Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Overview

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred Shiva temples in Hinduism and houses one of the twelve jyotirlingas. The present temple was built in 1780 by Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, and its spires are covered in gold, a gift attributed to Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

A wide corridor opened in 2021 now connects the temple to the Ganges and the ghats, replacing the narrow lanes that once surrounded it.

What to look for

• The golden spires and the sanctum
• The Kashi Vishwanath Corridor leading to the river
• The lanes and shops of old Varanasi around the temple

Visiting tips

• Mobile phones, cameras and bags are generally not allowed inside, and security checks are thorough.
• Queues vary widely: go very early or ask your guide to plan the timing.
• Dress modestly, and check the current entry rules for non-Hindu visitors before you go.

Why visit with a private guide

A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and fits the visit around the rest of your day.

More photographs

Nearby

Dhamek Stupa Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti Manikarnika Ghat Sunrise Boat