Overview
Deep within the sprawling, lush greenery of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) stands a marvel of white marble and spiritual grandeur: the Shri Vishwanath Mandir, popularly known as VT or the New Vishwanath Temple.
While the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple in the old city is known for its narrow, buzzing lanes, the BHU temple offers a contrasting experience of peace, space, and architectural brilliance.
History of New Vishwananth Temple (BHU)
The vision for this temple was laid by the great educationist and founder of BHU, Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya. He wanted a temple that was open to people of all castes and creeds, symbolizing the inclusivity of Indian culture.
Foundation: The foundation stone was laid on March 11, 1931.
Construction: Supported primarily by the Birla family, the construction took 35 years and was finally completed in 1966.
Tallest Shikhara: The temple is iconic for its soaring white marble tower, which stands at 77 meters (approx. 250 feet), making it one of the tallest temple spires in India.
Architecture: The walls of the temple are a "stone library" engraved with the entire text of the Bhagavad Gita and verses from the Upanishads.
How to Reach & Distance
The temple is located deep within the 1,300-acre BHU campus in South Varanasi.
From Varanasi Junction (Cantt): ~ 11-16 km. (Approx. 45 mins via Auto rickshaw).
From Assi Ghat: ~5 km (Approx. 12 mins via E-rickshaw).
From Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport: ~30-35 km (Approx. 1.5 hours via taxi).
Inside the Campus: You can take a cycle-rickshaw or e-rickshaw from the "Lanka Gate" (Main BHU Gate) directly to the temple.
BHU Vishwanath Temple Timings (2026 Updated)
To ensure a smooth visit, keep these opening and closing hours in mind. The temple usually follows a split schedule.
Opening Time: 4:00AM
Morning Aarti: 4:45 AM - 5:15 AM (Mangala)
Mid- day Closure: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Evening Aarti: 6:30 PM - 7 :30 PM (Sandhya)
Closing Time: 9:00 PM
Things to Do & What to Expect
A visit to BHU VT is more than just a religious ritual; it’s a cultural experience.
Admire the Shivalinga: The ground floor houses a beautiful replica of the Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga.
Explore the Seven Temples: The complex actually contains seven temples across different floors, including shrines for Lord Ganesha, Goddess Durga, and Lord Hanuman.
Meditate in the Corridors: The wide, marble-floored halls are surprisingly cool and quiet, perfect for meditation.
Enjoy the "VT Foodie" Life: Right outside the temple gates is a hub of street food. You must try the famous BHU Cold Coffee, hot samosas, and South Indian snacks at the local stalls.
Nearby Attractions
Make it a full-day trip by visiting these spots within a 3km radius:
Bharat Kala Bhavan: The university museum featuring rare miniature paintings and ancient sculptures.
Sankat Mochan Temple: Famous Hanuman temple located just outside the university.
Tulsi Manas Mandir: A marble temple where the Ramcharitmanas was composed.
Assi Ghat: Perfect for witnessing the early morning Subah-e-Banaras aarti.
Visitor Tips
Best Time to Visit: Visit during the morning (6:00 AM - or evening (6:00 PM - 8:00 PM) to see the temple lit up and enjoy the lively atmosphere of students and locals.
Dress code: Wear modest clothing. While there is no strict "uniform," it is a sacred site.
Photography: Allowed in the courtyard; restricted inside the sanctum.
Footwear: Remove shoes before entering the temple premises.
Combine visits: BHU temple visit pairs well with Assi Ghat, Tulsi Manas Mandir, and nearby food stops.
Quiet space: Ideal for meditation, reading scriptures, or photography.
Accessibility: BHU campus is largely accessible; wheelchair-friendly in most areas.
Campus etiquette: Respect academic areas and maintain silence in study zones.