10 Hidden Places in Varanasi You’ve Never Heard Of

Varanasi—the Eternal City—is often seen through the lens of its grand temples, world-famous ghats, and iconic rituals. But beyond the familiar sights lies a more mysterious, mystical, and serene side of Kashi—one that even seasoned travelers often overlook.

These are the hidden places in Varanasi—ancient shrines, secret kunds, and forgotten ghats that still hold whispers of saints, energy of old rituals, and a sense of timeless wonder.

With Tripcosmos.co, your journey to these offbeat spots becomes an intimate spiritual adventure, guided by locals who know the soul of the city.

1. Introduction – The Other Side of Varanasi

Beyond the Famous Temples and Ghats

Most people stick to the checklist—Kashi Vishwanath, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi, Manikarnika—but Varanasi is a labyrinth of legends, and every turn holds a sacred surprise. There are hundreds of temples and dozens of ghats that don’t make it to the tourist brochures.

These places are:

• Quieter
• Steeped in local devotion rather than crowds
• Full of stories not found on Wikipedia
• Perfect for seekers, spiritual wanderers, and lovers of the unknown

Why Explore Offbeat Spots in Varanasi

• Escape the chaos and connect with your inner voice
• Discover hidden rituals, rare idols, and unique legends
• Walk paths taken by sages, tantrics, poets, and royalty
• Experience Varanasi like a local, not a visitor

Let’s begin your hidden pilgrimage with Tripcosmos.co, where offbeat isn’t just unusual—it’s unforgettable.

2. Siddheshwari Temple – The Tantric Power Spot

A Temple Revered but Rarely Visited

Located in a narrow bylane near Sonarpura, the Siddheshwari Temple is one of the Shakti Peeths of Varanasi, yet barely known to outsiders. Dedicated to Goddess Siddheshwari, it holds deep tantric significance and is revered by spiritual practitioners.

This is no ordinary Devi temple. Here:

• Rituals are performed in low tones and high energy
• The priest may offer unique tantric mantras if you’re spiritually inclined
• The ambiance is raw, ancient, and powerful

Locals whisper that miracles happen here quietly—especially for those seeking clarity, power, and inner direction.

Spiritual Energy and Secret Legends

According to folklore:

• Goddess Siddheshwari grants siddhis (spiritual powers) to those who meditate here sincerely
• It is said to be one of the energy centers aligned with Shiva’s chakras in Kashi

Tripcosmos.co includes this temple in its “Secret Shakti Trail”, along with spiritual interpretation and meditation guidance.

3. Gular Kund – The Silent Pond of Spiritual Echoes

Mythical Connections to Shiva’s Meditation

Tucked near the ghats but hard to find unless a local leads you, Gular Kund is said to be the place where Shiva meditated under a gular (fig) tree. The kund (pond) is now more symbolic than functional, but its energy is intense and introspective.

Here, you won’t hear temple bells—you’ll hear your own thoughts slowing down.

A Spot of Serenity Amidst the Chaos

Why visit?

• Ideal for morning meditation or chanting
• No rush, no crowds—just you, old steps, and divine silence
• Great for seeking inner answers or quiet journaling

Tripcosmos.co’s Hidden Kunds of Kashi tour offers sunrise visits here with optional guided chanting sessions.

4. Reewa Ghat – A Forgotten Royal Landing

Tranquil Views and Quiet Rituals

Most tourists gather at Dashashwamedh or Assi—but Reewa Ghat offers wide, open views of the river with hardly anyone around. Located near the Darbhanga Ghat area, it’s named after the royal family of Rewa who had a palace here.

You’ll often find:

• Priests quietly teaching shlokas
• Locals performing non-touristy poojas
• Artists sketching the skyline in peace

Home to the Rewa Maharaja’s Palace

The palace beside the ghat is an architectural gem, with carved balconies and river-facing verandas. Though not always open to the public, the ambiance of royal solitude remains.

Tripcosmos.co offers morning tea experiences on the Rewa Ghat steps, paired with a guided story walk on Varanasi’s forgotten royals.

5. Trilochan Mahadev Temple – One of the Oldest in Varanasi

Ancient Jyotirlinga Site in a Quiet Neighborhood

The Trilochan Mahadev Temple in Almora Gali is believed to predate even Kashi Vishwanath. It’s one of the most ancient temples in the city, and yet few outside the devout circles know of it.

• The Shivling here is believed to self-manifested (Swayambhu)
• Said to have been worshipped by King Harishchandra
• Linked to the Trilochana (three-eyed) form of Shiva

Architecture That Whispers History

The structure is simple but strong, echoing Gupta and early medieval architectural styles. You’ll see:

• Old, worn-down steps with centuries of devotion
• A water tank nearby where devotees once bathed before darshan
• Peaceful surroundings with local elders chanting softly

Tripcosmos.co guides often include this in custom heritage pilgrimage routes, especially for those looking to visit all Jyotirlinga sites in Varanasi.

Continuing with the next spiritually rich and culturally vibrant sections of the article…

6. Nepali Temple (Kathwala Mandir) – The Replica of Pashupatinath

A Slice of Nepal in the Holy City

Nestled near Lalita Ghat, the Nepali Temple (also known as Kathwala Mandir) is one of Varanasi’s best-kept architectural secrets. Built in the 19th century by the King of Nepal, it’s a miniature version of the famed Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu.

Unlike the stone temples of Kashi, this one is entirely made of redwood and stone, exuding a distinct Himalayan aura. As you walk in, the scent of aged wood and the silence of devotion engulf you.

What makes it stand out?

• Pagoda-style architecture rarely seen in India
• Intricately carved erotic figures, akin to those in Khajuraho
• Lush garden surroundings and a tranquil Shiva shrine inside

Erotic Wood Carvings and Himalayan Vibes

The carvings here reflect Tantric symbolism, reminding devotees of the balance between physical and spiritual existence—a core tenet of Varanasi’s ancient spiritual teachings.

Tripcosmos.co includes this hidden gem in its “Sacred Architecture Trail”, offering insights into the temple’s symbolism, tantric meanings, and artistic importance.

7. Lolark Kund – A Fertility Shrine from the Vedic Age

Sacred to the Sun God and Hidden in Assi

Tucked behind the famous Assi Ghat, the Lolark Kund is a rectangular stepwell believed to date back to the Vedic era. It’s dedicated to Surya (the Sun God) and is famous for fertility blessings.

Couples struggling with conception come here to bathe and pray, offering garments and fruits to the kund after their rituals.

It’s believed:

• A dip here on Lolark Shasthi (a festival day) fulfills desires for children
• The kund’s waters once had medicinal properties
• Sage Agastya meditated here, adding to its spiritual power

Ritual Baths and a Secret Festival

What to expect:

• A very local crowd—not touristy at all
• Devotees tying red threads for fertility and health
• A peaceful courtyard that hasn’t changed in centuries

Tripcosmos.co helps you visit during auspicious times, with explanations of the rituals and optional priest guidance.

8. Rana Mahal Ghat – Royalty and Solitude

The Most Photogenic Yet Peaceful Ghat

Most ghats are bustling with activity, but Rana Mahal Ghat—tucked between Darbhanga and Mansarovar Ghats—is a hidden sanctuary of quiet beauty.

Built by the Maharana of Udaipur, the ghat is attached to a magnificent old haveli with Rajputana-style arches and domes that overlook the river. It’s a favorite among photographers, meditators, and early morning walkers.

Why visit?

• Pastel-painted palace walls reflecting in the Ganga
• No pujaris or rituals—just quietude and space
• The perfect spot for reading, sketching, or breathwork

Ideal for Meditation and Morning Reflection

Start your day here with:

• A cup of chai from nearby stalls
• 30 minutes of silence or journaling
• Observing the slow rhythm of boatmen, priests, and river life from a peaceful angle

Tripcosmos.co includes this ghat in their “Varanasi for Artists and Seekers” walk, perfect for spiritual creatives.

9. Vrieshwar Mahadev – The Guardian Deity of Kashi

The Mysterious Shiva Temple You Never Knew Existed

Vrieshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the most esoteric shrines in all of Varanasi. Not far from the Vishwanath corridor but hidden deep inside alleyways, this temple is believed to be the protector of Kashi, placed here by Shiva himself.

The name “Vrieshwar” is derived from “Vrisha,” meaning bull (Nandi). It’s believed that:

• This temple guards the city’s spiritual boundaries
• Shiva established it to protect devotees from untimely death
• Praying here ensures a peaceful afterlife or divine rebirth

Deep Mythological Significance

Locals consider this the true guardian temple, far more potent than it appears. The energy is subtle yet intense—many report goosebumps or quiet revelations while meditating here.

Tripcosmos.co guides can lead you through a mini-circuit of Kashi’s guardian deities, including Vrieshwar, Kal Bhairav, and Mahamrityunjaya.

10. Ashwamedh Ghat – Older Than Dashashwamedh?

A Lost Ritual Ghat Near the Mainstream

Just a short walk from Dashashwamedh, the Ashwamedh Ghat is believed by some locals to be the original site of the Ashwamedha Yajna—the horse sacrifice performed by kings in ancient times.

Although overshadowed today by Dashashwamedh’s grandeur, this ghat:

• Holds quiet early-morning rituals
• Is known among Vedic scholars and tantra practitioners
• Is rich with hidden sculptures and ancient energy

Less Crowded, More Powerful

Why go?

• Less touristy than Dashashwamedh
• Ideal for chanting mantras or sitting in silence
• Surrounded by old shrines dedicated to various forms of Vishnu and Shiva

Tripcosmos.co’s “Lost Ghats Tour” helps you rediscover this space and explore its ritual heritage with a knowledgeable local priest or storyteller.

11. Conclusion – Discover Varanasi Like a Local Seeker

The soul of Varanasi doesn’t lie in guidebooks or Instagram—it lies in these whispering alleys, forgotten ghats, and unassuming temples that carry centuries of devotion. To truly understand this sacred city, you must step off the main road and listen to the city’s hidden heart.

With Tripcosmos.co, you’ll not only discover these places—but you’ll understand them, feel their energy, and return home spiritually fuller than when you arrived.

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