Kashi Vishwanath Temple Uttarkashi

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Mandir is one of the most revered shrines in Uttarakashi. Although Uttarkashi is widely known for the Gangotri and Yamunotri shrines, it is home to several other shrines that possess immense religious significance. Situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, the temple is so pious and serene that the moment you step inside, you will be filled with devotion and peace. Surrounded by lush green mountains and the flowing Bhagirathi River, the temple offers a blissful and scenic view of the surrounding areas. Devotees from far and wide visit the shrine to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. It is believed that, when Kaliyuga reached its peak, and Varanasi became submerged, Lord Shiva moved to this temple. Being located on the Gangotri Dham route, devotees usually include the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in their Char Dham Yatra itineraries.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Uttarkashi

When we hear the name Kashi Vishwanath Temple, it often reminds us of the temple located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. However, there is one more Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is located in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand. As it is located in northern India, it is also referred to as "Uttar Ka Kashi." Built in the traditional Katyuri architectural style, the temple is beautifully located along the Uttarkashi-Gangotri Highway, approximately 162 km from Rishikesh. During the Char Dham Yatra season, the temple receives a large influx of devotees, showing its religious significance.

Sanctum of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses a Shivalingam. The height of this Shivalingam is around 56 cm and is slightly tilted towards the south. Along with this, the shrine also houses the idols of Lord Ganesha, the consort of Lord Shiva, and Nandi Maharaj at the entrance.
 

Additionally, the temple premises also house a small shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Shani Dev, Sakshi Gopal, and Rishi Markandeya.

History and Significance of Kashi Vishwanath Mandir

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Uttarkashi is believed to have been built originally by Sage Parshuram. According to legend, after killing 21 rulers, Lord Parshuram visited this site and performed meditation to calm his anger. Parshuram, known as a great devotee of Lord Shiva, later established a Shiva temple here. However, the original structure of the temple was later renovated in 1857 A.D by Maharani Khaneti, the wife of King Sudarshan Shah.
 

According to the Kedarkhand of the Skanda Purana, Lord Ashutosh refers to Uttarkashi as the Kashi of Kaliyuga. He states that Lord Shiva, along with his family, resides at such a place in Kaliyuga, where the supernatural and self-manifested Shiva linga, one of the 12 Jyotirlinga, is located, which is none other than Uttarkashi.

When Lord Shiva Sent Yama Empty-handed

Kashi Vishwanath Temple is considered to be the same place where Lord Shiva protected Rishi Markandeya (a great devotee of Lord Shiva) from Yama, the God of Death. According to the religious text, Rishi Markandeya was cursed with a short life. Once, when he was meditating in the temple, Yamraj, the God of Death, arrived to take his life. Seeking this, the sage embraced Lord Vishwanath. His utmost devotion and faith pleased Lord Shiva and sent Yamraj back empty-handed. It is believed that this divine event is the reason why the Shiva Linga in the temple is tilted towards the south.

Uttarkashi Kashi Vishwanath Mandir Trishul

Another major attraction of the Kashi Vishwanath Mandir is its massive 11-foot-long Trishul (trident). Located just opposite the main shrine, the trishul is believed to be more than 1500 years old. While most Shiva temples have a trishul, this one is different and holds special significance. It is believed that after killing the demon Mahishasura, Goddess Gauri took the form of this Trishul. Hence, the trident is regarded as the symbol of Shakti. Devotees visit the shrine and bow down to seek the blessings of the Goddess. The trishul also has some inscriptions in the Tibetan language, representing the cultural exchange of that time.
 

The important thing associated with the Trishul in this Kashi Vishwanath Temple is that it does not move even when shaken with full force, but if you do so with devotion, even with a tiny finger, it starts trembling. The Tirshul is so huge that we cannot guess how deep it is inside the ground. A similar Trishul can also be seen at the Gopinath Temple in Gopeshwar.

Festival Celebration

Kashi Vishwanath Mandir in Uttarkashi celebrated all major festivals with great enthusiasm, particularly Maha Shivratri. The ancient Diwara tradition is still prevalent in the temple. In this ritual, couples wishing for children and others seeking fulfilment of their wish, light an oil diya and perform a four-prahar puja until night.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple Arti Timing

Daily morning and evening prayers are held at the temple. Pilgrims who wish to attend the pooja must visit the shrine on time.s

• Morning Aarti: 7:30 AM
• Evening Aarti: 6:30 AM

Kashi Vishwanath Mandir Timing

Being a prominent shrine in the region, the temple opens for the devotees daily. Every visitor can seek the blessing of Lord Shiva during its opening hours. The Kashi Vishwanath Mandir opens daily around 6:00 AM and closes at 8:30 PM.

Pilgrims can easily access the temple as it is located just 500 metres away from the Uttarkashi Bus Stand. Regular bus services to Uttarkashi are available daily from Dehradun, Haridwar, and Rishikesh. Several shops outside the temple sell items that are usually offered in the temple. If you are visiting Uttarkashi, do not miss the opportunity to visit this important shrine.

Accommodation near Kashi Vishwanath Mandir in Uttarkashi

Several accommodation options are available near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Devotees wishing for an overnight stay can book their accommodation as per their requirements. Some options that are located close to the shrine are:

• Hotel Bhandari
• Hotel Nain Karan Tourist Lodge
• Hotel Ashirwad
• Hotel Rishabh
• Hotel Everest
• Hotel KNB Heritage

Food Guide

Several eateries are available near the temple, where visitors can savour a range of cuisines.

Important Tips for Visitors

• If travelling by bus or shared taxi, arrive at the respective stands early, as they usually depart in the morning.
• Bus and taxi services are easily available near the temple.
• Park your vehicle in the designated parking areas, as the parking near the temple is limited.
• Expect a heavy crowd on Maha Shivratri and during the Char Dham season.
• Exercise caution during the monsoon season, as it causes various travel-related issues.
• ATM and public toilet facilities are available near the temple.
• Always remove your shoes at the designated area before entering the shrine.
• Photography and videography are not allowed inside the main sanctum.

Major Nearby Attractions

After taking the blessings of Lord Shiva, pilgrims can also explore popular places in and around Uttarkashi, such as:

• Harsil
• Gartang Gali
• Nelong Valley
• Mukhwa
• Dayara Bugyal
• Gangotri Temple
• Shree Jagannath Temple