Dedicated to Shiva as Vishwanath, Lord of the Universe, the temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and among the most important shrines in Hinduism. The present temple was built in 1780 under the patronage of Ahilyabai Holkar, the Maratha queen of Indore.

The temple corridor

The Kashi Vishwanath Dham corridor, inaugurated in December 2021, opened a direct route between the temple and the ghats on the Ganga. It has changed how most visitors approach the shrine, replacing part of the old maze of lanes with broad courtyards.

Visiting tips

  • Expect queues at most times of day, and especially on Mondays and festival days.
  • Follow current guidance on what may be carried inside; lockers are commonly used.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the ghats or a boat ride at dawn.