Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest, most prominent, and most visited ghats (a series of steps leading to a river) located on the banks of the River Ganges in the ancient city of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is a significant site for Hindu rituals and pilgrimage.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is famous for its religious significance and for hosting the elaborate and vibrant Ganga Aarti ceremony, a Hindu worship ritual performed every evening. It attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over the world who come to witness the spectacle and to take in the spiritual atmosphere.
According to Hindu mythology, Dashashwamedh Ghat was created by Lord Brahma to welcome Lord Shiva and to perform a sacrifice (yajna) of ten horses, which is indicated by the ghat's name ('Dasha'-ten, 'Ashwa'-horse, 'Medh'-sacrifice). It is also associated with various myths and historical narratives throughout India's history.
The best time to visit the ghat is during the early morning for a sunrise boat ride or in the evening to witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony. The winter months from November to March offer the most pleasant weather for tourists.
No, there is no entry fee to visit Dashashwamedh Ghat. It is open to the public at all times.
Yes, tourists are welcome to watch and can participate in the Ganga Aarti ceremony. Taking part in the ceremony can be a profound and memorable experience for visitors.
Tourists should make sure to take a boat ride on the Ganges River, attend the Ganga Aarti, explore the nearby temples, and observe the various religious practices that take place at the ghat. Additionally, capturing the panoramic views and vibrant life along the ghats during sunrise or sunset is highly recommended.
Yes, as a sacred site, visitors should dress modestly, avoid disturbing the rituals, and be respectful to worshippers and priests. Photography may be restricted in some areas, so it is advisable to seek permission before taking pictures, especially of the rituals or people.
Yes, there are many facilities including a range of accommodation options from budget to luxury hotels, as well as a variety of food stalls and restaurants serving local and international cuisine near the ghat.
Tourists can reach Dashashwamedh Ghat by road, as it's well-connected to the rest of Varanasi. Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis can be used to reach the ghat. Owing to the crowded nature of Varanasi's lanes, visitors may have to walk a short distance to reach the ghat from the nearest drop-off point.
