Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Varanasi) all Information

Located in the holy city of Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most significant pilgrimage site and temple of Hindu Lord, Shiva. Standing on the western bank of the holy river Ganga, it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva.

‘Kashi’ is the ancient name of Varanasi city while ‘Vishwanath’ is the name of the deity and its ancient name ‘Vishweshwara’ means ‘Ruler of the Universe’. Hence the temple got its name Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

Key Points about the temple

• Location : Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh-221001
• Completed : 1780
• Affliation : Hinduism
• Entry Fee : No fee
• Deity : Lord Shiva
• Festivals : Maha Shivratri
• Photography : Prohibited

History of the temple

The temple is mentioned in various Puranas including Kashi Khanda of Skanda Purana. The temple was destroyed and rebuild many times over the years. Firstly it was destroyed by the army of Qutab-ud-din Aibak in 1194, and then rebuild under the rule of Iltutmish. It was then destroyed, and rebuild again and again till it was build in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar.

Architecture of the Temple

The temple is a collection of smaller shrines located in a small Vishwanatha Gali near the river. The main Shivalainga of the temple is 60 cm tall with 90 cm circumference.

A holy well named Gyan Vapi is also situated here. Temple consists of three parts: first is the spire, second is a gold dome and third is the gold spire atop the temple carrying a flag and a trident.

Vishwanath Gali

To reach the temple, one has to pass through the famous Kashi Vishwanath Gali known for its shops of pooja items and sweets. Shops near it also sell the very famous Banarasi saree and dresses.

Visiting Hours

• The temple is open on all days except Gazetted holidays.
• Aarti Timings-

Mangala Aarti : 03:00 am to 04:00 am
Bhoga Aarti : 11:15 am to 12:20 pm
Sandhya Aarti : 07:00 pm to 08:15 pm
Shringara Aarti : 09:00 pm to 10:15 pm
Shayana Aarti : 10:30 pm to 11:00 pm

Though one can visit the temple anytime, winter season is considered the best time to visit the temple.

How to reach the Temple?

By Air- Lal Bahadur Shastri airport in Bharatpur is the nearest airport which is approx 25km away from the city.
By Train- The temple is 4km away from Maduadih Railway Station.
By Road- The city and temple is well connected with roadways of different cities of India.