Varanasi, also known as “Banaras” or “Kashi,” is among the oldest towns in India. Situated on the sacred banks of the Maa Ganges River, it has long been a significant Hindu pilgrimage destination. This city is home to some of the oldest, most revered, and beautiful temples in the country.
According to the Kashi Khanda, there were originally 1,099 temples in Kashi, with 513 dedicated exclusively to Lord Shiva. It is believed that countless Shivlingas exist across Varanasi, but 42 hold special prominence, and 14 of these are particularly famous. These include the lingas of Ratneshwar, Adi Vishwanath, Kashi Vishwanath (also called Lord Trilochan Mahadev), and many other deities.
If you’re visiting Varanasi for a short time, it’s impossible to see all the temples. So, here’s a curated list of must-visit temples in Varanasi — some of which we explored during our recent trip.
# Sri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Topping the list is the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple. If you only have time to visit one temple in Varanasi, make it this one. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple houses one of the twelve ancient Jyotirlingas of India. Legend says this Shivalinga is the original form of Shiva, manifesting as a column of fire before Brahma and Vishnu. It holds immense religious significance, believed to embody both Shiva and Shakti. Besides the main shrine, the complex contains smaller temples for Kal Bairav, Annapurna Mata, Ganesh, Vishnu, Shani, and Shiva-Parvati-Kartikeyan. Architecturally, it is also among India’s most important temples.
# Kaal Bhairav Temple
Known as the “Kotwal of Varanasi” (magistrate or guardian), Lord Kaal Bhairav represents Shiva’s fierce form, often depicted with a garland of skulls and a peacock feather club. The word “Kaal” signifies both death and time, and worshippers believe Kaal Bhairav removes fear of both. The legend says he severed Brahma’s fifth head, carrying it until it fell off in Varanasi, where he was freed from the sin of Brahmahatya (killing a Brahmin). Devotees visit this temple to seek forgiveness and protection from sins, making it one of Banaras’s most visited sites.
# Sankatha Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Sankatha, known for healing illnesses, this temple honors the ninth incarnation of Goddess Durga. According to legend, the Pandavas visited this temple before their exile. It is a vital spiritual spot for devotees seeking relief from ailments.
This ancient temple is devoted to Siddheshwari Devi, a form of Goddess Durga. Local lore claims the Shivlings here were placed by the Moon God, who also dug a well outside for puja water. Only those whom the Devi calls are said to witness darshan here. An eerie local belief says that if you cannot see your reflection in the well after visiting, you may die within six months.
# Kashi Karvat Temple
Known as the leaning temple of India, Kashi Karvat stands near Manikarnika Ghat. Named after the “Karvat” (saw) once present here, it was believed that people would commit suicide here to attain heaven. Built by a follower of Raja Man Singh in memory of his mother, the temple is partially submerged for half the year and leans at about 9 degrees—more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
# Sankat Mochan Temple
Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the Sankat Mochan Temple lies on the left bank of the Assi River near Sindhiya Ghat. It is a highly revered shrine and also has nine smaller temples nearby, each representing one of the nine planets.
# Durga Temple
Devoted to Goddess Durga, the embodiment of Shakti (divine power), this temple holds special significance. It is said that the idol here appeared spontaneously, making it one of Varanasi’s must-visit temples.
# Bharat Mata Temple
Unique among Varanasi’s temples, the Bharat Mata Temple honors Mother India rather than any deity. Instead of idols, the temple features a detailed relief map of undivided India, showcasing mountains, rivers, and cities. This distinctive tribute makes it a compelling visit.
# Tulsi Manas Temple
The newest temple on this list, Tulsi Manas Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. It stands on the site where the poet Tulsidas composed the epic Ramcharitmanas in Awadhi. The temple walls are engraved with verses and scenes from the poem, making it a spiritual and literary landmark.
