Temples in Varanasi

Varanasi Temples, Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi, often called the spiritual heart of India, situated on the banks of the sacred River Ganga in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the oldest living cities in the world and holds immense religious importance in Hinduism. The city is deeply connected with Lord Shiva and is believed to be a place where devotees attain spiritual peace. Varanasi is also called Kashi and Banaras. Kashi is the oldest name of the city, believed to mean the “City of Light”, symbolising knowledge and spirituality. The city attracts millions of devotees who visit the temples in Varanasi to seek blessings, Moksha, and inner peace.

The most famous temple in Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. This sacred temple is the main attraction for Shiva devotees from across the world. Apart from this main shrine, there are several places to visit in Kashi, such as Shri Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev Mandir, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Kaal Bhairav Temple, Birla Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Annapurna Devi Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir, Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple, Shri Vishalakshi Mata Shaktipeeth Mandir, Bharat Mata Temple, Mrityunjay Mahadev Mandir, Tridev Temple, and Nepali Temple, each holding unique spiritual significance. These holy temples offer a deep religious experience filled with faith and devotion. 

To experience the city’s powerful spiritual vibrations, a large number of Shiva devotees are looking for Shiva temples in Varanasi. If you also look the same and are planning to explore, then the best time to visit Varanasi is from October to March, when the atmosphere is cool, pleasant, and ideal for temple visits, darshan, Ganga Aarti, and sightseeing. During this auspicious period, there are such sacred festivals celebrated in Varanasi, including Mahashivratri, Dev Deepawali, and Kartik Purnima. 

Apart from temples and festivals, Varanasi is popularly known as “City of Ghats,” as it is home to sacred ghats along the banks of the holy River Ganga. Among them, Manikarnika Ghat is one of the most famous, ancient, and religiously important ghats in the city, which holds immense significance in Hinduism. The ghat is also known as the main cremation ghat of the city. According to Hindu beliefs, a person who is cremated at Manikarnika Ghat attains moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). The ghat is strongly associated with Lord Shiva and is believed to be a sacred place where souls attain liberation. 

After temple darshan, tourists often look for suitable accommodation options in the city. Whether you are looking for a dharamshala in Varanasi or budget-friendly hotels, you can easily find them at reasonable prices. Many stays are well located near the famous attraction, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, ideal for devotees, families, or groups. Several hotels near Kashi Vishwanath Temple offer essential amenities for its guests. Staying close to the temple helps pilgrims attend early morning darshan and Ganga Aarti without travel hassles. Visiting Banaras is not just a journey but a deeply spiritual experience that stays in the hearts of devotees forever.