Assi, Dashashwamedh or Namo? The best ghat to board depends on the time of day, your hotel and what you want to see.
Boats can board at almost any ghat in Varanasi, but a few are far more convenient than others. Here's how to choose.
| You want… | Best ghat |
|---|---|
| Sunrise ride | Assi Ghat |
| Ganga Aarti view | Dashashwamedh Ghat |
| All 84 ghats | Namo Ghat or Adikeshav Ghat |
| Car / bus access, big groups | Ravidas Ghat |
| Quiet boarding | Shivala Ghat |
| Near Kashi Vishwanath | Dashashwamedh or Manikarnika Ghat |
Assi is the southern end of the main ghats, so a boat from here passes every major ghat in order. It hosts Subah-e-Banaras every morning and is easy to reach by road.
The grand evening Aarti happens right here, so boarding at Dashashwamedh means no travel time to the ceremony. It is very crowded in the evening — board early. See Dashashwamedh Ganga Aarti boat.
These are at the northern end, so heading south from here covers the entire riverfront to Assi. Wide, modern steps at Namo Ghat make boarding easier.
If you're staying near Assi or BHU, board at Assi or Ravidas. Staying in the old city or Godowlia? Board at Dashashwamedh. We pick you up from whichever ghat suits you — just choose it in the booking form.
Last updated: 8 October 2026 · All Varanasi guides
