Feel close to God when you are in a temple. Feel blessed to be there and carry this closeness when you return home to your everyday life. Your presence at the temple will give you a clearer sense of purpose and peace. Visit and revel in the history of Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi and receive spiritual perspective.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is also known as the Golden Temple dedicated to the Lord Shiva. In ancient times a beautiful city was built where the rivers Varana and Asi joined the Ganges. Thus the city was named Varanasi. The local tribe called Kasha lived there, so Varanasi was also known as Kashi. Ganges is considered a holy river by Hindus and it flows in the shape of a bow near Varanasi. The main deity in the temple is known as Vishwanatha or Vishweshwara meaning Ruler of the universe. This temple town claims to be the oldest living city in the world with 3500 years of documented history.

The temple is the central part of worship in Shiva philosophy. The temple faced a lot of challenges in history and the current structure was built by the Maratha monarch, Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore. The gold used to cover the two domes of the temple was donated by Maharaja Ranjeet Singh, the ruler of Punjab. Since 1983 the temple has been managed by the Uttar Pradesh government.

Inside the temple is the Jyotirlinga of Shiva. A Jyotirlinga is a devotional object representing Lord Shiva. Jyoti means radiance and lingam is the sign of Lord Shiva. It is the Radiant sign of the Almighty. In the Hindu religion, a glimpse of the Jyotirlinga is a soul cleansing experience. It plays a very significant part in the spiritual history of India. It transforms life and puts you in the path of knowledge and devotion. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple Aarti and Kashi Vishwanath Darshan are very popular amongst the Hindu devotees from all over India and abroad. It attracts foreigners as well.

• Deposit your camera, mobiles and all electronic items at the counter.
• There are two security checks before you enter.
• The entry gate and exit gates are separate, ask the officials for help.
• Some of the Aartis can be booked online, please carry a print out.
• It is always crowded, so be patient.
• Go with the guide to fully understand the architecture of the place and also the historical importance of the place.
• The approach lanes are crowded, dirty, narrow and full of hawkers trying to sell you their wares.

• Free entry to the temple.
• Donations are welcome.
• Aarti has different prices. Check official website for details.

• Mangala Aarti: 3 am – 4 am
• General Darshan: 4 am-11 am
• Bhog Aarti: 11:15 am – 12:20 pm
• Shayana Aarti: 10:30 pm – 11 pm
• Sandhya Aarti: 7 pm – 8:15 pm
• Shrinagar Aarti: 9 pm – 10:15 pm

• If you are wondering how to reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple then know that Autorickshaws and walking are the preferred modes of transport.

• Blue Lassi: Indian
• Lotus Lounge: Continental
• The place Ngo Outlet cafe: Cafe, Indian, Contemporary
• Shree cafe Vegetarian Restaurant: Indian, Continental

Love this? Explore the entire list of places to visit in Varanasi before you plan your trip.

Fancy a good night's sleep after a tiring day? Check out where to stay in Varanasi and book an accommodation of your choice.