Shri Vishwanath Temple BHU :- Varanasi’s Modern Spiritual & Architectural Marvel
Located inside the lush Banaras Hindu University campus, the New Vishwanath Temple (popularly known as BHU VT) is a modern spiritual shrine boasting the world’s tallest temple shikhara.
Detailed History
Initiated by BHU founder Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya to create an egalitarian place of worship open to all humanity, the construction began in 1931 under the patronage of the Birla family. Completed in 1965, the temple stands as a testament to universal peace, unity, and traditional Nagara architecture.
Detailed Architecture
The temple is crafted entirely from fine white marble and features a soaring 252-foot (77-meter) central tower (Shikhara). The interior walls are intricately engraved with verses from the Holy Bhagavad Gita and ancient Upanishads across its spacious three-storied structure.
Travel Guide & Routes
- Ticket / Entry :– Free entry for all visitors.
- Timings :– Open daily from 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
- Photography Spots :– Temple courtyard gardens, evening illuminated facade, and the green BHU campus roads.
- Local Food & Markets :– The VT Complex right outside the temple is famous for cold coffee, lassi, snacks, and South Indian food.
- How to Reach :– Located around 8-9 km from Varanasi Junction (Cantt) and 5 km from Banaras Railway Station. Easily accessible via auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and taxis via Lanka Gate.
Nearby Attractions
- Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum (Inside BHU)
- Assi Ghat (Famous for Morning Aarti & Boat Rides)
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
- Durga Kund & Tulsi Manas Temple
Interesting Facts :-
- Tallest Shikhara :– It holds the record for having one of the tallest temple towers in the world (~252 ft).
- Engraved Scriptures :– The entire 18 chapters of the Bhagavad Gita are carved onto the marble walls inside.
- Inclusive Shrine :– Built specifically with an open-door policy welcoming people of all castes, creeds, and nationalities.
Important Questions and Answer :-
Question 1:- What is BHU Temple famous for?
Answer:– It is world-famous for its 252-foot marble Shikhara, Gita engravings, and its location inside the scenic Banaras Hindu University campus.
Question 2:- Is there any entry fee for BHU Vishwanath Temple?
Answer:– No, entry to the temple is completely free.
Question 3:- How far is BHU Temple from Assi Ghat?
Answer:– It is approximately 3 to 4 km away from Assi Ghat.
“Shri Vishwanath Temple at BHU is not merely an architectural wonder, but a serene sanctuary where knowledge, spirituality, and universal harmony converge.”