aarti: 6:30 PM in winter & 7 PM in summer
Tuesday: 24 Hours, Ganga Aarti: 6:30 PM in winter & 7 PM in summer
Wednesday: 24 Hours, Ganga Aarti: 6:30 PM in winter & 7 PM in summer
Thursday: 24 Hours, Ganga Aarti: 6:30 PM in winter & 7 PM in summer
Friday: 24 Hours, Ganga Aarti: 6:30 PM in winter & 7 PM in summer
Saturday: 24 Hours, Ganga Aarti: 6:30 PM in winter & 7 PM in summer
Sunday: 24 Hours, Ganga Aarti: 6:30 PM in winter & 7 PM in summer

Dasashwamedh Ghat Entry Fee

Entry is Free
VIP Seats for Ganga Aarti available for Rs. 1000 - Rs. 2000

Best Time to Visit Dasashwamedh Ghat

The best time to visit Dasashwamedh Ghat, regarded as one of the most sacred ghats along the River Ganges in Varanasi, is during the cooler months from October to March. This timeframe typically features pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the ghat without the oppressive heat or heavy rainfall that can characterize the summer and monsoon seasons. Additionally, visiting Dasashwamedh Ghat early in the morning or late in the evening enhances the experience, allowing one to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds. Besides, visiting the ghat during the Ganga Aarti at each evening is particularly rewarding and is certainly once in a lifetime experience.

How to Reach Dasashwamedh Ghat

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Babatpur is the nearest airport which is about 23 Km from Varanasi Junction. Also known as Varanasi Airport, it is well connected with flights from New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Gaya. Varanasi Junction railway station is well connected by trains with Chhapra, Kanpur, Amritsar, Muzzafarpur, Jammu, Ahmedabad, New Delhi, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Ranchi, Indore, Tatanagar, Chandigarh, Guwahati, Gorakhpur, Lucknow, Patna, Kochi, Jaisalmer, Mumbai, Bangalore, Dehradun, Haridwar, Pune and Chennai. Varanasi is well connected with buses from Agra, Delhi, Allahabad, Kanpur, Gorakhpur and Lucknow. One can reach Dasashwamedh Ghat by hiring a cab, or an auto-rickshaw from all parts of the city of Varanasi.