Kashi Vishwanath Temple

A must visit for the Hindus for its religious significance. Kashi Vishvanath - one of the most powerful temples on Mother Earth. Lord Shiva is revered as Ruler of the Universe here and manifests Himself as a Jyotirlingam - a small one embedded inside the ground. It has been destroyed and re-constructed a number of times in history. The last structure was demolished by auregzeb, the sixth Mughal emperor who constructed the Gyanvapi Mosque on its site.The current structure was built on an adjacent site by the Marathas ruler, Ahailya Bai Holkar of indore in 1780. The temple stands on the western bank of the holy river Ganga, and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest of Shiva temples. This is one of the best spiritual place in Varanasi. This temple is situated in the narrow streets and there is a long queue to enter the temple. Mobile phones, cameras, leather belts,or any metal things are prohibited inside the temple. The security is very tight and they will check your bags and pockets.
The history of this temple is older then even birth of Humans and may be its as old as the creation of this Universe. For more indepth knowledge of the history of this temple one may go through Shiv Puran or other pre civilization scriptures. This temple is pre historic and one of the 12 most important places related to Lord Shiva, The God of Energy, and End, As Shiva is also known as Mahakaal, a God who is so calm and beautiful. Thats why they says Satyam Shivam Sundram. In short if there is any truth in this universe it's only Shiv, all other things are temporary. Shiva can be called a God with total innocence and justice, he never treated anyone unequally, he never expected his followers to follow any strict way of life, no condition of life style or eating habits. He loved all the nature and living beings in any form.
This temple which is prehistoric was demolished by many invadors but was rebuild again by the followers till the Cruel Mugal Ruler Aurangzeb came to power, he was such a fanatic that he not only destroyed many Hindu temples but also converted them to Mosques. In Varanasi the original temple was converted to a Muslim Masque but later on the adjoining site including the original space a new temple was constructed in 18th Century. This is now called Kashi Vishwanath Temple. When one enters the Kashi Vishwanath temple - there are 2 important spots one should not miss. First one is Dundi Ganapathi - Lord Ganesha. It is important that one worships Lord Ganesha before praying to Kashi Vishwanath. It is said Dundi Ganapathi was the entrance for Lord Shiva to enter Kasi.
The temple is surrounded by Markets like Gadowlia, Hathua, etc., and ghats like Dashashwamedha. There is plethora of shopping options around the temple that you can explore. However, most of them cater to the needs of low-income group people. A Place where you left your mind and soul free, direct devotion to the GOD Shiva, lots of happiness , peace and soul calmness is felt here. A great spiritual experience and must do atleast once in your lifetime!!