Sacred Temples of Kashi (Varanasi)
Discover the divine abodes of one of the oldest living cities in the world. Kashi, also known as Varanasi, is the spiritual heart of India, home to countless ancient temples that have been centers of devotion for thousands of years. Explore these sacred shrines and experience the profound spiritual energy that flows through this holy city.
Major Temples of Kashi
Explore the sacred temples of Varanasi. Click on any temple card to learn more about its history, significance, timings, and rituals.
Ganga Aarti
गंगा आरती
The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most spectacular and spiritually uplifting experiences in Varanasi. Every evening, priests perform a grand ceremony with fire, incense, and prayers to honor Mother Ganga.
Kashi Vishwanath
काशी विश्वनाथ मंदिर
The most sacred Jyotirlinga dedicated to Lord Shiva. Also known as the Golden Temple due to its gold-plated domes. A visit here is believed to lead to moksha (liberation).
Sankat Mochan Temple
संकट मोचन हनुमान मंदिर
Established by Goswami Tulsidas, this temple is believed to fulfill wishes and remove obstacles. The name "Sankat Mochan" means "the remover of troubles."
Durga Temple
दुर्गा मंदिर
An 18th-century temple dedicated to Goddess Durga, also known as the Monkey Temple. Built in Nagara style architecture and painted in red ochre.
Tulsi Manas Temple
तुलसी मानस मंदिर
A modern temple built in 1964, famous for having the entire Ramcharitmanas inscribed on its walls in marble. Dedicated to Lord Rama.
Kaal Bhairav Temple
काल भैरव मंदिर
Dedicated to Kaal Bhairav, the guardian deity (Kotwal) of Kashi. It is believed that no one can stay in Kashi without the permission of Kaal Bhairav.
Mritunjay Mahadev
मृत्युंजय महादेव मंदिर
Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Mritunjay (the conqueror of death). Associated with the powerful Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, believed to grant longevity and protection.
Annapurna Temple
अन्नपूर्णा मंदिर
Dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of food and nourishment. Worshipped for ensuring food security and prosperity. A form of Goddess Parvati.
Sankatha Temple
संकटा मंदिर
Dedicated to Goddess Sankatha, another form of Goddess Durga. The temple is believed to remove difficulties and obstacles from devotees' lives.
Ganga Aarti - The Divine Evening Ceremony
The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the most spectacular and spiritually uplifting experiences in Varanasi. Every evening, as the sun sets, priests perform a grand ceremony with fire, incense, and prayers to honor Mother Ganga. The synchronized movements, the sound of bells and conch shells, and the sight of hundreds of lamps create an atmosphere of divine devotion.
Witness this mesmerizing ceremony from the ghats or from a boat on the Ganges. We can arrange the best viewing spots and boat rides for you.
Important Ghats of Varanasi
The ghats (riverfront steps) of Varanasi are an integral part of the spiritual experience. Here are some of the most significant ghats:
- Dashashwamedh Ghat: The main ghat where Ganga Aarti is performed. Most popular and accessible.
- Assi Ghat: The southernmost ghat, believed to be where Goddess Durga threw her sword after killing demons.
- Manikarnika Ghat: The main cremation ghat, considered highly sacred for final rites.
- Harishchandra Ghat: Another important cremation ghat, named after the truthful king Harishchandra.
- Panchganga Ghat: Where five rivers are believed to meet, with a prominent mosque nearby.
- Tulsi Ghat: Named after Tulsidas, who wrote Ramcharitmanas here.