The approach runs through narrow lanes; the 2021 Kashi Vishwanath Corridor improved direct access from the ghats, but the temple isn't fully wheelchair-accessible throughout.
Verified 17 Sept 2026
associated deity
Shiva, as Vishwanath / Vishweshwara
Verified 16 Sept 2026
condition state
CONTESTED
Verified 16 Sept 2026
construction year
Present structure 1780 (sources also give 1775-76 and 1785 for stages of the work); the site itself is far older
Verified 16 Sept 2026
darshan timings
General darshan hours are approximately 3:00 AM (Mangala Aarti) to 11:00 PM, with a brief midday closure around 12:00-1:00 PM. Exact schedule varies by day and season.
Not yet field-verified — please confirm locally
dress code
Modest dress recommended. Leather items (belts, wallets) are typically not permitted inside. Phones and cameras are restricted near the sanctum.
Not yet field-verified — please confirm locally
queue types
A free general queue exists alongside a separate, faster paid Sugam Darshan queue; a protocol/VIP darshan path also exists for certain categories of visitor. (Specifics like fees and wait times change — confirm locally or on the official site before your visit.)
Not yet field-verified — please confirm locally
shoe locker
Shoes, phones, and cameras are not allowed near the sanctum; cloakroom facilities exist nearby for storing belongings.
Verified 17 Sept 2026
watch out for
Touts near the temple may offer unofficial 'special darshan' or guide services at inflated prices — book any paid darshan only through the temple trust's own counters or website.
Verified 17 Sept 2026
Story
AI-drafted from public sources — may contain mistakes, especially specific dates, names, or claims. Only "Good to know" above is field-checked.
Historians say
The earlier Adi Vishveshvara temple was demolished in 1669 under Aurangzeb; the Gyanvapi mosque stands on the adjoining site and the matter is under litigation. The present temple was built under Ahilyabai Holkar's patronage in the 1770s-80s.
Tradition says
Tradition holds Shiva himself founded Kashi and that the Jyotirlinga here is self-manifested. Darshan at Kashi is held to grant moksha, which is the basis of the entire pilgrim economy of the city.
Historians say
The principal temple of the city and one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines. The deity's name means Lord of the Universe. Since 2021 the temple has been connected to the river by the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor, which cleared a direct route from the ghats.
