Varanasi, the holiest city in India, is filled with knowledge, spirituality, and colours that will leave a permanent impression on your mind. Within this spiritual retreat lies the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a spiritual abode of Lord Shiva. The 18th-century temple is one among the 12 jyotirlingas of India and is enveloped by the River Ganga. The main sanctum of the temple, embellished with gold plating stands majestically against the backdrop of the holiest city of Varanasi. This golden shire represents the eternal radiance of the Lord Shiva evoking a spiritual essence among devotees who flock to seek his blessings.
History Of The Temple
Image Credit: Manikanta for Wikimedia Commons
The temple was built under King Vikramaditya’s rule and has more than 2000 years of history. It has stood the test of time and suffered multiple invasions, but the ruling monarchs of that time constantly repaired it. Following the destruction of the temple complex by Mughal King Aurangzeb, the present structure was rebuilt by Rani Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore.
The exquisite architecture of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is proof of India’s architectural expertise. Several alleys lead to the main shrine, where the holy linga is worshipped. The temple is a must-visit if you are fond of spirituality and religious history.
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Importance Of Kashi Vishwanath Temple
A visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is believed to purify and redeem the soul from the natural cycle of rebirth. The word “Jyotirlinga” means the light of Lord Shiva. Hence, a glimpse of the Shivlinga is a soul-soothing experience that sets one on the right path.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple Aarti is an iconic ritual performed on the banks of the River Ganga. The devotees’ chants, the fragrance of burning incense and flowers, and the holy sensations of bells ringing all evoke an aura of spirituality.
Interesting Facts About The Temple
- The temple captivates visitors with its three golden domes.
- The gold used in the construction of the domes was gifted by Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab.
- On entering the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, you will find the mighty Maa Durga idol, signifying power. Lord Shiva sits on the left. They are seated such that the idols face west.
- The permission to construct the temple was given by the Mughal emperor Akbar.
- Many cultural activities are conducted here including music and dance programs.
- Thousands of devotees gather here for the aarti on the night of Mahashivratri to pray to Lord Shiva.
- More than 7 million people visit Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple every year. The government has launched the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project to protect the city’s culture and heritage.
- Traditionally men wear a silk dhoti and angavastram during the Kashi Vishwanath darshan.
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Kashi Vishwanath Temple Timings
Kashi Vishwanath temple’s opening time is in the early hours of dawn at 2:30 AM. The temple is accessible to devotees from 4 AM to 11 AM and 12 PM to 7 PM any day. During this period, several aartis are held at specific times, each having meaning and importance.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple’s closing time is at 11 PM. We have prepared a list of the aarti with their timings so you can plan your darshan accordingly:
| Mangal Aarti | 3-4 AM |
| Bhog Aarti | 11:30 – 12 PM |
| Sandhya Aarti | 7-8:30 PM |
| Shringar Aarti | 9-10:15 PM |
| Shayana Aarti | 10:30 -11 PM |
You can now plan your day and attend the aarti of your choice. It is better to reach the Kashi Vishwanath Temple well in advance than at the aarti time to get a suitable place to stand and avoid the crowd.
What to Wear in Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
- While visiting the temple it is mandatory to dress modestly and respect the culture.
- Men can wear traditional kurta-dhoti or casual trousers with a shirt or T-shirt. The head must be covered with a cap or cloth.
- Women are expected to dress decently in Indian clothing and avoid extremely fitting outfits. They may wear a scarf to cover their heads.
- Wearing sandals or shoes inside the premises of the temple is strictly prohibited.
Visitors not in the proper outfits are denied entry into the temple. The place is of immense religious importance, so it is essential to abide by the rules and respect the people’s sentiments.
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Best Time to Visit
A trip during winter, from November to February, is considered ideal for exploring the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and other tourist places in Varanasi. The temperature typically ranges from 5 to 16 degrees Celsius during these months, and the weather is peaceful for exploring the temples and nearby places. Varanasi experiences hot and dry summers with extreme temperatures from 30 to 45 degrees Celsius.
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, restricting the tour. Also, while in Varanasi, if you want to visit the temple and not attend any particular aarti, it is best to visit as early as possible to avoid the long queue.
How to Reach?
By Flight
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is well connected by railways and road. You can take a flight to the nearest airport, Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Babatpur, and then take a cab to cover the remaining 25 km in almost an hour.
By Train
You can visit Varanasi by train. The closest railway station is Varanasi City station, just 2 km away, whereas the Varanasi Junction is 6 km, Manduadih Station is 4 km and Mughal Sarai is 17 km away. The city has a well-connected transport system with multiple public means of transport. You can easily get a cab or auto rickshaw from the railway station.
Further Read: Shiva Temples In India
Kashi Vishwanath Temple visit is a treat to the mind and soul. The spiritual essence of the place will help you connect with your inner self. If this guide motivates you to plan a trip to Varanasi with your loved ones. And rejuvenate your mind and soul in the spiritual city of India.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kashi Vishwanath Temple
How many days are sufficient to travel to Varanasi?
Four to five days' trip is enough to get the most out of Varanasi.
Is Kashi Vishwanath Darshan for handicapped people?
Kashi Vishwanath offers Darshan service for individuals who have limited time, as well as those with disabilities such as divyangs, who are unable to wait in long queues.
Does the Kashi Vishwanath Temple have an entry fee?
There are no entry fees, however, there are tickets to participate in each aarti.
How much time is sufficient for Kashi Vishwanath Temple darshan?
A minimum of 2 to 3 hours is needed for darshan and a full temple tour.
Are mobiles allowed in the temple?
No electronic devices are allowed inside Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
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