Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most famous and sacred temples located in Varanasi. It is dedicated to Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism.
The temple is also popularly known as the “Golden Temple” because of its gold-plated spire and dome, which give it a magnificent appearance.
Kashi Vishwanath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, making it extremely important for devotees. It is believed that visiting this temple and offering prayers here brings spiritual peace and blessings from Lord Shiva.
Every year, millions of pilgrims from across India and around the world visit this temple to seek the divine blessings of Baba Vishwanath
Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple has existed for thousands of years and holds immense importance in Hindu culture. The present structure of the temple was rebuilt in 1780 by Ahilyabai Holkar, the queen of Indore, who restored its grandeur and spiritual prominence.
Devotees from different regions of India visit Varanasi to offer their bhakti (devotion) to Shiva at this beautifully crafted temple.
The temple plays a major role in making Varanasi one of the most important religious and tourist destinations in India due to its deep spiritual significance.
One of the most striking features of the temple is its golden domes, which were plated with gold donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the ruler of Punjab. This is why the temple is also known as the Golden Temple of Varanasi.
Today, the temple is managed under the administration of the Government of Uttar Pradesh, ensuring proper व्यवस्था and facilities for the millions of devotees who visit every year.
Where is Kashi Vishwanath temple/mandir?
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located in Varanasi, one of the oldest and most sacred cities in India.
The temple is situated on the western bank of the River Ganges, close to the famous ghats of the city. It is dedicated to Shiva and houses one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, making it one of the holiest Shiva temples in Hinduism.
Due to its prime location near the Ganga and its immense religious importance, the temple attracts millions of devotees and tourists every year.
How to reach Kashi Vishwanath temple?
There are three ways of reaching the Kashi Vishwanath mandir:
Reaching the temple in Varanasi is convenient as it is well connected by road, rail, and air.
🚌 1. By Road / Bus
For those comfortable with long journeys, traveling by road or bus is a good option. Varanasi has a well-connected network of highways and roads from major cities.
- You can easily find buses, autos, taxis, and other vehicles
- As you approach the temple via Vishwanath Gali, you’ll see a lively market filled with:
- Sweet shops offering delicious local मिठाइयाँ
- Clothing stores
- पूजा सामग्री (worship items) shops
🚆 2. By Train
Varanasi is very well connected by railways, with several nearby stations:
- Varanasi Junction – about 6 km
- Varanasi City Railway Station – about 2 km (closest)
- Manduadih Railway Station – about 4 km
- Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction – about 17 km
All these stations are well connected by road, making it easy to reach the temple via auto, taxi, or e-rickshaw.
✈️ 3. By Air
The nearest airport is
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (Babatpur), located about 25 km from the temple.
- Ideal for travelers who want a fast and comfortable journey
- From the airport, you can take a taxi or cab to reach the city and then proceed towards the temple
🚶♂️ Easy Access via Corridor
The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has made visiting the temple much easier. It directly connects the temple to the Ganga ghats, allowing devotees to reach the temple conveniently without navigating narrow lanes.
With these options, reaching Kashi Vishwanath Temple is smooth and accessible for every devotee.
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Address
- Lahori Tola,
- Varanasi,
- Uttar Pradesh -221001
History of Kashi Vishwanath temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located in the sacred city of Varanasi, on the western bank of the River Ganges. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva, making it one of the most important and revered temples in India. Devotees from all over the world visit this holy site to seek blessings and spiritual peace.
Historical Background
The present structure of the temple was built in 1780 by Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. Before her, many rulers attempted to rebuild the temple, but repeated invasions led to its destruction multiple times.
- In 1785, a Naubat Khana (entrance structure) was constructed by Mohd. Ibrahim Khan
- In 1839, Maharaja Ranjit Singh donated gold to cover the temple’s domes
- Later, the third dome was also gold-plated by the Government of Uttar Pradesh
The temple came under the management of the Government of Uttar Pradesh on 28 January 1983, ensuring better administration and facilities for devotees.
Religious Importance
Shiva, known as the God of destruction and transformation, is closely associated with death, time, and liberation (moksha). Devotees visit Kashi Vishwanath seeking freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth.
It is believed that:
- Lord Shiva himself grants moksha to devotees in Kashi
- He whispers the Tarak Mantra in the ears of devotees at the time of death
- Visiting this Jyotirlinga is equivalent to visiting all other Jyotirlingas
Mention in Scriptures
The temple and its glory are described in the Skanda Purana, especially in the Kashi Khand, which highlights its divine significance and spiritual power.
Spiritual Legacy
Many great saints and spiritual leaders have visited this temple, including:
- Swami Vivekananda
- Ramakrishna Paramahamsa
- Bamakhyapa
Their visits further emphasize the temple’s importance as a center of spiritual awakening.
Divine Experience
Kashi Vishwanath is not just a temple but a spiritual journey. Devotees believe that living or even visiting Kashi once in a lifetime brings divine blessings. The aura, devotion, and sacred atmosphere of this place create a deeply peaceful and transformative experience.
In essence, Kashi Vishwanath Temple stands as a timeless symbol of faith, resilience, and spirituality, continuing to inspire millions across the world.
Who built the Kashi Vishwanath temple?
The present structure of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple was built by Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore in the 18th century (around 1780).
She was a महान and devoted ruler who reconstructed the temple after it had been destroyed multiple times in history. Because of its later gold plating, the temple is also popularly known as the Golden Temple of Varanasi.
Her contribution played a crucial role in restoring the temple’s spiritual and cultural importance, which continues to this day.
Vishwanath Gali:
Vishwanath Gali, located in Varanasi, is the main pathway leading to the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Almost every devotee visiting the temple passes through this lively and vibrant lane.
This narrow yet bustling street is famous for its unique shopping and cultural experience.
🛒 What makes Vishwanath Gali special?
- 🧕 Ladies’ Products:
The gali is well-known for shops selling a variety of women’s items like bangles, sarees, and accessories. - 🍬 Sweet Shops:
You’ll find many famous sweet shops offering delicious Banarasi sweets, adding to the charm of the place. - 🪔 Puja Items:
Numerous दुकाने sell पूजा सामग्री such as flowers, incense sticks, idols, and other religious items needed for temple rituals. - 💰 Affordable Shopping:
Visitors can buy products at reasonable prices with a wide range of options to suit different preferences and budgets.
Walking through Vishwanath Gali is not just about reaching the temple—it’s an experience filled with colors, aromas, devotion, and the true essence of Banaras culture.
Significance of Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple holds immense spiritual importance for Hindus. It is not just a place of worship, but a center of deep faith, devotion, and liberation.
Many महान संत and spiritual leaders such as Tulsidas, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, and Swami Vivekananda have visited this sacred place. They also took a holy dip in the Ganges River, which is believed to purify the mind and body by removing negative thoughts and sins.
Importance of Ganga Snan (Holy Bath)
It is believed that:
- Taking a bath in the holy waters of the Ganges in Varanasi helps cleanse all impurities
- Devotees who perform this ritual with true faith may attain moksha (liberation)
Connection with Lord Shiva
Devotees of Shiva visit Kashi to seek freedom from the cycle of birth, life, and death.
There is a strong belief that:
- Those who spend their final days in Kashi receive divine blessings
- Lord Shiva himself whispers the sacred Tarak Mantra in the ears of devotees at the time of death, granting them liberation
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Pilgrimage
It is widely believed that even visiting this holy place once in a lifetime brings immense spiritual merit and can lead one closer to salvation.
The divine atmosphere of Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the sacred Ganga together create a powerful spiritual experience that stays with devotees forever.
Kashi Vishwanath temple shivling (Jyotirling)
A Jyotirlinga refers to the sacred and divine shrines of Shiva. The word Jyotirlinga means “pillar of light”, symbolizing that Lord Shiva has no beginning and no end—he is infinite and eternal.
Story Behind Jyotirlinga
According to ancient scriptures, once Brahma (the creator) and Vishnu (the protector) were arguing about who is supreme.
Suddenly, Shiva appeared as a massive column of light that stretched infinitely in both directions.
- Brahma went upward to find its end
- Vishnu went downward to find its base
But both failed, proving that Shiva is infinite and beyond limits.
It is believed that at the places where this divine light appeared on Earth, the 12 Jyotirlingas were established.
Vishwanath Jyotirlinga – The Holiest One
Among the twelve Jyotirlingas, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is considered one of the holiest and most important shrines in the world.
Story of Devi Annapurna
There is also a beautiful legend associated with Kashi:
It is believed that Shiva resided here with Parvati. At one time, Devi Parvati was not satisfied with their living conditions.
To fulfill her wish, Lord Shiva asked a demon named Nikhumba to create a beautiful and suitable place. After the creation of Kashi, Devi Parvati was very pleased.
She then took the form of Annapurna (the goddess of food) and started feeding everyone. It is also believed that Lord Shiva himself sat with a bowl in front of her to receive food.
Spiritual Meaning
These stories highlight that:
- Shiva is infinite and supreme
- Kashi is a divine place created for spiritual upliftment
- Annapurna represents nourishment and compassion
Thus, the Jyotirlinga at Kashi Vishwanath Temple is not just a shrine, but a powerful symbol of eternity, devotion, and divine energy.
History of jyotirlingas
The history of Jyotirlingas, especially the Vishwanath Jyotirlinga in Varanasi, is marked by repeated destruction and reconstruction over centuries.
According to historical records, the temple was demolished in 1194 by Qutb-ud-din Aibak during his invasion. After this, the temple faced destruction multiple times by different invaders.
Later, in 1669, Aurangzeb ordered the demolition of the temple and built a mosque at the site.
Despite these setbacks, the devotion of people towards Shiva remained unshaken, and efforts to rebuild the temple continued over time.
- Raja Man Singh I, a general of Akbar, contributed to rebuilding efforts
- Raja Todar Mal also played a role in restoring the temple
Finally, the present structure was rebuilt in 1780 by Ahilyabai Holkar, restoring the glory of this sacred Jyotirlinga.
Spiritual Significance
The continuous destruction and rebuilding of the temple symbolize the eternal faith and resilience of devotees. Jyotirlingas are not just physical structures but represent the infinite and indestructible nature of Lord Shiva.
Thus, the history of Jyotirlingas, especially Kashi Vishwanath Temple, reflects a powerful blend of devotion, struggle, and spiritual continuity that has stood strong through time.
Kashi Vishwanath temple time
The temple opens at three(3 am) in the morning.
Aarti timings
Mangala Aarti : three(3 AM)-four (4 AM) (Morning)
Bhog Aarti : eleven fifteen(11.15 AM) to twelve twenty(12.20 PM) (Day)
Sandhya Aarti: seven(7 pm) to eight fifteen (8.15 pm) (Evening)
Shringar Aarti : nine(9 PM) to ten-fifteen (10.15 PM) (Night)
Shayan Aarti : ten thirty (10.30 PM) – eleven(11 PM) (Night)
Kashi Vishwanath temple entry fee
Visiting the sacred temple in Varanasi is a deeply spiritual and peaceful experience for every devotee.
🎟️ Entry & Facilities
- No entry fee is required to enter the temple
- Locker facilities are available nearby where you can safely keep mobile phones and electronic items
- Shops near the temple offer puja items like flowers, sweets, and other offerings (these are chargeable)
🌙 Divine Evening Experience
One of the most beautiful moments to witness is during the evening:
- Diyas (oil lamps) are lit and floated on the sacred Ganges River
- The atmosphere becomes magical and peaceful
- During Aarti, the devotion (bhakti) on the faces of priests creates a mesmerizing and soulful experience
🪔 Aarti & Spiritual Peace
The Aarti performed at the temple fills the surroundings with:
- Positive energy
- Devotional chants
- A sense of calm and inner peace
It is a moment that truly touches both the heart and soul of devotees.
🍛 Prasad (Bhog)
- The distributed prasad (bhog) is considered sacred
- It is believed to remove negative thoughts and bring positivity
- It is available for everyone, without any discrimination
Visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple is not just about darshan—it is about experiencing divine energy, peace, and devotion that stays with you forever.
Darshan timings
The darshan timing is from four (4 am) in the morning to eleven (11 pm) at night.
The Live darshan can be done from https://shrikashivishwanath.org website
Rudrabhishek booking
The Rudrabhishek timing is from four (4 am) to six(6 pm). The bhakts or devotees need to book it in advance.
The bhakts or devotees need to go to the counter and book for Rudrabhishek.
Rudrabhishek (1 Shastri) Rs 450.00
Rudrabhishek (5 Shastri) Rs 1380.00
Rudrabhishek (11 Shastri) Rs 2600.00
Laghu Rudra (11 Shastri) Rs 5500.00
Maharudra (11 Shastri) 11 Days Rs 57100.00
Kashi Vishwanath Corridor
The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor is a major development project in Varanasi that connects the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple directly to the ghats of the Ganges River.
Purpose of the Corridor
Earlier, devotees had to pass through narrow and crowded गलियाँ to reach the temple. The corridor was built to:
- Ensure smooth and easy movement of pilgrims
- Provide a direct path from the ghats to the temple
- Improve the overall visitor experience
Project Cost
- The corridor was constructed at an estimated cost of around ₹339 crore
Facilities Available
Several modern facilities have been developed to enhance convenience for devotees:
- Yatri Suvidha Kendras (Passenger Facilitation Centres)
- Tourist Facilitation Centre
- Vedic Kendra
- Mumukshu Bhavan
- Bhogshala (for offerings and prasad preparation)
- City Museum
- Viewing Gallery
- Food Court
Importance
The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has transformed the temple परिसर into a modern yet traditional spiritual space, making darshan more comfortable and organized for millions of devotees.
It beautifully blends ancient heritage with modern infrastructure, enhancing the divine experience of visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple. 🙏
- The corridor has waiting rooms for the people who are tired and need to take a rest.
- The corridor is fifty (50) feet long along the side of the Ganges, making it attractive for tourists and more effortless for tourists to visit the temple.
- An auditorium and a museum are constructed that have the history of Varanasi. This also depicts their culture.
- People now have particular areas created for performing Havana and many more.
- For priests, pilgrims, and volunteers, unique lodges are provided.
- Food is served to attract more tourists.
- An auditorium is constructed to perform different meetings, temple functions, and gatherings.
- A Ganga view gallery is constructed so people can view the Ganges.
- The ghat has an escalator that helps the people to reach the mandir more comfortably.
Kashi Vishwanath temple opening time
The temple opens at three(3 am) in the morning.
Kashi Vishwanath temple darshan ticket booking-
There is no cost for entering the temple. Still, the devotees need to pay extra for worship and Abhishek in the month of Sawan in Kashi Vishwanath temple. The Sugam Darshan on Monday of Sawan costs Rs 750 per person, while on other days except for Monday, the price of this ticket has been kept at Rs 500.
Kashi Vishwanath temple ticket price-
There are no fees for entering the temple. There are locker rooms for keeping electronic gadgets where all necessary puja items can be found; it starts from a minimum price of rs 100.
Nandi in Kashi Vishwanath temple
Nandi is the vahana of lord shiva, and he stands at the place where lord shiva is in deep meditation, noticing that there are no problems around. People whisper in Nandi’s ears their wishes or dreams, and it is believed that Nandi conveys those messages to lord shiva. Lord Shiva is busy in meditation, so Nandi takes up the work to listen to lord Shiva’s bhakts and share their message with lord shiva.
Kashi Vishwanath temple Nandi face
Amid the Gyanvapi Masjid controversy, a collage of two images, one featuring a statue of Nandi — the bull “vahana” of the Hindu deity Shiva — and the other showing the Gyanvapi Masjid, went viral with the claim that the Nandi idol was from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi and it faced the mosque.
Kashi Vishwanath temple trust
The trustees of the temple are
- CHIEF TRUSTEE: SRI RAMESWAR PURI JI. MAHANT. …
- MANAGING TRUSTEE. SMT. S.RADHAMANI. …
- EXECUTIVE TRUSTEE. K.JANARDHANA SARMA. H NO.-B-14/84, A-1. …
- SRI V.K.JINDAL. 10-11, KALIYA NAGAR COLONY. …
- GOSWAMI SRI SUBHASH PURI JI. ANNAPURNA MATH TEMPLE. …
- UPA MAHANT. SRI SHANKAR PURI. ANNAPURNA MATH TEMP
Dharamshala near Kashi Vishwanath temple
Many Dharamshala near Kashi Vishwanath temple; they can be reserved online using apps like making my trip or Trivago and many more. These dharamshalas are busy all the time; it is suggested before visiting Kashi Vishwanath temple, make a reservation and then start your journey.
Kashi Vishwanath temple Gyan Vapi mosque dispute
The dispute ” mandir – masjid” favoured the Hindus, claiming that the shiv linga was found in the temple. The court bans large Muslim gatherings and prayers in the mosque.
Varanasi to Kashi Vishwanath temple distance
The distance is about three(3 km ) kilometres, and it is suggested to take an auto or taxi on the way as it is a long distance. It will cost about RS hundred(100) to two hundred(200).
Airport near Kashi Vishwanath temple
The airport near Kashi Vishwanath Varanasi (VNS) airport.
Kashi Vishwanath temple nearest railway station
The Varanasi junction is just six (6) kilometres from the main temple, and the Varanasi city station is just two (2) kilometres away from the main temple.
Hotels near Kashi Vishwanath temple
Finding hotels is not a big deal in today’s generation. The whole thing can be quickly done online internet. Websites like make my trip, Trivago, and many more offer excellent cheap to luxurious, high-quality rooms to stay at a reasonable price.
The room rates can vary from Rs five hundred (500) a night to Rs two thousand five hundred a night (2500). It depends on your budget and the type of hotel you are looking for. Hotels can differ from three-star to five-star, all depending on your living standards.
There are many hotels near Kashi Vishwanath mandir. Some of them are mentioned below:
- Shiva Inn (0.6 km away from mandir)
- Ganpati Guest House (0.5km away from mandir)
- Ganpati Guest House(0.7km away from mandir)
- Monalisa hotel (1.2km away from the mandir)
Frequently asked questions
Q: What is the distance between Varanasi and Kashi?
Ans-The distance is about three(3 km ) kilometres, and it is suggested to take an auto or taxi on the way as it is a long distance. It will cost about RS hundred(100) to two hundred(200).
Q: Is there a parking lot for Kashi Vishwanath temple?
Ans – No, there is no parking lot near Kashi Vishwanath. If someone brings a car, that person needs to park the car far away from the temple.
Q: Is there any VIP passes for Kashi Vishwanath?
Ans- yes, VIP passes are available, which cost RS three hundred (300) each. The special darshan may or may not be available on special occasions or festivals.
Q-When does the Kashi Vishwanath temple close?
Ans-
Monday-
4:00 am – 11:00 am
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Tuesday-
4:00 am – 11:00 am
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Wednesday-
4:00 am – 11:00 am
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Thursday-
4:00 am – 11:00 am
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Friday-
4:00 am – 11:00 am
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Saturday-
4:00 am – 11:00 am
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Sunday-
4:00 am – 11:00 am
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Ans- What is the height of the Kashi Vishwanath temple?
Ans- this is one of the tallest temples in India; its height is about seventy-seven meters. (77m). Approximately three thousand (3000) people visit here daily, and on occasions, it reaches about ten thousand(10000) or more.
Ans- Does Kashi Vishwanath temple distribute prasad?
Ans – Yes, the bhog or prasad that is distributed is considered sacred; people consuming it will erase evil thoughts and not come in contact with evil spirits.
Ans- What is the distance from Bangalore to Kashi Vishwanath temple?
Ans- The road distance is about 1782 KM; driving there would take about one (1 day), eleven hours (11 hrs), and thirty-eight minutes(38 min).