Varanasi doesn't sleep early — evenings bring the Ganga Aarti, glowing ghats and buzzing lanes.
The best of Varanasi after dark happens around the river. Here's how to spend an evening.
The highlight of every evening. Watch from the river with a private boat — see Aarti timings.
After the Aarti, continue along the illuminated riverfront. A canopy Light Motor Boat or the AC Cruise makes it extra comfortable.
On Dev Diwali the ghats are lit with lakhs of diyas — the most spectacular night of the year.
Stick to busy, lit stretches of the ghats, and book boats with a confirmed price. Read our safety tips.
Last updated: 8 October 2026 · All Varanasi guides
