SUMMARY
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi hosts grand celebrations on Maha Shivratri, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
1 / 8Maha Shivratri, the night of Lord Shiva, is one of the most sacred and revered festivals in India, celebrated primarily by the Hindu community. Besides indulging in Maha Shivratri festivities, the devotees also visit temples in Varanasi. The holy city, which shares deep spiritual roots, is home to several ancient temples that are a must-visit. (Image CNBCTV18.com file)
2 / 81. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath is counted as one of the holiest shrines among devotees. The festival of Maha Shivratri is celebrated with special rituals and processions here. Located in Varanasi, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple attracts thousands of devotees, especially during the festival. (Image Reuters)
3 / 8Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: It was built in the early 16th century and is very popular among Hanuman devotees visiting Varanasi. Located on the bank of the Assi River, the temple witnesses long queues of visitors every day, especially every Tuesday and Saturday. (Image X)
4 / 8Annapurna Devi Mandir: Located close to Kashi Vishwanath, the temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the provider of food and nourishment. The temple attracts a huge crowd during the festival of Annakut. It is believed to have been built in the 18th century by the Maratha ruler, Peshwa Baji Rao. (Image Facebook)
5 / 8Mrityunjay Mahadev Mandir: This Maha Shivratri, you can also visit this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on the way from Daranagar to Kalbhairav Temple, famous for an ancient well believed to have water with healing magic. (Image X))
6 / 8Shri Kaal Bhairav Temple: Also known as Batuk Bhairav Mandir, you can pay a visit here alongside Kashi Vishwanath. The temple is located in the old city, at a short distance from Kashi Vishwanath’s main temple and the ghats. (Image kashi.gov.in)
7 / 8Shri Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev Mandir: The very ancient Tilbhandeshwar Mahadev temple is located at Pandey Haveli, about 500 meters away from Kashi Vishwanath Temple. One of the major attractions is a huge Shivling that sits in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. (Image YouTube)
8 / 8Shri Durga Temple: Another major religious site to visit in Varanasi is the Shri Durga Temple, built by Rani Bhabhani of Bengal in the North Indian Nagara Style. A major highlight of the temple is that it is entirely painted in red and also consists of a beautiful pond called Durga Kund. (Image PMO)
