The feel of Assi
Assi is where students, yoga practitioners, musicians and long-stay travellers gather. It is quieter than the central ghats and ideal for a slow first morning.
- 1 to 2 hours
- Sunrise to early morning.
Assi Ghat Varanasi: Sunrise, Morning Aarti & What to Do
The southernmost major ghat where the Assi stream meets the Ganga, known for its relaxed morning atmosphere, yoga, music and sunrise views.
LocationSouth end of the main ghats, near BHU
Time needed1 to 2 hours
Best timeSunrise to early morning.
EntryFree
Overview
The southernmost major ghat where the Assi stream meets the Ganga, known for its relaxed morning atmosphere, yoga, music and sunrise views.
- Best time: Sunrise to early morning.
- ui.facts.timings: Open all day; morning events and the Subah-e-Banaras programme run at dawn.
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
- Dress code: Casual and comfortable
- Nearby: Tulsi Ghat, Sankat Mochan, BHU, Durga Temple
Last updated:
Good to know
Visiting Assi Ghat: what to know
Morning programme
A short morning ritual and music programme is held at sunrise. It is a gentler alternative to the evening aarti and works well with a boat ride that heads north along the ghats.
What to do at Assi
- Watch the sunrise and morning programme.
- Take a boat north along the ghats.
- Join a yoga or meditation session offered locally.
- Browse the cafes, bookshops and shops in the lanes behind the ghat.
How to reach
Assi is about 5 to 6 km from the old city centre, 20 to 30 minutes by road. Cars can reach the area and parking is available nearby. It is the most convenient ghat for a private car.
Best way to combine
Start with sunrise at Assi, take a boat to Dashashwamedh, walk to Kashi Vishwanath and have breakfast in the lanes. This is the classic first morning in Varanasi.
Photos
Photos
Trip details
Quick facts
- Dress code
- Casual and comfortable
- Nearby
- Tulsi Ghat, Sankat Mochan, BHU, Durga Temple
- Photography
- Allowed
- Timings
- Open all day; morning events and the Subah-e-Banaras programme run at dawn.
Frequently asked questions about Assi Ghat
Is Assi Ghat worth visiting?
Yes, especially at sunrise. It is the best place to see the city wake up without the heavy crowds of Dashashwamedh.
Still have a question? Ask us on WhatsApp
Add to your trip
Tours and trips that include Assi Ghat
Varanasi 1 Day Tour Package
Kal Bhairav, Kashi Vishwanath, Annapurna and Sankat Mochan darshan, an evening boat ride and the Ganga aarti in one day by private cab.
- Darshan at Kal Bhairav, Kashi Vishwanath, Annapurna and Sankat Mochan
- Evening boat ride from Assi Ghat
- Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Varanasi Sunrise Boat Ride
Row along the ghats at first light, from Assi to Dashashwamedh and back.
- Sunrise ride, usually 5:30 to 7:00 AM
- Hand boat (up to 6) or private motor boat (up to 10)
- Boarding from Assi, Ravidas or Namo Ghat
Kashi Darshan Boat Ride: All Major Ghats
A longer private ride along the major ghats from Assi to Rajghat, ending at Dashashwamedh for the evening aarti.
- Main ghats from Assi to Raj Ghat or Manikarnika
- About 2 to 2.5 hours with commentary
- Private motor boat (up to 10) or hand boat (up to 6)
Private Boat Ride in Varanasi
A whole boat for your family or group, with timing and route set by you.
- Whole boat for your family or group
- Hand boat (6), motor boat (10), bajra (20 to 50) or cruise
- Birthday, anniversary and photo-shoot boats on request
Where you go
