Varanasi, also known as the city of light is one of the holiest cities in India. In addition to the temple of Baba Kashi Vishwanath, Varanasi is dotted with a multitude of temples that are considered popular tourist destinations. While there are so many temples at every nook and corner of Varanasi, people might wonder which are the most acclaimed ones. To answer this question, we have put together a list of some of the top 5 renowned Varanasi temples that will assuredly captivate you with their charm. To explore the city and its shrines at their own pace, visitors can book hotels online and plan the entire tour accordingly.
Baba Kashi Vishwanath Mandir
The Bhagwan Baba Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi is devoted to Bhagwan Baba Vishwanath, one of Lord Shiva’s avatars. The Baba Vishwanath Jyotirlinga Temple in Varanasi holds great spiritual connotations and serves as a spiritual hub for thousands of Hindus and individuals of other castes. Baba Vishwanath is revered as the greatest source of spiritual knowledge and his presence deepens the ties of world unity. Saint Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, Shree Swami Vivekananda and other saints graced the temple. Many aartis take place in this mandir throughout the day, however, the Mangal Aarti begins from 3 am to 4 am.
Kaal Bhairav Mandir
Kaal Bhairav is the aggressive version of Lord Shiva and you will find its deity housed skillfully in the interiors of Kaal Bhairav Mandir. This temple originated in the mid-seventeenth century and is one of the oldest living temples in Varanasi. Kaal Bhairava is perceived to be the city’s guardian angel and is claimed to protect Varanasi from evils. Therefore, the Varanasi residents seek approval from the Gods here before leaving the city for their purpose. According to legend, anybody visiting Varanasi must pay a visit to the Kaal Bhairav temple and obtain permission from the deity to reside in the town. This practice has been carried on for ages and is still followed by the residents and tourists to protect themselves from any calamity.
Shree Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir
Shree Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is devoted to Lord Hanuman, who is revered as a protector of worshippers from harm. The mandir lies in Varanasi’s southern district. It was constructed by Pandit Madan M. Malviyaji, who was accredited with the design of Banaras Hindu University and the Birla shrines. Hanuman Jayanti is among the most important festivals celebrated here in April. People often give Hanumanji sindoor (vermilion) and laddoos as prasad on their visit. The beautiful deity of Lord Hanumanji is what calls visitors to this temple throughout the year.
Durga Kund Mandir
The Durga Kund Mandir was constructed in honour of Goddess Durga, and it is named after the Durga Kund Temple. Located adjacent to a rectangular pool (kund), this temple is commonly known as the Durga Temple and is one of the most well-known in Varanasi. It is a brilliant example of the Nagara architectural design and also has a stunning custom tower located within it. The best part about this mandir is the Durga statue that is present within the temple. It is believed that the idol was not constructed manually rather it developed magically on its own. With such an interesting history, Durga Kund Mandir has won the hearts of many and is considered to be one of the top 5 temples in Varanasi for these reasons.
Hindu Nepali Temple
Also known as the Kantawala Temple, this Nepali temple in Varanasi has distinctive features and is among the top Varanasi’s unusual temples. The temple is well-known for several reasons. It resembles Kathmandu’s famous Pashupatinath Temple and honours the deity of Lord Shiva. This temple was constructed in the nineteenth century by Rana Bahadur Shah, the exiled King of Nepal. It is made with wood and clay and depicts the brilliance of Nepali craftsmanship. The temple’s pagodas, which are made out of wood, are an absolute wonder to gaze at. The temple starts its sessions from 4 am till 12 pm and again from 1 pm to 9 pm.
Varanasi temples are fascinating and captivating. It has the most distinctive features that make it stand out from the rest. Besides, this sacred city greets visitors with great enthusiasm. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and take the spiritual trip to Varanasi and quench the spiritual seeker in you.