Why it matters
Kaal Bhairav is considered the kotwal, or guardian, of Kashi. Pilgrims commonly pay respects here as part of a Kashi Vishwanath visit.
- 20 to 30 minutes
- Early morning or evening; avoid the busiest fe...
Kaal Bhairav Temple Varanasi: Guardian of Kashi, Timings & Visiting Tips
The shrine of Kaal Bhairav, regarded as the guardian of Kashi, where many pilgrims seek blessings before or after visiting Kashi Vishwanath.
LocationOld city, a short drive or walk from Kashi Vishwanath
Time needed20 to 30 minutes
Best timeEarly morning or evening; avoid the busiest festival days.
EntryFree
Overview
The shrine of Kaal Bhairav, regarded as the guardian of Kashi, where many pilgrims seek blessings before or after visiting Kashi Vishwanath.
- Best time: Early morning or evening; avoid the busiest festival days.
- ui.facts.timings: Open from early morning to late evening; check locally.
- Time needed: 20 to 30 minutes
- Dress code: Modest; remove footwear
- Nearby: Kashi Vishwanath, Annapurna Devi Temple
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Good to know
Visiting Kaal Bhairav Temple: what to know
What to expect
The temple is small and can be crowded. Offerings are simple and priests may tie a protective black thread. Go with a guide if you are unsure of local customs.
How to reach
The temple is in the old city, about 1.5 km from Kashi Vishwanath. Use an e-rickshaw or walk the last stretch.
Photos
Photos
Trip details
Quick facts
- Dress code
- Modest; remove footwear
- Nearby
- Kashi Vishwanath, Annapurna Devi Temple
- Photography
- Restricted inside
- Timings
- Open from early morning to late evening; check locally.
Frequently asked questions about Kaal Bhairav Temple
Should I visit Kaal Bhairav before Kashi Vishwanath?
Many pilgrims do, as a matter of tradition, but the order is a personal choice. Your guide can plan whichever suits your time.
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Add to your trip
Tours and trips that include Kaal Bhairav Temple
Varanasi 1 Day Tour Package
Kal Bhairav, Kashi Vishwanath, Annapurna and Sankat Mochan darshan, an evening boat ride and the Ganga aarti in one day by private cab.
- Darshan at Kal Bhairav, Kashi Vishwanath, Annapurna and Sankat Mochan
- Evening boat ride from Assi Ghat
- Ganga aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
Varanasi 2 Days 1 Night Tour Package
Day one in the old city and on the river, day two for Durga Temple, Sankat Mochan, BHU and Sarnath.
- Kal Bhairav, Kashi Vishwanath and Annapurna darshan
- Evening boat ride and the Ganga aarti
- Durga Temple, Tulsi Manas and Sankat Mochan
Varanasi 3 Days 2 Nights Tour Package
The classic Varanasi plan: temples and the aarti, BHU and Sarnath, then Ramnagar Fort and the silk lanes at a relaxed pace.
- Kal Bhairav, Kashi Vishwanath and Annapurna darshan
- Evening boat ride and the Ganga aarti
- South Varanasi, BHU and Sarnath
Varanasi 4 Days 3 Nights Tour Package
Two days in Varanasi, a day trip to Ayodhya or Prayagraj and a relaxed last morning.
- Kashi Vishwanath, Kal Bhairav and Annapurna darshan
- South Varanasi, BHU and Sarnath
- Day trip to Ayodhya or Prayagraj
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