Honouring the goddess of strength and power

In the heart of Varanasi, brimming with divine energy, lies the Durga Temple, a sanctuary of Goddess Durga, who is believed to be the guardian of Varanasi. When you reach the temple you will be immediately struck by the beauty of it, for it is a spiritual and architectural masterpiece like all the other temples in Varanasi. But what makes the Durga Temple stand out in particular, is its striking red colour which is said to be the colour of Goddess Durga. You may also be surprised by the numerous monkeys in the temple vicinity, which have earned it the nickname of ‘monkey temple’. This temple is located on the banks of a huge rectangular tank known as the Durga Kund which is why it is also called the Durga Kund Mandir.

Enshrined within its hallowed walls is also a legend that says that the statue of Goddess Durga in the temple was not crafted by human hands, rather it manifested on its own! Within the temple premises, you'll also find idols of Goddesses Lakshmi, Saraswati, and Kali, revered deities in Hindu mythology.

It is believed that the sacred grounds of Durga Temple have witnessed countless miracles, granting solace to those who seek divine intervention. Unsurprisingly, the temple continues to draw thousands of devotees and tourists to its gates.

A design style inspired by the five elements

Constructed in the 18th century by the Bengali queen Rani Bhabani, the Durga Temple is a magnificent jewel of architecture. As you step into the expansive courtyard of the Durga Temple, your gaze will be drawn to the towering 'shikhara,' a design style used in temples of North India that boasts a multi-tiered structure resembling a mountain peak. Comprised of five segments representing the sacred 'panchmahabhutas,' the five fundamental elements which give birth to life and the universe, and supported by meticulously carved columns, the ornate shikhara is a sight to behold.

Of vibrant festivities and mythical recreations

Immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities of 'Shri Durga Puja' during the auspicious Navratri festival, celebrating the divine feminine energy in its full splendour. And if you happen to be in Varanasi during Nag Panchami, consider yourself fortunate as you'll have the chance to witness the breathtaking recreation of Lord Vishnu reclining on the serpent at the Kund.

Timings

Opening time - 05:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM

Beyond the gates of Durga Temple

There is so much to explore beyond Durga temple. Close to the temple itself, you can visit the enchanting Durga Ghat. Built in 1772 by Narayana Diksith, it is home to a small temple dedicated to Kharva Narsimha.

Of course, any visit to Varanasi is incomplete without a pilgrimage to the legendary Kashi Vishwanath Temple or Dashashwamedh Ghat, where the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony takes place. You can also take in the panoramic vistas of Assi Ghat, where the tranquil flow of the Ganga River brings inner harmony.

Beyond the ghats and the temples, lie the hallowed grounds of Sarnath, where the Dhamek Stupa stands as a testament to the timeless teachings of Gautama Buddha. There is the Bharat Kala Bhavan where you can delve into the rich art and culture of India and the corridors of Ramnagar Fort, where echoes of past glory resonate even today.

Whether you are in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment or simply want to experience the timeless allure of Varanasi's iconic landmarks, a visit to the Durga Temple is an absolute must for an unforgettable journey.