New Vishwanath Temple

The New Vishwanath Temple, popularly known as BHU VT or Birla Temple, is one of the most famous landmarks in Varanasi. Located inside the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), it is a modern architectural marvel dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Here is everything you need to know about this temple:

1. History and Vision

• The Founder: The idea for this temple was conceived by Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, the founder of BHU. He wanted to build a grand replica of the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple that would be open to people of all castes, creeds, and religions.

• The Birlas: The construction was funded and managed by the famous Birla family (industrialists).

• Timeline: The foundation stone was laid in 1931, but the massive structure took 35 years to complete, finally opening in 1966.

2. Architectural Highlights

• The Tallest Shikhara: The temple's spire (tower) is approximately 77 meters (252 feet) high, making it one of the tallest temple towers in the world. Interestingly, it is taller than the spire of the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple in the old city.

• Marble Grandeur: The temple is built almost entirely of white and cream marble, giving it a majestic and clean look.

• Inscriptions: The most unique feature is that the entire Bhagavad Gita is engraved on the interior marble walls. You will also find verses from the Vedas and Upanishads inscribed throughout the complex.

3. The Temple Complex

While the main shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Vishwanath), the temple is actually a collection of nine different shrines:

• Ground Floor: Lord Shiva (Lingam).

• First Floor: Shrines for Lakshmi Narayan and Goddess Durga.

• Other Shrines: You will also find dedicated areas for Lord Ganesha, Hanuman Ji, Goddess Saraswati, and Nataraj.

Visitor Information (2026)

Practical Tips for Your Visit:

• Openness: Unlike many ancient temples in Varanasi, BHU VT is very spacious and organized. There are no narrow lanes or heavy crowds, making it ideal for meditation.

• Cold Coffee & Food: The area just outside the temple is famous for its local food stalls. Don't miss the famous BHU Cold Coffee and Chola Samosa at the nearby kiosks.

• Campus Vibe: Since it is inside a university, the atmosphere is very youthful and vibrant. You can combine your visit with a walk around the beautiful, green BHU campus.

• Photography: Photography is usually allowed in the outer complex and gardens, but be mindful of the rules near the inner sanctums.

Why visit BHU VT?

If the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple represents the ancient, intense energy of Varanasi, the BHU Vishwanath Temple represents its intellectual and modern spiritual side. It is the perfect place to sit quietly and reflect.