Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Varanasi – Complete Travel & Darshan Guide

Nestled on the sacred banks of the River Ganga, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi is one of the most revered Hindu pilgrimage sites in Uttar Pradesh. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this ancient shrine is also one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India, where devotees believe Lord Vishwanath — “The Ruler of the Universe” — resides eternally. Every year, millions of pilgrims visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple to experience its divine energy, perform Ganga Aarti at the Varanasi ghats, and seek spiritual liberation (moksha). With its rich history, temple architecture, and the newly developed Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, this holy site stands as a timeless symbol of faith and devotion in India’s spiritual capital.

 Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Darshan Timings

The temple remains open every day for devotees.

• Morning Darshan: 3:00 AM to 11:00 AM

• Afternoon Break: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

• Evening Darshan: 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Special poojas such as Mangala Aarti (3:00 AM), Bhog Aarti (11:30 AM), and Shayan Aarti (10:30 PM) attract pilgrims seeking unique spiritual experiences. Online booking for darshan and aarti tickets is available through the official Kashi Vishwanath Temple website.

History of Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi

The history of Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi is deeply rooted in India’s spiritual and cultural heritage. It is one of the oldest and most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, mentioned in several ancient scriptures such as the Skanda Purana and Kashi Khanda. According to legend, Varanasi (also known as Kashi) was founded by Lord Shiva himself, making it one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites in Uttar Pradesh.

Over the centuries, the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times. The earliest recorded structure was demolished during invasions but was later restored by various Hindu rulers who revered the spiritual importance of Kashi. The present-day Kashi Vishwanath Temple was rebuilt in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, who ensured the temple regained its former glory. Later, in the 19th century, the temple’s gold-plated spire and dome were donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab, further enhancing its divine grandeur.

Despite centuries of change, the Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga continues to symbolize the eternal presence of Lord Shiva. Devotees believe that a visit to this sacred shrine grants moksha (liberation) and washes away all sins, making it one of the most spiritually powerful places in the world.

Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project Details

The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project is one of India’s most ambitious and transformative spiritual infrastructure developments, designed to enhance the experience of pilgrims visiting the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. Launched by the Government of India and inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 13, 2021, this grand project connects the Kashi Vishwanath Temple directly to the Ganga River through a spacious, beautifully designed corridor.

Before the project, the temple was surrounded by narrow, congested lanes, making access difficult for devotees. The Kashi Vishwanath Dham Corridor has completely changed that. Spread over approximately 5 lakh square feet, it includes 23 new buildings such as pilgrim facilitation centers, museums, viewing galleries, rest areas, and security zones. The wide open pathways allow thousands of devotees to move freely between the temple sanctum and the Ganga ghats, especially Lalita Ghat, where pilgrims perform rituals before darshan.

The corridor not only preserves the ancient heritage of Varanasi but also presents it with modern amenities and cleanliness, embodying the true vision of a “New Kashi” — one that seamlessly blends spirituality, tradition, and world-class infrastructure. The project has revived the city’s cultural charm and made the Kashi Vishwanath Temple more accessible and visually magnificent than ever before.

How to Reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple from Varanasi Railway Station

Reaching the Kashi Vishwanath Temple from Varanasi Railway Station (Varanasi Junction or Cantt Station) is convenient and well-connected by multiple modes of transport. The temple is located around 4 to 5 kilometers from the railway station, right in the spiritual heart of the city near the Dashashwamedh Ghat and the Ganga River.

• By Auto-rickshaw or E-rickshaw: The easiest and most economical way is to take an auto or e-rickshaw from the railway station directly to Godowlia Chowk, the main entry point leading to the temple. From there, it’s a short walk (about 500 meters) through the vibrant Vishwanath Gali, filled with shops selling flowers, sweets, and souvenirs for temple offerings.

• By Taxi or Cab: Taxis and app-based cabs (Ola, Uber) are available at the station. The ride takes around 20–25 minutes, depending on traffic. Cabs can drop you near Gate No. 4 of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, which is the most accessible entry point for visitors.

• By Cycle Rickshaw or Walking: For a more traditional Varanasi experience, you can take a cycle rickshaw or even walk from Godowlia Chowk to the temple while enjoying the spiritual energy and local culture of the old city lanes.

• Nearest Airport: The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (Varanasi Airport) is located about 25 km away. You can reach the temple in roughly 45–60 minutes by cab or private vehicle.

Tip: For devotees visiting during peak hours or festivals, it’s best to use the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor entry from the Ganga side via Lalita Ghat to avoid congestion and enjoy a scenic approach from the river.

Best Time to Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple Varanasi

The best time to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi is during the winter season (October to March) when the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for temple darshan, sightseeing, and attending the famous Ganga Aarti at the ghats. During this period, the average temperature ranges between 12°C and 25°C, allowing pilgrims to comfortably explore the spiritual places of Varanasi and nearby temples.

If you wish to witness the temple’s divine energy at its peak, plan your visit during major Hindu festivals like:

• Maha Shivaratri – Celebrated with grand rituals, night-long prayers, and heavy footfall of devotees.

• Shravan Month (July–August) – A sacred time dedicated to Lord Shiva when lakhs of devotees offer holy Ganga water at the Jyotirlinga.

• Dev Deepawali (November) – The ghats of Varanasi glow with millions of diyas, creating an unforgettable spiritual ambiance.

For a peaceful experience, early morning Mangala Aarti (around 3:00 AM) or evening Shayan Aarti are the most serene times to visit. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

Avoid the summer months (April to June) due to high temperatures exceeding 40°C, and the monsoon season (July–September) if you prefer clear weather for exploring the ghats and corridors.

Whether you’re a devotee seeking moksha or a traveler exploring India’s sacred heritage, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi offers a spiritually enriching experience throughout the year.

Varanasi Jyotirlinga Temple Information

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India, making it one of the most sacred destinations for devotees of Lord Shiva. Known as the Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga, it represents the infinite light and cosmic power of Shiva, symbolizing his presence as the eternal and supreme being. The word Jyotirlinga means “pillar of light,” signifying the formless, all-encompassing nature of Lord Vishwanath.

According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Lord Shiva himself resides in Kashi (Varanasi) and blesses those who visit this holy temple. Devotees believe that offering prayers at the Varanasi Jyotirlinga Temple grants moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). It is said that even in times of cosmic destruction, Kashi remains untouched, and Lord Shiva whispers the Taraka Mantra into the ears of the dying, ensuring their salvation.

The main sanctum (Garbhagriha) houses the sacred Shivling, which is beautifully decorated with flowers, bilva leaves, and offerings from devotees throughout the day. Priests perform daily rituals, abhishekams, and aartis with utmost devotion. The spiritual energy here is so powerful that pilgrims from across the world come to experience the divine vibration of the Varanasi Jyotirlinga Temple at least once in their lifetime.

A visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga in Varanasi is considered the culmination of all pilgrimages. It is said that “One who dies in Kashi attains liberation”—a belief that continues to draw seekers of truth, faith, and eternal peace to this timeless city on the banks of the Ganga.