Other Places | Banaras Biennale 2026 | CII

Celebrating India's Living Heritage

27 November – 31 December · Banaras, India

Celebrating India's Living Heritage
Banaras Ghats Sunset

Other Most Visited Temples

Temple Overview

Varanasi Temples

Varanasi is a city of infinite layers — spiritual, historical, and cultural. Beyond the iconic Kashi Vishwanath corridor and the ghats of the Panchkroshi, the city holds a wealth of sacred temples, ancient observatories, Buddhist monuments, patriotic shrines, and vibrant riverside ghats that together tell the story of one of the world's oldest living cities.

From the fierce energy of the Kaal Bhairav Temple to the quiet scholarly peace of the Sarnath Museum, from the Ganga Aarti spectacle at Dashashwamedh Ghat to the meditative dawn at Assi Ghat — every corner of Varanasi rewards the curious traveller with an encounter they will carry for a lifetime.

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Shri Kaal Bhairav Temple

Shri Kaal Bhairav Temple

One of Varanasi's most ancient shrines dedicated to the fierce guardian (Kotwal) of Kashi, a manifestation of Lord Shiva. Worshipped for protection and fearlessness, the temple houses a sacred silver-faced deity representing the mystical spiritual core of the old city.

Shri Sankat Mochan Temple

Shri Sankat Mochan Temple

Established in the 16th century by saint-poet Goswami Tulsidas, this revered temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the remover of obstacles. It remains a tranquil sanctuary of faith and a major cultural hub hosting the annual classical Sangeet Samaroh festival.

Shri Durga Temple

Shri Durga Temple

An 18th-century architectural marvel built in the classic North Indian style, dedicated to Goddess Durga. Flanked by the sacred Durga Kund pond, this red-hued shrine is a powerful center of devotion and a symbol of strength and protection.

Tulsi Manas Temple

Tulsi Manas Temple

Constructed in 1964, this white marble temple stands on the spot where Tulsidas is believed to have composed the Ramcharitmanas. The temple walls are beautifully inscribed with the entire epic, celebrating the union of devotion, literature, and art.

Annapurna Mandir

Annapurna Mandir

Situated near the Kashi Vishwanath temple, this holy shrine is dedicated to the Goddess of nourishment. It commemorates the legend of Parvati feeding Shiva, symbolizing the co-existence of spiritual wisdom and material sustenance.

Bharat Mata Mandir

Bharat Mata Mandir

Inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936, this unique temple replaces traditional deity statues with an incredibly detailed geographical map of undivided India carved out of white marble, celebrating unity and national pride.

Chaukhandi Stupa

Chaukhandi Stupa

An ancient Buddhist stupa in Sarnath marking where Lord Buddha met his first five disciples. Originally built by Emperor Ashoka and later crowned with a Mughal octagonal tower, it represents Kashi's multi-layered history.

Daily Aartis at
Shri Kashi Vishwanath

Mangala Aarti

The first ritual of the day, performed in the serene stillness of early morning. Priests awaken Lord Shiva with Vedic mantras, conch shells, and bells. Lamps are lit and waved in choreographed patterns, symbolizing the dispelling of darkness and ignorance.

Bhog Aarti

An expression of gratitude through offering food. Traditional dishes are ceremoniously presented to Lord Shiva, later distributed as prasadam. The ritual connects devotion with the sacred act of nourishment.

Saptarishi Aarti

Pays homage to the seven great sages. As dusk falls, priests chant ancient hymns with drums and bells while large brass lamps are moved in sweeping circles — a deeply moving and transformative experience.

Shringar Aarti

Celebrates the beauty of Lord Shiva. The deity is elaborately decorated with flowers, jewelry, garments, and sandalwood paste. The sanctum fills with fragrance and light — the most visually enchanting ceremony of the day.

Shayan Aarti

Lord Shiva is symbolically prepared for rest with lullaby-like hymns and gentle lamp waves. The calm, meditative atmosphere signifies rest, peace, and protection — the most intimate aarti of the day.