Benaras, which is today known as Varanasi, was once known as Kashi. The holy river, the Ganges, or Ganga in Hindi, is said to flow through the area. The Kashi Vishwanath temple is the most prominent in Varanasi, which is noted for its temples. It lies in the city’s Vishwanath Gali and is frequented by tens of thousands of worshippers yearly.
However, do we truly understand why this shrine is so well known? When a devotee visits this temple, their every request is granted. What is the mythology behind its existence, and how does this happen? It is possible that we do not know all there is to know about this Jyotirlinga. Please continue reading this article to learn more about the topics mentioned above.
Location of Kashi Vishwanath Temple:
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is situated in the heart of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, on the western bank of the holy river Ganges. Varanasi, also known as Banaras or Kashi, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple Darshan Timings
The temple opens its doors to devotees early in the morning at around 3:00 AM and closes at 11:00 PM. However, these timings can vary slightly during festivals and special occasions.
Darshan Schedule:
- Early Morning Darshan:
- Starts: 3:00 AM
- Ends: 11:00 AM
- Note: Auspicious time for blessings.
- Afternoon Darshan:
- Reopens: 12:00 PM
- Closes for Cleaning: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Ends: 1:00 PM
- Evening Darshan:
- Starts: 6:00 PM
- Ends: 9:00 PM
- Note: Serene and spiritual atmosphere.
- Night Darshan:
- Starts: 9:30 PM
- Ends: 11:00 PM
- Note: For late evening visitors.
Aarti and Darshan Times:
- Temple Opens: 2:30 AM
- Mangala Aarti (Ticket Required): 3:00 AM – 4:00 AM
- General Darshan: 4:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Mid-Day Bhog Aarti: 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon Darshan: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Sapta Rishi Aarti: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Evening Darshan Continues: Until 9:00 PM
- Shringar/Bhog Aarti: 9:00 PM – 10:15 PM
- Shayan Aarti: 10:30 PM
- Temple Closes: 11:00 PM
Entry Requirements
There is no entry fee to visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. However, visitors should be prepared for security checks at the entrance. Identity proof may be required for entry, and foreign visitors are advised to carry their passports.
Dress Code
Visitors are expected to dress modestly, keeping in mind the temple’s sacred nature. Traditional Indian attire is recommended, but not mandatory. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing are generally discouraged.
Photography Restrictions
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main temple complex to maintain the sanctity and privacy of the sacred space. Visitors can take photos outside the temple premises.
History of Kashi Vishwanath Temple
It is home to one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are sacred representations of Lord Shiva. The temple has a rich history that spans centuries, with its origins deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. It is believed to have been a significant pilgrimage site for thousands of years.
The temple we see today has been rebuilt several times due to destructions caused by invasions and conflicts over the centuries. The current structure was primarily constructed in the 18th century by Maharani Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is not only a spiritual center but also a symbol of the religious resilience and architectural ingenuity in India.
History with Many Changes
Over the years, the temple has gone through a lot. It was destroyed many times by people who attacked it, and then it was built again and again by Indian kings. The temple that you see today was made in the 1780s by a queen named Ahilya Bai Holkar from Indore. The temple has a very special design with three domes, and a king named Maharaja Ranjit Singh gave a lot of gold to make two of these domes shine bright.
There’s also a very old well in the temple area called the GyanVapi or Wisdom Well. There’s a story that people hid the idol of Lord Shiva in this well to keep it safe from attackers.
Different Times in History
- Long Ago: The temple is talked about in old stories and writings.
- When Sultans Ruled: It got destroyed and built again a few times because of wars and rulers changing.
- Mughal Era: Even during this time, it was destroyed and rebuilt. Once, a king named Aurangzeb built a mosque there instead of the temple.
- Before India Became Independent: The temple got built again near the mosque by Ahilya Bai Holkar. Later, many other small temples and places to visit by the river were added.
Recent Times
The government now takes care of the temple. A big project started by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019 made it easier for people to visit by making more space. They found and fixed more than 40 very old temples during this work. In 2021, there was a big ceremony to open this new space for visitors, and in 2022, someone gave a lot of gold to decorate the temple’s main part.
So, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple has a very long and interesting story, with lots of rebuilding over the years. It’s a place where many people go to feel close to God and find peace.
How To Reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi:
By Road:
Varanasi has many roads and buses that go to different places in Uttar Pradesh. You can take a small taxi or a three-wheeled taxi (autorickshaw) to get to the temple. The road to the temple has many shops where you can buy sweets, things for worship, and clothes.
By Train:
Varanasi has train stations that connect it to big cities in India. The temple is close to several train stations. The closest one is Varanasi City station, which is 2 km away. Varanasi Junction is a bit further at 6 km away, and Mughalsarai Junction is the farthest at 17 km away. There’s also Banaras Junction, which is 4 km away. It’s easy to get to the temple by train.
By Plane:
The nearest airport to the temple is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, about 25 km away. It takes less than an hour to get to the temple from the airport by taxi or bus.
Also, there’s a new project called the Kashi Vishwanath Temple corridor. It connects the temple to the river Ganga’s banks, making it easier for visitors to get there.
Must-See Rituals Inside Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi
- Rudrabhishek: This profound ritual involves bathing the Shiva Lingam with sacred offerings such as milk, honey, and Ganges water, while chanting the Rudra Mantra. It’s a spiritually uplifting ceremony that seeks blessings from Lord Shiva.
- Morning Aarti: Experience the divine morning aarti inside the temple, where priests perform rituals to wake up Lord Shiva. The sound of bells, hymns, and the aroma of incense create a mesmerizing atmosphere, filling devotees with peace and devotion.
- Evening Puja: The evening puja is a vibrant affair, with the temple resonating with the sound of chants, bells, and devotional songs. This ceremony marks the end of the day’s worship and offers a serene experience to the attendees.
- Special Poojas on Festive Days: Visiting during significant Hindu festivals like Maha Shivratri allows witnessing special poojas and rituals dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is adorned beautifully, and the air is thick with devotion and celebration.
- Daily Darshan: Simply being present for the daily darshan (viewing) of Lord Shiva can be a moving experience. Devotees get a chance to see the deity, offer prayers, and seek blessings for spiritual well-being and salvation.
Varanasi Kashi Vishwanath Temple Has A Lot Of Interesting Facts:
- As a side note, the original temple was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar, who gave the go-ahead for it to be demolished by Aurangzeb, the sixth Mughal emperor.
- As one of Lord Shiva’s 12 Jyotirlingas, the temple is sacred to Hindus. Many believe that Lord Shiva visited this area and remained for a while.
- There are three gold-plated domes in the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The golden chatra is said to grant wishes according to common belief.
- The Narendra Modi government’s Kashi Vishwanath Temple project has renovated and beautified the sacred sanctuary, attracting over 7 million pilgrims each year. The first phase of the project was opened on December 13 by Prime Minister Modi.
Nearby Attractions:
Manikarnika Ghat: One of the holiest riverfronts in Varanasi, known for its spiritual significance.
Dashashwamedh Ghat: Famous for the grand Ganga Aarti performed every evening.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: A revered temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
Banaras Hindu University: A prestigious educational institution with a beautiful campus and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.
What To Eat Nearby Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi:
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Dahi Vada (Chena Dahi)
This is a great way to cool down after a long day visiting the city. Channa Dahi vada is the right blend of sweetness and sourness for all curd fans. Dahi vadas are an Indian sweet dish, and the chena Dahi vadas look similar to the sweet ras malai.
The vadas are dipped in yogurt and sprinkled with salt and jeera before serving. It is garnished with coriander leaves, which give it a pleasant taste.
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Golgappe Dahi Chutney
Varanasi is famous for its street cuisine, and one of its most popular offerings is this dish. Meethe golgappe is another name for this spiced snack. A spicy mash of potatoes and chickpeas is filled with a crispy golgappa.
Curd, sweet and sour chutneys, and a hint of spice are all spread on top. Pomegranate seeds, sev, and pudina are all added to this meal for a finishing flourish. These exquisite gol gappas are a feast for the senses, releasing a kaleidoscope of tastes into your tongue with each mouthful.
Best Time To Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi:
A sufficient time to visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is during the month of Shravan. In the month of Sawan, thousands of people go to the shrine to seek Baba’s blessings.
The time between Guru Purnima and Raksha Bandhan Purnima is considered the holiest among devotees. It is also an excellent opportunity to visit the temple during the Durga Puja & Dussehra festivities.
Festivals Celebrated At Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi:
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Akshaya Tritiya
In the Vedic calendar, Akshaya Tritiya is regarded as one of the four best good days of the year. Vaishakh month’s new moon occurs on the third day (April-May).
The Kashi Vishwanath temple in Kashi, India, is a popular place for devotees of all ages to worship and make offerings on this day. As a result, wealthy individuals are encouraged to offer money, food, blankets, clothing, and other necessities to those in need on Akshaya Tritiya.
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Mahashivaratri
The 13th night and 14th day of the month of Maagha (February/March) are designated for the festival’s celebration. It is bathed in Ganga water; Chandan paste is applied; Bilva leaves, datura, flowers, cocoa, fruits, and cow milk are presented to the Linga and Lord Shiva.
People observe a 24-hour fast and perform Shiva Pooja at home. On Mahashivaratri, bathing in the River Ganga is regarded as exceedingly holy.
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Annakoot
When Lord Krishna protected the cowherds from Indra’s anger as a kid, Indra was humiliated, and Annakoot was observed to commemorate this event in his life. Crowds of cowherds encircled Sri Krishna with jubilation.
A lavish celebration was held in honor of Sri Krishna’s superhuman achievement, which they were in awe of. Annakoot was born because of this.
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Rangbhari Ekadashi
In February and March, the event is held. According to tradition, Lord Shiva & Goddess Parvati consummated their marriage on this day. Decorated with gulaal & rose petals, worshippers carry the statues of Shiva Parvati in a Palki from the residence of the Mahant of Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
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Dev Deepawali
During the Kartik Poornima, the Dev Deepavali (the “Divine Diwali” or “Festival of Lights of Gods”) is held in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. It occurs fifteen days after Diwali, on the day of the full moon in the Hindu month of Kartik (November-December).
A million clay lights are placed on the steps of every Ghat along the Ganges River, between Ravidas Ghat in the south to Rajghat, in homage to the river or its presiding goddess.
Significance Of Kashi Vishwanath Temple’s Festivals?
Observance of Rangbhari Ekadashi just at Kashi Vishwanath Temple. When it comes to Hindu holidays, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple does all it can to honor almost every one of them with tremendous fanfare and fanfare: Ramnavami and Hanuman Jayanti, as well as Dussehra, Holi, and Janmashtami.
Conclusion
The Kashi Vishwanath temple represents India’s spiritual and cultural qualities, making it the most important. The significance of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, which will be inaugurated later today, is projected to rise enormously due to this event.
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