Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The Temple

In Varanasi — one of the oldest living cities on earth — stands Kashi Vishwanath, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and among the most sacred of all Shiva temples. The temple was destroyed and rebuilt several times across history. The present temple was built in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, one of India's most respected queens. Later, Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab donated the gold that covers its domes — earning it the name 'the Golden Temple of Varanasi.'

Why Kashi Is Special

Devotees believe Kashi is Shiva's own city — never abandoned by him, standing beyond the cycles of creation. To live, pray, or take one's last breath in Kashi is considered supremely blessed. The temple stands near the ghats of the holy Ganga, and bathing in the river before darshan is an age-old tradition. In 2021, the grand Kashi Vishwanath Corridor opened, connecting the temple directly to the Ganga ghats for the ease of millions of pilgrims.

Good to Know

Maha Shivaratri and the month of Shravan bring seas of devotees chanting 'Har Har Mahadev' — the heartbeat of this city. The evening Ganga Aarti at the nearby Dashashwamedh Ghat, with its lamps, bells, and chants, is one of the most moving sights in India.

🕉️ The Deity