Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Varanasi, India
- Attend the morning aarti ceremony
- Explore the Gyanvapi Well
- Offer prayers to Lord Vishwanath
- Visit other shrines in the complex
- Witness the Ganga Aarti nearby
Known for:
Description:
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a cornerstone of Varanasi, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, revered as Vishwanath, 'Lord of the Universe.' This sacred site is among the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest Shiva temples. The temple's current structure was built by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore in 1780. Its golden spire, donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1835, lends it the moniker 'Golden Temple.' The temple complex houses several smaller shrines. Pilgrims flock here for spiritual solace, to participate in rituals, and to witness the Ganga Aarti performed on the ghats nearby. The temple embodies the spiritual essence of Varanasi and is a must-visit for anyone seeking a profound cultural and religious experience.
History:
The original Vishwanath Temple was destroyed multiple times throughout history by invading armies. The first destruction is believed to have occurred in 1194 by Qutb al-Din Aibak. It was rebuilt, only to be demolished again during the rule of Hussain Shah Sharqi. Mughal Emperor Akbar sanctioned the construction of a new temple, but it was later destroyed by Aurangzeb in 1669, who built the Gyanvapi Mosque in its place. The current structure was constructed in 1780 by Ahilyabai Holkar. In 1835, Maharaja Ranjit Singh donated gold to cover the temple's domes, giving it its golden appearance. The temple continues to be a significant religious site, undergoing renovations and expansions to accommodate the increasing number of devotees.