Dashashwamedh Ghat

About Dashashwamedh Ghat, Varanasi

Varanasi's central riverfront ghat and ritual hub

• Dashashwamedh Ghat sits as the most active riverfront embankment along the Ganges in central Varanasi.
• According to Hindu belief, Brahma created the steps to welcome Shiva and performed ten horse sacrifices here.
• Stone tiers step down into the water, bordered by wooden platforms where family priests sit beneath woven umbrellas.
• In the evening, priests perform the Ganga Aarti on brass-lamp stands, accompanied by conch shells, incense, and synchronized bells.
• Early mornings see pilgrims bathing, flower sellers distributing marigolds, and wooden rowing boats docking along the shore.
• The winter months from November to February bring cool breezes and clear skies suitable for boat rides.
• Access to the ghat is free and open at all hours.
• Arrive by 6:00 PM to secure stone seating along the river steps before the sunset ceremony starts.