Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Abode of Lord Shiva in Varanasi

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located in the heart of Varanasi, is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It stands on the western bank of the holy River Ganges and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the most sacred abodes of Shiva. A visit to this temple is a deeply spiritual and transformative experience.

Expectations for Pilgrims

Sacred Offerings: Blessings from Lord Vishwanath

Prasad at Kashi Vishwanath Temple symbolizes the blessings and grace of Lord Shiva. It often includes sweets, flowers, and sacred ash (Bhasma), which are considered auspicious and are taken by devotees as a token of their devotion and spiritual journey.

Prasad / Prasadam :

Note : Prasad is readily available from designated counters within the temple complex and from various vendors near the temple. Specific offerings can be arranged through the temple authorities or local priests.

What to Offer: Expressions of Devotion to Lord Shiva

Devotees can offer various items to Lord Shiva at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple as a sign of their devotion, respect, and gratitude. These offerings are believed to please the deity and grant blessings.

Devotee's Offerings

It is advisable to offer these items with a pure heart and sincere devotion. Local priests can guide you on appropriate offerings for specific prayers or rituals.

Essential Experiences: Connecting with the Divine in Kashi

Activities:

Sacred Rituals & Pujas: Deepening Your Connection

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a center for numerous daily pujas and rituals, offering devotees various ways to connect with the divine. These ceremonies are central to the spiritual experience and are performed by trained priests.

Attending Pujas:

Non Attending Pujas:

Many pujas require advance booking through the temple trust. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak season and festivals. Contact the temple office or check the official website for details and booking procedures.

Historical Roots & Profound Meaning: Kashi Vishwanath's Legacy

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple has a rich and complex history, dating back centuries. It has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout history, reflecting the turbulent past of Varanasi and the resilience of faith.

Significance: A Paramount Spiritual Beacon

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus worldwide. It is one of the holiest shrines, and a visit is believed to grant liberation from the cycle of birth and death (moksha).

Key Aspects:

• One of the twelve Jyotirlingas The temple houses one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it an extremely sacred site for devotees of Lord Shiva.
• Spiritual center of Varanasi The temple is the spiritual heart of Varanasi, a city considered to be one of the holiest places on earth for Hindus.

Opening Hours

Sunday : 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Monday : 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Tuesday : 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Wednesday : 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Thursday : 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday : 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Saturday : 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM

User Review

Total Reviews : 107384

• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Akash Kulkarni
  Review Time : 3 weeks ago
  Review : Kashi Vishwanath temple one of the pilgrimage place of Hindus, it is also called as baba vishwanath ji ki nagri. Every year lakhs of people visit the punya kshetra and seek the blessings of baba vishwanath and maa ganga. It is on the banks of river ganga. The place is filled with positive energy and bhakti, it also has satya harishchandra ghat where daily dead bodies are being burnt as it is believed that due to the effect of the place the soul attains mukti. In evening maa ganga aarti is something that is very mesmerizing and full of bhakti. I must say that before visiting the place one must read it's history which makes you fall more deeply in bhakti of baba vishwanath.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Prakash Batwal
  Review Time : 2 months ago
  Review : I recently visited the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and was deeply moved by the experience. The spiritual aura of this sacred place is truly magnificent! The temple architecture beautifully combines tradition with elegance, The peaceful atmosphere allowed for genuine moments of reflection and devotion. Even during busy times, there was a sense of serenity that's hard to find elsewhere. The cleanliness deserve special mention - everything is well-maintained despite the many visitors. If you're seeking spiritual solace or appreciating cultural heritage, this temple is absolutely worth visiting.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : umendra R
  Review Time : 2 months ago
  Review : The Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is not just a sacred site — it’s the spiritual heartbeat of Varanasi, and one of the most powerful places I’ve ever visited. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple radiates an aura that’s difficult to put into words but deeply felt the moment you step inside the complex. Despite the high footfall of devotees and tight security, everything is incredibly well-organized. The temple staff and volunteers guide you with patience and respect, ensuring everyone gets their darshan peacefully. The architecture itself is a beautiful blend of tradition and majesty — the golden spire gleams against the sky, a symbol of Varanasi’s eternal spirit. What struck me most was the intensity of devotion. Standing in front of the Jyotirlinga, with chants of “Har Har Mahadev” filling the air, I felt a rare kind of stillness — a connection with something far beyond the physical. Whether you're deeply religious or just spiritually curious, the energy inside the sanctum is palpable. Early morning visits are especially powerful — the aarti, the sound of bells, and the scent of sandalwood and incense create a soul-stirring atmosphere. The newly developed Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has beautifully transformed the area around the temple — making it more spacious, accessible, and visually stunning while retaining its sacred vibe. There are small shrines and courtyards throughout the complex that are worth exploring, each with its own story and significance. Don’t miss spending a few quiet moments at the Ganga-facing side of the corridor — it's peaceful and offers an incredible view of the river. This temple is not just a destination — it’s a spiritual moment, a living tradition, and a place where the past, present, and divine converge. Visiting Kashi Vishwanath is more than a religious journey — it’s an emotional, cultural, and soulful experience.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Anand
  Review Time : a month ago
  Review : The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most revered shrines of Lord Shiva and a centerpiece of Hindu spirituality. As one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, it draws millions of devotees and spiritual seekers from around the world who come to experience the divine energy of the city and its most iconic temple. The surrounding area—now part of the beautifully developed Kashi Vishwanath Corridor—has been transformed to accommodate pilgrims better, with wider pathways, improved facilities, and clear access from the ghats. The temple’s golden spire and dome gleam gloriously under the sky, a symbol of eternal divinity. Whether you are religious or simply seeking cultural and spiritual depth, a visit to Kashi Vishwanath is profoundly moving. It’s not just a temple—it’s an experience that connects you with thousands of years of devotion, history, and living tradition.
  
  
• Star Rating :
  Author Name : Gaurav Singh
  Review Time : 2 months ago
  Review : I recently visited kashi vishwanath temple..and the experience was out of this world 💯⭐❣️ We visited the temple on weekday (Tuesday) morning around 11am. The crowd was there but not much.. it took 1 hour for darshan without ticket. It might take less time also if you take vip tickets. But I would recommend going without ticket as the waiting time is not much. And please be careful of the moneys hopping around the temple. Phones and leather purse/belts are not allowed inside the temple.