When the Har Ki Pauri Ganga Aarti starts in each season, where to sit or stand, how to offer a diya, and how the aarti works during the Kumbh 2027.
The evening Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri is one of India's most moving rituals. As the sun sets, priests raise large multi-tiered brass lamps to the river, bells and conches ring out, and thousands of leaf-boat diyas float downstream.
Aarti timings
The aarti is performed every morning and evening, timed to sunrise and sunset, so the clock time changes through the year:
| Season | Morning aarti (approx.) | Evening aarti (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Nov–Feb) | Around 6:30–7:00 a.m. | Around 5:15–6:00 p.m. |
| Spring and summer (Mar–Oct) | Around 5:00–6:00 a.m. | Around 6:00–7:00 p.m. |
The evening aarti lasts about 30–45 minutes. Timings vary with sunset and are set locally. Confirm on the day with your hotel or at the ghat. The aarti at Har Ki Pauri is managed by the Shri Ganga Sabha.
Where to watch
- Main ghat steps facing Brahma Kund: the best view, but they fill up 45–60 minutes before the aarti.
- The opposite bank and the clock tower island: good wide views, slightly less crush.
- Footbridges: good for photos, but police often keep them moving.
Tip: arrive at least an hour early during the Kumbh and on weekends and festivals.
How to offer a diya
Small leaf-boat diyas with flowers and a lamp are sold all around the ghat. Light it, say a prayer, and gently place it in the river at the water's edge. Hold the railings, as the current is strong.
Etiquette
- Remove footwear before the ghat steps. There are footwear stands near the entrances.
- Stand during the main aarti, as others do.
- Keep phones on silent. Avoid flash photography of priests during the ritual.
- Donations are collected by the Ganga Sabha. Give only at official counters or to authorised volunteers.
During the Kumbh
- Expect much larger crowds every evening, especially around snan days.
- On Amrit Snan days (6 March, 8 March and 14 April 2027), access to Har Ki Pauri may be restricted for hours for the akhara processions. Plan the aarti for the evening before or after.
- Mind your belongings. Pickpockets operate in dense crowds.
Stay close to the aarti
Staying in a Luxury Camp or Deluxe Camp in the mela zone lets you attend every evening. Our packages include an escorted aarti visit with a viewing spot.
By KMII Travel Desk · Updated 5 Oct 2026
