Timings
4:00 AM - 11:30 AM, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Entry Fee
Free
Duration
20 - 30 minutes
Nearest Ghat
Description
Dedicated to Goddess Annapurna (Parvati), the deity of food and nourishment. Built in 1729 by Peshwa Baji Rao, the temple houses a gold idol visible only on Annakut day, while a brass idol is used for daily worship. Prasad is served daily from 9 AM to 3 PM. The temple is a living testament to the sacred tradition of communal feeding, drawing thousands of devotees who seek both spiritual and physical nourishment.
Aarti Schedule
History
Built in 1729 by Peshwa Baji Rao I. The temple houses two idols — a gold idol of Goddess Annapurna (visible only on Annakut day) and a brass idol for daily worship. The legend says Parvati proved Shiva wrong about food being an illusion by creating the city of Kashi and feeding its people. The temple's kitchen has been serving free meals to pilgrims for nearly three centuries, embodying the spirit of selfless service.
Significance
Annapurna means the giver of food. This is one of the few temples where food is distributed as prasad daily. The gold idol, visible only once a year on Annakut, makes this a unique pilgrimage destination. Located just steps from Kashi Vishwanath, it completes the divine food-nourishment-salvation triangle.
Dress Code
Modest traditional attire.
Visitor Tips
Visit early morning for fewer crowds and better darshan
Dress modestly in traditional attire — remove footwear before entry
Leave electronics and leather items at your hotel
Carry small offerings like flowers, bilva leaves, and dhoop
Festivals
Best Time to Visit
October to March offers the most pleasant weather. Visit during Mangla Aarti (3:00 AM) for a deeply spiritual experience with fewer crowds. Monsoon (July-September) brings fewer tourists but occasional flooding near ghats. Summers (April-June) can reach 45°C — avoid midday visits.
How to Reach
By Air
Lal Bahadur Shadri Airport (VNS) is 25 km away. Auto-rickshaws and cabs are available.
By Train
Varanasi Junction (BSB) and Kashi station (KEI) are well connected to major cities.
By Road
NH-2 connects Varanasi to Lucknow (320 km) and Patna (290 km). UPSRTC buses available.
Why Visit
Spiritual Significance
Experience divine energy at one of the most sacred places in Hinduism.
Historical Architecture
Marvel at centuries-old architecture and intricate stone carvings.
Peaceful Atmosphere
Find inner peace amidst the sacred chants and temple bells.
Photography Spot
Capture stunning photos of ancient architecture and river views.
Photo Gallery
Nearby Temples
Location Map
Book a Boat to the Ghat
Download the app now and book a boat ride to the ghat nearest Annapurna Temple