Located in the sacred city of Varanasi, the Annapurna Temple (also called Annapurna Devi Temple Varanasi or Annapurna Mandir) is a revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the Hindu deity of food and nourishment. This temple holds deep spiritual and cultural importance and is one of the famous temples near Kashi Vishwanath.
In this article, you will learn about the history of Annapurna Temple Varanasi, its significance, architecture, visiting hours, how to reach, and some useful tips for your visit.
Annapurna Temple Varanasi Information
| Topic | Details |
| Temple Name | Annapurna Temple (Annapurna Devi Temple / Annapurna Mata Mandir) |
| Location | Vishwanath Gali, near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India |
| Presiding Deity | Goddess Annapurna (Goddess of food & nourishment) |
| Built By | Believed to be Peshwa Baji Rao or Queen Annapurna Dev |
| Period of Construction | Early 18th century (exact date unknown) |
| Significance | Symbolizes abundance, removes hunger & poverty, place for annadanam (feeding the needy) |
| Architecture Style | North Indian, with intricate carvings and beautiful designs |
| Timings | Open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM |
| Photography | Not allowed inside the temple |
| Dress Code | No strict dress code, but modest & respectful attire is recommended |
The Annapurna Temple Varanasi timings are
5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, every day.
It is best to visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to experience the peaceful atmosphere of the temple.
Location of Annapurna Temple Varanasi
- Address: Vishwanath Gali, near Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Distance from Varanasi Junction Railway Station: ~5 km
- Distance from Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport: ~22 km
You can ask locals for directions to Annapurna Mata Mandir, and they will gladly guide you.
Best Time to Visit Annapurna Temple
The temple can be visited any time of the year. However, during major Hindu festivals like Navratri and Diwali, the temple is beautifully decorated, and special pujas and annadanam are organized, making it an even more spiritually enriching experience.
History of Annapurna Temple Varanasi
The Annapurna Temple is believed to have been built during the early 18th century. According to popular legends, the construction was commissioned by Peshwa Baji Rao, a renowned Maratha warrior. Some accounts, however, suggest that it was built by Queen Annapurna Devi, the wife of King Baji Rao, who was a devout follower of the goddess.
It is said that Queen Annapurna Devi had a divine dream in which Goddess Annapurna instructed her to build a temple in her honor in Varanasi. Motivated by this vision, she oversaw the construction of the shrine in the heart of the city, very close to the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
This blend of myth, devotion, and history makes the Annapurna Devi Temple Varanasi a spiritually significant site that continues to attract thousands of pilgrims every year.
Significance of Annapurna Temple Varanasi
The Annapurna Temple Varanasi is a sacred site for Hindus and is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, who symbolizes nourishment and abundance. Devotees believe that visiting the temple and offering prayers to the goddess can remove hunger, poverty, and both material and spiritual deprivation from their lives.
One of the most important rituals performed here is Annadanam, the act of feeding the needy and the poor, which is considered extremely auspicious. Many devotees engage in annadanam at Annapurna Temple Varanasi as a way to earn spiritual merit and blessings from the goddess.
The temple’s architecture, featuring exquisite North Indian designs and intricate carvings, adds to its cultural significance. It is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of compassion and service to humanity.
Annapurna Temple Today
Today, the Annapurna Mata Temple Varanasi remains an active place of worship and a hub of social service. The temple’s sanctum sanctorum houses a beautifully adorned idol of Goddess Annapurna, decorated with jewels and flowers, radiating peace and devotion.
Every day, thousands of devotees visit the temple to seek blessings, participate in rituals, and take part in annadanam, which is organized regularly in the temple premises. The serene surroundings make it an ideal place for meditation and reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
How to Reach Annapurna Temple Varanasi
The Annapurna Temple is conveniently located in Vishwanath Gali, very close to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, in the heart of Varanasi. It is easily accessible by road, auto-rickshaw, or on foot from the city center.
Nearest landmarks:
Kashi Vishwanath Temple – a short walking distance.
Varanasi Junction Railway Station – about 5 km away.
Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport – about 22 km away.
If you’re coming from outside Varanasi, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the temple area. From the main roads, you may need to walk through narrow lanes (gali) to reach the temple.
Dress Code and Photography
While there is no strict dress code at the Annapurna Mandir Varanasi, visitors are advised to dress modestly and respectfully in traditional or simple clothing. Photography is not allowed inside the temple premises to maintain its sanctity.
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Conclusion: A visit to the Annapurna Temple Varanasi is a deeply spiritual experience. Whether you are seeking blessings, participating in the noble act of annadanam, or simply admiring the temple’s architecture, this sacred place leaves an everlasting impression. Its proximity to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple also makes it a convenient stop during your pilgrimage or visit to Varanasi.
If you are in Varanasi, don’t miss the opportunity to visit this holy temple and experience the divine grace of Goddess Annapurna, who nourishes both body and soul.