Located in the heart of Varanasi, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred and revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. A symbol of spiritual devotion and ancient heritage, it draws millions of pilgrims and tourists every year. If you're planning a visit, our Kashi Vishwanath Temple tour guide is here to help you explore its divine aura, cultural importance, and architectural beauty. From rituals and timings to entry rules and nearby attractions, we’ve covered everything you need to know. Discover the rich history of Kashi Vishwanath Temple, its connection to the 12 Jyotirlingas, and why it remains a timeless symbol of faith in India.

How to Reach Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the most revered Jyotirlingas in India, the Kashi Vishwanath Mandir is located in the heart of Varanasi and is easily accessible by various modes of transport:

• By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS), around 25 km from the temple. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use app-based cabs to reach the temple area.
• By Train: Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Banaras Railway Station are the closest railway stations, well-connected to major Indian cities. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available outside the stations.
• By Road: Varanasi has a strong road network with frequent buses and private taxis operating from nearby cities like Lucknow, Patna, and Allahabad. The temple area is within reach of any major bus stop in the town.
• By Local Transport: Once in Varanasi, you can take e-rickshaws or auto-rickshaws to get close to the temple. The temple is located in a narrow lane, so you’ll need to walk a short distance to reach the main entrance.

Things to Know Before Visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Before you step into the divine atmosphere of Kashi Vishwanath Temple, it's helpful to be aware of a few essential details that can make your visit smoother and more meaningful. Here are some things to know before visiting Kashi Vishwanath Temple to ensure a hassle-free experience.

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple Timings

Planning your visit around the temple’s schedule ensures you don’t miss the key rituals and aarti ceremonies. Here's a breakdown of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple timings:

• Temple Opening Time: 3:00 AM
• Mangala Aarti: 3:00 AM – 4:00 AM
• General Darshan: 4:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Bhog Aarti: 11:15 AM – 12:20 PM
• Temple Closed for Bhog: 12:30 PM – 1:00 PM
• Afternoon Darshan: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Sandhya Aarti (Evening Aarti): 7:00 PM – 8:15 PM
• Shringaar Aarti: 9:00 PM – 10:15 PM
• Shayan Aarti: 10:30 PM – 11:00 PM
• Temple Closing Time: 11:00 PM

Entry for Aartis often requires a special pass or ticket, which can be booked in advance either online or at the temple premises. Make sure you arrive early during major festivals and weekends, as the temple tends to get very crowded.

2. Kashi Vishwanath Entry Fee

While ordinarily Kashi Vishwanath entry fee is zero, i.e. free, opting for a more comfortable experience—whether fast-track access, special Aarti participation, or sacred rituals—comes with a cost. During peak festival periods like Shravan, Shivratri, and Dev Deepawali, these prices may even increase. Booking these in advance online (through the temple’s official portal) is highly recommended to secure your spot.

3. Best Time to Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The best time to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and temple visits. During this period, the mornings are perfect for a peaceful darshan and a boat ride on the Ganga after your temple visit.

If you're looking for a spiritually vibrant atmosphere, visiting during major Hindu festivals like Mahashivratri, Dev Deepawali, or the Shravan month (July–August) offers an unforgettable experience. However, the temple gets extremely crowded during these events, so planning and opting for special darshan passes is advisable.

For a quieter and more relaxed visit, weekdays and early mornings are ideal, especially outside the peak festival season.

4. Dress Code for Kashi Vishwanath Temple

While there is no strict dress code for Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dressing appropriately not only shows respect but also helps you blend into the devotional ambience of this sacred site. It’s recommended to wear traditional or conservative clothing, like kurta-pyjama, dhoti, or full-length trousers with shirts/t-shirts for men and sarees, salwar-kameez, or long skirts with modest tops for women. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing outfits. Comfortable footwear is advised, although shoes must be removed before entering the inner sanctum.

As a highlight of any Varanasi pilgrimage tour, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple promises moments of peace, reflection, and divine connection that linger long after your visit. Book a tour with My Flight Trip for a guided tour to the revered Jyotirlinga.