Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple — one of the most sacred and revered Hindu temples — is dedicated to Lord Shiva and located in Varanasi (Kashi), Uttar Pradesh, India. It stands on the western bank of the holy river Ganga, and is considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest of Shiva temples.

Key Highlights:

Deity: Lord Shiva (as Vishwanath or Vishweshwara — “Ruler of the Universe”)
Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Significance: It is believed that a visit to Kashi Vishwanath and a dip in the Ganga leads one toward moksha (liberation).
Architecture: The temple’s golden spire and dome, plated with pure gold, give it the name “Golden Temple of Varanasi.”
History: The temple has been rebuilt several times, with the current structure commissioned by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore in 1780.
Ganga Corridor: The newly developed Kashi Vishwanath Corridor connects the temple directly to the Ganga ghats, making access easier for pilgrims.

Rituals and Practices:

Daily aarti and abhishek ceremonies draw thousands of devotees.

Special celebrations occur on Mahashivratri, Sawan Mondays, and other auspicious days.

The chanting of “Har Har Mahadev!” resonates through the temple, symbolizing devotion and unity.

Would you like me to write a short promotional content (for a travel website or brochure), or a detailed historical article about Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

Daily Timings & Rituals

Opens: 2:30 AM daily 
Mangala Aarti: 3:00 AM – 4:00 AM 
Darshan (Morning / General Darshan): 4:00 AM – 11:00 AM 
Bhog / Midday Aarti: ~ 11:15 AM – 12:20 PM 
Darshan (Afternoon / Day): 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM 
Sapta Rishi / Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM 
Darshan (Later Evening): till ~ 9:00 PM (after Aarti) 
Shringar / Bhog & Night Aarti: ~ 9:00 PM – 10:15 PM 
Shayana Aarti: ~ 10:30 PM – 11:00 PM 
Closes: 11:00 PM

How to Reach Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is located in the heart of Varanasi (Banaras), Uttar Pradesh, near the western bank of the holy River Ganga. The temple is easily accessible by air, rail, and road from major cities across India.

✈️ By Air

The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS), located about 25 km from the temple.
Regular flights connect Varanasi with Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, and other major cities.
From the airport, taxis, cabs, and buses are available to reach the temple area.

🚆 By Train

The closest railway stations are Varanasi Junction (Cantt Station) and Varanasi City Station, about 5 km from the temple.
Both stations are well connected with express and superfast trains from all parts of India.
From the railway station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw, cab, or e-rickshaw to reach the temple.

🚌 By Road

Varanasi has a good network of national and state highways, connecting it to cities like Allahabad (Prayagraj), Lucknow, Patna, and Gorakhpur.
Government and private buses, as well as taxis, are available to reach Godowlia Chowk, the nearest drop point to the temple.
Since vehicles are not allowed near the temple premises, you can walk or take a cycle rickshaw from Godowlia to the temple (approx. 500 meters).

🚶 By River Route (Spiritual Route)

Devotees can also take a boat ride on the Ganga River and reach the temple via the Lalita Ghat, offering a divine and scenic experience. 
Here are some nearby attractions around Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi, that are worth visiting. I’ve grouped them by type to help you plan (spiritual, experiences, shopping, day-trips).

🕌 Spiritual / Temples & Ghats

Attraction What makes it special Distance from Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Dashashwamedh Ghat One of the most famous ghats on the Ganges. Known for its nightly Ganga Aarti, spectacular atmosphere with lamps, chants, and conch shells.
Manikarnika Ghat The primary cremation ghat, very old, deeply symbolic for rituals of life & death in Hinduism.
Assi Ghat Quieter, especially in early mornings. Great for sunrise boat rides and a more peaceful view of the Ganges.
Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple) A beautiful temple with Nepalese style architecture, near to the temple area. 
Kalbhairav Temple This is considered an essential stop; many devotees visit here since Kalbhairav is believed to guard the city.
Maa Annapurna Temple Devoted to Goddess Annapurna (food provider). If you’re interested in the temples around the temple complex, this one is close.
Shri Kashi Karvat Mandir An old Shiva temple very close to Vishwanath. Has a rich (and a bit dark) local lore. 

Experiences
Boat rides on the Ganges — Particularly early morning or evening. The ghats look magical in the soft light; seeing the city from the river adds a different dimension. 
Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh — Evening ritual. Highly recommended (get there early for a good view). 

🗺 Day Trips / Other Sights (if you have more time)

Sarnath — about 10 km away. Major Buddhist pilgrimage site, Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar etc. 
Ramnagar Fort — On the opposite bank of the Ganges. Historic fort + museum with artifacts, old weapons, traditional items. 
Chunar Fort — Further away (~30 km), if you’re interested in forts and scenic views.