Varanasi Mandir
Varanasi houses one of twelve Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Shiva.
It also contains a small well called Jnana Vapi or Gyan Vapi that was believed to be used by the main priest during the Mughals invasion to hide Jyotirlinga from being destroyed.
Inside the temple, bags, cameras and mobile phones are strictly forbidden; lockers can be hired for Rs 20 at the entrance.
Vishwanath Temple
An excursion to Varanasi would not be complete without visiting this stunning temple, featuring Vishveswara as its patron deity and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas that mark where Lord Shiva’s light has passed through. Built by Ahilya Bai Holkar of Indore in 1776 and featuring an incredible 800kg gold plating on both its tower and dome.
The temple stands out with a unique feature in that its sanctum sanctorum includes a map of India. Additionally, those praying here for a son are said to receive one soon thereafter. Situated near Scindia Ghat and believed by legend to be submerged soon by River Ganges if left untouched; visit soon before its too late! Open daily; however foreigners are only permitted to enter through its entranceway after first leaving cameras or electronic devices at its entranceway.
Sankat Mochan Temple
Sankat Mochan Temple in Varanasi is one of the best-known shrines devoted to Lord Hanuman. Established by renowned saint poet Goswami Tulsidas ji in the beginning of 16th century, Tulsidas had an experience with Hanuman here that gave rise to this shrine’s creation. It is said that Tulsidas had seen Hanuman at this place during one of his visions of Him here.
This temple is open daily between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. for visiting. Both morning and evening aartis are quite impressive!
At this temple, devotees can pay their respects to Hanuman and seek his blessings. Worshipping Hanuman is said to help offset any negative horoscope effects caused by Saturn (Shani).
Devotees visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple not only to offer besan ke ladoo and sindoor to Hanuman, but also put on a marigold flower wreath around his idol – making this temple unique among Varanasi’s attractions. Additionally, its beautiful design combines both traditional and modern elements into its design – making this site truly one-of-a-kind!
Rama Temple
Hindus believe that death on one of these ghats will bring moksha and be cremated at this holy ashram, and is also famous for its disease curing well, known as Jnana Vapi or Gyan Vapi, located within its grounds.
This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, the main protagonist from Goswami Tulsidas’ epic Ramayana. It stands on the site where Goswami wrote this legendary hero’s story; beautiful statues depicting Lord Rama, Mother Sita and Brother Lakshman can be seen there while verses from Tulsidas’ work can also be found enshrined onto its walls.
The temple is free for everyone to enter and open to all religions; however, bags, cameras, pens, mobile phones with metal clips, belts with metal clips, shoes and any other personal items must be left at the entrance in lockers provided nearby. You will also have to pass by a line of Indians as you pass through a security check point before entering.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
The Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh is one of the holiest shrines. Devoted to Lord Hanuman and popularly referred to as Monkey Temple due to a large population of primates within its grounds, many believe that by visiting with an open heart and chanting Hanuman Chalisa or Sundarkand you will receive all you wish for in life.
Legend has it that this temple was founded by Saint Tulsidas after dreaming of Lord Hanuman. He promised those who worship with true devotion will be protected from any possible effects of planet Saturn in their horoscopes.
This temple can easily be reached via taxis and auto rickshaws from Banaras Hindu University and nearby cities by train and bus services. Additionally, its opening hours range from 5:00 am to 10:00 pm daily.