Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in India, located on the banks of the River Ganga in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Vishwanath (Lord of the Universe), the temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, making it one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Shaivite devotees. Situated in the ancient city of Kashi, the temple represents the spiritual heart of Hinduism and is believed to hold immense religious significance. The golden-plated spires, sacred rituals, and connection with the eternal city of Varanasi make it one of India's most revered temples.

The history of Kashi Vishwanath Temple dates back thousands of years, with references to the sacred shrine found in ancient Hindu scriptures. The temple has been rebuilt and renovated several times due to destruction and political changes over the centuries. The present structure was constructed in 1780 by Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, who rebuilt the temple after earlier structures were damaged during medieval invasions. Later, Maharaja Ranjit Singh of Punjab donated gold that was used to cover the temple's main dome in the 19th century, giving it its famous golden appearance. The temple has remained a centre of Hindu worship, learning, and spiritual traditions throughout history. The recent development of the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, inaugurated in 2021, improved access between the temple and the Ganga ghats while preserving the heritage of the sacred area. Today, Kashi Vishwanath Temple continues to be one of India's most important religious landmarks and a symbol of the timeless spiritual heritage of Varanasi.

In central Varanasi, near the Dashashwamedh Ghat.