Top 5 Temples to Visit in Varanasi: A Magh Mela Pilgrim’s Guide

Namaste to our brothers and sisters residing in the USA, UK, and across the globe. You have planned your journey to the Magh Mela 2026 in Prayagraj to bathe in the holy Sangam. However, the spiritual heart of India beats not just in Prayag, but in the sacred triangle of the North. No pilgrimage to this region is complete without stepping into Kashi (Varanasi), the city of Lord Shiva, the city of Light (Moksha)- Temples to Visit in Varanasi

For NRIs and international visitors, Varanasi can seem like a maze of narrow lanes and ancient mysteries. To ensure your time is spent in devotion rather than confusion, we have curated a guide to the Top 5 Temples to Visit in Varanasi. These shrines represent the essence of Shiva, Shakti, and Hanuman devotion.

At mahakumbh.in, we specialise in crafting comprehensive tour packages that take you comfortably to these divine abodes, as well as to the holy cities of Varanasi and Ayodhya.

1. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

This is the heart of Varanasi. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest of Shiva shrines. In the Puranas, it is said that even if the world is destroyed, Kashi remains upheld on the trident of Lord Shiva.

• Why Visit: It is the central energy of the city. The newly constructed Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has made access much easier for international pilgrims. A Darshan here is believed to liberate one from the cycle of birth and death.
• Timings: 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Subject to change during festivals/Aartis).

2. Annapurna Devi Temple

Located adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath temple, this shrine belongs to the Goddess of Nourishment (Anna means food, Purna means complete).

• Why Visit: Legend says that Lord Shiva himself begged for alms from Goddess Annapurna to demonstrate that sustenance is essential for life. It is traditional to visit here immediately after Vishwanath Darshan to seek prosperity and health.
• Timings: Generally follows Vishwanath temple hours; typically 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM.

3. Kaal Bhairav Temple

Kaal Bhairav is the fierce form of Lord Shiva and is known as the “Kotwal of Kashi” (The Sheriff/Guardian).

• Why Visit: according to folklore and scripture, no one can stay in Kashi without the permission of Kaal Bhairav. It is customary to visit this temple to remove fear and seek protection for your journey. It is a culturally intense experience for first-time visitors.
• Timings: 5:00 AM – 1:30 PM; 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Approximate).

4. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Situated by the Assi river, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It was established by the great saint Tulsidas, the author of the Ramcharitmanas.

• Why Visit: The name “Sankat Mochan” means “Reliever of Troubles.” It is a peaceful sanctuary filled with the chanting of Hanuman Chalisa. Tuesdays and Saturdays are highly auspicious here.
• Timings: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM.

5. Durga Kund (Durga Temple)

This striking red temple, built in the Nagara style of architecture, sits next to a rectangular tank (Kund).

• Why Visit: It is a major Shakti shrine. It is believed that the Goddess Durga is not an idol installed by human hands but appeared here on her own. It represents power and feminine divinity.
• Timings: 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM.

Suggested Quick Route

Time is precious for travelers. To cover these Temples to Visit in Varanasi efficiently, we suggest this route:

• Morning Leg: Start with Shri Kashi Vishwanath, followed immediately by Annapurna Devi (they are in the same complex). This beats the midday crowd.
• Afternoon/Evening Leg: Proceed to Kaal Bhairav, then move towards the southern part of the city to visit Sankat Mochan and finally Durga Kund.

Quick Reference Guide for Pilgrims

Note: Timings may vary based on seasons and festivals. Please check locally.

Experience the Sacred Triangle: Prayagraj, Kashi, and Ayodhya

For our NRI guests who have traveled thousands of miles for the Magh Mela 2026, we understand that you wish to experience the complete spiritual heritage of India. The distance between Prayagraj, Varanasi, and Ayodhya (the birthplace of Lord Rama) is short, but the logistics can be difficult to manage alone.

At mahakumbh.in, we specialize in Magh Mela 2026 Tour Packages that seamlessly connect these three holy cities.

We provide:

• Complete Itineraries: From the Sangam in Prayagraj to the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor and the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
• Comfort & Safety: Luxury accommodation and private transport suited for international travelers.
• Guided Access: English-speaking guides to help you navigate the temples without confusion.

Do not worry about the chaos of travel. Let us handle the logistics while you focus on your devotion- Temples to Visit in Varanasi

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