9 Best temples in Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, is a city deeply rooted in spirituality and culture. Known as the spiritual capital of India, Varanasi is home to numerous temples, each with its own unique history, architecture, and religious significance. These temples are not just places of worship but also repositories of the rich cultural heritage of India. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous temples in Varanasi that every visitor should consider visiting.

1- Kashi Vishwanath Temple 

Historical Significance

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the most revered temples in Hinduism. Located on the western bank of the Ganges, the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, with the current structure dating back to 1780, built by the Maratha ruler, Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest of Shiva temples.

Architectural Marvel

The temple's architecture is an impressive example of the Nagara style of temple architecture, characterized by its tall spires and intricate carvings. The gold-plated spire and dome, donated by Maharaja Ranjit Singh in 1839, add to the temple's grandeur, making it a magnificent sight to behold.

Rituals and Festivities

The temple is a hub of religious activities, with rituals such as Rudrabhishek and Maha Aarti being performed daily. The temple also comes alive during festivals like Mahashivratri, when thousands of devotees throng the temple to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva.

2- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple 

Legend and Origin

The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple is one of the most visited temples in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It was established by the renowned saint Tulsidas in the early 16th century. The temple is believed to relieve devotees of their troubles and fulfill their wishes, which is why it is called 'Sankat Mochan,' meaning the remover of obstacles.

Devotional Practices

Devotees flock to the temple every Tuesday and Saturday to offer prayers to Lord Hanuman. The temple is especially crowded during Hanuman Jayanti, the birthday of Lord Hanuman, when special rituals and offerings are made.

Annual Celebrations

The temple hosts an annual classical music and dance concert known as the Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh, where renowned artists from across the country come to perform. This event draws a large number of visitors, adding a cultural dimension to the temple's spiritual significance.

3- Durga Temple 

The Story Behind the Temple

The Durga Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple due to the large number of monkeys in the area, is dedicated to Goddess Durga. Built in the 18th century by a Bengali Maharani, the temple is an excellent example of North Indian Nagara style architecture. According to legend, the statue of Goddess Durga here is not man-made but appeared on its own.

Unique Features

The temple's red color symbolizes the power and strength of the goddess. The rectangular tank, known as the Durga Kund, located adjacent to the temple, adds to its serenity and is used for religious rituals.

Significance During Navratri

Navratri, the festival dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, is celebrated with great fervor at this temple. Devotees fast, offer prayers, and participate in rituals during these nine days, making it a spiritually enriching experience.

4- Tulsi Manas Mandir 

Connection to Ramayana

Tulsi Manas Mandir is a significant temple dedicated to Lord Rama. It is said that this is the place where the poet-saint Tulsidas wrote the epic Ramcharitmanas, which is a retelling of the Ramayana in the local dialect. This connection makes the temple an important pilgrimage site for followers of Lord Rama.

Intricate Inscriptions

The walls of the temple are adorned with verses and scenes from the Ramcharitmanas, beautifully inscribed in Hindi. These inscriptions make the temple not only a place of worship but also a repository of cultural and literary heritage.

Spiritual Atmosphere

The temple's serene environment, coupled with the chanting of Ramayana verses, creates a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, drawing devotees and tourists alike who seek solace and inspiration.

5- New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Mandir) 

Modern Architecture

The New Vishwanath Temple, also known as Birla Mandir, is located within the premises of Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Unlike other ancient temples in Varanasi, this temple was constructed in the 20th century by the Birla family. It is a modern temple with an expansive structure made of white marble and designed in the traditional style, but with a contemporary touch.

Role in Banaras Hindu University

The temple is not just a place of worship but also serves as a symbol of the university’s commitment to integrating spiritual values with education. The serene environment of the temple provides a perfect backdrop for students and visitors to meditate and reflect.

Cultural Importance

The New Vishwanath Temple holds cultural significance as it brings together people from different walks of life. It is a place where traditional values meet modern ideals, making it a unique temple in the spiritual landscape of Varanasi.

6- Annapurna Devi Mandir 

Goddess of Nourishment

The Annapurna Devi Mandir is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of food and nourishment. The temple is situated near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, emphasizing the importance of physical sustenance along with spiritual enlightenment in Hindu philosophy.

Ritual Offerings and Worship

Devotees offer food to the goddess, which is then distributed as prasad among the devotees. This practice symbolizes the belief that no one in the city should go hungry, reflecting the compassionate nature of the goddess.

Pilgrimage Significance

The temple is a must-visit for pilgrims, especially during the festival of Annakut, when the temple is beautifully decorated, and a large variety of food items are offered to the goddess. This festival highlights the temple’s role in promoting the values of sharing and community.

7- Bharat Mata Mandir 

A Temple Without Deities

Bharat Mata Mandir is a unique temple in Varanasi, dedicated not to a god or goddess, but to Bharat Mata, or Mother India. This temple, built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta, houses a large relief map of India carved out of marble, showcasing the country’s rivers, mountains, and other geographical features.

Map of India in Marble

The map is a significant attraction of the temple, offering a visual representation of India's vast and diverse landscape. This feature makes the temple a place of national pride and a unique spot for visitors who wish to connect with the geographical and cultural unity of India.

Nationalistic Significance

The temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936, and it stands as a symbol of India's independence movement and the unity of the Indian people. The temple’s emphasis on Mother India rather than religious deities makes it a place of national importance, promoting a sense of patriotism among its visitors.

8- Kalbhairav Temple 

The Guardian of Varanasi

The Kalbhairav Temple is dedicated to Kal Bhairav, the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, considered the protector of Varanasi. The temple is highly revered by locals, who believe that no one can stay in Varanasi without the permission of Kal Bhairav.

Ritual Practices

Devotees offer black thread to the deity, which is believed to protect them from evil forces. The temple also witnesses a significant number of devotees during the Kalbhairav Ashtami festival, when special rituals are performed to honor the deity.

Unique Offerings

Unlike other temples where offerings include flowers and sweets, at Kalbhairav Temple, devotees often offer alcohol to the deity, which is considered a symbol of the god's acceptance of all forms of worship and the diverse nature of devotion in Hinduism.

9- Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple 

Significance in Mythology

The Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshiped here in his form as the conqueror of death. The temple is associated with the powerful Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, which is believed to have the power to protect against untimely death and bring health and long life.

Healing Powers

The temple is also known for its sacred well, which is believed to contain water with healing properties. Devotees often drink or bathe in this water to cure ailments, making it a place of pilgrimage for those seeking physical and spiritual healing.

Architectural Beauty

The temple’s architecture is simple yet elegant, with a large shivalinga at the center. The peaceful ambiance of the temple, combined with its rich history and spiritual significance, makes it a place of deep reverence for devotees.

Conclusion 

Varanasi is not just a city; it is a spiritual experience. The temples of Varanasi are more than just places of worship; they are embodiments of the city’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. From the ancient Kashi Vishwanath Temple to the modern New Vishwanath Temple, each temple has its own unique story to tell. Visiting these temples offers a glimpse into the soul of Varanasi, a city where the divine and the earthly coexist in harmony.

Whether you are seeking spiritual enlightenment, cultural immersion, or simply a sense of peace, the temples of Varanasi provide a sanctuary for the soul. Each temple, with its unique history, architecture, and rituals, contributes to the city’s reputation as the spiritual heart of India.