1. Renewed Splendor of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple
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Ashvin Kaitabhya, clicked by Abhishek Pandey, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Ganga Gate of The Temple |
This ancient and sacred temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, now shines with renewed grandeur thanks to the ambitious Kashi Vishwanath Corridor Project.
Launched in 2019 and inaugurated in December 2021, this mega project was initiated by the Government of Uttar Pradesh to restore and enhance the spiritual and aesthetic appeal of the temple and its surroundings.
The corridor connects the Kashi Vishwanath Temple directly to the Ganga River, making the temple far more accessible to pilgrims. More than 40 ancient temples, long hidden by encroachments, were rediscovered and restored. This redevelopment included wide, paved walkways, clean ghats, organized entryways, public amenities, and landscaping that blends modernity with heritage.
Adding to its splendor, in 2022, the sanctum sanctorum of the temple was gold-plated with 60 kg of donated gold, amplifying its divine aura. The temple’s golden spires now gleam under the sun, visible from a great distance and evoking awe in every visitor. Additionally, light and sound shows, artistic installations, and enhanced crowd management systems have been introduced to elevate the devotional experience.
2. Historical and Religious Importance of Kashi Vishwanath Temple
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Immanuelle, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons View of the Temple from a Boat at Night |
Kashi, the ancient name for Varanasi, is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The mythology surrounding the city and temple claims that Varanasi is the place where Lord Shiva himself resides eternally.
Hindu scriptures state that a death in Kashi brings liberation (moksha), as it is the city where the cycle of birth and rebirth ends.
The temple has witnessed centuries of invasions, reconstructions, and resilience. The original structure is believed to have existed for over 1,000 years. The temple was rebuilt in 1777 by Ahilyabai Holkar, the Maratha queen of Indore, who is revered for her patronage of Hindu temples across India.
Despite centuries of upheaval, the temple has remained a symbol of unyielding devotion, drawing millions of pilgrims from India and around the world. In July 2018, a Kumbhabhishekham ritual was performed, marking spiritual renewal, and in 2025, a holy water exchange began between Kashi Vishwanath and Rameshwaram temples.
3. Rituals, Aartis, and Spiritual Practices
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is not just a structure of bricks and gold—it is the living heart of Sanatan Dharma. Daily worship, intricate rituals, and deeply rooted traditions define the temple's spiritual rhythm.
Aarti Schedule:
Mangala Aarti (3:00–4:00 AM) – The first aarti of the day, symbolizing the awakening of the deity.
Bhog Aarti (11:15 AM–12:20 PM) – Offering food to Lord Shiva.
Saptarishi Aarti (7:00–8:15 PM) – A special evening prayer performed by seven priests.
Shringar Aarti (9:00–10:15 PM) – Decorating the lingam with flowers and sandalwood.
Shayana Aarti (10:30–11:00 PM) – The final prayer before the deity is put to rest.
Major festivals like Mahashivaratri, Shravan month Mondays, Diwali, and Kartik Purnima attract vast crowds. Special darshans and cultural programs create a vibrant religious atmosphere.
Pilgrims also perform the Rudrabhishek, a ritual bathing of the Shiva Lingam with milk, honey, ghee, curd, and holy water while chanting the Rudram. Devotees believe that performing this ritual washes away sins and brings divine blessings.
4. How to Reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Reaching the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is now more convenient than ever. With modern infrastructure, robust transport links, and organized access, pilgrims can plan their journey with ease.
By Air:
The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (Babatpur), located around 22 km from the temple. It is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru.
From the airport, taxis and app-based cabs (Uber, Ola) are available for direct travel to the temple vicinity.
By Train:
Varanasi Junction (Cantt Station) is the main railway station, approximately 5 km from the temple.
Other nearby stations include Banaras and Manduadih.
From any station, one can take auto-rickshaws or electric rickshaws to reach Godowlia Chowk, from where the temple is a 5–10 minute walk.
By Road:
Varanasi is well-connected via national highways. State-run buses, private luxury buses, and taxis are available from nearby cities such as Allahabad, Lucknow, Patna, and Gaya.
Local Access:
Godowlia Chowk is the nearest point where vehicles can reach. From here, narrow alleys lead to the temple complex.
Sugam Darshan services and VIP entry options are available for senior citizens and disabled devotees.
Kashi Darshan Buses run daily, offering temple tours across the city for ₹500.
A ropeway project is under development, aiming to link Godowlia and the temple by mid-2025.
5. Accommodation in Varanasi Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Varanasi offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From dharamshalas for budget travelers to luxurious heritage hotels, the city caters to millions of pilgrims every year.
Budget Accommodations:
Kashi Vishwanath Guest House – Clean and affordable, close to temple.
Shiva Inn – Centrally located, basic amenities.
Hotel Alka – Offers rooms with a view of the Ganga, close to ghats.
Mid-Range Options:
Ganpati Guest House – Popular among international tourists, riverfront location.
Kanha Paying Guest House – Friendly service, hygienic rooms.
Hotel Ganges Grand – Near Godowlia, modern facilities.
Luxury Stays:
BrijRama Palace – 200-year-old heritage hotel located at Darbhanga Ghat, featuring traditional décor and premium services.
Taj Ganges Varanasi – Five-star hotel with serene gardens, modern luxury.
Prices range from ₹500 per night in dharamshalas to ₹15,000 per night in high-end hotels. Advance booking is highly recommended during festival seasons.
6. Spicy Street Food and Culinary Delights of Varanasi
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Alexey Komarov, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons |
Must-Try Dishes:
Kachori Sabzi – Spicy lentil-filled puris served with potato curry, ideal for breakfast.
Tamatar Chaat – Unique to Varanasi, made with mashed tomatoes, spices, and ghee.
Baati Chokha – Roasted wheat balls with spiced mashed potato and brinjal.
Paneer Malai Toast – Found at local stalls, rich and creamy delight.
Sweet Treats:
Rabri and Jalebi – Sweet and creamy rabri paired with crispy jalebi.
Banarasi Kalakand – A milk-based sweet unique to the city.
Malaiyyo (Winter Only) – A frothy milk dessert made early in the morning, infused with saffron.
Beverages:
Banarasi Lassi – Thick and topped with malai, available in clay cups.
Thandai – A traditional spiced milk drink, often laced with bhaang during festivals.
Food stalls near Vishwanath Gali, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Godowlia serve these iconic dishes. Most are vegetarian, and hygiene-conscious travelers can opt for reputed outlets like Blue Lassi Shop, Baati Chokha Restaurant, and Kachori Gali vendors.
Conclusion: The Timeless Allure of Kashi Vishwanath
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is more than a destination—it’s an emotion, a pilgrimage that millions undertake to find spiritual clarity and divine connection. Its renewed splendor through the corridor project, rich historical legacy, and cultural vibrancy have made it a must-visit for every spiritual seeker.
Whether you're attending the early morning aarti, witnessing the grandeur of the golden sanctum, walking the historic lanes of Varanasi, or tasting its spicy street food—every moment here is a step closer to divine serenity.
From meticulous planning to soul-stirring experiences, a journey to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is unforgettable. Make it yours today.
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