Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most revered Hindu shrines in India and a must-visit spiritual destination in Varanasi. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this sacred site is among the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest abodes of Shiva and holds an unmatched place in Hindu beliefs. Pilgrims believe that a visit to this temple grants liberation (moksha) and washes away the sins of a lifetime. In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple – history, darshan timings, how to reach, best time to visit, dress code, accommodation options, and nearby attractions.
History and Significance of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The history of Kashi Vishwanath Temple dates back to ancient times, with references in Hindu scriptures like the Skanda Purana and Kashi Khanda. According to legend, Lord Shiva himself declared Kashi (Varanasi) as his eternal abode. This is why the temple is considered Moksha Dwar, a gateway to salvation.
The original temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times due to foreign invasions. The present structure was reconstructed in 1780 by the Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. The golden spire and dome, donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab, add to its grandeur. The temple complex also houses the sacred Gyanvapi Well, believed to be where the original Shivalinga was hidden to protect it from destruction.
As one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Mandir attracts millions of devotees and travelers every year.
Architecture and Key Highlights of the Temple
The architecture of Kashi Vishwanath Temple blends ancient North Indian design with intricate carvings. The main sanctum (Garbh Griha) enshrines the revered Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. Its golden spire and domes are visible from afar, symbolizing divine light.
- Golden Spire and Domes – plated with nearly 800 kg of gold.
- Sabha Griha (Prayer Hall) – where devotees gather before entering the sanctum.
- Vishwanath Galli – the narrow lane leading to the temple, lined with shops selling pooja items, sweets, and souvenirs.
- Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project – recently developed to create seamless access between the temple and the ghats.
The Gyanvapi Mosque, (which is currently closed) adjacent to the temple, marks a historical chapter of Varanasi and adds to the cultural significance of this sacred spot.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple Darshan Timings and Aarti Details
Knowing the darshan timings of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple helps plan your visit better. The temple remains open almost throughout the day with short breaks.
Daily Temple Timings:
- Morning: 3:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Afternoon: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Evening: 8:30 PM – 11:00 PM
Types of Aarti at Kashi Vishwanath Mandir:
- Mangala Aarti – 3:00 AM (advance booking required)
- Bhog Aarti – 11:15 AM
- Sandhya Aarti – 7:00 PM
- Shringar Aarti – 9:00 PM
- Shayan Aarti – 10:30 PM
Online Booking for Sugam Darshan or VIP Darshan:
Pilgrims can book Aarti and Darshan slots through the official website (shrivikashivishwanath.org). This reduces waiting time and ensures smooth entry, especially during peak seasons like Shravan and Maha Shivratri.
How to Reach Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Varanasi is well connected by air, rail, and road, making it easy to reach the temple.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (about 25 km from the temple).
- By Rail: Varanasi Junction (Cantt Station) and Kashi Railway Station are the closest railway stations.
- By Road: The temple can be accessed via auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws from major parts of the city.
- Parking & Access: Vehicles are not allowed right up to the temple gate. Visitors usually walk from Godowlia Chowk or use designated e-rickshaws. The newly built Kashi Vishwanath Corridor offers a direct route from the ghats to the temple.
Best Time to Visit Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The temple is open year-round, but choosing the right season can make your trip comfortable.
- Winter (Oct–March): Pleasant weather and ideal for sightseeing.
- Summer (April–June): Hot and humid, early morning darshan recommended.
- Monsoon (July–Sept): Heavy rains may disrupt travel, but the temple is less crowded.
- Festivals: Maha Shivratri and Shravan month see massive crowds; advance booking for darshan is strongly advised.
Dress Code, Rules, and Visitor Information
The dress code at Kashi Vishwanath Temple recommends traditional attire. Temple authorities encourage men to wear dhotis or kurtas, and suggest that women wear sarees or salwar suits. Although they don’t strictly enforce the dress code, they appreciate conservative clothing as a sign of respect.
Prohibited items:
- Mobile phones, cameras, belts, bags, and leather goods.
- Locker facilities are available inside the temple premise.
- Foreigners can enter the temple premises after security checks but should follow the decorum.
Places to Visit Around Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Your trip to Kashi is incomplete without exploring nearby attractions:
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: Famous for the grand Ganga Aarti every evening.
- Annapurna Mandir: Dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, located close to the main temple.
- Kal Bhairav Mandir: Considered the guardian deity of Varanasi.
- Sarnath: A short drive from Varanasi where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.
- Vishwanath Galli: Ideal for shopping pooja items, Rudraksha beads, and Banarasi silk.
These places provide a complete spiritual and cultural experience in Varanasi.
Ghum India Ghum’s Varanasi Tour Package (3 Days)
If you wish to experience Varanasi in depth with convenience and expert guidance consider this offering:
Package: “Varanasi or Kashi Tours”
- Duration: 3 Days
- Price: Starts from $130 / INR 9,999 per person by Ghum India Ghum
Highlights & Inclusions:
- Govt-approved travel management and guides from Ghum India Ghum
- Expert-led explorations of Varanasi’s “unseen mysteries”- morning boat rides, temple visits, and ghats immersed in spiritual ambiance.
Investing in this package means:
- Hassle-free local logistics and transfers
- In-depth cultural and spiritual immersion guided by local experts
- A thoughtfully curated experience weaving sacred rituals with serene sightseeing
Perfect if you’re visiting Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple and also wish to delve deeper into Varanasi’s soul.
Accommodation Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Varanasi offers stay options ranging from budget dharamshalas to premium hotels.
- Budget stays: Dharamshalas near Godowlia Chowk or Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- Mid-range hotels: Convenient stays within walking distance of the temple.
- Luxury hotels: Available in Cantonment area with modern amenities and cab services to temple routes.
- Guest houses for foreigners: Many homestays near Assi Ghat and Godowlia cater to international travelers.
FAQs About Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
A: Yes, you can book Aarti and Sugam Darshan slots on the official website.
A: Lalita Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat are the closest ghats with direct corridor access.
A: Yes, the temple authorities allow foreigners to enter after conducting standard security checks, though they advise wearing conservative attire.
A: Sugam Darshan is a paid service allowing quicker access to the sanctum. The cost varies depending on the time and type of Aarti booked.
A: People believe the well contains remnants of the original Shivalinga, which they hid during invasions to protect it from desecration.
Travel Tips for a Hassle-Free Visit
- Visit early morning to avoid queues.
- Book your Aarti slot in advance, especially during Shravan and Maha Shivratri.
- Carry only essentials and use locker facilities for prohibited items.
- Hiring a local guide helps understand the history, temple rituals, and nearby attractions better.
- Walk through the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor to enjoy panoramic views connecting the temple to the ghats.
