Varanasi also called ‘Banaras’ and ‘Kashi’ is situated in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, it is considered as one the holiest places for the Hindus, along the holy river the Ganges also called as Ganga. This city is thronged by many devotees around the year who visit here from different parts of the country. This city promises to induce a feeling of ecstasy in the mind and heart of every person who visits it. This city has a soul of its own. Many devotees say that it’s a must-visit place at least once in a lifetime to enrich the spiritual wealth that is reflected in every corner of the city especially it is clearly reflected through the incredible temples which are located all around the city.
Many pilgrims from across the country travel here to perform the last rites called “Pind Daan” for their deceased ancestors on the ghats of Banaras it is said that the last rites that are performed will give salvation to the soul of the deceased. There are many temples in Banaras that are worth exploring to experience the divine and spiritual feeling that one can cherish for a lifetime. Most of the temples are present at a walkable distance and can be visited easily; this makes the trip to Banaras can cover in a just few days.
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Must-Visit Temples in Banaras
Kashi Vishwanath Mandir
This temple is located on the western banks of the Ganges River the Kashi Vishwanath Mandir (temple) is one of the 12 holiest jyotirlingas or sacred centers of Shiva worship across the country. This significant Shiva temple also finds mention in the holy Puranas. This temple has been subjected to destruction and re-construction many numbers of times over the course of history, it has never bowed to the dictates of time and even today it stands as one of the most visited religious sites in Banaras. The most fascinating facts about this temple are that it features a gold dome and a gold spire on top. There is a legend that if a person makes a wish after seeing the gold dome, Lord Shiva fulfills their wish.
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When to Visit - Maha Shivratri
Timings – Any day from 4:30 AM to 11 PM
Kanaka Durga Mandir
The Kanaka Durga Mandir is considered one of the most important holy temples by devotees many come to Banaras especially to visit this temple. The temple has quite an interesting story. The legend is that the existing idol of the Goddess Kanaka Durga is not a man-made structure, but actually by itself in the temple complex. This temple is also known as the ‘Monkey Temple’. The shrine is a perfect example of the Nagara style of architecture and designs which is dominant in North India. The temple is constructed in the 18th century under the reign of a Maharani from Bengal.
When to Visit - During Navratri and Nag Panchmi
Timings – Any day from 6 AM to 10:30 PM
Bharat Mata Mandir
This temple is the most notable temple in the city. This temple is one of a kind place where many people visit it from all corners of the country. This temple is dedicated to “Mother India” and is the most popular temple in Banaras. This temple was constructed by one of the freedom fighters in the year 1936 by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupta. This temple doesn’t have any deity but features a relief map of India which is carved in marble.
When to Visit - Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanti
Timings – Any day from 9 AM to 8:30 PM
