🛕 Introduction
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, nestled on the western bank of the sacred River Ganga in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most revered temples in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is a spiritual beacon for millions of devotees who believe that a visit to Kashi Vishwanath grants moksha—liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
📜 History and Significance
The current structure of the temple was built in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, although the site has been a focal point of worship for over a thousand years. It has survived multiple invasions and reconstructions, standing resilient as a symbol of faith and devotion.
The temple is one of the Twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest Shiva temples across India. It’s believed that even a single glimpse of the Jyotirlinga can cleanse one’s soul and absolve past sins.
✨ Spiritual Experience
Visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is an ethereal experience. The sacred chants, the aroma of incense, and the sight of pilgrims offering prayers with complete surrender create an atmosphere soaked in divine energy. Early morning Mangala Aarti, Rudrabhishek rituals, and evening Ganga Aarti near the Dashashwamedh Ghat complete the spiritual journey.
🧭 Location & How to Reach
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Location: Vishwanath Gali, near Dashashwamedh Ghat, Varanasi
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Nearest Railway Station: Varanasi Junction (approx. 4 km)
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Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (approx. 25 km)
Visitors can reach the temple by foot or use e-rickshaws available from Godowlia Chowk, as the inner lanes are pedestrian-only zones.
🕖 Temple Timings
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Darshan: 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM (open all day)
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Aarti Timings:
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Mangala Aarti: 3:00 AM – 4:00 AM
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Bhog Aarti: 11:15 AM – 12:20 PM
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Sandhya Aarti: 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM
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Shayan Aarti: 10:30 PM – 11:00 PM
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(Timings may vary during festivals and special events.)
🎉 Festivals Celebrated
The temple comes alive during major Hindu festivals:
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Mahashivratri
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Shravan Month
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Diwali
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Makar Sankranti
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Dev Deepawali
On these days, thousands of devotees gather for special darshan and rituals, creating a truly mesmerizing spiritual ambiance.
🛍️ Nearby Attractions
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Dashashwamedh Ghat
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Ganga Aarti
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Annapurna Temple
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Manikarnika Ghat
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Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
Exploring these places enhances your cultural and spiritual experience in Varanasi.