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About Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi is one of the most sacred and revered temples of Hinduism, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known as the Golden Temple of Varanasi due to its gold-plated spire, it stands on the western bank of the River Ganga.
The temple is believed to be the very heart of Kashi (Varanasi), considered the spiritual capital of India. Its significance is immense, as it is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest Shiva shrines in the country.
History
The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history, with the current structure built in 1780 by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. Later, Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab donated gold to cover its dome.
Experience
A visit to the Vishwanath Temple is said to bring liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death, making it a dream pilgrimage for millions of Hindus worldwide. The temple’s narrow lanes leading up to the sanctum, the continuous chants of “Har Har Mahadev,” and the presence of devotees from across India create a deeply spiritual atmosphere that is unmatched.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (32 km) from Varanasi, connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. From the airport, taxis and cabs are available.
By Rail: Varanasi Junction (5 km) and Manduadih Railway Station (6 km) are the nearest railway stations, with good connectivity across India.
By Road: Varanasi is well-connected by national highways. Regular buses and taxis operate from nearby cities like Lucknow (320 km), Patna (220 km), and Allahabad (120 km).