Kaal Bhairav Temple

Address: Golghar, Naibasti, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002

Timing : 

Wednesday

  • 5:30 am–1 pm
  • 3–10:30 pm
 

Thursday

  • 5:30 am–1 pm
  • 3–10:30 pm
 

Friday

  • 5:30 am–1 pm
  • 3–10:30 pm
 

Saturday

  • 5:30 am–1 pm
  • 3–10:30 pm
 

Sunday

  • 4 am–1 pm
  • 3–11 pm
 

Monday

  • 5:30 am–1 pm
  • 3–10:30 pm
 

Tuesday

  • 4 am–1 pm
  • 3–11 pm

 

The Kaal Bhairav temple in Varanasi is one of the most famous temples dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav. It is located in the Visheshar Ganj area of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple is believed to be one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of Kaal Bhairav, and it attracts a large number of devotees every day.

The Kaal Bhairav temple in Varanasi is said to have been established by the great Hindu philosopher and saint Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century AD. The temple is located in a narrow lane and is surrounded by small shops and houses. The main entrance to the temple is a small archway, and the temple itself is a small structure with a white-washed facade.

The main idol of Kaal Bhairav in the temple is a silver-faced idol, which is adorned with flowers, garlands, and sacred threads. The idol is said to have been installed by Adi Shankaracharya himself. The temple also houses other idols of various deities, including Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva, and Goddess Durga. The temple is known for its unique rituals and customs. Devotees offer alcohol, meat, and black sesame seeds to Lord Kaal Bhairav, which is considered an offering of tantric rituals.

The temple is open to devotees from early morning until late evening, and it is believed that offering prayers at this temple help in overcoming obstacles and achieving success in one's endeavors. Kaal Bhairav is a Hindu deity who is primarily worshiped as a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. "Kaal" means time and "Bhairav" is one of the forms of Lord Shiva, who is known for his destructive nature.

Therefore, Kaal Bhairav is considered the Lord of Time and Destruction. In Hindu mythology, Kaal Bhairav is depicted as a black-skinned deity with four arms, sharp teeth, and holding a trident and skull in his hands. He is usually shown with a dog as his vahana (vehicle) and is believed to guard the holy city of Varanasi in India.

Kaal Bhairav is worshiped by devotees who seek his blessings for protection from enemies, removal of obstacles, and success in their endeavors. He is also considered the controller of the eight directions and is worshiped by people seeking protection from the ill effects of planetary positions. In some Hindu traditions, Kaal Bhairav is also associated with the concept of time and is believed to have the power to control time and events. His worship is done with tantric rituals and special offerings like black sesame seeds, alcohol, and meat.