About Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred temples in Hinduism and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, dedicated to Lord Shiva as the Lord of the Universe (Vishwanath). Situated in the ancient city of Varanasi on the western bank of the Ganga, the temple has been a centre of spiritual learning for over three thousand years. The 2021 Kashi Vishwanath Corridor project transformed the site, creating a sweeping promenade connecting the temple directly to the Ganga ghats. The golden shikhara gleams over the dense lanes of the old city. Hindus believe that dying in Kashi grants moksha — Shiva himself whispers the Taraka Mantra in the ear of the dying.

The original temple was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt. The current structure was rebuilt by Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore in 1780. The gold plating on the twin shikharas was donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab. The temple is surrounded by the Gyan Vapi Mosque, built by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb on the earlier temple site.

Darshan & Aarti

🚌 How to reach

Last mile: Temple in the old city (Vishwanath Gali). Autos to Dashashwamedh Ghat, then 10 min walk. No vehicles inside the lanes.

Where to stay

Estimated expense (per person)

Estimated for a short 2-day pilgrimage.

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