Varanasi (Kashi) · India
Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Lord Shiva (Vishveshvara / Lord of the Universe - Jyotirlinga)
Spiritual philosophy
Believed to rest on the tip of Shiva's Trishula, Kashi is the ancient cosmic capital of liberation (Mukti Kshetra). It is taught that Lord Shiva imparts the liberating 'Tarak Mantra' into the ear of anyone who passes away in Kashi, breaking the cycle of rebirth.
Architecture & structure
Classical North Indian Temple & Modern Vishwanath Corridor
Features famous gold-plated spires (spire spire donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh using 1,000 kg of pure gold). Rebuilt by Ahilyabai Holkar in 1780 and newly expanded via the Kashi Vishwanath Dham Corridor connecting the temple directly to the sacred Ganga Ghats (Manikarnika and Lalita Ghats).
Sacred mantras (Sanskrit)
What to go for
Performing Sparsh Darshan (touching the sacred Jyotirlinga), experiencing the grand Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, taking a holy dip at Manikarnika Ghat, and attending the Saptarishi Aarti.
Special rituals & poojas
- Mangala Aarti (3:00 AM to 4:00 AM)
- Bhog Aarti (11:30 AM to 12:30 PM)
- Saptarishi Aarti (7:00 PM to 8:30 PM - Performers simulate 7 celestial sages)
- Shringara & Shayana Aarti (Night slumber ritual)
Events & timings
- Mahashivratri (Grand night of Shiva-Parvati wedding procession)
- Dev Deepavali (Kartik Poornima - Million lamps on all Ganga ghats)
- Rangbhari Ekadashi (Shiva returning with Parvati to Kashi playing gulal)
- Daily Temple Timings: 3:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Dress code & guidelines
Decent, respectful clothing required. For Sparsh Darshan / Special Pujas, men must wear unstitched Dhoti and Towel/Uttareeyam; women must wear Saree or Salwar Suits. Leather items (belts, wallets) are strictly prohibited inside the sanctum.