Annapurna Devi Temple
A sacred sanctuary in Varanasi, renowned for its divine ambiance and the Goddess of food, offering blessings and free meals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful darshan
Annapurna Devi Temple
Best Time
Peaceful darshan
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred sanctuary in Varanasi, renowned for its divine ambiance and the Goddess of food, offering blessings and free meals.
"The serene atmosphere and divine presence make it a deeply spiritual experience."
🎯 Quick Darshan Tickets
If lines are long, consider buying a 'quick darshan' ticket for ₹300 per person from the temple trust near gates 2 or 4. :ticket:
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. This is a sacred space, so appropriate attire is key. :dress:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Goddess Annapurna's Divine Presence
Main Sanctum
Witness the captivating idol of Mata Annapurna, believed to be a form of Goddess Parvati, offering blessings and sustenance.
Free Community Meals (Prasad)
Temple Dining Hall
Experience the divine grace of free, delicious meals served daily, a testament to the Goddess's benevolent nature.
Proximity to Kashi Vishwanath
Near Kashi Vishwanath Temple
This temple is conveniently located near the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, making it easy to combine spiritual visits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Attire and Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Quick Darshan Tickets
If lines are long, consider buying a 'quick darshan' ticket for ₹300 per person from the temple trust near gates 2 or 4. :ticket:
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. This is a sacred space, so appropriate attire is key. :dress:
🍽️ Finish Your Prasad
If you partake in the free meals, it's customary to finish everything given to you as a sign of respect. :forkandknife:
📸 No Electronics Near Dining
Electronic devices are not allowed inside the dining area. Embrace the moment without distractions. :noentrysign:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Quick Darshan Tickets
If lines are long, consider buying a 'quick darshan' ticket for ₹300 per person from the temple trust near gates 2 or 4. :ticket:
🙏 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. This is a sacred space, so appropriate attire is key. :dress:
🍽️ Finish Your Prasad
If you partake in the free meals, it's customary to finish everything given to you as a sign of respect. :forkandknife:
📸 No Electronics Near Dining
Electronic devices are not allowed inside the dining area. Embrace the moment without distractions. :noentrysign:
📍 Ask for Directions
The temple is located in a narrow 'gully' near the Vishwanath corridor; don't hesitate to ask locals for guidance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Annapurna Devi Temple for its divine and peaceful atmosphere, highlighting the spiritual energy and the blessed feeling of visiting. The free, delicious meals served daily are a major draw, as is its proximity to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, completing the spiritual journey. Some find the temple's location within narrow lanes a bit challenging to navigate.
"Shree Annapurna Mandir is a very divine and peaceful temple located close to Kashi Vishwanath Mandir. The atmosphere here is calm and filled with spiritual energy. The temple is clean and well-maintained, and devotees feel blessed visiting here. A must-visit after darshan at Shri Kashi Vishwanath, as it adds to the complete spiritual experience of Varanasi."
Anil panda
"Shree Annapurna Mata mandir located inside the premises of Shree Kashi Vishwanath Mandir is one of the beautiful temple dedicated to Mata Annapurna i.e Mata Parvati. The main idol of Shree Annapurna Mata is very attractive and beautiful. Lots of other small temples are also inside this temple. By paying ₹100 per person you can go near the idol of Mata Annapurna. Daily from morning 7 AM to night 10 PM free meals are served here. There are two units and each has different timing. The food is really very tasty and we must take this Prasad. If you pay some donation in the office you are given very beautiful foto of Mata Annapurna which can be laminated and kept at home. Do visit and take blessings of Mata Annapurna."
Gimbrat G
"You get prashad and also kashi vishwanath temple gopuram top view (no use of electronic devices inside the dining area) Warning finishing what they give you from any breakfast lunch and dinner"
ronak shah
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Annapurna Devi Temple is located in a narrow 'gully' near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple corridor. You'll likely need to rely on local directions or a rickshaw to reach the general vicinity, then navigate the lanes on foot.
Finding the temple can be a bit tricky due to its location within the narrow lanes of Varanasi. Asking locals for directions to the 'Annapurna Mandir' near Kashi Vishwanath is your best bet.
Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are common modes of transport in Varanasi. For areas near the ghats and temples, walking is often the most practical way to navigate the narrow streets.
The Annapurna Devi Temple is situated very close to the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple, making it a key landmark in the area.
Taxis can get you close to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple area, but the final approach to Annapurna Devi Temple involves walking through narrow lanes where vehicles cannot pass.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main temple premises is generally free. However, for a closer 'darshan' of the main idol, there's an option to pay ₹100 per person.
A 'quick darshan' ticket, which allows you to bypass longer queues, costs ₹300 per person and is sold by the temple trust near gates 2 and 4.
The temple is typically open daily from 7 AM to 10 PM, allowing ample time for devotees to visit and seek blessings.
Advance booking is generally not required for regular entry. 'Quick darshan' tickets can be purchased on-site if the queues are long.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Electronic devices are not permitted in certain areas, particularly the dining hall.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The temple is described as very divine, peaceful, and filled with spiritual energy. Visitors often feel blessed and find the atmosphere calm and serene.
Photography is generally restricted in certain areas, especially within the dining hall. It's best to check local signage or ask temple authorities about photo policies.
Goddess Annapurna is revered as the provider of food and nourishment. It's believed she set up a kitchen in Kashi to feed everyone, including Lord Shiva himself.
Yes, the Annapurna Mata mandir complex houses several other small temples, adding to the spiritual richness of the site.
Don't hesitate to ask locals for directions. Varanasi residents are generally helpful and can guide you to the temple or back to main areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the temple is famous for serving free, delicious meals (prasad) to all devotees three times a day, from morning to night.
The food served is traditional Indian cuisine, prepared with care and offered as prasad. It's known to be very tasty.
Free meals are served daily from morning 7 AM to night 10 PM, with two units operating at different times.
The meals are served free of cost as prasad. However, donations to the temple trust are always welcome.
No, electronic devices are not allowed in the dining area, so photography is prohibited during meal times.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally restricted in sensitive areas, particularly the dining hall. It's advisable to confirm with temple staff or observe signage.
The exterior of the temple and the surrounding narrow lanes of Varanasi offer opportunities for atmospheric photography. Capturing the essence of the spiritual city is key.
While not a primary feature, some reviews mention a 'Kashi Vishwanath temple gopuram top view' from the dining area, though electronic devices are prohibited there.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful scenes in the narrow lanes. The vibrant atmosphere of Varanasi itself is a photographer's delight.
No, photography is not permitted in the dining area where the free meals are served.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more peaceful visit, aim for early mornings. The temple's proximity to Kashi Vishwanath also means you can combine visits, but be mindful of the crowds at both locations. The spiritual atmosphere can be a powerful learning experience for children about different cultures and beliefs.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
Combine your visit with the nearby Kashi Vishwanath Temple for a complete spiritual immersion in Varanasi. The temple's location within the ancient city's sacred lanes adds to its mystical allure. Arriving early or during weekdays can enhance the meditative experience, allowing for deeper contemplation.
💰 Budget Travelers
Entry to the temple is also free, with optional paid 'quick darshan' tickets if you wish to save time. Navigating Varanasi via local rickshaws and walking through the lanes are also cost-effective ways to explore. This temple offers a rich experience without a significant financial outlay.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Annapurna Devi
+1This belief forms the core of the temple's charitable activities, most notably the continuous serving of free meals to devotees. The temple is not just a place of worship but a symbol of selfless service and divine provision, drawing pilgrims who seek blessings for prosperity and well-being. The spiritual energy here is palpable, making it a profoundly moving experience for visitors.
Experiencing the Prasad Meal
Visitors are encouraged to finish their meals as a sign of respect for the divine offering. While the food is free, donations are gratefully accepted to help sustain this vital service. It's a unique opportunity to experience the community spirit and the profound generosity that defines this sacred site. Remember that electronic devices are not permitted in the dining area, encouraging a mindful and present experience.
Navigating Varanasi's Sacred Lanes
Navigating these lanes is an adventure in itself. Cycle-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws can get you close, but the final approach is usually on foot. Embrace the experience of walking through these historic passages, observing the daily rituals, and soaking in the unique atmosphere of India's holiest city. The journey through the lanes is as much a part of the spiritual pilgrimage as the destination itself.
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