Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in India, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines revered across the country.
History
The temple has a long and turbulent history, having been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over the centuries; the current structure dates to 1780, built by the Maratha queen Ahilyabai Holkar, with a gold-plated dome added later by Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab.
The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor
A major redevelopment completed in 2021 created a wide, direct corridor connecting the temple to the Ganges at Manikarnika and Lalita Ghats, making the temple significantly more accessible and giving it an expansive modern plaza alongside its historic core.
Visiting the Temple
The temple sees enormous devotee traffic; a general darshan queue is free, with faster paid options available for those short on time. Security is strict, with restrictions on what can be carried inside.
Entry Fees
General darshan is free; a paid "Sugam Darshan" ticket offers a faster queue for a fee.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning (Mangala Aarti, around 3-4 AM) offers the most serene experience with smaller crowds; the temple is busiest through the day and on Mondays (considered auspicious for Shiva worship).
How to Reach
The temple sits in the heart of old Varanasi, an easy walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat via the new corridor.
