Birla Temple

Birla temple refers to the numerous temples built across the country by the Birla Family. All the Birla temples in India are famous for modern architecture elements, large space and a few are made completely with marbles. The Birla temple in Varanasi is called as Shri Vishwanath Mandir, New Vishwanath temple or Vishwanath temple. It is one of the famous temple for its architectural beauty and serene factor.
"Birla temple has the tallest temple tower in the world."

Where Birla Temple is Located ?

The Birla temple is located inside Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in Varanasi. The temple is located 1.7 km inside from the main gate of Banaras Hindu University (BHU). It is 3.3 km away from Durga temple and 9 km away from railway station. You can find many transportation options to reach the university.

Best Time to Visit Birla Temple ?

The temple is at its prime beauty throughout the year. Winter has a mild climate and it will be easier for sightseeing. The temple is open throughout the week from 4 am to 12 pm and from 1 pm to 9 pm.

Main rituals take place at 4 am, 4:45 am, 10:30 am and 11:45 am in the morning. Afternoon rituals take place at 12 pm and 1 pm. In the evening, you can find rituals at 6:45 pm, 7:30 pm, 8pm and at 8:45 pm. On Shivratri (Feb or March), you can enjoy special rituals and functions from 4 am till 12 pm. If you are visiting on a Monday, you ought to enjoy Rudrabhishek ritual that takes place from 7 am to 8 am.

Top festivals celebrated inside the temple are Shivratri, Mahotsava, Krishna Janmanshtami, Deepawali, Navratri, Annakut and temple establishment day.

Why Birla Mandir is so famous ?

The temple has the highest temple tower in the world. The temple is 77 metre long. The temple is completely made of marble. There are 9 shrines inside this temple. In the ground floor, there is a large Shiva temple. In the first floor, there are shrines for Durga and Lakshmi Narayan. Other main temples are Hanuman temple, Ganesh temple, Parvati temple, Nataraj temple, Saraswathi temple and Nandi. The complete prose of the Gita is inscribed on the walls along with pictures.

History behind Birla Mandir

The ancient Kashi Vishwanath temple was destroyed and rebuilt several times in the history. In 1930s, Pandit Madan Mohan decided to replicate the temple inside BHU campus and Birla family took the work. In 1931, the foundation for the temple was made. The temple was completed in 1966. Since it is a replica Kashi Vishwanath temple<, it is called as the New Vishwanath temple.

Shop and Eat

Near the gate of the temple, you can find many small shops. You can find religious books, flowers, tea, snacks and coffee. People generally buy flowers for the deity but it is not mandatory.

Tourist Tips

• You can reach up to the main gate by your vehicle. Once inside the university, you need to walk to the temple.
• Long queues and crowd are common during special occasions and Mondays.
• You might have to go through multiple security check up.
• People can relax or meditate in the lawn outside the temple.
• There is no entry fee for the temple. Do not get scammed by anyone who says otherwise.
• It is will take a maximum of 2 hours to enjoy the temple.
• Photography inside the temple is prohibited.
• A person of any creed or religion can enter the temple

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