Shri Vishalakshi Mata Shaktipeeth Temple Varanasi

The temple is also known as Vishalakshi Gauri Temple and is located at Meer Ghat on the bank of the holy river Ganga in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The temple is considered Shakti Pitha, the holiest temple devoted to the Hindu divine mother, Adishakti.According to Puranas, Vishalakshi manikarnika is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas. Vishalakshi temple of Kashi is mentioned in Devi Purana. Vishalakshi is literally the large-eyed, an epithet of Parvati, wife of Lord Shiva. For more details, check our latest blog on Vishalakshi Temple Timing and History.

History of Vishalakshi Temple Varanasi

Varanasi is a temple town of Uttar Pradesh. In Varanasi, there are pious devotees lived Her name is Kaushalya. She was a worshipper of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. She spent her days in deep meditation and prayer. She had no option but to see her favourite deities divinely. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were moved by Kaushalya's genuine and passionate devotion. They chose to show her their holy presence after being moved by her persistent devotion. On the banks of the Ganges, Kaushalya was once meditating. The goddess Parvati appeared to her in a vision. The goddess showed up as a glowing figure with large, compassionate eyes. She granted her greatest request and blessed Kaushalya. The excitement swept over Kaushalya. She chose to construct a shrine for Goddess Parvati as an act of thanks. She desired to spread the wonderful gift she had been given. Then, the goddess Parvati manifested as Vishalakshi, which translates to "One with wide eyes." In her honour, she instructed Kaushalya to construct a temple. Devotees might seek spiritual insight, wisdom, and understanding here, she claimed. All sincere followers will be blessed by her kind glance. Kaushalya initiated construction on the Vishalakshi Temple with the goddess's approval. It arose in Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges. The temple's lofty spire and exquisite decoration highlighted the spirituality and beauty of the city.

Architecture of Vishalakshi Temple, Uttar Pradesh

The Nagara style of North Indian temple architecture is used in the construction of the Vishalakshi Temple. The walls and doors have beautiful carvings of flowers and designs. Inside the sanctum, there are two idols of Goddess Vishalakshi. One is the old black stone idol called Adi Vishalakshi. The other is a new decorated idol for darshan. A Sri Yantra was placed here by Adi Shankaracharya. There are also small shrines of Lord Shiva and other deities inside the temple. The temple has paintings, lion figures, and marble art that add to its beauty. Though small in size, the temple looks graceful and holy. It shows the devotion and artistic spirit of Varanasi.

Tips to Visit Vishalakshi Shakti Peeth, Varanasi

Inside the Temple

• Built in Nagara style with a tall spire.
• Two idols of Goddess Vishalakshi:
• Original black stone idol (Adi Vishalakshi).
• Decorated idol for darshan.
• Also has shrines of Shiva and other deities.

Prasad & Offerings

• Common prasad: ladoo, flowers, kumkum, vibhuti.
• Popular offerings: red sari, sindoor, bangles, and coconut.
• Special belief: Offering kumkum for 41 Tuesdays fulfills wishes.

Annadan

• No daily Annadan.
• During Navaratri and other festivals, Kanya Puja/Bhojan is done (food for little girls).

Festivals

• Navaratri (Chaitra & Ashwin) – big celebrations.
• Kajali Teej (August) – special rituals & songs.
• Maha Shivaratri & Diwali – with grand prayers.

Amenities & Tips

• No parking near the temple – best to walk or use an e-rickshaw.
• Lanes are narrow and crowded – visit early morning.
• No entry fee. Dress modestly (cover shoulders and legs).

How to Reach Vishalakshi Temple

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

By Air

 The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur railway station, at a distance of 25–30 km from the temple. One can get flights from various major cities to this airport. You can hire a taxi or take public transport to reach the temple.

By Rail

The nearest railway station is Varanasi railway station, at a distance of 7-8 km from the temple. Trains from various major cities arrive, and one can easily book a train ticket to this temple. Even if you don't have the facilities of transport or private taxis to reach the temple.

By Road 

The temple can be easily reached by the roadway. There are many private and public transportations options that run between the nearby cities, letting the devotees reach the temple. Thus, one can hire a taxi or public transport to reach the temple directly.

Best Time to Visit Vishalakshi Temple Varanasi

The best time to visit this shakti Peeth in Varanasi is from October to March, as this is the ideal time to visit the temple and enjoy the sightseeing