Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located in the holy city of Varanasi, is one of the most sacred Hindu temples. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it represents the spiritual core of India where every devotee wishes to attain moksha (liberation). The golden dome and the sacred Jyotirlinga make it a major religious landmark.

History & Heritage

• The original shrine is believed to be over 1 000 years old.
• It was destroyed and rebuilt many times; the most famous reconstruction was by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar in 1780 CE.
• The golden spire and dome were added by Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab in 1835.
• In 2021 the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor was inaugurated, linking the temple directly with the Ganga River.

Entry Rules & Guidelines

• No photography or videography inside the temple.
• Foreigners / non‑Hindus may access certain outer areas but not the Garbhagriha.
• Dress modestly – traditional Indian attire preferred. No shorts or sleeveless tops.
• Mobile phones, cameras and leather items must be deposited at the security counter.
• Foreign visitors must carry a valid ID (passport).

Darshan & Aarti Timings

• Mangala Aarti: 3:00 AM – 4:00 AM
• Bhog Aarti: 11:15 AM – 12:20 PM
• Sandhya Aarti: 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM
• Shayan Aarti: 9:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Entry fee: Free for general darshan. Aarti tickets ₹300 – ₹1500 (slightly higher for foreigners).

How to Reach

• By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport – 25 km.
• By Train: Varanasi Junction – 5 km | Manduadih Station – 7 km.
• By Road: Auto‑rickshaws, taxis and e‑rickshaws are available city‑wide.
• Nearest Ghat: Dashashwamedh Ghat (≈ 1 km, walkable).

Accommodation & Facilities

• Dharamshalas, guest houses and hotels (e.g., Ramada, Taj Ganges, Guleria Kothi).
• Official Kashi Vishwanath Guest House for devotees.
• Free cloakroom and luggage‑deposit counters near the entrance.
• Separate queues for women, senior citizens and foreign tourists.

Rituals & Beliefs

Devotees offer Ganga water, bilva leaves and prayers to the Jyotirlinga. It is believed that worshipping Lord Vishwanath and bathing in the Ganga grants moksha – liberation from the cycle of rebirth.

Travel Tips for Visitors

• Best months to visit: October – March.
• Carry water, wear comfortable shoes – the lanes (Vishwanath Gali) are narrow.
• Do not accept unauthorized guides or touts.
• Leave footwear at the locker near the entrance.
• Book Aarti tickets only from the official counter or website.

Nearby Attractions

• Dashashwamedh Ghat – 1 km
• Manikarnika Ghat – 1.2 km
• Sankat Mochan Temple – 5 km
• Banaras Hindu University (BHU) – 6 km
• Sarnath – 10 km

Disclaimer

The information provided here is for educational and travel purposes only. **OK VARANASI** is not affiliated with the official Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust. For official timings or bookings, please visit shrikashivishwanath.org.