Markandey Mahadev Temple

Markandey Mahadev Temple is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kaithi village, Varanasi district, Uttar Pradesh, at the confluence of the Ganga and Gomti rivers. Associated with Sage Markandeya, it is believed to be where Shiva protected the sage from Yama. The temple attracts devotees year-round, especially during Maha Shivratri and Shravan, and is notable for its sacred sangam setting and religious importance near Varanasi.

Visitors can expect a traditional North Indian temple complex situated on the banks of the Ganga-Gomti Sangam near Kaithi. The main shrine houses a Shiva lingam for darshan and prayer, with open courtyards, ghats leading to the river confluence, and small shops selling offerings and prasad. The surroundings are riverside and semi-rural, with views of the sangam, bathing ghats, and pilgrim activity, especially during festivals and daily aarti.

The temple is traditionally associated with Sage Markandeya, who is believed to have worshipped Shiva at this site and was saved by Shiva from Yama. The site at the Ganga-Gomti confluence has long been regarded as sacred and the temple is considered an ancient Shaivite shrine in the Varanasi region.

The temple is an important Shaivite pilgrimage centre in eastern Uttar Pradesh. The Ganga-Gomti Sangam is considered highly sacred for ritual bathing and prayers, and the temple draws large numbers of devotees during Maha Shivratri, Shravan Mondays and Kartik Purnima for darshan, holy dip and religious observances.