Sacred Temples in Varanasi
Varanasi — the spiritual capital of India and one of the oldest living cities in the world — is synonymous with devotion, mysticism, and salvation. Nestled on the banks of the holy River Ganga, the city is dotted with countless temples, each narrating stories from ancient scriptures and vibrating with divine energy. For pilgrims and spiritual travelers, visiting the sacred temples in Varanasi is more than a ritual — it’s a journey toward enlightenment.
Here is a curated guide to the most sacred temples in Varanasi every pilgrim should visit.
Sacred Temples in Varanasi
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple – The Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva
Undoubtedly the most revered temple in Varanasi, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the city’s patron deity. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India and holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus.
- Why Visit: Believed to grant moksha (liberation) to devotees who worship here.
- Timings: 3 AM to 11 PM.
- Location: Vishwanath Gali, near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Pilgrim Tip: Entry requires valid ID. Mobile phones and bags are not allowed inside; locker facilities are available nearby.
2. Annapurna Devi Temple – Goddess of Nourishment
Sacred Temples in Varanasi Just beside the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the Annapurna Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess of food and nourishment. Legend says she is an incarnation of Parvati, who fed Lord Shiva when he renounced worldly possessions.
- Significance: Devotees believe that a visit ensures a life free from hunger and spiritual emptiness.
- Special Ritual: Pilgrims receive symbolic grains, which are believed to bring abundance and blessings.
3. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple – The Protector from Troubles
Built in the 16th century by saint Tulsidas, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the remover of obstacles and bestower of courage.
- Why Visit: Highly revered for wish-fulfillment and protection from evil.
- Highlight: Tuesdays and Saturdays witness special aartis and chanting of the Hanuman Chalisa.
Note: Monkeys are commonly found around the temple — stay mindful of personal belongings.
4. Kal Bhairav Temple – The Fierce Guardian of Kashi
Known as the Kotwal (chief guardian) of Varanasi, Lord Kal Bhairav is believed to be the fierce form of Shiva. No pilgrimage to Varanasi is complete without his darshan.
- Ritual Practice: Pilgrims often buy black thread from the temple to wear as protection.
- Local Belief: Only with Kal Bhairav’s permission can one stay in Kashi and attain liberation.
5. Durga Kund Temple – The Fierce and Compassionate Goddes
This iconic red temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, sits beside a sacred pond (kund) and is associated with powerful Shakti energy.
- Built By: A Bengali Maharani in the 18th century.
- Significance: Devotees worship here for strength, protection, and victory over evil forces.
Best Time to Visit: During Navratri, the temple comes alive with elaborate decorations and rituals.
6. Tulsi Manas Mandir – Tribute to the Ramcharitmanas
Dedicated to Lord Ram, this temple stands at the site where Tulsidas is believed to have written the epic Ramcharitmanas.
- Unique Feature: Verses from the Ramayana are inscribed on the temple walls.
- Atmosphere: Peaceful and ideal for quiet reflection and reading scriptures.
7. Bharat Mata Mandir – Worshipping the Nation
Unlike typical temples, the Bharat Mata Mandir is dedicated to Mother India. Built by freedom fighters, it houses a relief map of India carved in marble.
- Message: Promotes unity, respect for the nation, and cultural pride.
- Location: Inside the Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth campus.
8. Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple – The Conqueror of Death
“Mrityunjay” means “victor over death.” This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his powerful healing form.
- Belief: Worshippers pray here for longevity, protection from untimely death, and recovery from illnesses.
- Special Ritual: The temple well is believed to contain holy healing water.
9. New Vishwanath Temple (BHU Temple) – Modern Marvel of Faith
Located inside the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus, this temple is a replica of the original Kashi Vishwanath, built by the Birla family.
- Architecture: Made of white marble with multiple shrines dedicated to different deities.
- Ideal For: Tourists, students, and pilgrims looking for a quieter place to worship.
10. Tridev Temple – Home to Brahma, Vishnu & Shiva
Rare in India, this temple is dedicated to the Hindu Trinity — Brahma (Creator), Vishnu (Preserver), and Shiva (Destroyer).
- Significance: Worshipping all three deities in one place symbolizes complete balance of creation and destruction.
- Location: Near Tulsi Ghat.
Pilgrimage Tips for Temple Tours in Varanasi
Do’s:
- Dress modestly and remove shoes before entering any temple.
- Carry minimal belongings due to security at major temples.
- Respect local customs, especially during rituals and aartis.
Don’ts:
- Don’t click photographs where prohibited.
- Avoid offering coins directly to priests unless for specific rituals.
- Don’t wear leather items inside temple premises.
Bonus Experience: Participate in Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
While not a temple, this daily Ganga Aarti is one of the most sacred and unforgettable spiritual experiences in Varanasi. Held every evening at sunset, the ceremony involves chanting, lamps, and offerings to the holy river — a must for every pilgrim.
Conclusion: A Journey of the Sou
Exploring the most sacred temples of Varanasi is not just a physical journey — it’s a soul-deep pilgrimage. Every shrine, every bell, every mantra echoes the eternal rhythm of the divine. Whether you’re seeking blessings, inner peace, or spiritual awakening, Varanasi’s temples open a gateway to the sacred.
Come as a visitor, return as a devotee.
