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- 1 Varanasi Kashi Vishwanath Temple Timings Distance From Different Places
Varanasi Kashi Vishwanath Temple Timings Distance From Different Places
Varanasi Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in India and a must-visit for spiritual seekers and travelers alike. This article gives you exact official temple details including updated temple timings, entry fees, booking process, how to reach the temple from major cities, insider travel tips from my visit, nearby attractions with distances, best visiting months, and answers to common questions. For official information, visit Incredible India.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple |
| Location | Vishwanath Gali, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Nearest Airport | Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (~26 km) |
| Nearest Major Station | Varanasi Junction Railway Station (~4 km) |
| Opening Hours | 2:30 AM – 11:00 PM daily |
| General Darshan Entry Fee | Free |
| Sugam Darshan Ticket | ₹250 per person (approx.) |
| Contact Phone | +91-7080292930 |
| Official Website | shrikashivishwanath.org |
Temple Daily Timings
The temple opens very early in the morning and closes at night after several sacred rituals. Exact timings are based on the temple trust schedule and can vary slightly for festivals.
| Event | Time |
|---|---|
| Temple Opens | 2:30 AM |
| Mangala Aarti | 3:00 AM – 4:00 AM (ticketed) |
| General Darshan | 4:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Bhog Aarti | 11:15 AM – 12:20 PM |
| Free Darshan | 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
| Sapta Rishi Aarti | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Shringar Aarti | 9:00 PM – 10:15 PM |
| Shayan Aarti | 10:30 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Temple Closes | 11:00 PM |
How To Reach Varanasi Kashi Vishwanath Temple
By Air
The closest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS), about 26–28 km from the temple. Taxis, app cabs, and pre-paid autorickshaws connect you to the heart of Varanasi. Expect a 45–60 minute ride depending on traffic.
By Train
Varanasi is one of India’s major rail hubs. The nearest and busiest station is Varanasi Junction (BSB), approximately 4 km from the temple. Another option is Kashi Railway Station, around 6 km away. From either station, take an auto, cycle rickshaw, or taxi to reach the temple area.
By Road
Varanasi is well connected by national highways and regular state buses from cities such as Lucknow, Prayagraj (Allahabad), and Delhi. You can also arrive by private car or long-distance taxis. Local buses and tempos operate within the city with stops near Vishwanath Gali.
Booking And Ticket Information
While general darshan is free, several special darshan and rituals require advance booking. Official bookings happen on the temple trust’s website.
Sugam Darshan Booking (Step-By-Step)
- Visit the official ticketing page: shrikashivishwanath.org.
- Click “Book Sugam Darshan” or “Aarti Tickets”.
- Select your preferred date and slot.
- Enter personal details and number of visitors.
- Make payment online (typically ₹250 per person).
- Print or save your booking pass to show at entry.
For same-day booking, visit the temple helpdesk counter, subject to availability. Tickets are not refundable or reschedulable. Differently-abled devotees can avail free entry passes.
Booking Aarti Tickets
Mangala Aarti, Sapta Rishi Aarti, Bhog Aarti, and Shringar Aarti require separate tickets. During busy months (especially Shravan), these slots sell out fast, often filling weeks in advance. Being early ensures better availability.
Personal Travel Experience And Insider Tips
When I visited Varanasi Kashi Vishwanath Temple before sunrise, the serene atmosphere around Vishwanath Gali was unforgettable. The moment I stepped in for Mangala Aarti, the chants and oil lamps set a spiritual rhythm that stayed with me throughout my trip.
- I personally recommend reaching the temple area at least 60 minutes before Mangala Aarti if you plan to attend. Seating is limited and queues can stretch into the narrow lanes.
- Security checks are thorough. Keep IDs handy for each person in your group.
- The temple area is plastic-free. You’ll notice this on approach — no single-use plastics are allowed inside.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll walk through bustling bazaars and crowded streets to reach the temple entrance.
Nearby Attractions With Distances
| Place | Distance From Temple |
|---|---|
| Dashashwamedh Ghat | ~1.2 km |
| Manikarnika Ghat | ~1.8 km |
| Banaras Hindu University | ~9 km |
| Lalita Gauri Mandir | ~0.3 km |
| Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat | ~5 km |
These attractions offer a blend of spiritual, cultural, and historical experiences, making your Varanasi trip well-rounded.
Best Time To Visit
If you want pleasant weather and easier exploration, October to March is ideal as temperatures are cooler and the city is more comfortable for sightseeing and darshan.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Cool and comfortable for long walks on the ghats and temple visits.
- Festival Times: Maha Shivratri and Dev Deepavali offer an electrifying spiritual vibe but expect large crowds and booked-out aarti slots.
- Monsoon (Jul–Sep): Ganga river scenes are dramatic, but occasional rains can disrupt travel plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There An Entry Fee For Varanasi Kashi Vishwanath Temple?
General darshan entry is free. Certain rituals and special darshan tickets like Sugam Darshan cost around ₹250 per person.
Can Foreign Tourists Visit The Temple?
Yes. Foreign devotees are welcome. Ensure you carry valid passport or ID for ticket verification.
Are Cameras Allowed Inside?
No. Photography and video recording inside the temple sanctum are prohibited.
What Is The Best Time Of Day To Visit?
Early morning for Mangala Aarti is magical. For general darshan, visiting after sunrise helps avoid crowds.
Is Online Darshan Available?
Yes, the temple trust provides online live darshan options for those who cannot visit in person via the official website.