The Kashi Vishwanath Mandir is devoted to Lord Shiva and is one of Hinduism's holiest sites in India. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is located on the banks of the Ganga in Varanasi. Ahilya Bai Holkar initially established the current edifice of the New Vishwanath Mandir Varanasi in 1780 after being reconstructed several times.
Here are some recommendations for visiting the Varanasi temple - including Aarti times, security measures, clothing code, the best time to visit, and how to get there.
Brief history and significance of the New Vishwanath Mandir Varanasi
The famed Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located in Varanasi, one of Hinduism's holiest towns. This temple has been an essential part of Shaiva's philosophy for a long time. It is known for its gold-plated domes and spires and the statue of the Nandi Bull.
The current construction, destroyed and rebuilt several times, is near the ancient temple site. Hindus worldwide aim to visit the New Vishwanath Temple at least once in their lives, believing that a devotee will attain Moksha after receiving temple darshan and taking a bath in the Ganges.
When is the best time to visit?
From October to March, the winter months are the most fantastic time to visit Varanasi for temple darshan. However, cold in December and January, the weather is ideal for tourists because most of the sightseeing is done outside. If you don't plan on attending an Aarti, the best time to visit the temple is at 7 a.m. to avoid long lines.
Timings for Puja/Aarti
Every day at 2.30 a.m., the temple opens. Moreover, five Aarti are performed in the Kashi Vishwanath Temple daily.
- Mangala Aarti: 3–4 a.m.
- Sandhya Aarti: 7:00–8:00 p.m.
- Shayana Aarti: 10:30 – 11:00 p.m.
- Bhoga Aarti: 11:15 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.
- Shringara Aarti: 9.00 p.m. – 10.15 p.m.
Varanasi has a lot to offer
- Explore the Ramnagar Fort, built-in 1750 on the Ganga's eastern bank
- In Sarnath, go to the Dhamek Stupa
- The Gyanvapi Mosque, which shares a wall with the Kashi temple, is a must-see.
- The Sarnath Museum has archaeological artefacts going back to the third century BCE
- Visit the Dashashwamedh Ghat, which is famed for its proximity to the temple and its spectacular Ganga Aarti.
Procedures for ensuring the security
As you enter the temple, there are a lot of police checkpoints, and security protocols are carefully followed. Cell phones, cameras, belts with metal buckles, shoes, cigarettes, and lighters are not permitted on the temple grounds. However, lockers can be rented for a small fee.
Learn about the dress code
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple does not have a specific dress code. However, there is a general dress code that is enforced. Visitors must cover their arms and legs when entering the temple. Traditional Indian attire is not required, and western clothing is permitted.
How to reach the temple?
Varanasi is well-connected to the rest of the country by road, train, and air as a significant pilgrim and tourist destination. Moreover, the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is around 25 kilometres from the city centre.
Varanasi has three railway stations:
- Manduadih Railway Station (about 4 kilometres away)
- Mughal Sarai Junction (approximately 8 kilometres away)
- Varanasi Junction
Some of the important trains that travel to Varanasi from all around India include the:
- Ganga Kaveri Express
- Howrah Jodhpur Express
- Lok Manya Tilak Varanasi Express
- Marudhra Express
- Rajdhani Express
- Sangamitra Express
- Secunderabad Patna Express
- Shivaganga Express
- Vibhuti Express
Kashi Banaras is not just a place; it is an emotion and the peacefulness of the New Vishwanath Mandir Varanasi is unmatchable.
