The Kaal Bhairav Temple in Varanasi (also known as Kashi) is one of the key shrines in the ancient city, dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav — a fierce form of Lord Shiva regarded as the “Kotwal” (guardian) of Kashi. Legend has it that this temple stands at the spot where the sin of Brahma-hatya (killing of Lord Brahma) was finally absolved, and the deity Kaal Bhairav remains here to protect, guide and oversee all spiritual activity in Kashi.
The temple is located in the Vishweshwar-Ganj area of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. It stands out for certain unique practices: while entry is free, devotees often make offerings which include flowers, mustard oil, black sesame, and in some traditions even sealed bottles of liquor as a symbolic act of surrendering ego and fear
For many pilgrims, visiting this temple is considered essential before visiting other major temples in Varanasi — as a mark of receiving the deity’s permission to enter Kashi. In 2025, planning a visit here means understanding its timings, sevas (ritual services), booking procedures, and rules. This article will walk you through all of that, with updated details as available, so you can make your visit smooth and meaningful.
Kottiyoor Temple 2025 | Pooja Rates, Darshan Timings, Booking & Accommodation
Overview Table Kal Bhairav Temple
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Kaal Bhairav Temple, Varanasi |
| Location | Vishweshwar-Ganj area, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Deity | Lord Kaal Bhairav (fierce form of Shiva) |
| Entry Fee | No fixed entry fee; darshan is free and on walk-in basis. |
| Booking | Generally no standard online ticket required for simple darshan. |
| Special Offerings/Sevas | Yes – offerings of oil, flowers, liquor bottles, special puja services. |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning or evening; heavy crowd on Ashtami, Sundays & Tuesdays. |
Kal Bhairav Temple Timings
Here are the general timings for darshan at the Kaal Bhairav Temple in 2025:
| Time Slot | From | To |
|---|---|---|
| Morning Opening | ~ 5:00 AM | ~ 1:30 PM |
| Afternoon Break / Re-opening | ~ 3:00 PM | ~ 9:30 PM |
| Special Aarti & Night Darshan | Mangala Aarti approx 4:00 AM | Some night darshan till ~10:00-10:30 PM |
Note: These timings may change on festival days or special occasions. It’s advisable to check locally when you plan your visit.
Sevas & Darshans Available
Here are some of the key sevas (ritual services) and special offerings available at the temple, along with approximate price indications (where available) and timings.
| Seva / Darshan | Description | Timing | Price/Offering |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free General Darshan | Entry for darshan of deity, no ticket required | During normal darshan hours | Free ‘entry’ – basic darshan |
| Oil / Sesame Offering (Til & Mustard) | Standard offering offered to Kaal Bhairav for protection & removal of obstacles | Any darshan time | Price varies (no fixed public list) |
| Liquor Bottle Offering (Sealed) | Unique tradition – sealed bottle of country liquor offered as prasad afterwards | Any darshan time | Price depends on the bottle bought by devotee |
| Special Puja / Khappar Seva | A more elaborate ritual booking option via external service | Scheduled as per service provider | Price per service (contact provider) |
| Prasad Booking Online | Prasad delivered to home via online booking (includes dry-fruits, ash, sacred thread, picture) | Online booking | Example: ₹651 / ₹851 / ₹1051 packages |
Important: There is no standard “VIP ticket” or fixed-tariff booking system for routine darshan at this temple as of 2025.
If you wish to perform a special puja, consult authorised temple-trust or recognised service providers and verify legitimacy.
How to Reach the Temple
Getting to the Kaal Bhairav Temple is relatively straightforward if you are in Varanasi. Here are your main options:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS), approx 25-30 km from the temple. From there take a taxi or cab to Vishweshwar-Ganj area.
- By Train: Nearest major station is Varanasi Junction (BSB). From the station you can take an auto-rickshaw / e-rickshaw.
- By Road / Local Transport: If you’re already in Varanasi city centre (Godowlia, Dashashwamedh Ghat), you can walk (if you’re comfortable with narrow lanes) or take an auto to the final stretch, as the temple lies in old-city lane network.
Tip: Since the area is congested, especially during morning rush and festivals, allow extra time for reaching the temple. Wear modest clothes, remove footwear before entering.
How to Book Darshan / Services
Here are the steps and pointers for booking darshan or special services at the temple:
- General Darshan (Free):
- Arrive during the darshan hours (see section 3 for timings).
- No advance booking needed for ordinary darshan; walk-in basis.
- Carry modest clothes, remove footwear, maintain decorum.
- Special Sevas / Pujas / Offerings:
- To perform a specific ritual (for e.g., Khappar Seva or other booked puja), contact authorised temple-trust or service provider. One such listing is for Khappar Seva.
- Choose the date, number of persons, make payment as required.
- Carry ID, keep receipt / booking confirmation handy.
- On the day of seva, arrive at the pre-appointed time.
- Ask for exact instructions (what to bring, where to stand, etc).
- Prasad / Online Booking:
- Some offerings and prasads can be booked online for delivery. Example: packages ₹651 onward.
- Note: this covers prasad delivery; it doesn’t always guarantee front-row darshan or priority entry.
- Check for Festival Rush / Changes:
- On festival days (e.g., Bhairava Ashtami) the crowd will be much heavier; arriving early is recommended.
- Follow announcements at the temple for any temporary closure or changed timings.
Important: Since there is no formal “ticketed” darshan system as of 2025 for the general darshan, make sure you verify any ‘VIP passes’ or third-party offerings are officially authorised before payment.
Nearby Attractions
Here are a few places you can visit close to the Kaal Bhairav Temple while you are in Varanasi:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple – just about 1 km or so away, one of the most famous Shiva temples in India.
- Dashashwamedh Ghat – the major Ganga-ghat where evening aarti takes place; a scenic and spiritual riverside spot.
- Sankat Mochan Temple – a Hanuman temple in the same city, renowned for its peaceful environment.
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU) – a short drive away, for some broader cultural context.
Visiting these spots along with the Kaal Bhairav Temple gives a fuller experience of Varanasi’s spiritual, cultural and historic layers.
Important Instructions for Visitors
- Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees; avoid shorts, sleeveless tops if possible.
- Remove footwear before entering the temple inner area.
- Photography may be restricted inside the sanctum; confirm locally.
- Do not carry leather items, tobacco, non-veg food inside the temple premises.
- Maintain decorum and silence during aarti and darshan.
- If you plan to offer items like liquor bottles (common tradition here) make sure they are sealed and allowed under temple rules.
- On festival days expect larger crowds and longer waiting times; arrive early.
- Keep drinking water and small snacks handy, as waiting areas may not have full facilities.
- Respect local customs and queue discipline; avoid pushing or rushing the darshan line.
- If you avail of a special seva booking, make sure to reach at the specified time; late arrival may lead to forfeiture.
Accommodation Options Near the Temple
Here are some accommodation suggestions near the temple to help you plan your stay:
| Name | Category | Approx Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel or Guesthouse near Dashashwamedh Ghat | Mid-range to Budget | Easy walk to the Ganga and main temples; good connectivity. |
| Dharamshala / Pilgrim Guesthouse near Vishweshwar-Ganj | Budget | Simple lodging, basic amenities, very close to the temple. |
| Boutique / Premium Hotel in Varanasi Old City | Higher-end | For a more comfortable stay; slightly further but still within easy reach. |
Tip: Book in advance if you visit during peak seasons (festivals, holidays, December-January) to secure good deals.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. Is there an entry fee for Kaal Bhairav Temple?
A1. No fixed entry fee for general darshan; it is free walk-in.
Q2. Do I need to book a ticket in advance for darshan in 2025?
A2. For ordinary darshan, no advance booking is required as of now. Special sevas may require booking.
Q3. What time should I visit to avoid crowds?
A3. Early morning (right after opening) or later evening hours are relatively less crowded. Avoid peak midday hours.
Q4. Are offerings like liquor really accepted?
A4. Yes – the tradition of offering sealed bottles of liquor to Lord Kaal Bhairav is well-known in this temple.
Q5. Can foreigners visit the temple?
A5. Yes; the temple welcomes all devotees. However, they should follow the same dress code and rules for footwear and conduct.
Q6. Are there special days when the temple is more crowded?
A6. Yes. Days like Ashtami tithis, Tuesdays, Sundays, and major festivals (e.g., Bhairava Ashtami) see heavier crowds.
Q7. How long does a visit typically take?
A7. The darshan itself may take 30–60 minutes depending on the queue; exploring nearby shrines may add time.