Vishalakshi Temple

Vishalakshi Temple is a revered Hindu temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, located near Mir Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat in the old city lanes close to Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Vishalakshi, an aspect of Goddess Parvati, it is regarded as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. The temple features traditional North Indian architecture with a sanctum housing the goddess idol and is a significant pilgrimage stop within the Kashi circuit.

Visitors can expect a small yet revered temple situated in the narrow lanes of old Varanasi near the ghats. The temple has a compact sanctum with an idol of Goddess Vishalakshi adorned with traditional attire and ornaments. The surroundings include crowded lanes with shops selling flowers, prasad and religious items, and proximity to Manikarnika Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Visitors can observe daily worship, aarti rituals, and pilgrims performing darshan in a devotional atmosphere.

Vishalakshi Temple is mentioned in the Kashi Khanda of the Skanda Purana and other Puranic texts as a prominent Shakti Peetha of Varanasi. Tradition holds that the earrings (or eyes) of Goddess Sati fell at this site. The temple has been a centre of Shakta worship for centuries and is associated with Adi Shankaracharya's hymn to Goddess Vishalakshi. The present structure reflects later renovations in traditional North Indian style.

The temple is revered as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and as the Shakti of Kashi, complementing Kashi Vishwanath as Shiva. Goddess Vishalakshi is worshipped as the wide-eyed goddess who blesses devotees with prosperity and well-being. It holds special importance during Navratri and is an integral part of the Kashi yatra, visited by pilgrims seeking blessings before or after visiting Kashi Vishwanath.