Vishalakshi Temple Varanasi
A powerful Shakti Peetha in Kashi, known for its serene simplicity and the profound presence of Maa Vishalakshi, the 'Wide-Eyed Devi'.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Experience the temple's powerful presence
Vishalakshi Temple Varanasi
Best Time
Experience the temple's powerful presence
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A powerful Shakti Peetha in Kashi, known for its serene simplicity and the profound presence of Maa Vishalakshi, the 'Wide-Eyed Devi'.
"Feel the immense spiritual energy of this sacred site, where Goddess Sati's earrings fell."
🎯 Find it with ease
It's near Meer Ghat & Kashi Vishwanath. Locals are helpful if you get lost!
🙏 Offerings for Devi
Sarees, bangles, and sindoor are common offerings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Maa Vishalakshi Murti
Main Sanctum
Gaze upon the 'Wide-Eyed Devi,' adorned in vibrant sarees and flowers, radiating motherly compassion and wisdom.
Shakti Peetha Significance
Temple grounds
Feel the immense spiritual energy of this sacred site, believed to be where Goddess Sati's earrings fell .
Serene Devotion
Temple grounds
Experience a peaceful and less crowded atmosphere, perfect for quiet contemplation and offering prayers .
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Simplicity
Navigating the Lanes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find it with ease
It's near Meer Ghat & Kashi Vishwanath. Locals are helpful if you get lost!
🙏 Offerings for Devi
Sarees, bangles, and sindoor are common offerings.
🤫 No Photos Allowed
Photography is restricted inside the temple premises.
🚶♀️ Walkable from Ghats
Easily accessible on foot from Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Manikarnika Ghat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find it with ease
It's near Meer Ghat & Kashi Vishwanath. Locals are helpful if you get lost!
🙏 Offerings for Devi
Sarees, bangles, and sindoor are common offerings.
🤫 No Photos Allowed
Photography is restricted inside the temple premises.
🚶♀️ Walkable from Ghats
Easily accessible on foot from Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Manikarnika Ghat.
✨ Feel the Divine Energy
Embrace the simple yet powerful spiritual aura of this sacred Shakti Peetha.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Vishalakshi Temple for its profound spiritual presence and serene, less crowded atmosphere, often calling it a hidden gem. Its simplicity is seen as a strength, allowing for a deep connection with the Goddess. While the narrow lanes can be a bit tricky to navigate, the helpfulness of locals and the temple's proximity to major sites make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking authentic spiritual experiences in Kashi.
"One of the simplest, yet greatest presence of Devi, Herself and Guru AadiShankaracharya can be felt in the temple
Temple is very small. The main prathishta can be viewed behind the visible Devi especially when you bow down at her feet. Aadi Shankaracharya's presence and his bhakti-njanam-vairangya is strongly felt within the temple, especially when visited at night around 7pm-8pm.
The path to temple is through the Ghalis. Temple is very near to Shri Kashi Viswanath temple. Temple is walkable distance from Deshaswamedh Ghat through the Ghalis. The temple is very inviting, not because of richness, but because of simplicity and power. One can really feel Her power that power up Kaasi Nathan to do chudala karma at Manikarnika. A true SHAKTHI PEEDAM!"
Dhanya G Menon
"🔱 Jai Maa Vishalakshi! 🔱
🌸 Shri Vishalakshi Mata Shaktipeeth Temple: A Divine Gem Often Overlooked in Kashi 🌸
Tucked away in the sacred lanes of Kashi lies one of the most powerful yet often missed temples; Shri Vishalakshi Mata Shaktipeeth. While millions come to Kashi for darshan of Baba Vishwanath, many remain unaware that Maa Vishalakshi, one of the 51 Shaktipeethas, resides just nearby, radiating immense spiritual energy and motherly compassion.
This temple holds immense significance, it is believed to be the sacred spot where Maa Sati’s earrings (kundal) fell, making it a spiritually charged site where Shakti and Shiva dwell in eternal union. For seekers of Shakti (divine feminine energy) and inner awakening, this temple is a must-visit.
Despite its spiritual power, it often remains out of the typical pilgrimage itinerary. But once you enter the serene sanctum and gaze upon Maa Vishalakshi's murti adorned in vibrant sarees and flowers, you will feel an instant connection, as if a mother is embracing her child.
🛕 Temple Tips:
It’s just a short walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Manikarnika Ghat.
The temple is peaceful and less crowded, making it perfect for quiet devotion.
Devotees often offer sarees, bangles, and sindoor to the Devi.
If you’re visiting Kashi, don’t miss this sacred jewel. Your spiritual journey will feel incomplete without seeking the blessings of Maa Vishalakshi, the all-seeing, all-loving Mother of Kashi.
🔱 Jai Maa Vishalakshi! 🔱"
Chandan Prakash Jha
"Very peaceful and beautiful temple. Free from any kind of rush. Nice setup for shoes and sitting. Stalls selling offerings for the goddess is also available but very few in number. The temple is situated in a small alley so it is little bit difficult to find but it is very close to Meer Ghat and the local people are also very helpful."
PRARTHITA MUKHERJEE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is located near Meer Ghat, a short walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Manikarnika Ghat. Navigate through the narrow lanes of Kashi; locals are usually happy to point you in the right direction.
Yes, it's very close and walkable. Many visitors combine a visit to both temples. It's often described as being 'behind' Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Meer Ghat is accessible by foot through the ghats or by auto-rickshaw. From the ghat, you'll need to walk into the narrow streets to find the temple.
The temple is situated near Meer Ghat on the banks of the Ganges. It's also close to the bustling Godowlia area.
Taxis can get you close to the main areas like Godowlia or the ghats, but the final approach to the temple is through pedestrian-only narrow lanes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Vishalakshi Temple is generally free. It's a place of worship, and donations are welcome but not mandatory.
The temple is typically open from early morning until late evening, often around 9:30 PM. It's advisable to check locally for exact timings as they can vary.
While not as common as at larger temples, some sources mention quick darshan tickets being available for a fee, though it's generally not crowded enough to require them.
As with most Hindu temples, it's respectful to dress modestly. Avoid revealing clothing. Covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
Yes, visiting during festivals like Kajali Tij can be a unique experience, though it might be more crowded.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is generally not permitted inside the temple premises. Please respect the rules.
You can capture the essence of the narrow lanes leading to the temple, the ghats, and the general atmosphere of Kashi. The exterior of the temple complex might be photographable from a distance.
The ghats, especially Meer Ghat, offer scenic views of the Ganges and the city. The bustling streets themselves are also very photogenic.
Street photography capturing the daily life, religious rituals, and the unique architecture of Varanasi is very popular.
It's best to refrain from using any camera, including phone cameras, inside the temple to avoid any issues.
🎫 🕉️ Onsite Experience
It's considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, believed to be the spot where Goddess Sati's earrings fell. It's dedicated to Maa Vishalakshi, an aspect of Goddess Parvati.
A simple, serene sanctum with the murti of Maa Vishalakshi. You can feel a strong spiritual presence and devotion.
Yes, there are designated areas for shoe storage, often managed by temple staff or volunteers.
Devotees can perform puja and offer prayers. Sarees, bangles, and sindoor are common offerings to the Devi.
Compared to major temples, Vishalakshi Temple is often less crowded, making it ideal for a peaceful visit.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the lanes around the temple and the nearby ghats offer numerous food stalls and small eateries serving local Varanasi cuisine.
Don't miss out on Lassi, Kachori Sabzi, Tamatar Chaat, and various sweets. Street food is a must-try experience.
While generally safe and delicious, it's advisable to eat from popular, busy stalls to ensure freshness. Drink bottled water.
You'll find many small restaurants and dhabas in the vicinity of Meer Ghat and the main market areas like Godowlia.
Varanasi is a predominantly vegetarian city, so finding delicious vegetarian options is very easy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
🧘 Spiritual Seekers
+1 The temple's serene ambiance and the palpable presence of the Goddess provide an ideal setting for meditation and prayer. Many visitors report feeling a profound sense of peace and connection here, often describing it as a highlight of their Varanasi pilgrimage.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Shakti Peethas
+1 Visiting a Shakti Peetha is considered a powerful spiritual experience, offering blessings of wisdom, prosperity, and compassion. The presence of both Shakti (the Divine Mother) and Shiva is felt strongly here, making it a place of profound spiritual connection.For devotees, these sites are not just places of worship but also centers of immense spiritual power and healing. The energy of the Goddess is believed to be particularly potent at these locations. Many pilgrims undertake journeys to visit all 51 Shakti Peethas to seek the ultimate blessings and spiritual liberation. The simplicity of the Vishalakshi Temple, far from being a drawback, amplifies the focus on the divine presence, allowing visitors to connect more deeply with the spiritual essence of the place.
The concept of Shakti Peethas is central to Shaivism and Shaktism, highlighting the importance of the divine feminine in the Hindu pantheon. Each Peetha has its own unique legend and presiding deity, but all are united by their sacredness and the powerful spiritual aura they possess. Vishalakshi Temple, with its specific connection to Sati's earrings, offers a unique glimpse into this ancient tradition and the enduring power of the Goddess.
Navigating Varanasi's Sacred Lanes
When heading to Vishalakshi Temple, be prepared for a walk. The temple is situated close to Meer Ghat, and the path from the ghats or from the Kashi Vishwanath Temple involves traversing these charming, albeit sometimes crowded, streets. Locals are generally very helpful and can guide you if you're unsure of the way. The experience of walking through these ancient lanes, with the sounds and smells of the city enveloping you, is a quintessential Varanasi experience.
It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking. The narrowness of the lanes means that vehicles are generally not accessible, so embrace the pedestrian nature of the journey. The simplicity of the temple's location within these bustling lanes contrasts with its profound spiritual significance, making the arrival feel like uncovering a hidden gem.
The Simplicity and Power of Vishalakshi Temple
This lack of ostentation allows for a more direct and personal connection with the divine. The temple's atmosphere is described as peaceful and serene, free from the overwhelming crowds often found at more famous religious sites in Varanasi.
The temple's power is said to be so immense that it energizes Kashi Nathan (Lord Shiva) himself. This connection underscores its importance as a true Shakti Peetham. For those seeking a spiritual experience that is both profound and intimate, Vishalakshi Temple offers a unique and deeply rewarding visit.
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