Kal Bhairav Temple, Varanasi

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Kal Bhairav Temple, Varanasi

Baba Kal Bhairav Varanasi

The Kalbhairav Temple holds a special place in Varanasi. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in his fierce form as Kalbhairav.

According to locals, if you wish to visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, you must first visit the Kal Bhairav Temple.

The present-day temple is said to have been constructed by the Maratha queen, Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, in the 18th century. The temple underwent subsequent renovations and expansions, and today it stands as a significant pilgrimage site for devotees.

Aarti Timing of Kal Bhairav Temple, Varanasi

Mangala Aarti4:00 AM
Bhog Aarti12:00 AM
Sandhya Aarti7:00 PM
Shayan Aarti11:00 PM

Opening & Closing Timing of Kal Bhairav Temple

SeasonOpening TimingClosing Timing
Summer5:00 AM - 1:30 PM3:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Winter5:30 AM - 1:00 PM3:30 PM - 8:30 PM

How To Get Maximum Benefit of Darshan at Kal Bhairav Temple

  1. Take some flowers to offer Kal Bhairav. You can buy them from local vendors outside the temple. Offering flowers brings blessings to you.
  2. You can donate something as a contribution towards temple development. The donation amount can be anything, no matter how small.
  3. Locals offer Liquor as prasad to Kal Bhairav. They believe that offering liquor to Kal Bhairav pleases him and ensures protection from negativity in life.
  4. Try to attend the live Aarti at Kal Bhairav temple to experience the spiritual atmosphere all around the temple.
  5. Please ensure that you follow all Rules and Regulations according to the Kal Bhairav temple guidelines.

How to Reach Kal Bhairav Temple Varanasi

By Air:

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is the nearest airport to Varanasi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use other modes of transportation to reach the Kal Bhairav Temple, which is around 25-30 minutes away by road.

By Train:

Varanasi Junction (BSB) is the nearest railway station to the Kal Bhairav Temple. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the temple, which is approximately 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic conditions.

By Road:

You can reach the temple by hiring a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or using a private vehicle from anywhere in Varanasi. The temple is located in the Visheshar Ganj area, which is easily accessible by road.

History of Kal Bhairav Temple, Varanasi

Kal Bhairav is also known as the “Kotwal of Kashi”. There is a story behind this. Once, during an argument between Brahma and Vishnu over who was superior, Lord Shiva appeared in the form of a Lingam to quiet their dispute. In his rage, Shiva manifested as Bhairava and cut off one of Brahma’s five heads as punishment for his arrogance. The severed head stuck to Bhairava’s hand, refusing to let go, thus cursing him to wander as Bhairava with the skull as his begging bowl. It is believed that the Kal Bhairav Temple stands at the spot where this incident occurred, symbolizing the victory of divine truth over ego.

 

The Kal Bhairav Temple architecture reflects the distinct style of North Indian temples, with its elaborate carvings, complex sculptures, and vibrant paintings. Devotees from all over the world visit the temple to seek blessings, offer prayers, and participate in religious rituals.