The Kal Bhairav Temple is one of the most powerful and revered temples in Varanasi (Kashi). Dedicated to Lord Kal Bhairav, the fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, the temple holds immense spiritual significance. Lord Kal Bhairav is worshipped as the Kotwal (Guardian) of Kashi, and it is believed that no pilgrimage to Varanasi is complete without seeking his blessings. According to tradition, every devotee should visit Kal Bhairav Temple before or after the darshan of Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
The history of Kal Bhairav Temple dates back several centuries and is deeply rooted in the Skanda Purana. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva created Kal Bhairav to destroy arrogance and protect righteousness. Impressed by his devotion and power, Lord Shiva appointed Kal Bhairav as the eternal guardian of Kashi, giving him the responsibility of protecting the holy city and its devotees.
The temple enshrines a unique silver-faced idol of Lord Kal Bhairav, while the rest of the deity remains covered with sacred cloth. Devotees believe that worshipping Baba Kal Bhairav removes fear, negative energies, and obstacles from life.
Lord Kal Bhairav is regarded as:
Kotwal (Guardian) of Kashi
Protector of devotees
Destroyer of evil and negative energies
Symbol of justice and discipline
Fierce form of Lord Shiva
It is widely believed that anyone visiting Kashi should seek permission and blessings from Baba Kal Bhairav for a complete and spiritually fulfilling pilgrimage.
Morning: 5:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Evening: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Temple timings may vary during festivals and special religious occasions.
The ideal time to visit Kal Bhairav Temple is from October to March, when Varanasi enjoys pleasant weather.
Major festivals celebrated at the temple include:
Bhairav Ashtami
Mahashivratri
Shravan Month
Annakut Festival
Kartik Purnima
Sundays and Tuesdays are considered especially auspicious for offering prayers to Lord Kal Bhairav and attract a large number of devotees.
Devotees commonly offer:
Mustard oil
Black sesame seeds
Flowers
Coconut
Incense
Many devotees also tie the Bhairav Raksha Sutra (protective sacred thread) available at the temple, believing it brings protection, courage, and divine blessings.
After visiting Kal Bhairav Temple, pilgrims often explore other famous spiritual sites in Varanasi:
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Annapurna Temple
Vishalakshi Temple
Dashashwamedh Ghat
Ganga Aarti
Manikarnika Ghat
Sankat Mochan Temple
Durga Kund Temple
Tulsi Manas Mandir
BHU New Vishwanath Temple
Sarnath
These attractions are included in most Kashi Darshan Tour Packages.
The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, approximately 25 km away.
The temple is easily accessible from:
Varanasi Junction
Banaras Railway Station
Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction
Kal Bhairav Temple is located in Visheshwarganj, close to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and can be reached by taxi, auto-rickshaw, e-rickshaw, or private cab.
Visit early morning to avoid long queues.
Wear modest clothing.
Carry minimal luggage.
Respect temple customs and maintain silence inside the premises.
Combine your visit with Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the evening Ganga Aarti for a complete spiritual experience.
Namokashi offers professionally planned Kashi Darshan Tour Packages that include Kal Bhairav Temple, Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Annapurna Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, Durga Kund Temple, Tulsi Manas Mandir, BHU New Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, a Ganga Boat Ride, and the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti.
Enjoy a comfortable pilgrimage with private transportation, experienced drivers, customizable itineraries, and dedicated customer support.
Lord Kal Bhairav is believed to be the divine guardian and protector of Kashi, responsible for safeguarding the city and its devotees.
Yes. The temple is located about 1.5 km from Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, making it easy to visit both during a Kashi Darshan tour.
No. Entry to Kal Bhairav Temple is free for all devotees.
Sundays and Tuesdays are especially auspicious and witness the highest number of devotees.
On regular days, devotees usually spend 30–60 minutes at the temple. During festivals and special occasions, waiting times may be longer.
Book Now Babatpur, Sagunha,(near varanasi airport)
Varanasi – UP – INDIA
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