Rishikesh runs two famous aartis, and pilgrims should know they’re different ceremonies. Triveni Ghat’s Maha Aarti is the big public one — reported at sunset, ~6:30–7:30 PM summer and ~5:30–6:30 PM winter, with a morning aarti around 5:45–6:15 AM — where hundreds of diya floats ride the current.
Parmarth Niketan, the largest ashram in Rishikesh, holds its own daily sunset ceremony on its ghat, framed by its students and the seated Shiva statue. Both free; both fill. Checked 02 October 2026.
The comparison
| Triveni Ghat | Parmarth Niketan | |
|---|---|---|
| Character | Public riverside ceremony, diya floats | Ashram ceremony, students, statues |
| Timings (reported) | Sunset, ~6:30–7:30 summer / 5:30–6:30 winter | Daily sunset (ashram schedule) |
| Seating | Ghat steps, first-come | Ashram-arranged |
| Extras | Morning aarti ~5:45–6:15 AM | Yoga/satsang programmes (bookable) |
The honest advice
- One night: Triveni Ghat for the classic crowd-and-diyas experience; Parmarth if you’re staying there anyway (the ceremony is steps from your room).
- Both: they start within minutes of each other — pick one per night across two days.
- Arrive 30–45 minutes early for seating either way (reported).
Frequently asked questions
What time is the aarti?
Sunset — reported seasonal windows above; no official schedule exists.
Is there an entry fee?
No — both aartis are free.
