Chandreshwar Temple Varanasi: A Pilgrim’s Definitive Guide

Introduction & Spiritual Essence

Nestled in the heart of the ancient city of Kashi, the Chandreshwar Temple stands as a celestial beacon for devotees of Lord Shiva. The primary deity here is the Chandreshwar Lingam, a self-manifested (Swayambhu) representation of Lord Shiva in his lunar aspect. As one of the sacred Navagraha Shiv Lings of Varanasi, this temple holds a unique position in the spiritual geography of the city, dedicated specifically to the planet Moon (Chandra).

According to sacred texts and centuries of oral tradition, the temple is a potent Shakti Peeth (seat of vital energy). Devotees flock here primarily for mental peace, clarity of thought, and astrological remedies. The Phalaśruti (spiritual benefits) of worshipping here is profound; specifically, those suffering from afflictions in their horoscope caused by an adverse placement of the Moon (Chandra) find immense relief and healing energy at this shrine.

Why Visit Chandreshwar Temple?

  • Navagraha Shanti: To pacify the Moon planet in one’s astrological chart.
  • Ancestral Liberation: Performing rites here, particularly on Somvati Amavasya, is believed to cleanse ancestral karma and grant Moksha (liberation) to forefathers.
  • Mental Clarity: The temple is renowned for enhancing mental peace and decision-making capabilities.

Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend

The history of the Chandreshwar Temple is deeply rooted in the Kashi Khand of the Skanda Purana. While the exact century of the original construction is difficult to pinpoint due to the antiquity of Kashi, the temple’s legends are vividly preserved in ancient scriptures.

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The Legend of Chandra and the Shakti Peeth

According to Kashi Khand, the Lingam was installed by Chandra (the Moon God) himself to worship Lord Shiva. It is said that Chandra dug a sacred well nearby, known today as the Chandra Koop, to facilitate his worship.

Tradition holds that Chandra performed rigorous, intense penance (Tapas) at this very spot to propitiate Lord Shiva. After several years of austerities, Lord Shiva appeared and blessed the Moon God, declaring the location a Shakti Peeth. It was here that Lord Shiva imparted specific instructions regarding the worship cycle:

  1. Triodasi (Two days before Amavasya): Begin the pooja.
  2. Chaturdasi (One day before Amavasya): Observe a strict fast.
  3. Somvati Amavasya (New Moon on a Monday): Take a holy dip in the Chandra Koop and perform Shraaddh (ancestral rites).

Lord Shiva decreed that anyone performing these rituals on Poornima (Full Moon) would attain the highest level of prosperity and happiness. Furthermore, the scriptures state that a staunch devotee of Chandreshwar who dies in Kashi is certain to reach heaven, regardless of their previous karmic debt.

Architectural Marvels

The Chandreshwar Temple reflects the intricate and vibrant architectural style prevalent in the holy city of Varanasi. While the core sanctum dates back to ancient times, the temple structure has undergone several renovations to preserve its sanctity and structural integrity.

Architectural Style & Design

The temple showcases a blend of traditional North Indian temple architecture with strong Dravidian influences in its pillared halls (Mandapas). The Shikhara (spire) is relatively modest compared to the towering structures of Nagara style, fitting seamlessly into the dense urban landscape of Chowk.

The Sacred Chandra Koop

The most significant architectural feature is the Chandra Koop (Chandra’s Well). Located within the temple complex, this ancient well is believed to be the source of divine lunar energy. The water here is considered sanctified and essential for the completion of Shraaddh rituals.

Date built:–
Deity:Chandreshwar
Architectural style:Dravidian architecture
Major festivals–
Locale:Varanasi
District::Varanasi
Address:–
Phone–

Darshan & Ritual Logistics

Visiting Chandreshwar Temple requires adherence to specific ritual timings, especially during auspicious lunar cycles. Below is the general schedule for 2026.

Daily Timings

SessionTimingsDetails
Morning Darshan5:00 AM – 12:00 PMIncludes Mangala Aarti and Shringar Darshan.
Afternoon Closure12:00 PM – 3:00 PMRest period for the deity.
Evening Darshan3:00 PM – 10:00 PMIncludes Sandhya Aarti (approx 6:30 PM).
Special NoteTimings may extend on Full Moon (Poornima) and Somvati Amavasya.
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Key Sevas and 2026 Festivals

While the temple functions primarily on a walk-in basis for standard Darshan, special Sevas are performed by the temple priests on specific lunar days.

  • Abhishekam: Performed with Panchamrit and water from the Chandra Koop. Best done during the morning session.
  • Navagraha Pooja: A specialized ritual for those seeking relief from Chandra (Moon) dosh in their horoscope.
  • Annadan: Offering food to saints and devotees. As per the Kashi Khand, performing Annadan here after Shraaddh brings immense merit.

2026 Auspicious Dates

Plan your visit around these dates for maximum spiritual benefit:

  • Somvati Amavasya 2026:
    • January 27, 2026
    • November 29, 2026
    • December 28, 2026
  • Poornima (Full Moon) with Chitra Nakshatra: March/April (Check local Panchang for exact alignment). This is the most potent time for Chandreshwar Pooja.

Note on Online Booking: Being a heritage site within the dense lanes of Varanasi, Chandreshwar Temple does not have a dedicated online portal for darshan tickets. Most rituals are coordinated directly with the resident priests on-site. For large group Yatras, it is recommended to contact a trusted local Kashi Pandit.

Practical Visitor Guidance

Located in the bustling Chowk area, visiting Chandreshwar Temple requires preparation.

Dress Code and Etiquette

  • Traditional Indian attire (Kurta-Pajama or Dhoti for men, Saree/Churidar for women) is preferred.
  • Strictly maintain silence inside the inner sanctum.
  • Photography: Generally prohibited inside the inner shrine to respect the sanctity of the ancient Lingam. You may take photos in the outer courtyard.

Accessibility and Crowd Management

The temple is located in a narrow lane near Siddheshwari. It is not accessible by car or cycle-rickshaw directly to the gate.

  • Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5:00 AM – 7:00 AM) to avoid the heavy crowds of the Chowk market area.
  • Footwear: There are paid shoe-storing facilities available just outside the temple complex.
  • Mobile Phones: Lockers are available for depositing phones, as usage is prohibited in the sanctum.
  • Seasonal Advice: Varanasi summers (May-June) are extremely hot; carry a water bottle. The walk to the temple is short but crowded.

Pilgrimage Connectivity

How to Reach Chandreshwar Temple

Address: House No. Ck.7/124, Siddheshwari, Chowk, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

  • By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (LBS) is approximately 25 km away. Taxis are available to Dashashwamedh Ghat or Godaulia (approx. 1 hour 15 mins).
  • By Rail: Varanasi Junction (BSB) is the main railway station. From there, take an auto-rickshaw to Chowk (approx. 20-30 mins depending on traffic).
  • Local Transport:
    • Boat Route: Hire a boat to Scindia Ghat. From the Ghat, climb the steps leading toward the main market and walk toward Siddheshwari.
    • Land Route: Go to Chowk area via cycle rickshaw. From the main Chowk intersection, walk towards Siddheshwari Temple (a landmark). The Chandreshwar Temple is in the vicinity.
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Nearby Sacred Sites (Pilgrimage Circuit)

When in the area, consider visiting these nearby spiritual landmarks to complete your Kashi Yatra:

  1. Siddheshwari Temple: Located extremely close to Chandreshwar. This is a major Shakti Peeth in Varanasi.
  2. Maa Durga Temple (Durga Kund): Famous for its vibrant red structure and association with the Navratri festival.
  3. Kashi Vishwanath Temple (New): The main Jyotirlinga site. While a bit further, it is the central anchor of any Kashi pilgrimage.

Photo Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is there a VIP Darshan entry at Chandreshwar Temple?

Due to the temple’s modest size and location in the old city lanes, there is no formal VIP entry system like larger temples. However, visiting early in the morning allows for a faster and more peaceful Darshan without the crowds.

2. What is the significance of the Chandra Koop?

The Chandra Koop is a well dug by the Moon God (Chandra) according to the Kashi Khand. Bathing in this well on Somvati Amavasya or touching its water is believed to help with ancestral rites (Shraaddh) and purify the devotee’s mind.

3. Can I perform the Navagraha Pooja for Moon afflictions?

Yes. This is the primary purpose of the temple. If your horoscope has a weak or malefic Moon (Chandra), performing Abhishekam and Archana here is considered a powerful remedy (Upaya).

4. Is photography allowed inside the temple?

Photography is generally discouraged or prohibited inside the inner sanctum where the Lingam is enshrined. It is best to ask the temple caretakers before taking pictures in the courtyard.

5. Are there food facilities nearby?

Yes. Being in Chowk, there are numerous options for vegetarian Prasad and meals. It is traditional to offer Annadan (food donation) to Saints (Sanyasis) after your Darshan, as mentioned in the scriptures.

Contact Details

Official Address:
Chandreshwar Temple, Ck.7/124, Siddheshwari, Chowk, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001.

Phone: While a direct number is not maintained by the trust, inquiries can be made through the Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust office or local Pandits in Chowk.

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