About Vishwanath Temple
Opening Hours: 05:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Prime Day & Hours: All days, Morning Aarti
Suggested Duration: 1 - 1.5 hours
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station, about 139.7 km away
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, about 168.3 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Uttarkashi Bus Stand, about 500 m away
Nestled in the beautiful town of Guptkashi in Uttarakhand, the Vishwanath Temple is one of the most beautiful and spiritually powerful places known by Hindus for centuries. The temple is located about 47 km before Kedarnath, and is believed to be where the Lord Shiva concealed himself from the Pandavas after the Kurukshetra war, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Uttarakhand. Built in Nagara-style architecture using grey stones, houses a powerful Shiva Lingam and sits beside the Manikarnika Kund. This Kund is fed by two holy rivers, the Ganga and Yamuna, offering extremely fresh and clear water to the visitors and the temple.
Pilgrims traditionally stop here to offer prayers along their way to Char Dham Yatra, considering it auspicious to seek blessings at Vishwanath first. The nearby Ardhanarishwara Temple, where Shiva is worshipped in his half-male, half-female form, adds another layer of mystical symbolism.
Whether you're a spiritual seeker, trekker, or cultural traveller, the peaceful energy and rich legends surrounding Vishwanath Temple make it a meaningful and memorable stop in your Himalayan journey.
Vishwanath Temple Highlights
• Explore Vishwanath Temple, Guptkashi, a sacred Shiva shrine where pilgrims offer prayers before heading to Kedarnath.
• Admire the ancient Nagara-style architecture, featuring beautifully carved stone walls and a traditional shikhara tower.
• Discover the legend of Lord Shiva, who is believed to have hidden here from the Pandavas.
• Experience the tranquillity of Manikarnika Kund, where sacred streams of Ganga and Yamuna converge.
• Witness spellbinding Himalayan views, with the majestic Chaukhamba peaks towering in the distance.
How To Reach Vishwanath Temple
- By foot- The Vishwanath Temple is approximately 450 m away from the Uttarkashi city centre, and you can reach it in around 3 minutes via NH 34. Visitors with mobility issues can also take a taxi from the city centre to reach the Shakti Temple.
Best Time To Visit Vishwanath Temple
Peak Season (May-June & September-October)
- Weather Insight: Pleasant climate (80-20°C), with clear skies and accessible roads.
- Things to Do: Attend daily aarti, enjoy snow-capped views, and visit Kedarnath post-darshan.
Moderate Season (March-April)
- Weather Insight: Spring-like conditions (10-18°C), blooming rhododendrons, and quiet surroundings.
- Things to Do: Ideal for peaceful visits and photography with fewer tourists.
Low Season (November-February & July-August)
- Weather Insight: Winters bring snow and freezing temperatures; monsoon rains can cause landslides.
- Things to Do: Avoid monsoons; in winter, the temple is serene but only recommended for well-prepared visitors.
Vishwanath Temple Other Essential Information
Know Before You Go
- Carry light woolens, even in summer, as evenings in Guptkashi can get chilly.
- Avoid monsoon months, as landslides and roadblocks are common.
- Book hotels in advance, especially during the Char Dham Yatra season.
- Carry cash, as ATMs and digital payment options may be limited or unreliable in remote areas.
- Start your temple visit early, both to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful darshan.
- Respect silence and rituals, especially during aarti times and inside the sanctum.
- Consult locals for weather updates, especially if heading further toward Kedarnath.
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Attend the Morning Aarti at Vishwanath Temple
It is recommended to begin your day by attending the sacred morning aarti, where the chants and bells sound echo through the Himalayan air. The atmosphere around the temple feels peaceful and powerful as locals and pilgrims bow in devotion while the sun rises behind the temple. This spiritual moment helps devotees connect with nature.
Interact with Sadhus
Have heartfelt conversations with sadhus, temple priests, or fellow yatris who’ve walked spiritual paths from all over India. These exchanges can be unexpectedly enlightening, ranging from tales of Shiva, ancient legends, to practical wisdom on life and devotion.
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Visit the Ardhanarishwara Temple Nearby
Just a short walk from Vishwanath Temple, this unique shrine honours Shiva and Parvati in one form. It represents balance and cosmic union. Fewer crowds and the symbolic energy make it a powerful space to reflect on duality and oneness. Ideal for travellers interested in mythology, symbolism, or quieter spiritual corners.
Tourism Board Alliances
Vishwanath Temple FAQs
What is the historical significance of this temple?
The Vishwanath Temple of Guptkashi is believed to mark the place where Lord Shiva hid from the Pandavas after the Mahabharata war. The name of this place, ‘Guptkashi’ means ‘Hidden Kashi’ as this place offers pilgrimage opportunities similar to Varanasi (Kashi). The Vishvinath Temple holds deep spiritual value, and it is also linked to the Kedarnath Temple.
Can I visit the temple year-round?
Yes, the Vishwanath Temple can be visited year-round, but it is best to visit between March to November. During the winters, there is extreme cold, and snow can make travelling difficult. Monsoons are also avoided as the area is prone to landslides. You can always check the weather conditions before planning your trip.
Are accommodations available near the temple?
Yes, there are a number of budget hotels, guesthouses, and dharamshalas within walking distance of the temple. The facilities are basic but suitable for pilgrims. Many also provide meals and information for those continuing to Kedarnath. In peak yatra season, it is highly recommended that you book in advance.
What other attractions are near Vishwanath Temple?
Apart from the Ardhanarishwara Temple and Manikarnika Kund, you can explore the Triyuginarayan Temple (believed to be Shiva and Parvati’s wedding site), Sonprayag, and the starting point of the Kedarnath trek at Gaurikund. These spots offer spiritual richness and stunning mountain landscapes.