Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Varanasi is known for many things but the identity of the city is ‘Kashi Vishwanath Temple’. Out of twelve ‘Jyotirlingas’, one, the Vishweshwar Lingam is here in Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Original Kashi Vishwanath Temple was destroyed by Mughal ruler Aurangzeb in 1669 and Gyanvapi mosque is constructed at that place. Later in 1780 Rani of Indore Ahilyabai Holkar had built the Kashi Vishwanath Temple we see today. Maharaja Ranjit Singh, king of Punjab and Maharani Baijabai of Gwalior donated 800 kg gold to cover the domes of the temple. Few months ago the temple complex was surrounded by narrow streets and the temple was not visible from the shore of Ganga, but now a huge corridor, the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has been built. A 50 feet wide corridor from Lalita Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat to the temple complex of Vishwanath Temple made of sand stone ensures the easy movement of pilgrims and visitors to the temple complex from Ganga Ghat and also from Ganga Ghat to the temple complex. Temple complex has been renovated by constructing Temple Chowk, Varanasi City Gallery, Museum, Multipurpose Auditorium, Hall, devotee Facilitation Center, Public Convenience, salvation Home, Shelter for Priests and Sevadars, Library and Stalls for prasads. The main temple is quadrangle and is surrounded by many small shrines of other gods. There is a well in the temple complex called Gyanvapi well, means a well of wisdom. 

Timings: 7:00 am to 8:00 pm Entry Fee: Nil