Vishalakshi Temple, Varanasi | Vishalakshi Gauri Temple
The Vishalakshi Temple or Vishalakshi Gauri Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Parvati at Mir Ghat. Vishalakshi Temple in Varanasi is one of the ‘52 shaktipithas‘ of India.
Dedicated to Goddess Parvati, also known as Vishalakshi Maa or Vishalakshi Gauri, this revered temple holds profound significance in Hinduism.
History of Vishalakshi Temple, Varanasi
The roots of the Vishalakshi Temple trace back to the tragic tale of Sati, the daughter of Prajapati Daksha, who defied her father’s wishes to marry Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be a Shakti Pitha, a holy site where the earrings or eyes of Mata Sati fell. Sati’s poignant story involves her self-immolation during a Yagya organized by her father, Daksha, after he intentionally excluded her and Lord Shiva. The temple was established where a fragment of Sati’s body touched the ground.
Significance of Vishalakshi Temple, Varanasi
Varanasi, a city that represents Shastanga (six-fold) yoga, houses six temple locations, including the holy River Ganga, the Vishwanath Temple, the Vishalakshi Temple, the Kala Bhairava Temple, the Dhudiraj Temple (dedicated to Lord Ganesha), and the Dandapani Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva). The Vishalakshi Temple is a focal point of spiritual energy, attracting devotees seeking the blessings of Goddess Vishalakshi.
Vishalakshi Temple Opening & Closing Time
| Opening Time | 5:00 AM |
|---|---|
| Closing Time | 9:40 PM |
The Vishalakshi temple is open from 5:00 am to 9:40 pm daily.
Entry Fees of Vishalakshi Temple, Varanasi
Entry to the Vishalakshi Temple is free.
How to Reach Vishalakshi Temple ?
The Vishalakshi Temple is located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, along the banks of the holy River Ganges. Varanasi is a well-connected city with various modes of transportation available. Here’s how you can reach the Vishalakshi Temple:
By Air:
- The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi is 25 Km away from the temple, also known as Babatpur Airport.
- From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other local transportation services to reach the Vishalakshi Temple.
By Train:
- Varanasi Junction (BSB) is a major railway station in the city and is well-connected to various parts of the country and it is approx 3 KM from the temple.
- Once you reach Varanasi Junction, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or use local buses to reach the Vishalakshi Temple.
By Road:
- Varanasi has a well-developed road network, and you can reach the city by bus, car, or other private vehicles.
- After reaching Varanasi, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or use local buses to reach the Vishalakshi Temple.
Vishalakshi Temple : A Shakti Peetha
According to the Puranas, Vishalakshi Manikarnika is one of the 52 Shakti Peethas, named after the karna kundala (earring) of Sati. The lore asserts that Varanasi will endure even after the Pralaya, emphasizing the eternal significance of the Vishalakshi Temple.
