Top 5 Sacred Temples to Visit in Varanasi: A Magh Mela Pilgrim’s Complete Guide

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As you plan your journey to Magh Mela 2026 in Prayagraj for the sacred bath at the Triveni Sangam, it is important to know that the spiritual heartbeat of North India flows beyond Prayag.

No pilgrimage to this region is truly complete without visiting Kashi (Varanasi) — the eternal city of Lord Shiva, the city of light, and the gateway to Moksha (liberation). Together with Prayagraj and Ayodhya, Kashi forms the Sacred Spiritual Triangle of India.

For NRIs and first-time international pilgrims, Varanasi can feel intense — with its narrow lanes, ancient rituals, and timeless rhythm. To help you focus on devotion rather than navigation, we present this carefully curated guide to the Top 5 Temples to Visit in Varanasi during your Magh Mela journey.

The 5 Essential Temples Every Pilgrim Must Visit in Varanasi

1. Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

The spiritual core of Varanasi and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple is the most sacred destination in the city.

Why This Temple Is Supreme

Ancient scriptures state that even if the universe dissolves, Kashi remains protected on Lord Shiva’s trident. A darshan here is believed to free the soul from the cycle of birth and death.

The newly developed Kashi Vishwanath Corridor has made access easier and more comfortable for pilgrims from around the world.

Timings:

• Approx. 3:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  (May vary during festivals and special aartis)

2. Annapurna Devi Temple

Located beside Kashi Vishwanath, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the divine provider of food and nourishment.

Spiritual Importance

Legend says Lord Shiva once begged for alms from Goddess Annapurna, teaching the world that spiritual life cannot exist without nourishment.

Why Pilgrims Visit

It is traditional to visit Annapurna Devi Temple immediately after Vishwanath darshan to seek:

• Health

• Prosperity

• Abundance

Timings:

• Approx. 4:00 AM – 10:00 PM

3. Kaal Bhairav Temple

Kaal Bhairav is the fierce form of Lord Shiva and is worshipped as the Kotwal (Guardian) of Kashi.

Cultural Belief

It is believed that no one can live in or leave Kashi peacefully without Kaal Bhairav’s permission.

Why Pilgrims Visit

• To remove fear and negativity

• To seek protection for the journey

• To experience the raw spiritual intensity of Varanasi

Timings:

• Approx. 5:00 AM – 1:30 PM

• 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM

4. Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Situated near the Assi area, this temple was established by Saint Tulsidas, the author of Ramcharitmanas.

Meaning of the Name

“Sankat Mochan” means Reliever of Troubles.

Why Pilgrims Visit

• To seek strength and courage

• For relief from personal and spiritual obstacles

• To experience peaceful Hanuman devotion

Tuesdays and Saturdays are especially auspicious.

Timings:

• 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM

5. Durga Kund Temple

This striking red temple, built in Nagara architectural style, is dedicated to Goddess Durga and stands beside a sacred water tank (kund).

Spiritual Significance

It is believed that the Goddess manifested here herself, making this one of Varanasi’s most powerful Shakti shrines.

Why Pilgrims Visit

• To seek divine feminine energy

• For strength, protection, and victory

• To balance the Shaiva pilgrimage with Shakti worship

Timings:

• 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM

🧭 Suggested Quick Route for Pilgrims

Morning Route (Beat the Crowds):

• Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

• Annapurna Devi Temple

(Both are in the same complex)

Afternoon / Evening Route:

• Kaal Bhairav Temple

• Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

• Durga Kund Temple

This route saves time and energy, especially during Magh Mela season.

📋 Quick Reference Guide

Note: Timings may vary during festivals.

Experience the Sacred Triangle: Prayagraj – Kashi – Ayodhya

For pilgrims traveling from overseas, the Magh Mela is often the starting point of a deeper spiritual journey.

Completing the Sacred Triangle includes:

• Prayagraj: Sangam Snan & ancient temples

• Varanasi: Kashi Vishwanath & Ganga Aarti

• Ayodhya: Birthplace of Lord Rama & Ram Mandir

At maghmela.com, we design Magh Mela 2026 Tour Packages that seamlessly connect these three holy cities with:

• Comfortable accommodation

• Private & safe transport

• English-speaking guides

• Assisted darshan access

So you can focus entirely on devotion, not logistics.

🙏 Final Blessing

Varanasi is not just a city — it is a living scripture. These temples are milestones on the path of liberation, faith, and inner peace.

May your journey through Kashi be filled with light, strength, and divine grace.

🕉️✨
Plan your sacred journey with maghmela.com