Varanasi Temples
The
Temple City
Mythologically, the oldest city on earth, Varanasi, is the most sacred
place for Hindus. The city is also called as Benaras and Kashi. The city
has countless number of temples, spread across the city. The holy
temples of Varanasi are amongst the most visited temples in India.
Situated on the banks of holy river Ganges, Varanasi temples add to the
religious value to Ganges. The older part of city is still refered as
Kashi and it is said that the first ray of light fell on Kashi, when the
earth was created. There are many ancient as well as new temples which
are worth a visit.
Main Temples
Kashi Vishwanath
The most sacred temple of Varanasi, Vishwanath temple is devoted to
lord Shiva. The temple is near Dashashwamedh ghat, in the heart of old
Varanasi. The construction of the temple was destroyed by Aurangzeb in
18th century, to construct a mosque. Though the new building is not as
elaborate as the temples of South India and Orissa, the sense of
devotion in the temple is very strong. The temple is one of the holiest
temples for a Hindu.
Durga Temple
The Durga temple at Durgakund, is a beautiful temple. The temple is
built next to a lake called Durgakund lake. The temple is very famous
among the locals.
Sankat Mochan Mandir
The most sought after temple of Lord Hanuman. What Vishwanath Temple is
to lord Shiva, Sankatmochan Temple is to lord Hanuman. The vast campus
of temple is filled with devotees on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Tulsi Manas Temple
Also called as Birla temple, it was built by the Industrialist Birla
Family. The temple is next to the Durga Temple. Built in white marble,
the temple is very big and is spread in huge area, covered with green
parks and lawns.
Bharat Mata Mandir
The Bharat Mata Mandir, is unusual in the terms of presiding deity. The
temple does not have idols of any god, but a large relief map of India,
carved out of Marble. The temple was inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi, and
lies 3 Km from Kashi, or the old Varanasi.
Nepali Temple
The King of Nepal had built this temple on Lalita ghat in Nepali style.
The Nepali temple is also called the 'Kathwala temple'. The temple has
some magnificent woodwork. The workers who carved this temple out were
brought from Nepal. The wood used in the temple is also found in Nepal.
The speciality of this wood is that it is resistant to termites.
New Vishwanath Temple
The New Vishwanath Temple, in the premises of Banaras Hindu University,
is dedicated to lord Shiva, and is a replica of the original Vishwanath
temple. The temple is built in white marbles, and was designed by Madan
Mohan Malviya, founder of the University. The temple is open to people
from all caste and religion, unlike other temples of Varanasi. The huge
campus of New Vishwanath Temple is a delight to the eyes of visitor.
Kaal Bhairav Temple
The Kaal Bhairav is said to be the Inspector of Kashi. It is believed
if he gets angry on someone, the person cannot leave Varanasi for his
entire life. The legends says that even death is scared of Kaal Bhairav.
People who go on pilgrim visit to Varanasi, do not forget to visit Kaal
Bhairava Temple.
Reaching the Temples
Local Transport of Varanasi include the Auto-rickshaws, hand-rickshaws
and taxis. Its best to walk down or get a Rickshaw to move in the Old
Varanasi. For other parts of city, Auto-rickshaws are a good option.
