Kashi Karvat Mandir – Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Kashi Karvat Mandir, located in the sacred city of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most enigmatic temples associated with Hindu beliefs surrounding moksha (liberation). Situated near the famed Manikarnika Ghat, this temple holds deep spiritual significance, especially for those performing ancestral rites. Rich in history, mysticism, and devotion, the temple continues to draw pilgrims and curious visitors alike, offering a glimpse into a lesser-known but powerful aspect of Kashi’s spiritual heritage.

Temple About

Kashi Karvat Mandir is an ancient temple located in the heart of Varanasi, known for its mysterious history and association with moksha (liberation). The temple is situated near the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the holiest cremation ghats in Hindu tradition.

Temple Description

The name Karvat means "saw", and this temple historically featured a peculiar downward-leaning structure, symbolizing the idea of instant salvation for those who died at its site. It is believed that during medieval times, a saw (karvat) was placed to grant moksha to pilgrims through self-sacrifice—though this practice has long been abandoned. The temple is a significant place for ancestral rituals and draws devotees seeking peace for their forefathers' souls.

Temple Speciality

Ancient association with salvation (moksha)

Located close to Manikarnika Ghat, a spiritual hotspot in Varanasi

Significant for pind daan (ritual offerings to ancestors)

Unique tilted architectural structure and deep historical mystique

Temple Address

Kashi Karvat Mandir, Near Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001, India

Temple Location (Longitude & Latitude)

25.3095° N, 83.0108° E

Temple Timings

Open all days: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Best time to visit: Early mornings and during shraddha paksha (ancestral worship period)

Temple Sevas

Pind Daan (ancestral offerings)

Shraddha rituals

Daily aarti

Special havans during Pitru Paksha

Personal pujas on request

Traveling Facilities

Local autos, taxis, e-rickshaws easily available in Varanasi

Boats accessible via Ganga river

Varanasi is well-connected by road, rail, and air

Food Facilities

Many vegetarian restaurants, local eateries, and street food stalls nearby

Special "Satvik Bhojan" (pure vegetarian) food options near the ghats

Stay Facilities

Multiple budget to luxury hotels in Varanasi

Dharamshalas and ashrams available for pilgrims

Guesthouses near the ghat for easy temple access

Nearby Railway Station

Varanasi Junction (BSB) – 4.5 km

Nearby Airport

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) – 25 km

Nearby Bus Station

Varanasi Bus Station (Cantonment Bus Stand) – 4.5 km

Bus Routes to Temple

Regular buses from Prayagraj, Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and Patna

Local city buses or autos from Varanasi Bus Stand to Godowlia, then walk to temple

Train Routes to Temple

Trains to Varanasi Junction from all major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Lucknow, Patna, and Hyderabad

From station, use auto/taxi to reach Manikarnika Ghat area

Airways to Temple

Flights to Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS) from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Hyderabad

Taxis available from airport to temple (approx. 45–60 minutes)

Nearby Cities to Temple

Prayagraj – 120 km

Patna – 240 km

Lucknow – 320 km

Gaya – 260 km

Gorakhpur – 200 km

Nearby Visiting Temples & Places

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Manikarnika Ghat

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Durga Kund Temple

Tulsi Manas Temple

Bharat Mata Mandir

Sarnath (Buddhist site) – 10 km

Preferable Visiting Season

October to March – Pleasant weather for temple visits

Pitru Paksha period (usually Sept–Oct) – Popular for ancestral rites

Shopping Famous For

Banarasi sarees

Brass idols & puja items

Wooden toys & lacquerware

Rudraksha malas

Local sweets like Malaiyo (in winter)

Paan (Banarasi paan)

Kashi Karvat Mandir is not just a temple but a powerful spiritual landmark representing faith, liberation, and ancestral connection. Its unique legend, proximity to sacred ghats, and deep-rooted rituals make it a significant stop for those visiting Varanasi in search of divine blessings or spiritual closure. Whether you're a devotee, a pilgrim performing pind daan, or a traveler exploring India's spiritual heartland, this temple offers a profound experience unlike any other.