Historical background

This temple belonged to the former king of kasi, who had it constructed around 200 years ago as a private place of worship for the royal family. Under his rule, only members of the royal lineage were granted permission to engage in worship within its walls.

However, as per the local accounts, the visible temple is purportedly a decoy concealing the true temple located beside it. While numerous legends surround this narrative, historical documentation on the matter is scarce. Legend has it that attempts to expand the original temple with additional floors or a dome led to the walls sinking into the ground. After several unsuccessful endeavors to add a dome, the decision was made to preserve the existing structure and construct a new one in front of it.

In the annals of varanasi’s history, the final king of kashi, distinct from the temple’s builder, plays a significant role. An alternative theory suggests that the king aimed to protect the sacred shivling from invaders by hiding the real temple. Consequently, he safeguarded the actual shivling in a small chamber and erected an elaborate facade in front. Visitors to the area are often captivated by the design’s aesthetics, inadvertently overlooking the inconspicuous modest white structure housing the revered shivling.

If this theory holds true, the king’s efforts to maintain the temple’s secrecy were evidently successful. Even situated along varanasi’s bustling thoroughfare, the temple remains inconspicuous, evading notice by passersby. Consequently, the temple attracts minimal foot traffic, preserving its tranquility throughout the year.

Architectural splendor 

The temple is a masterpiece of architectural brilliance, showcasing the astounding skill and expertise of the craftsmen. Accessible via a flight of stone steps, the interior of the temple leaves visitors in awe, with every carving, ornate pillar, and decorative sculpture displaying remarkable artistry. The temple’s roof is exquisitely designed, featuring intricately chiseled stone elements like petals, bells, and rings, illustrating the temple’s grandeur and the advanced stone crafting prevalent in this region of india. The architectural excellence is not limited to the interior; even the outer aspect, particularly the finely carved temple complex gate, exemplifies this, akin to a symphony in stone.

Location

The “kashi raj Maa Kaali Temple” can be found along the bustling bansphatak road exactly two minutes walk away from godowlia chowk in varanasi, india. Despite its high accessibility, it stands out as one of the most challenging places to pinpoint in varanasi.

The address of the temple is: godowlia, opp. baredev temple, harha, varanasi, uttar pradesh 221001, india.

Visiting hours

The temple is open 24 hours or every day.

How to reach the temple

Traveling to varanasi, whether from outside india or within the country, involves considering various transportation options. Here’s a guide for both scenarios:

Traveling from outside india:

By air:

• Flight: The most common and efficient way is to book a flight to lal bahadur shastri international airport (VNS) in varanasi. There are direct international flights from major cities to varanasi.

By land:

• Train: If traveling from neighboring countries, for example nepal, you can reach the india-nepal border and then take a train to Varanasi, which is well-connected by rail.

Traveling within india:

By air:

• Flight: Varanasi is well-connected domestically, and you can book a flight to lal bahadur shastri international airport (VNS) from major indian cities.

By train:

• Train: Varanasi junction (BSB) is a major railway station, and there are numerous trains connecting varanasi to different parts of India. You can book tickets through the indian railways website or at the railway station.

By road:

• Bus: Varanasi is connected by a network of state and private buses. You can take a bus from nearby cities or states. Make sure to check the availability and book tickets in advance if possible.
• By car: If you prefer a more personalized journey, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach varanasi. The road network is decent, and you can plan your route accordingly.

Within Varanasi:

The temple sits close to godowlia chowk, situated along bansphatak road. Excellent road connectivity links it to all railway stations, the airport, and the bus stop. Access is convenient through shared auto-rickshaws or tuk-tuks available in the city. Alternatively, a boat journey from any ghat to dr. rajendra prasad ghat is an option, and a mere 7-minute walk from the ghat brings you to the temple.

Link to google map:

https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kashiraj+Kali+Mandir/@25.3100526,83.007465,15z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x398e2e1dafbe9af3:0x7259f2cee3ae70bc!8m2!3d25.3100526!4d83.007465!16s%2Fg%2F11b6hx_wyz?entry=ttu