Amarnath Temple, Jammu and Kashmir Amarnath Temple, Jammu and Kashmir History For Hindus, the Amarnath Temple in Jammu and Kashmir, India, is of utmost religious significance. It is one of Hinduism's most sacred sanctuaries and is devoted to Lord Shiva. The Amarnath Temple has a long and illustrious history. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is believed to have given his celestial spouse, Goddess Parvati, the secret to immortality there in the Amarnath Cave. Legend has it that Lord Shiva chose to give this secret knowledge to her in this remote cave high in the Himalayas. The cave was hidden and inaccessible for many years before being rediscovered in the 18th century by a Muslim shepherd by the name of Buta Malik. According to the mythology, Buta Malik was handed a bag of coal by a sadhu (holy man), who ordered him to wait until he reached home before open it. Buta Malik discovered the coal had turned into gold when he opened the bag. He was so overwhelmed by this miracle...
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| Kashi Vishwanath Temple |
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in India. It Is located in the ancient city of Varanasi Utter Pradesh-India, also known as Kashi, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most revered deities in the Hindu religion. It is believed that a visit to the temple and a dip in the holy waters of the Ganges river can wash away one's sins and lead to salvation.
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The Hindu Ghats on the River Ganges in Varanasi |
Varanasi is one of the oldest living cities in the world with more than 3000 years of history. This beautiful city was built where two rivers Varuna and Vasi joined the holy Ganga and thus was named Varanasi. The local tribe called Kasha lived there, so it was also known as Kashi.
Varanasi is not only a city of historical significance but also a spiritual hub for Hindus. It is believed that Lord Shiva himself resides in this city and blesses the devotees who come to seek his blessings. The city is dotted with numerous temples, ghats, and ashrams where people come to offer prayers, perform rituals, and seek spiritual enlightenment.
Apart from its spiritual significance, Varanasi is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The city has been a center for music, dance, literature, and art for centuries.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple has a long and rich history dating back to ancient times. The original temple was destroyed in the 12th century, and the current structure was built by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, the queen of Indore, in 1780. Since then, the temple has undergone several renovations and restorations, and today it stands as a magnificent example of Indian architecture.
The Temple Rituals
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is known for its elaborate rituals and traditions that have been followed for centuries. The day starts with the Mangala Aarti, a morning prayer ritual that is performed before sunrise. Throughout the day, various other rituals are performed, including Abhishekam, Rudrabhishekam, and Shringar Darshan.
Every evening, the temple holds a grand Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges river. The ceremony involves the lighting of lamps and the chanting of hymns, creating a beautiful and serene atmosphere that is not to be missed.
Things to know before Visiting the Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple is open to visitors of all faiths, but there are certain rules and regulations that must be followed. Visitors must remove their shoes before entering the temple and dress modestly. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple complex.
In conclusion, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Hindu spirituality and culture. Its rich history, elaborate rituals, and beautiful architecture make it a truly unique and unforgettable experience. A visit to the temple is sure to leave you feeling spiritually rejuvenated and inspired.
Visit Timings
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple opens at 2:30 AM in the morning and closes at 11 PM. However, pilgrims are allowed to view the Lord from outside the sanctum only after 9 PM. The temple performs various rituals during this time such as the morning, afternoon, and evening aarti which the devotees can be a part of.
There is no entry fee for entering the Kashi Vishwanath temple.
Electronic gadgets are prohibited inside the temple for which Locker facility is available in the shops nearby. You may also purchase prasad, flowers and various other puja items from these shops for offerings inside the temple.
How to Reach Varanasi
Varanasi is easily accessible by air, rail, and road. The temple is located in the heart of the city, and there are plenty of accommodation options available nearby.
By Air : Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport in Babatpur, The temple of Kashi Vishwanath is about 25 kilometers away from Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport.
By Rail: Varanasi junction – 6-8 kilometers away from temple
By Road : several private and state-run transport buses from nearby cities
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