Sapt Rishi Aarti is a special evening prayer at the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. In this Aarti, seven priests perform the worship together, each from a different gotra or priestly lineage. The name Sapt Rishi refers to the “seven sages” of ancient Hindu tradition. Devotees believe that this combined prayer brings strong spiritual power and blessings.
This Aarti is part of the regular daily schedule at the temple, and it comes after the Mid Day Bhog Aarti. It is usually held in the evening when the temple is still open for darshan (viewing the deity). The ritual includes devotional chanting, bells, and lamps. The priests perform the Aarti together, which makes it a unique experience compared with other Aartis offered by a single priest.
Sapt Rishi Aarti is meaningful because it honours Lord Shiva through the combined devotion of seven scholars, representing unity and strength in worship. Visiting devotees feel a deep sense of peace and spiritual connection during this time. Pilgrims from across India and the world plan their trips to attend this Aarti and download or print their tickets before they arrive.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple Mid Day Bhog Aarti 2026 :Booking,Timings & Process
Timings of Sapt Rishi Aarti
Every day at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sapt Rishi Aarti takes place in the evening. In 2026, the usual time for this Aarti is 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM. Devotees should aim to enter the temple before this, ideally by 6:30 PM, so they can be ready at the place before the ceremony begins.
Here is a simple daily schedule showing the main aarti times in the temple:
| Aarti | Normal Time |
|---|---|
| Mangla Aarti | 3:00 AM – 4:00 AM |
| Mid Day Bhog Aarti | 11:15 AM – 12:20 PM |
| Sapt Rishi Aarti | 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM |
| Night Shringar/Bhog Aarti | 9:00 PM – 10:15 PM |
| Shayan Aarti | 10:30 PM – 11:00 PM |
The evening atmosphere at the temple is calm and spiritual. The timing lets visitors come after daytime activities or sightseeing. The Sapt Rishi Aarti falls between the main daytime prayers and the later night Aartis, making it easier for pilgrims to attend if they are staying in Varanasi for a few days.
On special days like Purnima (full moon) or during festivals, the start time might be adjusted slightly, but normally the ceremony still happens in the evening. Devotees should check the official temple schedule before their visit to confirm times.
Booking Process for Sapt Rishi Aarti
To attend Sapt Rishi Aarti inside the inner sanctum area of the temple, booking in advance is needed. The easiest and safest way to do this is by using the official portal of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Tickets are available for booking online, and booking early is recommended because spots are limited.
Here is how you can book your Aarti ticket:
- Visit the official temple website: shrikashivishwanath.org.
- Choose “Sapt Rishi Aarti” from the list: Go to the list of Pooja / Darshan.
- Select your visit date: Pick the day you want to attend.
- Fill in your personal details: Name, age, contact details, and ID information.
- Complete the payment: Pay with a secure online method.
- Save the confirmation: Print or save your ticket for entry.
After booking, you must carry the ticket or confirmation when you visit the temple for the evening Aarti. At the entry point, the ticket and your ID are checked before you are allowed into the Aarti area. If you book through unofficial sites, you might pay more than the official allowed price, and entry is not guaranteed.
Ticket Price and Categories
The ticket price for Sapt Rishi Aarti is set by the temple trust and usually remains stable. In 2026, the approximate cost for a standard Sapt Rishi Aarti ticket is ₹300 per person. This price is similar to other regular aartis in the evening and day.
Here is a clear price summary for the main aartis at Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
| Aarti Type | Price (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Mangla Aarti | ₹500 |
| Mid Day Bhog Aarti | ₹300 |
| Sapt Rishi Aarti | ₹300 |
| Night Shringar/Bhog Aarti | ₹300 |
These prices are for regular entry. Additional VIP or priority tickets may sometimes be offered through authorised portals or temple services at a higher cost, but the regular ticket is sufficient for most devotees. Always check the official booking page for the latest pricing before you reserve.
During busy festival seasons like Shravan, Mahashivaratri, or full moon days, demand for tickets rises and the slots fill quickly. Booking well ahead of your travel dates helps avoid disappointment.
What Happens During Sapt Rishi Aarti
Sapt Rishi Aarti is a devotional evening ritual that lasts about one hour. When you enter the temple before the start time, priests and devotees gather near the inner sanctum where Lord Shiva’s Jyotirlinga is housed.
During the ceremony:
• Seven priests from different gotras perform the Aarti together.
• They light traditional oil lamps and wave them in circular motion.
• Chanting of prayers and mantras fills the temple.
• Bells and conch shells are sounded at key moments.
• Devotees stand or sit quietly in prayer and reflection.
This combined performance by seven scholars is believed to enhance the spiritual energy of the ritual. Many visitors describe the experience as peaceful and deeply meaningful. Because it is in the evening, lighting and shadows in the temple add to the calm atmosphere.
After the Aarti ends, devotees can stay for a short time for personal darshan of the deity, if allowed. Photography is usually not permitted inside the inner sanctum to keep the focus on devotion and respect.
Entry Rules and Guidelines
To attend Sapt Rishi Aarti smoothly, you must follow certain rules and guidelines set by the temple authorities.
• Ticket is compulsory: Bring a printed or digital copy of your Aarti ticket.
• Valid ID: You should carry a government-issued ID like passport or Aadhaar.
• Arrive early: Enter by about 6:30 PM so you are ready for the Aarti start time.
• No big bags/cameras: Clear instruction may be given on leaving large bags and cameras before entering the sanctum.
• Children: Often children under a certain age may enter for free but may still require registering for a ticket slot.
• Follow instructions: Temple staff guide devotees for seating or standing positions during the ceremony.
Following these basic rules helps maintain order and respect in the sacred environment. The temple may refuse entry without ticket or ID due to crowd limits, so be prepared and patient.
Best Time of Year to Attend
Sapt Rishi Aarti happens every evening throughout the year. But some times are better than others for travel and weather.
• Winter (Oct – Mar): Cooling weather is pleasant for evening visits and walking around the temple area.
• Summer (Apr – Jun): Hot weather can be intense in the daytime, but evenings are cooler.
• Monsoon (Jul – Sep): Rain may slow travel, but crowds are usually smaller.
• Festivals: During Shravan and Mahashivaratri, ticket demand rises and early booking is needed.
If you want a calmer visit with less humidity and crowds, winter months are often most comfortable. However, pilgrim numbers stay high year round, so check ticket availability in advance
Travel and Where to Stay
Varanasi is well connected by air, train, and road, making travel planning easier for Sapt Rishi Aarti and other temple visits. The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport in Varanasi, about 25–30 km from the temple.
For accommodation:
• Old city area: Hotels and guest houses near Vishwanath Gali are close to the temple so you can walk for the evening Aarti.
• Nearby local hotels: Budget and mid-range stays are available around the temple lanes.
• Advance booking: During peak months, rooms near the temple fill quickly.
Staying nearby helps you reach the temple on time for the evening Aarti without relying on transport after dark. Plan your stay ahead of your travel date to avoid last-minute issues.
Nearby Places to Visit
When you are in Varanasi for Sapt Rishi Aarti, there are other sacred and cultural places nearby to explore after your visit.
• Dashashwamedh Ghat: Famous for the evening Ganga Aarti by the river.
• Assi Ghat: A quieter ghat for morning walks and boat rides.
• Manikarnika Ghat: Historic cremation ghat on the Ganga.
• Bharat Mata Temple: A temple with a large relief map of India.
• Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: A local favourite for evening prayer.
Walking through the old lanes around the temple gives insight into local culture, shops, food, and spiritual routines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book ahead for Sapt Rishi Aarti?
Yes, booking in advance through the official temple portal is recommended.
Can foreigners book tickets?
Yes, all devotees with valid ID can book and attend.
What if Sapt Rishi tickets are full?
Try another date or attend other Aartis like Mid Day Bhog or Night Shringar.
Is photography allowed inside?
Usually no, to preserve the ritual atmosphere.