Kashi Vishalakshi Temple Varanasi

Kashi Vishalakshi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Vishalakshi, a form of the goddess Parvati, at Mir Ghat on the banks of the Ganges in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. It is generally regarded as a Shakti Peetha, the most sacred temple dedicated to the Hindu Divine Mother.

The earrings of the goddess Sati are said to have fallen on this holy spot of Varanasi. The temple is situated by the famous cremation grounds of Manikarnika. Vishalakshi Temple is known for its temple festival on Kajali Tij, held on the third day during a waning fortnight in the Hindu month of Bhadrapada (August). There are 4 incarnations of Adi parashakti (Kamakshi) is worshipped. Vishalakshi in North, Renukakshi(Padmakshi) in West, Meenakshi in South and Bahulakshi in East.

The temple is believed to be over 2,000 years old and has been mentioned in several ancient Hindu scriptures, including the Skanda Purana and the Kashi Khanda. It is said that the temple was originally built by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata period.

The temple complex is large and consists of several shrines, including the main shrine dedicated to the goddess Vishalakshi. The main shrine is a two-story structure with a golden dome. The idol of the goddess Vishalakshi is made of black stone and is adorned with gold and precious stones.

In addition to the main shrine, the temple complex also includes shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Hanuman. The temple also has a large courtyard and a pond.

The Kashi Vishalakshi Temple is one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India. It is visited by millions of devotees every year. The temple is especially popular during the Navaratri festival, which is celebrated for nine days in the month of September-October.

Read more >> Where are 51 Shakti Peethas Located

Significance of the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple:

• It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, which are sacred sites associated with the goddess Shakti. Shakti is the feminine divine energy of the universe, and the Shakti Peethas are believed to be the places where her body parts fell after she sacrificed herself in the fire.
• The Kashi Vishalakshi Temple is home to the earrings of the goddess Sati. Sati was the wife of Lord Shiva, and she sacrificed herself in the fire after her father insulted Shiva. Shiva was so grief-stricken that he carried her body around the world, and wherever her body parts fell, a Shakti Peetha was created.
• The Kashi Vishalakshi Temple is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over India. It is especially popular during the Navaratri festival, which is celebrated for nine days in the month of September-October. Navaratri is a festival dedicated to the goddess Shakti, and during this time, millions of Hindus visit Shakti Peethas all over India.

Local people believe that devotees who visit this temple to have holy baths in river Ganga (Manikarnika ghat) will have success and wealth, unmarried women to get the best soul mate and childless mothers to get a child. There is a belief that all gods will have a holy bath during 12 P.M. in this Manikarnika Ghat.

During the festival of Kajali Tij which comes on the third day in the month of Bhadrapada (August), the temple is flooded with devotees to perform rituals.

This temple is mentioned as the fifth important Shakti Peethas in Tantric’s book Rudrayamala, Kularnava Tantra as the sixth one and Kubjika Tantra as the third. This temple is also mentioned in Devi Bhagavata Purana, Chandimangal and Lakshimidhara.

In Gharbhalaya Goddess is seen in two forms one is swayambhu and the other is archamurthy – Once you enter the temple we worship archamurthy and then swayambhu form of the Goddess. Kumkum Pooja offered on every Friday and pournami to Sri Chakra (installed by Adi Shankaracharya) is one of the important rituals. Devotees who visit Kanchi Kamakshi and Madhura Minakshi will visit Kasi Vishalakshi and complete their travel.

Legend of Vishalakshi  Shakthi Peeth:

As per Skanda Purana, Saga Vyas and his disciples didn’t receive any kind of biksha for seven continuous days. Because of this act, Sage Vyas got angry over the land Kasi cursed. Maa Visalakshi transformed into a Brahmin lady and sent an invitation to Sage Vyas and his disciples to offer food. Although the mother wanted to fulfill her son’s hunger Lord Shiva didn’t like the act of Sage Vyas and ordered Sage to vanish from the land Kasi. Upon knowing his wrong act Sage urged Lord Shiv to forgive. Then Lord said you will be allowed again at a later time.

There is a saying that during nights Lord Shiva comes to this temple and takes rest with the goddess. Lord consumes the food of Goddess and makes her as primary Goddess. Many of us think Goddess Annapurna and Visalakshi are the same but they are of different forms.

Kashi Vishalakshi Temple Timing:

The Kashi Vishalakshi Temple is open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

The following are the timings of the daily aarti ceremonies:

• Mangala Aarti: 5:00 AM
• Shringar Aarti: 7:30 AM
• Bhog Aarti: 12:30 PM
• Sandhya Aarti: 7:00 PM
• Shayan Aarti: 9:00 PM

Places to visit near Kashi Vishalakshi Temple:

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This is one of the most famous and revered temples in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s situated very close to Kashi Vishalakshi Temple.
2. Ganga Ghats: Varanasi is famous for its numerous ghats along the Ganges River. You can take a boat ride along the river to witness the religious ceremonies and rituals on the ghats, including the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
3. Sarnath: Sarnath, located just a few kilometers from Varanasi, is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. It’s where Buddha is believed to have given his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. You can explore ancient Buddhist stupas and ruins here.
4. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: This museum, situated within the Banaras Hindu University, houses an impressive collection of art, sculpture, and artifacts related to the cultural and historical heritage of Varanasi.
5. Ramnagar Fort and Museum: Located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River, this 18th-century fort is the ancestral home of the Maharaja of Banaras. The museum within the fort showcases vintage cars, royal costumes, and a collection of antique items.
6. Tulsi Manas Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is known for its beautiful white marble structure. The walls of the temple are inscribed with verses from the Ramcharitmanas, a text written by Tulsidas.
7. Assi Ghat: Assi Ghat is a serene and less crowded ghat where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. It’s also associated with the goddess Durga.
8. New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple): This modern temple is made of white marble and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It’s located in the BHU campus and offers a different architectural experience.
9. Bharat Mata Temple: This unique temple is dedicated to Mother India and features a large relief map of the Indian subcontinent carved out of marble.
10. Tulsi Ghat: Named after the poet Tulsidas, this ghat is known for its serene and spiritual atmosphere.

FAQ:

What is the significance of the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple?

The Kashi Vishalakshi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, which are sacred sites associated with the goddess Shakti. It is also one of the most popular pilgrimage sites in India.

What is the history of the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple?

The Kashi Vishalakshi Temple is believed to be over 2,000 years old. It is said that the temple was originally built by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata period.

What are the timings of the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple?

The Kashi Vishalakshi Temple is open daily from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

What is the dress code for visiting the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple?

Devotees are expected to dress modestly when visiting the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple. Men should wear full-length pants and shirts, and women should wear long skirts or dresses that cover their knees.

What are the things to do near the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple?

• Taking a boat ride on the Ganges River
• Visiting the Manikarnika Ghat, the famous cremation grounds of Varanasi
• Visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva
• Visiting the Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon
• Shopping for souvenirs in the narrow lanes of Varanasi

What are the festivals celebrated at the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple?

The Kashi Vishalakshi Temple is a popular pilgrimage destination during all major Hindu festivals. The most important festivals celebrated at the temple include:

• Navaratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to the goddess Shakti
• Diwali, the festival of lights
• Holi, the festival of colors

What is the significance of the earrings of the goddess Sati?

The earrings of the goddess Sati are believed to be a symbol of her power and beauty. They are also believed to be a source of blessings for devotees.

What is the best time to visit the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple?

The best time to visit the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple is during the Navaratri festival, which is celebrated in the month of September-October. However, the temple is open throughout the year and can be visited at any time.

Is there any entry fee for visiting the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple?

There is no entry fee for visiting the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple. However, devotees are encouraged to make a donation to the temple.

How to reach Kashi Vishalakshi Temple:

By Air: The nearest airport to Varanasi is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS). You can book a flight to this airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-paid cab to reach the temple. The temple is approximately 25 kilometers from the airport, and the journey can take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions.

By Train: Varanasi Junction (also known as Varanasi Cantt) is the main railway station in Varanasi. It is well-connected to major cities across India. After arriving at Varanasi Junction, you can hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw to reach the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple. The temple is situated in the vicinity of the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

By Road: If you are traveling by road, you can reach Varanasi by bus or by hiring a taxi or a cab. Varanasi is well-connected to various cities in North India by road. Once you reach Varanasi, you can follow the directions to the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple, which is located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in the heart of the city.

Once you are in the vicinity of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, you can ask locals for directions to the Kashi Vishalakshi Temple, as it is located nearby. The temple is situated in the spiritual and historic city of Varanasi, and it is an important place of worship for devotees of Goddess Vishalakshi.

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