Ganga Aarti on the Thames

A Ceremony of Light

Ganga Aarti on the Thames

Sunday, 13th September 2026 • 16.00 - 20.00 (Aarti at 7.15pm)

Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, London SE10 9NN, UK

Celebrate with us

Join us on the banks of the Thames for a free day-long celebration of Indian culture. Wander community stalls, savour delicious food, and enjoy live music and dance, with plenty to keep little ones busy throughout the day.

As the sun sets, the day builds to its heart: the magical Ganga Aarti ceremony on the Royal Steps — a moment of light, music, and reflection by the river.

Bring your family and friends, a warm layer for the evening, and a picnic blanket if you like. We’ll take care of the rest.

Food and drink available to buy all day.

Two ancient rivers, one offering

For thousands of years, Ganga Mata (Mother Ganges), has received the prayers of those who stand at her banks at dusk, offering fire and song in the Vedic tradition of Aarti.

Now, this living ritual comes to the Thames – two ancient rivers, each having shaped civilisations and carried the prayers of countless generations, meeting in a single act of offering. An evening open to all — no background, belief, or prior practice required.

This event is in collaboration with and support by Totally Thames.

A trust, celebrating the River Thames with arts events, active adventures, environmental initiatives, heritage and education programmes.

Good to Know

Duration

4 hours, Aarti at 7.15pm

Event Type

In-person

Suitable For

All ages - adults and families

Agenda

16:00 – 18:00

Incredible food stalls, music and dance experience

18:00 - 19:00

Spiritual significance and guidance on the Ganga Aarti explained

19:15 - 19:45

Ganga Aarti performed

Help support this event to life

This event is free and open to all. Everyone is welcome

As a volunteer-led organisation, we do everything we can to keep the timeless traditions of India alive and pass them on to the next generation. If you’re able to support us and the event, your contribution helps us make this something truly memorable for the whole community. Every gift, no matter the size, goes directly into that effort.

Location

Old Royal Naval College

Greenwich, London SE10 9NN

How to get here

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers

Fast and frequent services run every 20 minutes from central London including London Eye Pier (45 mins), London Bridge Pier (25 mins) and Tower Pier (20 mins). 

Accessibility

Greenwich Pier has Europe’s first Ramp Rider, making it easier for wheelchair users to board at all tide levels.

Venue Directions by Train

Cutty Sark DLR Station is situated just a few minutes walk away from the Old Royal Naval College. The DLR connects with other Underground lines at Bank, Canary Wharf, Tower Gateway and Stratford stations.

Alternative options

Take the Jubilee line to North Greenwich Station then get the 188 bus or river boat one stop to Greenwich Pier.

Or hop off the DLR at Island Gardens and walk through one of London’s oldest foot tunnels, under the River Thames (just a 10-minute walk).

We strongly recommend checking Transport for London (TfL) before you leave for any travel updates or temporary station or line closures.

Please note, there is no on-site parking at the venue.

About Chinmaya Mission UK

Chinmaya Mission UK is a registered charity dedicated to sharing the timeless wisdom of Vedanta and fostering spiritual growth within our community. Founded on the teachings of Swami Chinmayananda, we create a welcoming space for seekers of all backgrounds to explore the profound insights of ancient Indian philosophy.

Free and open to all. Registration required.