Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi

The holy city of Varanasi is home to one of the most holiest Hindu sites - the acclaimed Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Committed to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the 12 Jyotilingas and has been mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures namely the Skanda Purana. The temple structure as it stands today comprises of a progression of smaller shrines situated in the Vishwanath Galli. Destroyed countless times by invading Islamic forces, the temple was rebuilt several times during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar. It was finally demolished by Aurangzeb, who erected the Gyanvapi Mosque on its ruins. The current structure was built by Maratha ruler, Ahillya Bai Holkar in 1780. The significance of the temple can be understood by the fact that it was visited by many prominent saints such as Adi Shankaracharya, Swami Vivekanand and Guru Nanak. The golden spire of the temple reaches the height of about 16 feet while all the other dome are made of gold which were offered by Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The temple complex also houses a well known as the Jnana Vapi well. It is believed that the sacred Linga was hidden here every time the temple was invaded or destroyed. Located near the Manikarnika Ghat on the Ganges river, the temple attracts thousands of devotees all year round.

Kashi Vishwanath Mandir, is one of the most religiously significant and popular sites of worship in India. Located on the western end of Varanasi, the shrine here is dedicated to Hindu Deity Shiva. It is one of the 12 Shiva shrines across India. An immensely popular destination, it welcomes devotees around 3,000 every day.