Introduction

If Varanasi is the city of Lord Shiva, then Kashi Vishwanath Temple is its beating heart. Of the over 2,000 temples in Varanasi, this is the most important. Also, the holiest of the 12 revered Jyotirlingas, a glimpse of which is considered very auspicious.

The antiquity of the original temple is hard to ascertain as the city and its temples were repeatedly destroyed by the pre-Mughal Muslim invaders and later by Aurangzeb. But the devotion in hearts of Banarasis for Shiva has outlived every such attempt. After every plunder, a new temple came up. The current structure was rebuilt by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore in 1777. 42 years later in 1839, Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who ruled from Lahore, gifted 820 kilograms of gold to the temple. The gold plated shikhara and ceiling has resulted in the temple also being referred to as the 'Golden Temple'.

Five major aartis are held daily, and the temple is abuzz with worshipers through the day. Devotion peaks during Mahashivaratri (the night of Shiva's wedding) festival. On this day, a marriage procession of Lord Shiva is taken out from Mahamrityunjaya Temple at Daranagar to Kashi Vishwanath Temple on the banks of Ganga. Devotees throng in large numbers to offer prayers after taking a holy dip at Dashaswamedh Ghat.

Non-Hindus are barred from entering the shrine. However one can stroll through the Vishwanath Gali (lane) and get a glimpse of the interior.

Special Attributes

The gold-plated shikara is a special feature of the temple

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress modestly

Connectivity

In the heart of town, plenty of options available

Enjoyed by

Culture, history and religion enthusiasts

Exposure

Minimal exposure as you'll mostly be under a roof

Avoidable Season

July, August

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

Leave all your belongings such as cell phone, handbags, cameras etc. None of these is allowed

Tip

Visit the temple early in the day when it is less crowded.

Type of site

Hindu Temple