Top Temples in Varanasi You Shouldn’t Miss (From the Hearts at Plannersy)
More than just a city – Varanasi is a divine feeling. A place where the sound of temple bells every morning blends with the gentle flow of the Ganga. It’s a city where every ghat whispers stories of devotion, and where time seems to move a little slower, a little softer.
At Team Plannersy, we’ve always believed that some journeys stay with you long after they’re over – and Varanasi is exactly that kind of journey.
Whether you’re visiting for a heartfelt darshan, exploring with family, or even dreaming of a beautiful temple wedding someday, the temples of Kashi welcome you with open arms.
In this guide, we take you through some of the most loved and iconic temples in Varanasi – each carrying its own charm, history, and blessings.
Let’s begin this soulful walk together. 💛
Temples to Visit in Varanasi
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
If Varanasi is the spiritual heart of India, then Kashi Vishwanath is the pulse that keeps it beating.
Team Plannersy
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the twelve jyotirlingas and holds a place in countless stories, prayers, and memories.
The moment you step inside, the energy feels different – comforting, uplifting, almost like a warm embrace. Whether it’s your first visit or the tenth, the darshan always feels just as special.
Why Visit: Because no trip to Varanasi feels complete without bowing your head at this divine jyotirlinga. It’s the soul of the city.
Timings: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM (varies slightly on festivals)
Best Time to Visit:
- Early morning (4 – 6 AM) for a peaceful darshan
- October to March for pleasant weather
- Mahashivratri is a magical experience (but very crowded)
Location: Lahori Tola, near the Ganga ghats
How to Reach:
- Nearest railway station: Varanasi Junction (4 – 5 km)
- Nearest bus stand: Chaudhary Charan Singh Bus Stand (4 km)
- Nearest airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (approx. 25 km)
- Easily reachable via auto or e-rickshaw from Godowlia
Visitor Tips:
- Expect security checks, so keep minimal items
- Mobile phones may need to be deposited at the locker
- Early mornings are the calmest time to visit
For Temple Wedding Seekers: If you dream of a spiritually blessed temple wedding in Kashi, Team Plannersy can help you explore nearby wedding-friendly venues around this sacred area.
For Travellers: If you’re visiting Varanasi and want a beautifully curated temple trail or a full travel itinerary, Team Plannersy would be delighted to plan it for you with love and care.
2. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
Created by the great saint Tulsidas, Sankat Mochan is as peaceful as its name suggests. Devotees come here to feel protected, soothed, and strengthened – and honestly, the vibe is just pure love.
The fragrance of flowers, the soft chanting of Hanuman Chalisa, and the gentle flow of devotees make it a place you’ll want to sit for a few extra minutes.
Why Visit: When you want blessings that calm the heart and clear the mind.
Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- Morning aarti is peaceful and soothing
- Tuesdays & Saturdays are special for Hanuman devotees
- Winters (Nov–Feb) are comfortable for long visits
Location: Near Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Lanka area
How to Reach:
- Nearest railway station: Varanasi Junction (5–6 km)
- Nearest bus stand: Lanka Bus Stand (1 km)
- Auto-rickshaws are easily available from Assi Ghat and BHU
Visitor Tips:
- Beware of monkeys around the temple area
- Prasad (ladoos) is very popular – don’t miss it!
- Evenings tend to get crowded
For Temple Wedding Seekers: Close to BHU and Assi Ghat, this area has beautiful venues perfect for intimate and traditional ceremonies. Team Plannersy can guide you warmly.
For Travellers: If Sankat Mochan is on your list, Plannersy can map out a peaceful, well-timed Varanasi temple route for your entire trip.
3. Durga Kund Temple
With its striking red façade and the serene pond beside it, the Durga Kund Temple stands out effortlessly. Dedicated to Maa Durga, it’s vibrant, divine, and a beautiful representation of feminine strength.
During Navratri, this entire area glows with devotion and celebration.
Why Visit: For its powerful aura and the beautiful traditional architecture that makes it unforgettable.
Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- Navratri is the most beautiful time – full of devotion and celebration
- Mornings are generally quieter
- Winter mornings feel especially divine
Location: Near Durgakund, close to BHU and Tulsi Manas Temple
How to Reach:
- Nearest railway station: Varanasi Junction (6 km)
- Nearest bus stand: Durgakund Bus Stop (walking distance)
- Well connected via autos from Assi Ghat
Visitor Tips:
- Navratri days get extremely crowded – plan accordingly
- Carry a bottle of water; the area gets warm during summers
For Temple Wedding Seekers: This area is culturally rich and close to several traditional wedding venues. Plannersy can help you explore beautiful options nearby.
For Travellers: Visiting Durga Kund and nearby temples? Let Team Plannersy craft a comfortable and culture-rich travel plan for your Varanasi journey.
4. Tulsi Manas Temple
Built where Goswami Tulsidas is believed to have written the Ramcharitmanas, this temple feels less like a structure and more like a gentle reminder of our cultural roots.
The walls engraved with verses from the epic give it an almost poetic atmosphere.
Why Visit: For a serene, meaningful experience rooted in history and devotion.
Timings:
5:30 AM to 12:30 PM
3:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- Post-sunrise or early evening
- Winter months are ideal
- The light-and-sound display (if available) is a bonus
Location: Near Durga Kund, in the southern part of Varanasi
How to Reach:
- Nearest railway station: Varanasi Junction (6 km)
- Nearest bus stand: Durgakund Bus Stop (5 minutes away)
- Auto-rickshaws available easily from Assi Ghat
Visitor Tips:
- Photography may be restricted – check before clicking
- The area is less crowded, making it ideal for relaxed visits
For Temple Wedding Seekers: This peaceful neighborhood has several elegant venues nearby. Team Plannersy is happy to guide you if you wish to explore this region for ceremonies.
For Travellers: For a calm and meaningful temple trail around Tulsi Manas and South Varanasi, Plannersy would love to plan your itinerary with care.
5. Bharat Mata Temple
This temple is unique – it’s not dedicated to any deity but to Mother India herself. Inside, you’ll find a stunning, intricately carved map of India made of marble.
It’s a symbol of unity, pride, and the spirit of our land.
Why Visit: Because it’s one of the rare temples where devotion meets patriotism.
Timings:
9:30 AM to 8:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- Late mornings or evenings
- Perfect during winters when you can explore comfortably
Location: Inside Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth campus
How to Reach:
- Nearest railway station: Varanasi Junction (2 km)
- Nearest bus stand: Cantt Bus Stand (2 km)
- Very easy to reach from the city center
Visitor Tips:
- No major crowd issues – great for relaxed sightseeing
- Ideal for families and children
- Don’t miss observing the fine detailing on the marble map
For Temple Wedding Seekers: While weddings don’t take place here, the nearby areas have several beautiful venues. Team Plannersy can help you shortlist the perfect fit.
For Travellers: Exploring Varanasi’s unique temples like Bharat Mata? Team Plannersy can design a thoughtful, well-paced itinerary for your trip.
6. Annapurna Devi Temple
Just a short walk from Kashi Vishwanath, the Annapurna Devi Temple is dedicated to the Goddess of nourishment. The moment you enter, the atmosphere feels comforting – almost like stepping into a divine mother’s home.
Devotees believe that Maa Annapurna blesses her children with abundance, warmth, and protection.
Why Visit: To seek blessings for prosperity, good health, and wellbeing – and to feel the gentle maternal energy of the goddess.
Timings: 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- Early morning or post-evening aarti
- Winters (Nov–Feb) for a pleasant experience
- Special prayers during Navratri are especially beautiful
Location: Near Vishwanath Gali, close to Kashi Vishwanath Temple
How to Reach:
- Varanasi Junction: 4 km
- Nearest bus stand: Cantt Bus Stand (4 km)
- Easily walkable from Kashi Vishwanath and Godowlia
Visitor Tips:
- Many combine it with their Kashi Vishwanath darshan
- Narrow lanes – walking is easier than taking an auto
- Evening aarti here is peaceful and less crowded
For Temple Wedding Seekers: The area has several traditional wedding-friendly guesthouses and venues – Plannersy can help you explore lovely options nearby.
For Travellers: Planning a smooth temple trail around Kashi Vishwanath and Annapurna Devi? Team Plannersy can curate a peaceful, well-paced itinerary for you.
7. Kal Bhairav Temple
Often called the “Kotwal of Kashi” (the protector of the city), Kal Bhairav Temple holds immense spiritual significance.
Devotees believe no visit to Varanasi is complete without Lord Bhairav’s blessing. The temple’s unique energy – fierce yet deeply protective – is something you feel instantly
Why Visit: To seek protection, courage, and the blessings of the guardian deity of Varanasi.
Timings:
5:00 AM to 1:30 PM
4:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- Early mornings are ideal
- Mondays and festivals see heavy footfall
- Winters make the visit comfortable
Location: Bhairav Nath Temple Road, Visheshwarganj
How to Reach:
- Varanasi Junction: 3 km
- Autos available from Chowk and Godowlia
- Nearest bus stand: Cantt Bus Stand (3 km)
Visitor Tips:
- Expect lines on Mondays
- Photography is restricted
- The temple area has several prasad shops
For Temple Wedding Seekers: If you wish to start your wedding journey with the blessings of Kal Bhairav, Plannersy can help you plan your rituals beautifully.
For Travellers: If Kal Bhairav Temple is on your must-visit list, Plannersy can help you plan a smooth route covering nearby temples and local spots.
8. New Vishwanath Temple (BHU Temple)
Located inside the serene Banaras Hindu University campus, the New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Mandir) is a grand, peaceful place that feels refreshingly spacious compared to the busy lanes of old Varanasi. Built with white marble, it’s a lovely mix of devotion and calmness.
Why Visit: For a peaceful darshan experience in a spacious and beautifully maintained environment.
Timings:
4:00 AM to 12:00 PM
1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- Early mornings for the perfect quiet
- Pleasant during evenings and winters
- Ideal for families and first-time visitors
Location: Inside BHU campus, Lanka
How to Reach:
- Varanasi Junction: 7 km
- Autos available easily from Lanka and Assi Ghat
- Nearest bus stand: Lanka Bus Stop (1 km)
Visitor Tips:
- The campus itself is beautiful – take a walk!
- Footwear stands available
- Very family-friendly spot
For Temple Wedding Seekers: BHU and its surroundings have heritage-style venues – Plannersy can help you explore options if you’re considering ceremonies in this peaceful area.
For Travellers: Exploring BHU and the New Vishwanath Temple? Plannersy can design a calm, well-paced itinerary for your Varanasi visit.
9. Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple)
A hidden gem near Lalita Ghat, the Nepali Temple is a stunning piece of Nepali architecture built by the King of Nepal.
Made of wood, stone, and terracotta, this shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva is often called the “Mini Pashupatinath of Varanasi.”
Why Visit: For a peaceful riverside experience and to admire the temple’s beautiful Nepalese-style craftsmanship.
Timings:
6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- Early mornings by the ghat feel magical
- Winter and post-monsoon months are perfect
- Sunset views nearby are breathtaking
Location: Lalita Ghat, near Manikarnika Ghat
How to Reach:
- Varanasi Junction: 5 km
- Easy to reach via boat from Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Walkable from nearby ghats
Visitor Tips:
- Perfect for photography
- Not very crowded – ideal for calm visits
- Combine with ghat exploration
For Temple Wedding Seekers: While weddings don’t take place here, the surrounding ghats have picturesque spaces for rituals – Plannersy can guide you.
For Travellers: Visiting this beautiful Nepali-style temple? Team Plannersy can help weave it into a scenic, riverside itinerary.
10. Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Mrityunjay Mahadev Temple is known for its powerful Mahamrityunjay Mantra. Many visit to seek blessings for protection, healing, and long life. The vibes here are deeply spiritual and comforting.
Why Visit: For divine protection and to experience one of Shiva’s most powerful temples in Varanasi.
Timings:
4:00 AM to 12:00 PM
3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Best Time to Visit:
- Early morning for calm darshan
- Mondays are special
- Winter mornings feel especially serene
Location: Near Chowk, close to Kal Bhairav Temple
How to Reach:
- Varanasi Junction: 3 km
- Autos available from Chowk
- Nearest bus stand: Cantt Bus Stand (3 km)
Visitor Tips:
- Combine it with Kal Bhairav Temple for a smooth route
- The area gets busy – prefer morning visits
- Keep footwear safe at designated stands
For Temple Wedding Seekers: This spiritually intense area is perfect for starting pre-wedding rituals – Plannersy can help you plan everything with care.
For Travellers: Planning a healing and spiritual temple trail? Plannersy can design a meaningful travel itinerary around Mrityunjay Mahadev.
Varanasi is a City of Cultural Unity: 5 South-Indian Culturally Linked Temples & Spiritual Spots in Varanasi
Varanasi is not just a city of temples, but also a living, breathing bridge between India’s many spiritual traditions.
Devotees from every corner of the country travel to Kashi, and over centuries, communities from South India have also made this holy city their spiritual home.
From the Nattukottai Nagarathar community who rebuilt the beloved Vishalakshi Temple in 1893, to Tamil-speaking groups maintaining traditional dharmashalas and shrines near the ghats – Varanasi beautifully blends North Indian devotion with South Indian rituals, architecture, and cultural presence.
At Plannersy, we truly love this unity. It’s what makes Varanasi a pan-Indian spiritual centre, where every worshipper feels welcomed, connected, and blessed.
11. Vishalakshi Temple (Vishalakshi Gauri Temple)
The Vishalakshi Temple is one of the most sacred Shakti Peethas in India, dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi, the “One with Divine, Broad Vision.”
While the temple is ancient, the current structure was lovingly rebuilt in 1893 by the Tamil Nattukottai Nagarathar (Chettiar) community, making it one of the most important South-Indian-connected temples in Varanasi.
Its energy feels soft, motherly, and deeply healing – a place where North and South cultures blend beautifully.
Why Visit:
- A revered Shakti Peeth with strong Tamil cultural influence.
- Peaceful, intimate darshan – perfect for quiet prayers.
- Just a short walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the ghats.
Timings:
- Morning: 4:30 AM – 11:00 AM
- Evening: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
(Timings may vary slightly on festivals.)
Best Time to Visit:
- Early morning or after sunset.
- During Navratri or Kajali Teej when the temple comes alive with festive energy.
Location: Mir Ghat, near Meer Ghat – only 250–300 m from Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
How to Reach:
- 4–5 km from Varanasi Junction Railway Station.
- Autos and e-rickshaws easily available.
- Walkable from the Vishwanath Gali area.
Visitor Tips:
- Combine it with Annapurna Temple & Lalita Ghat for a compact temple trail.
- Evenings are quieter and cooler.
- Photography may be restricted inside – do check with the staff.
For Temple Wedding Seekers: If you’d love a soulful North-meets-South spiritual trail in Varanasi, Team Plannersy can curate a beautiful itinerary that includes the divine grace of the Vishalakshi Temple.
For Travellers: If you’re exploring Varanasi with a spiritual heart, we’d love to design a gentle, soul-soothing itinerary around Vishalakshi Temple and nearby sacred spots.
12. Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham (Kanchi Mutt), Varanasi
This serene monastic centre is a branch of the iconic Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham in Tamil Nadu – founded by Adi Shankaracharya himself. The Varanasi branch preserves traditional South-Indian Vedic practices and functions as a peaceful spiritual retreat for devotees visiting Kashi. Its environment is calm, disciplined, and deeply rooted in ancient rituals.
Why Visit:
- Experience authentic South-Indian Vedic chanting and rituals.
- Meet monks from Kanchipuram who guide visitors in spiritual learning.
- A peaceful spot away from the busy lanes of Kashi.
Timings:
Generally open from 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
(Visitors are advised to maintain silence and modest attire.)
Best Time to Visit: Morning meditation hours or during satsang sessions.
Location: Near Hanuman Ghat / South of the Kedar Ghat area.
How to Reach:
- Approx. 5 km from Varanasi Junction.
- Autos/e-rickshaws can drop you near the ghat area, with a short walk to the Mutt.
Visitor Tips:
- Maintain quietness and respect monastic discipline.
- Avoid photography unless permitted.
- Ideal for travelers seeking peaceful, South-style spiritual vibes.
For Temple Wedding Seekers: For couples who wish to include South-Indian Vedic blessings or rituals in their Kashi wedding, Plannersy can coordinate serene, traditional ceremonies inspired by the teachings of the Kanchi Peetham.
For Travellers: If you want to experience South-Indian Vedic culture during your Kashi journey, Plannersy can curate a peaceful route that includes meditation, satsangs, and temple visits.
13. Sri Annapurna Mattam (South Indian Annadhanam & Temple Centre)
Sri Annapurna Mattam is a humble yet spiritually rich annadanam centre, typically operated by Tamil/Telugu devotees.
While not a “temple” in the usual sense, it holds a revered place for South-Indian pilgrims as it blends rituals, daily pujas, and delicious prasadam meals – all deeply rooted in South traditions.
Why Visit:
- Experience the warmth of Annadanam, one of the highest South-Indian offerings.
- South-style pujas, slokas, and simple but divine ambience.
- Perfect place to rest and rejuvenate between ghat visits.
Timings:
- Open from 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
- Annadanam timings vary but usually around noon.
Best Time to Visit: Lunch hours for annadanam or mornings for peaceful prayer time.
Location: Near the central ghats – usually around the Dashashwamedh / Godowlia area.
How to Reach:
- Just 3–4 km from Varanasi Junction.
- Easy access through auto or on foot while exploring the ghats.
Visitor Tips:
- Donations for annadanam are welcomed (optional).
- Ideal for elderly travelers or temple-hopping families needing a peaceful stop.
- Be respectful and maintain cleanliness.
For Temple Wedding Seekers: If your wedding vision includes heartfelt South-Indian traditions like annadanam or community blessings, Team Plannersy can help weave these sacred elements into your special day.
For Travellers: If you’re looking for warm community spaces, delicious prasadam, and authentic South-Indian hospitality in Varanasi, Plannersy can guide your steps with a beautifully planned route.
14. Shri Kashi Math / Kasi Math Samsthan (Gowda Saraswat Brahmin Temple & Mutt)
Shri Kashi Math is connected to the Gowda Saraswat Brahmin (GSB) community – traditionally from Karnataka, Kerala, and Goa. This Mutt has been a spiritual home for the community for centuries, offering South-Indian-style rituals, teachings, and festivals right here in the heart of Varanasi.
Why Visit:
- South-Indian (GSB) rituals and deity worship.
- Calm, disciplined ambience ideal for introspection.
- Occasional discourses and cultural gatherings.
Timings: Open typically from 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
Best Time to Visit: Evening aarti or morning puja hours.
Location: Near Hanuman Ghat / adjoining the South Varanasi ghat cluster.
How to Reach:
- Around 5 km from railway station.
- Autos can drop you close; small walk required through the inner lanes.
Visitor Tips:
- Dress modestly and remove footwear before entering.
- Photography is usually restricted – check beforehand.
- A great addition to your South-Indian spiritual circuit in Varanasi.
For Wedding Seekers: If you wish to incorporate Konkani or South-Indian GSB customs into your Kashi wedding, Plannersy can help arrange rituals and blessings that feel close to home.
For Travellers: If you want to explore serene mutts, traditional pujas, and cultural gems around the ghats, we can design a meaningful and relaxed itinerary for you.
15. Adi Shankaracharya-Inspired Temples & Meditation Spots (Kedar Ghat Area)
The region around Kedar Ghat carries deep ties to Adi Shankaracharya, who revived Hinduism across India and has major roots in Kerala.
This area houses small shrines, monastic spaces, and meditation corners inspired by his teachings. While not grand temples, they are spiritually powerful and perfect for seekers looking for calm.
Why Visit:
- A serene escape from the busy ghats.
- Ideal for meditation and reflection.
- Strong philosophical connection between Varanasi and South India’s spiritual heritage.
Timings: Most shrines here remain open from 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit:
- Sunrise hours at the ghats.
- Late evenings for quiet meditation.
Location: Clustered around Kedar Ghat, one of the most ancient and sacred ghats.
How to Reach:
- About 4.5 km from Varanasi Junction.
- Auto can drop you near the ghat, then a short walk through lanes.
Visitor Tips:
- Bring a small mat if you want to meditate.
- Combine the visit with Kedareshwar Temple (Nepali temple influence nearby).
- Ideal for spiritually curious travelers.
For Temple Wedding Seekers: If you’re seeking a simple, spiritually rooted temple wedding inspired by Adi Shankaracharya’s philosophy of oneness, Plannersy can help create a calm, meditative celebration.
For Travellers: If you’d love to walk the quieter, reflective side of Varanasi, Plannersy can map out a beautiful meditation-friendly trail around the Kedar Ghat area.
💛 Final Thoughts From Team Plannersy
Varanasi is a gentle embrace of faith, culture, and timeless devotion. Whether you’re exploring ancient Shiva temples, discovering South-linked spiritual corners, or simply walking through the ghats at sunrise, Kashi gives every traveller a story to carry home.
At Plannersy, we truly believe that journeys like these stay in your heart forever. If you ever wish to plan a soulful spiritual itinerary or dream of celebrating love with a beautiful temple wedding in Varanasi, our team would be honoured to guide you with warmth, care, and personal attention.
Until then, may your path be blessed and your travels be filled with serenity.
💛 Explore More From Plannersy
As you continue your spiritual journey or plan the most meaningful moments of your life, we’d love to guide you with stories, insights, and temple-wedding expertise from across India.
Here are some of our most-loved guides, travel resources, and sacred wedding inspirations – curated to help you travel with devotion and plan with confidence.
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