Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Varanasi

Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located on the western side of the Ganges River. The temple is important because it is associated with Varanasi, one of the world's oldest cities and a main pilgrimage destination and is among the 12 Jyotirlingas. The current temple structure was rebuilt in the 18th century by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar. Mahashivaratri and Navratri are important festivals celebrated at this temple.

History of Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi

The Varanasi is oldest city of India. This city serves as a significant and cultural hub. This holy city is located on the bank of the Ganga. The famous Jyotirlinga of India, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, is in Varanasi's centre of attractions. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the revered Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva 12 Jyotirlinga. Millions of people come to the Kashi Vishwanath temple in search of blessings, freedom, and tranquilly. One perspective of the Jyotirlinga is claimed to cleanse the soul. The Kashi Vishwanath temple has a special place in India’s spiritual and historical temples. It is said that visiting Kashi Vishwanath equals visiting all Jyotirlingas in India. Great saints like Guru Nanak, Adi Shankaracharya, Tulsidas and Swami Vivekananda came here to worship. The temple receives visitors from all around the world. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi is a representation of harmony, peace and unity. The temple was rebuilt in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. In 1839, Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab donated gold for two domes. The third dome is still without gold plating. Since 1983, the temple has been managed by a trust under the Uttar Pradesh government.

Mythological Importance of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a hub of old stories in addition to being a site of prayer. The story of the Jyotirlinga, a living column of light, is among the most popular in this place. Varanasi was selected as India's spiritual centre by this holy light. Varanasi is considered to be the location of the first Jyotirlinga. Every god struggled over who was better. It extended past the sky and the earth. Vishnu turned into a boar and went deep into the earth to find its base. Brahma turned into a swan and flew upward to find its top. Neither could find the beginning nor the end of the column. Vishnu admitted the truth. However, Brahma falsely claimed to have seen the summit. Shiva severed one of Brahma's heads as retribution for his deception. He also cursed Brahma that no one would worship him like other gods. For his honesty, Vishnu was blessed and is still worshipped everywhere. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple stands today as proof of Shiva’s supreme power. The Jyotirlinga here is the centre of devotion for millions of people. It is also believed that Shiva carried the curse of Brahmahatya after cutting Brahma’s head. However, the temple is believed to be a location where Shiva offers moksha (freedom) and eliminates ignorance. Devotees see their journey to this temple as more than just a custom. It is a personal journey of faith. Here, they connect with Shiva’s divine energy. Here, they feel the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth being transcended.

Architecture of Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi

The Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a magnificent example of Indian architecture. The golden towers inside the temple in Varanasi are shining in the sunlight. The carvings on the walls depict Lord Shiva's heavenly deeds. Everything about the temple feels radiant and holy. It is a living piece of art as well as a site of devotion. Similar to the statues of Shiva and Parvati that we make in our workshop, the temple's design shows the close connection between art and spirituality. This creates a strong feeling of devotion. Rituals here, from the morning aarti to the evening offerings, bring people closer to the divine. Even small acts like lighting a diya or offering milk to the Shivling are full of meaning. The experience gives peace, devotion, and a deep connection with Lord Shiva.

Guide for a Visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi

Security Check & Entry

• Enter the main gates after passing the security check.
• Mobile phones, cameras, and electronic items are restricted inside the temple.
• Cloakroom facilities are available near the entry gate no 2

Remove Footwear

• Remove footwear at the counter outside the temple premises.
• Collect the token and keep it safe for later retrieval.

Join a Darshan Queue

• You can choose free darshan or paid/special darshan.
• Paid darshan gives faster entry.
• Stand in the queue and move in order.
• Walk through the temple corridors and mandapas.

Enter the Garbha Griha

• The main deity of the temple is the Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva.
• Devotees offer Ganga water, milk, and flowers to the Shivling.

Visit Additional Shrines in the Complex

• Goddess Annapurna
• Lord Kaal Bhairav (guardian of Kashi)
• Goddess Parvati
• Lord Kartikeya and Lord Ganesha

Collect Prasadam & Return Footwear

• After darshan, collect prasadam like peda or ladoo.
• Take back your footwear from the counter with your token.

Exit the Temple Peacefully

• Follow the marked exit route.
• Stay disciplined

Free Annadan Service

• The temple trust provides free meals to devotees at set times.

How to Reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The temple can be reached easily through the different modes of transport. Some of them are given below.

By Rail

The nearest station is Varanasi Junction (BSB) at a distance of 4 km. There are trains from the major cities nearby. One can even get a taxi or public transport to reach the temple. The local transport facilities also take you easily to the temple.

By Road

The city is well connected with the means of roads, and there are even regular public transport facilities available from the nearby cities to reach the temple. You can even hire a private taxi to reach the temple.

By Air

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 25 km from the temple. There are regular flights from the major cities, and one can easily reach them by air. The public transportation and taxi facilities are available to reach the temple.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Best Time to Visit

The temple must be visited in the winter months from October to March. You can even enjoy the sightseeing while visiting the temple.