Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Location, History & Complete Travel Guide

8/2/2025 10:58:26 AM, Aniket

सनातन धर्म के प्रचार और प्रसार के लिए इस ब्लॉग को अधिक से अधिक शेयर करें।
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Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Location, History & Complete Travel Guide

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the ancient city of Varanasi (Kashi), Uttar Pradesh, India. Revered as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the temple holds immense spiritual significance and is often considered the heart of Sanatana Dharma (Hinduism).

🗺️ Where is Kashi Vishwanath Temple Located?

  • City: Varanasi (also known as Kashi or Banaras)
  • State: Uttar Pradesh, India
  • Location Details: Situated on the western bank of the sacred River Ganga (Ganges), within the crowded lanes of the city.
  • Temple Address: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Lahori Tola, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – 221001, India.

🕉️ Religious Importance of Kashi Vishwanath Temple

  • One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, believed to be the holiest among them.
  • Mentioned in ancient scriptures like the Skanda Purana.
  • It’s said that a visit to Kashi Vishwanath and a dip in the Ganges River leads to moksha (liberation).
  • Represents Shiva as Vishweshwara (Lord of the Universe).

🏛️ History of Kashi Vishwanath Temple

  • Current structure built in 1780 by Ahilyabai Holkar, Queen of Indore.
  • Destroyed and rebuilt several times over centuries due to invasions.
  • The Gyanvapi Mosque, adjacent to the temple, stands as a witness to its turbulent history.
  • The recent Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project has eased access for pilgrims by decluttering surrounding areas.

✈️ How to Reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple

By Air ✈️

Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (approx. 25 km). Direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc.

By Train 🚆

Nearest Railway Station: Varanasi Junction (Varanasi Cantt), approx. 4 km from the temple.

By Road 🚌

Connected by buses and taxis from Prayagraj, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and nearby cities. Inside Varanasi, use auto-rickshaws or e-rickshaws to reach Godowlia Chowk (from where it’s a 10-min walk to the temple).

🕒 Kashi Vishwanath Temple Timings

Activity Timing
Mangala Aarti 3:00 AM – 4:00 AM
General Darshan 4:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Bhog Aarti 11:15 AM – 12:20 PM
Sapt Rishi Aarti 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Shringar Aarti 9:00 PM – 10:15 PM
Shayan Aarti 10:30 PM – 11:00 PM

Special passes are needed for Mangala Aarti and Sapt Rishi Aarti, which can be booked via the official website.

🏨 Accommodation Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple

  • Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust Guest Houses – Budget accommodation.
  • Hotels near Dashashwamedh Ghat – Wide range of options.
  • Dharamshalas (Pilgrim Rest Houses) around Godowlia and Assi Ghat.
  • 3-star and 5-star hotels near Varanasi Junction (Cantonment area).

🌟 Must-Visit Nearby Attractions in Varanasi

  • Dashashwamedh Ghat – Famous for the evening Ganga Aarti.
  • Manikarnika Ghat – Sacred cremation ground with deep spiritual significance.
  • Sarnath – Buddhist pilgrimage site (approx. 10 km from city center).
  • Banaras Hindu University (BHU) – New Vishwanath temple inside campus.
  • Ramnagar Fort – Historic fort and cultural museum.
  • Gyanvapi Well & Mosque – Adjacent to the temple complex.

🙏 Travel Tips for Devotees

  • Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
  • Avoid festival peaks if you prefer less crowded visits.
  • Traditional Indian attire is recommended for entry.
  • Mobile phones, bags, and cameras are not allowed inside the temple.
  • Advance online Aarti bookings are recommended.
  • Respect local traditions and follow security guidelines.

📜 Legends & Mythology of Kashi Vishwanath

According to Hindu mythology, Kashi is the city where Lord Shiva resides eternally. Even during Pralaya (the cosmic destruction), Kashi is said to remain untouched. The Jyotirlinga of Vishweshwara represents the infinite light of Shiva.

Conclusion

A visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is not just a spiritual journey but an immersion into India’s ancient cultural heritage. The sacred energy of the temple, the flow of the Ganges, and the timeless ghats of Varanasi make it a truly transformative pilgrimage.

सनातन धर्म के प्रचार और प्रसार के लिए इस ब्लॉग को अधिक से अधिक शेयर करें।