Shakti Peetha
Shri Vishalakshi Temple
- Vishalakshi (Devi)
- Mir Ghat · Varanasi
A Shakti Peetha near Mir Ghat, counted among the sacred sites where a part of Sati is traditionally said to have fallen.
Introduction
About the Temple
The Vishalakshi Devi Temple is one of the most revered Shakti shrines in Kashi, dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi, a manifestation of the Divine Mother. Her name is commonly understood as meaning the Goddess with beautiful or expansive eyes, symbolising divine awareness, compassion, and grace. The temple holds an important place in Shakta traditions and is traditionally counted among the sacred Shakti Peethas associated with the legend of Goddess Sati. According to religious belief, an ornament associated with Sati fell at this sacred location, sanctifying the site with the presence of the Divine Mother. Devotees worship Maa Vishalakshi with faith, seeking her blessings for spiritual well-being, family welfare, and inner strength. Situated in the historic lanes near Mir Ghat, the temple forms an important part of Kashi’s sacred pilgrimage landscape. Its significance reflects the enduring reverence for Shakti in Hindu spiritual life, where the Divine Mother is honoured as the source of creation, protection, compassion, and transformative spiritual power.
Chronicle
History & Origins
The documented record
The site is long-established and is named in the Puranic literature of the city. Accounts of which part of Sati fell here differ between sources, and this directory does not adjudicate between them.
Significance
Spiritual Significance
Its standing as a Shakti Peetha places it within a pan-Indian pilgrimage network rather than a purely local one, which is why it draws pilgrims from far outside Kashi.
In devotional tradition
Devotees traditionally seek the goddess's grace here for family welfare and for the fulfilment of vows. As at every Shakti Peetha, the visit is understood by pilgrims as part of a larger circuit of the goddess.
This records traditional devotional belief and the practice of devotees. It is presented as religious tradition, not as a statement of fact or a promise of any outcome.
In depth
The Goddess and Her Guardian
In the Shakti Peetha tradition every seat of the goddess has its own guardian Bhairava. At Kashi the Shakti is worshipped as Vishalakshi and her Bhairava as Kaal Bhairav — the same guardian whom the whole city honours as its Kotwal.
One widely told account holds that a jewelled earring of Sati fell at this spot, and for that reason the goddess is also called Manikarni Devi. Other accounts name a different part, and the tradition is recorded here as tradition rather than settled fact.
The image of Vishalakshi stands in the temple's inner sanctum, and the temple's ritual and decoration show the South Indian influence noted above, reflecting the many pilgrims who come from the southern states.
Worship
Deity, Worship & Rituals
- Presiding deity
- Vishalakshi (Devi)
Worship & ritual
Friday and the Navratri days are the principal occasions of worship.
Sacred calendar
Festivals
Navratri is the main observance. Kajali Tij, in the monsoon month of Bhadrapada, is also marked here.
Darshan
Darshan Timings
Darshan hours
Opens
5:30 AM
Closes
9:00 PM
Set by the temple, and changed on festivals, eclipses and special occasions. Please confirm locally before travelling.
Closed in the afternoon, approximately 12:00 noon to 4:00 PM. Fridays and the Navratri days are the principal occasions of worship.
Generally open morning and evening with an afternoon closure. Timings vary on festivals, eclipses and special occasions — confirm locally before travelling.
Visitor guide
Darshan & Visitor Information
The temple is small and reached through narrow lanes; it can be difficult to find without asking locally. Expect close quarters at festival times.
Getting there
Location & How to Reach
Finding the temple
- Locality
- Mir Ghat
- Address
- Near Mir Ghat, Varanasi
- City
- Varanasi
How to reach
The temple is in the lanes above Mir Ghat, a short walk from the Kashi Vishwanath complex. It is small and can be hard to find — reach the Mir Ghat or Vishwanath area and ask locally for the last few turns.
Varanasi Junction (BSB) is the nearest major railway station, and Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) the nearest airport.
Visitors ask
Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers for anyone planning darshan at Shri Vishalakshi Temple.
Ask the Samiti a questionTemples of Kashi Shri Vishalakshi Temple
Plan Your Visit
Planning a darshan at Shri Vishalakshi Temple, or hoping to arrange a puja in Kashi? The Samiti's team will gladly guide you on the visit and on the arrangements available.
Continue the yatra
