The Vishalakshi Temple, also known as the Vishalakshi Gauri Temple, is a revered Hindu temple located in the holy city of Varanasi (also known as Kashi or Benares), in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi, an aspect of Goddess Parvati, the divine consort of Lord Shiva. The name “Vishalakshi” means “One with wide eyes.” Devotees believe that the goddess blesses them with wisdom, knowledge, and spiritual insight.
The Vishalakshi Temple holds immense significance for devotees, especially for women seeking the well-being of their families and the fulfillment of their wishes. It is believed that the goddess’s gaze is so powerful that it can grant the desires of those who visit and pray with devotion.
History & Significance of Shri Vishalakshi Mata Temple
Many years ago, in the sacred city of Varanasi, there lived a pious devotee named Kaushalya. She was a devout worshipper of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and spent her days in deep meditation and prayer. She had an unwavering desire to have the divine vision of her beloved deities. Kaushalya’s devotion was so sincere and intense that it touched the hearts of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Impressed by her unwavering devotion, they decided to grace her with their divine presence.
One day, while Kaushalya was engrossed in her meditation by the banks of the Ganges River, she had a vision. She saw a radiant and majestic form of Goddess Parvati with large, compassionate eyes. The goddess appeared before her and blessed her with the fulfillment of her deepest desires. Overwhelmed by the divine vision, Kaushalya felt immense gratitude and immediately expressed her desire to construct a temple in honor of Goddess Parvati in this very place. She wanted to share the divine grace she had received with others.
Goddess Parvati, in her form as Vishalakshi (meaning “One with wide eyes”), granted Kaushalya’s wish and instructed her to build a temple in her name. She explained that the temple would be a place where devotees could seek blessings for wisdom, knowledge, and spiritual insight. Goddess Vishalakshi’s benevolent gaze would fulfill the wishes of those who visited with devotion. With the blessings of the goddess, Kaushalya started the construction of the Vishalakshi Temple on the banks of the Ganges in Varanasi. The temple was built with intricate architecture and a towering spire, reflecting the beauty and spirituality of the city.
Since then, the Vishalakshi Temple has become a revered place of worship, attracting devotees and pilgrims seeking the goddess’s blessings. It stands as a symbol of devotion, faith, and the divine grace of Goddess Vishalakshi in Varanasi, a city known for its profound spirituality and religious heritage. This legend underscores the importance of sincere devotion and the belief in the transformative power of divine blessings. The Vishalakshi Temple continues to be a significant spiritual destination for those seeking spiritual growth and enlightenment in the sacred city of Varanasi.
Shri Vishalakshi Shaktipeeth Temple Basic Details
Pilgrimage Destination: The temple is often included in the pilgrimage itinerary of those visiting Varanasi, which is considered one of the holiest cities in Hinduism. Pilgrims often combine their visit to the Vishalakshi Temple with a visit to the nearby Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Architectural Beauty: The temple features traditional North Indian Nagara-style temple architecture, characterized by intricate carvings and a distinctive spire. Its aesthetic appeal adds to its cultural significance in the city.
Festivals: The Vishalakshi Temple, like many other temples in Varanasi, celebrates various Hindu festivals with devotion and enthusiasm. Festivals like Maha Shivaratri, Navaratri, and Diwali are observed with special prayers and rituals, drawing large crowds of devotees.
Gender Equality and Empowerment: Goddess Vishalakshi represents the divine feminine and is seen as a source of strength and empowerment for women. Her temple serves as a place where women can seek blessings and inspiration, reinforcing the idea of gender equality and spiritual strength.
Pooja Timing: The temple is open on all days from 4:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
How to Reach: Shri Vishalakshi Shaktipeeth Temple is very near to Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple. it is easily accessible by road from various parts of Varanasi by auto-rickshaw, walking, or cabs.
Nearby Places and Distance from Shree Vishalakshi Shaktipeeth Temple
- 600 Meters from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
- 1 KM from Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
- 4.9 km from Varanasi Junction Railway station.
- 25.8 km from Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport.
Contact Information
Address:
Vishalakshi Gauri Temple,
Kashi Lahori Tola, Mir Ghat,
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Aarti Timing:
Mangala Aarti: 4:00 AM,
Bhog Aarti: 12:00 PM,
Sandhya Aarti: 7:00 PM,
Sayan Aarti: 10:00 PM