Temple Aartis in India are more than rituals—they are profound spiritual experiences that awaken the senses and connect you to the divine. From the sacred banks of the Ganga in Varanasi to the peaceful mornings in Shirdi, these Aartis blend light, sound, and devotion into unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker or a curious traveler, witnessing these powerful ceremonies is a must on any journey through India’s sacred landscape.
In the heart of Indian spiritual practice lies Aarti—a powerful ritual of light, sound, and devotion that transcends language. It’s not just a tradition, it’s an experience: the rhythmic clang of bells, the swirl of lamps, the collective chanting of hundreds, and a spiritual vibration that fills the air.
Across India, some temples have elevated the Aarti into majestic daily ceremonies that draw devotees from around the world. If you’re a true seeker or even a curious traveler, here’s a guide to the most iconic Aartis you must witness at least once in your lifetime.
Ganga Aarti – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Location: Dashashwamedh Ghat
Why It’s Special: The most grand and mesmerizing Aarti on the banks of the Ganga. Performed by seven priests with synchronised movements and giant fire lamps.
Best Time to Visit: Every evening around 6:30–7:00 PM
Spiritual Tip: Arrive early to get a good view or book a boat ride for a magical riverside perspective.
- Sai Baba Kakad Aarti – Shirdi, Maharashtra
Location: Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
Why It’s Special: Begins before sunrise, symbolising the start of a devotee’s spiritual day with Sai Baba. Known for its tranquil energy and emotional resonance.
Best Time to Visit: 4:30 AM daily
Spiritual Tip: Combine this with the noon, evening, and night aartis for a full-day darshan of Baba’s love.
- Tirupati Suprabhatam Aarti – Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh
Location: Tirumala Venkateswara Temple
Why It’s Special: This sacred wake-up ritual includes chanting of the “Suprabhatam” hymns to awaken Lord Balaji. The entire temple vibrates with divine energy.
Best Time to Visit: 3:00 AM (advance booking required)
Spiritual Tip: Book via VIP Darshan channels or trusted tour operators like Sai Shub Tours.
- Har Ki Pauri Ganga Aarti – Haridwar, Uttarakhand
Location: Har Ki Pauri
Why It’s Special: Flames, flowers, and chants merge into a stunning visual during sunset. The ghat becomes a sea of diyas, floating down the Ganga.
Best Time to Visit: Around 6:00 PM every day
Spiritual Tip: Stand near the Brahmakund section for the most immersive experience.
- Siddhivinayak Aarti – Mumbai, Maharashtra
Location: Siddhivinayak Temple, Prabhadevi
Why It’s Special: Dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this Aarti brings Mumbai’s fast-paced life to a halt, as hundreds bow before Bappa with intense devotion.
Best Time to Visit: Tuesdays and during Ganesh Chaturthi
Spiritual Tip: Join the morning Kakad Aarti at 5:30 AM for a quieter, more soulful moment.
- Evening Aarti at Golden Temple – Amritsar, Punjab
Location: Sri Harmandir Sahib
Why It’s Special: Though Sikhs do not perform Aarti in the traditional Hindu sense, the Rehras Sahib and kirtan at sunset, followed by the Palki Sahib ceremony, is a deeply spiritual event.
Best Time to Visit: 7:00 PM onwards
Spiritual Tip: Stay overnight at the temple complex and attend both morning and evening rituals.
- Jagannath Temple Sandhya Aarti – Puri, Odisha
Location: Jagannath Temple, Puri
Why It’s Special: The Sandhya Dhupa (evening Aarti) is performed with ritualistic devotion, traditional music, and fragrance of sandalwood and camphor.
Best Time to Visit: 7:00 PM daily
Spiritual Tip: Dress modestly and follow the customs—non-Hindus are not allowed inside but can witness external rituals.
- Meenakshi Temple Aarti – Madurai, Tamil Nadu
Location: Meenakshi Amman Temple
Why It’s Special: The evening Aarti marks the symbolic union of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar. A vibrant procession accompanies the ritual.
Best Time to Visit: 9:00 PM (Night Aarti)
Spiritual Tip: Don’t miss the Palliarai Puja, a unique temple ceremony.
- Kalighat Temple Aarti – Kolkata, West Bengal
Location: Kalighat Kali Temple
Why It’s Special: Intense, mystical, and emotionally charged, the Aarti to Kali Ma is unlike any other—fiery lamps, heavy drums, and deep chants invoke divine shakti.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning and evening
Spiritual Tip: Perfect for devotees of the Divine Feminine and seekers of tantric energy.
🙏Why Witnessing Aartis Is Life-Changing
- Energy Shift: You don’t just observe—you feel.
- Spiritual Cleansing: Aarti helps align mind, body, and spirit.
- Community Connection: Stand shoulder to shoulder with strangers turned fellow devotees.
- Tradition & Culture: Each temple offers a different rhythm, language, and emotion.
Whether you’re spiritually inclined or culturally curious, Aarti is a must-experience window into India’s sacred soul.
Travel Tips for Aarti Experiences
- Dress modestly and respectfully
- Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early
- Avoid carrying large bags or electronics
- Follow temple rules (photography may not be allowed)
- Travel with a guide or trusted tour group like Sai Shub Tours for safe, curated experiences
Plan Your Aarti Pilgrimage with Sai Shub Tours
Witnessing these iconic Aartis becomes seamless with Sai Shub Tours, where we ensure:
✅ VIP or reserved access to key temples
✅ Early morning transfers and pickups for Kakad Aartis
✅ Comfortable accommodations near Aarti venues
✅ Senior-friendly itineraries
✅ Spiritual guidance and language support
We don’t just take you to temples—we help you feel the divine.
FAQ
Attending an Aarti in person allows you to fully immerse yourself in the energy of the ritual. The sights, sounds, and vibrations create a deep spiritual experience that cannot be replicated through videos or photos.
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi and Kakad Aarti in Shirdi are considered among the most powerful due to their scale, historical importance, and intense devotional atmosphere.
Most Aartis are open to all, especially at places like Varanasi, Haridwar, and the Golden Temple. However, temples like Jagannath in Puri may restrict entry to non-Hindus inside the sanctum.
Yes. Aartis during festivals, full moons, Tuesdays (for Ganesha), and Ekadashi are often more elaborate and powerful. Always check local temple schedules in advance.
Absolutely. Sai Shub Tours offers custom pilgrimage packages that include VIP passes, Aarti scheduling, and spiritual guidance for key temples across India.