Varanasi, often referred to as Banaras or Kashi, is more than just a city; it’s an experience that leaves an indelible mark on the soul. Revered as one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, Varanasi is a melting pot of history, spirituality, and culture. Every corner of this city whispers tales of ancient rituals, legendary sages, and timeless devotion.
For those on a quest for spiritual enlightenment, Varanasi is a treasure trove. It’s not just a destination but a journey into the very essence of one’s being. Many who visit are so profoundly moved that they find themselves returning, drawn by an inexplicable magnetic pull.
With a staggering 23,000 temples dotting its landscape, it’s no wonder Varanasi is fondly called the City of Temples. These temples range from grand edifices with golden spires reaching for the heavens to quaint shrines nestled in hidden corners, each echoing with its own unique hymn of devotion.
The city’s rich tapestry is woven with legends that have been passed down through generations. These stories come alive in the rituals performed on the ghats, in the hymns sung in its temples, and in the very air that carries the scent of incense and marigold.
While it’s a Herculean task to explore all 23,000 temples, some iconic ones encapsulate the spirit of Varanasi. These temples, steeped in lore and tradition, offer a glimpse into the profound spiritual energy that Varanasi is celebrated for. Join us as we delve deeper into these sacred sanctuaries and the stories they hold.
Here are some of the most well-known temples in Varanasi:
1. Kashi Vishwanath Mandir
Often referred to as the Spiritual Capital of India, Varanasi’s essence is beautifully encapsulated in the Kashi Vishwanath Mandir.
Nestled on the western banks of the serene River Ganga, this temple stands as a testament to the city’s rich spiritual tapestry.
One of the revered twelve jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva, its importance is echoed throughout ancient Hindu scriptures, particularly the Puranas.
At its core, the temple houses a deity – a linga, elegantly placed on a lustrous silver altar, drawing pilgrims into a realm of deep devotion.
Despite undergoing several reconstructions, the temple’s intrinsic charm remains unscathed, making it a top-rated pilgrimage spot.
Admire the temple’s grandeur, highlighted by its radiant gold spire and dome, believed to grant the wishes of its devotees.
Practical Information:
- Location: Situated in the bustling Vishwanath Gali.
- Timings: Welcomes devotees and tourists from 2:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily.
- Tip: Join the thousands who visit daily, immersing themselves in its spiritual ambiance and seeking blessings.
2. Kaal Bhairav Mandir
The Kaal Bhairav Mandir is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s formidable avatar, Kaal Bhairav, representing his intense and fierce demeanor.
As the city’s guardian deity, Kaal Bhairav holds a unique place in the hearts of the locals and pilgrims alike.
Constructed in the mid-17th century, this temple stands as one of the oldest shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in Varanasi.
Revered as the city’s protector, it’s a tradition for visitors to seek Kaal Bhairav’s blessings for safety when entering or departing Varanasi.
The deity is depicted in a striking human form, adorned with a distinctive garland made entirely of human skulls, symbolizing the cycle of life and death.
Key Highlights:
- Location: Nestled in the heart of the Vishweshwarganj area.
- Timings: Open for darshan from 5:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily.
- Tip: Experience the temple’s profound spiritual energy and immerse yourself in its age-old rituals.
3. Durga Kund Mandir
Nestled in the heart of the city, the temple stands as a magnificent tribute to Goddess Durga. Its name is derived from its proximity to a ‘Kund’, a rectangular pond, adding to its serene ambiance.
Often referred to as the ‘monkey temple’ due to the playful primates that inhabit its premises, the temple is a marvel of North Indian architecture. The Nagara style, characterized by its distinct multi-tiered spire, is evident in its design. Crafted from radiant red stone, the temple’s structure is both imposing and awe-inspiring.
A testament to its rich history, the temple was erected in the 18th century by a devoted Bengali queen. Over the years, its significance has only grown, drawing countless devotees and tourists alike. A unique aspect of this temple is the legend surrounding its deity. It’s believed that the icon of Goddess Durga wasn’t crafted by human hands but miraculously appeared on its own.
Situated on Durgakund Road, the temple welcomes visitors daily from the early hours of 5:00 a.m. till the late evening at 11:00 p.m.
Key Highlights:
- Dedicated to Goddess Durga.
- Located near a serene rectangular pond.
- Famous as the ‘monkey temple’.
- Exemplifies the Nagara architectural style of North India.
- Constructed from striking red stone with a multi-tiered spire.
- Founded in the 18th century by a Bengali queen.
- Legends speak of the deity’s miraculous appearance.
- Open daily from 5:00 am to 11:00 pm.
4. Maa Annapurna Mandir
A trip to Varanasi remains incomplete without paying homage at the Maa Annapurna Mandir. Revered as an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, Devi Annapurna symbolizes the divine essence of nourishment and sustenance.
Built in 1729 under the patronage of Peshwa Baji Rao, the temple stands as a testament to the grandeur of Nagara architectural style. Its intricate carvings and design reflect the rich cultural tapestry of the era.
A unique tradition associated with this temple is the act of donating food and grains. Devotees, in their quest for lifelong prosperity and blessings, generously contribute to the temple’s offerings. This ritual underscores the deity’s role as the divine provider.
Conveniently located in Vishwanath Gali at Godowlia, the temple’s doors are open to pilgrims and visitors from the early hours of 4 a.m. until the tranquil evening at 10.30 p.m.
Noteworthy Points:
- Dedicated to Devi Annapurna, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati.
- Embodies the essence of nourishment and sustenance.
- Constructed in 1729 with the Nagara architectural style.
- The tradition of donating food and grains for lifelong prosperity.
- Situated in the bustling Vishwanath Gali.
- Welcomes devotees from 4 a.m. to 10.30 p.m. daily.
Read Also: Best Way to Travel from Delhi to Varanasi
5. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir
Nestled on the serene banks of the River Assi, the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir stands as a beacon of hope and faith for countless devotees. With its roots tracing back to the 16th century, this temple was brought to life by the revered poet, Tulsidas.
Holding a revered spot in the spiritual tapestry of Varanasi, the temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the divine remover of obstacles and troubles. It’s a widely held belief that a visit to this sacred abode bestows the devotee with relief from worries and challenges, thanks to the blessings of Lord Hanuman.
The temple witnesses a surge of devotees, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays, both days being significant for Hanuman worship. A unique aspect of this temple is the playful monkeys that inhabit its vicinity, adding a lively charm to the temple complex.
Located in the heart of Saket Nagar Colony, the temple’s spiritual aura welcomes visitors from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm daily.
Key Highlights:
- One of Varanasi’s most frequented temples.
- Established in the 16th century by the poet Tulsidas.
- Situated on the tranquil banks of River Assi.
- Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the remover of troubles.
- High footfall on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
- Home to a lively community of monkeys.
- Located in Saket Nagar Colony.
- Open daily from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm.
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6. Bharat Mata Mandir
In the heart of Varanasi stands a temple unlike any other – the Bharat Mata Mandir. What sets this temple apart is its dedication not to a deity, but to a nation. It stands as a unique homage to Mother India, symbolizing the undying spirit of patriotism and unity.
Inside the temple, visitors are greeted by an expansive marble map, intricately carved to depict the topographical landscape of undivided India. Every contour, ridge, and feature is meticulously represented, offering a tactile experience of the nation’s vast and varied terrain.
The temple’s foundation was laid in 1939 by Babu Shiv Prasad, a fervent freedom fighter. Its significance was further elevated when it was inaugurated by none other than the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi. His vision of a united and harmonious India finds resonance in the very essence of this temple.
For those looking to experience the temple in its full glory, patriotic festivals like Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti offer the perfect backdrop. During these times, the temple comes alive with fervor, echoing with songs of nationalism and unity.
Key Points:
- The world’s only temple dedicated to a nation.
- Celebrates Mother India in all her glory.
- Features a detailed marble map of undivided India.
- Founded by freedom fighter Babu Shiv Prasad in 1939.
- Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi.
- Best visited during patriotic festivals for a heightened experience.
7. Nepali Hindu Temple
Often referred to as the Kanthwala Temple, the Nepali Hindu Temple in Varanasi stands as a testament to the intricate artistry and spiritual ties between India and Nepal. Designed as a mirror reflection of the renowned Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, this temple offers a unique blend of architectural splendor and spiritual serenity.
Constructed in the 19th century, the temple owes its inception to Rana Bahadur Shah, the exiled King of Nepal. The temple’s design is a harmonious amalgamation of terracotta, wood, and stone, all crafted in the distinctive Nepali architectural style. Owing to its exquisite carvings and sculptures, it has also earned the moniker “Mini Khajuraho”.
Situated in the heart of Lahori Tola, the temple welcomes devotees and tourists alike from the early hours of 4:00 a.m., extending its warmth till 9:00 p.m. However, it’s worth noting that the temple takes a brief respite and remains closed from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. daily.
Highlights:
- Also known as Kanthwala Temple.
- Replica of the famed Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu.
- Built by the exiled King of Nepal, Rana Bahadur Shah.
- Showcases Nepali architectural style using terracotta, wood, and stone.
- Often referred to as “Mini Khajuraho” due to its intricate carvings.
- Located in Lahori Tola.
- Open daily from 4:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with a break from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
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9. Tulsi Manas Temple
Nestled in the heart of Varanasi, the Tulsi Manas Temple stands as a testament to the timeless legacy of poet Tulsidas and his magnum opus, the Ramcharitmanas. It is said that the very grounds of this temple bore witness to the creation of this epic in the 16th century.
Reconstructed in the 20th century, the temple is a celebration of Tulsidas’s poetic genius. Crafted predominantly from pristine white marble, its elegance is undeniable. But what truly captivates visitors are the temple’s inner walls. Adorned with verses and intricate carvings from the Ramcharitmanas, they offer a visual and spiritual journey through the epic’s profound narratives.
While the temple pays homage to Lord Ram and Sita, its significance transcends religious boundaries. Today, it is revered more as a cultural landmark than a mere place of worship. Complementing the temple’s serene ambiance is a sprawling garden, offering a tranquil retreat for reflection and relaxation.
Highlights:
- Located at the historic site where Tulsidas penned the Ramcharitmanas.
- Built in the 20th century to honor the poet’s contributions.
- Exquisite white marble architecture.
- Inner walls are adorned with verses and carvings from the epic.
- A blend of cultural and religious significance.
- Features a spacious garden for peaceful contemplation.
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10. Markandey Mahadev Temple
Nestled in the Kaithi region of Varanasi, the Markandey Mahadev Temple stands as a beacon of hope and faith, drawing countless devotees with its legendary tale. According to ancient lore, it was here that Lord Shiva, in his boundless compassion, defied the very laws of life and death to save a young boy from the clutches of Yama, the god of death.
The temple houses a revered Shivlinga, believed to possess miraculous powers. Devotees flock here with the belief that offering prayers to this Shivlinga bestows them with good health and longevity. The aura of the temple imbued with the blessings of Lord Shiva, offers solace and spiritual rejuvenation to all who visit.
While the temple welcomes pilgrims throughout the year, the ambiance during Mahashivratri is unparalleled. The festival sees the temple adorned in festive finery, resonating with chants, rituals, and the fervent devotion of the masses.
Highlights:
- Located in the serene Kaithi region of Varanasi.
- Renowned for the legendary tale of Lord Shiva’s benevolence.
- Houses a powerful Shivlinga believed to grant good health.
- Best visited during the auspicious occasion of Mahashivratri.
There are temples in every nook and corner of Varanasi, but there is a lot to enjoy in this city. From the Ganges to the ghats and crowded markets there is a lot for the tourists and devotees.
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