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Shri Atmavireshwar Mahadev Temple is one of the prominent and sacred Shiva temples in Kashi (Varanasi), Uttar Pradesh. Dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Atmavireshwar, this temple is part of the famous Kashi Khand temples mentioned in ancient scriptures. Devotees believe that worshipping Atmavireshwar Mahadev blesses them with spiritual strength, peace of mind, and liberation (moksha).
This temple is not only a religious destination but also a significant part of the spiritual fabric of Varanasi, where Lord Shiva himself is considered the eternal ruler.
📖 History & Legend
The origin of Atmavireshwar Mahadev is rooted in the Kashi Khand of the Skanda Purana, one of the oldest Puranic texts. According to legends:
- Lord Shiva manifested here as Atmavireshwar, the protector of the soul (Atma) and the destroyer of ego and negativity.
- It is believed that worshipping this form of Shiva helps devotees attain inner strength and connect deeply with the divine self.
- Many saints and sages have meditated near this shrine, making it a spiritually charged location in Kashi.
✨ Significance of the Temple
- Spiritual Protection – The deity is believed to guard devotees from evil influences and inner turmoil.
- Path to Liberation – Regular darshan and prayers here are said to remove karmic obstacles and guide one toward moksha.
- Part of Kashi Khand Shrines – Atmavireshwar Mahadev is one of the important lingas worshipped as per Kashi Khand.
- Special Worship Days – Mondays, Maha Shivaratri, and Shravan month attract large gatherings of devotees.
🏛️ Architecture & Temple Layout
The temple showcases the traditional North Indian Nagara style of architecture:
- The sanctum (garbhagriha) houses the Shivlinga of Atmavireshwar Mahadev.
- Carvings and small shrines dedicated to other deities surround the main sanctum.
- The temple courtyard provides space for rituals and meditation.
- The atmosphere inside is serene, filled with the chanting of mantras and bells.
📍 Location & How to Reach
Temple Address:
Shri Atmavireshwar Mahadev Temple,
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh – India
- By Air: Nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (Varanasi Airport), about 25 km away.
- By Rail: The closest railway station is Varanasi Junction (Cantt), around 5 km from the temple.
- By Road: Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and local taxis are easily available to reach the temple from any part of the city.
🕰️ Temple Timings
- Morning: 5:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
(Aarti & Rudrabhishek are performed daily during these hours.)
🙏 Festivals Celebrated
- Maha Shivratri – Grand celebrations with night-long prayers and bhajans.
- Shravan Month – Daily special pujas with Rudrabhishek.
- Pradosh Vrat – Special evening worship of Lord Shiva.
- Nag Panchami – Rituals performed with offerings to Lord Shiva.
🧭 Nearby Attractions
If you are visiting Atmavireshwar Mahadev Temple, you can also explore nearby:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Annapurna Devi Temple
- Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Tulsi Manas Mandir
- Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple
📸 Gallery





🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It is located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, one of the oldest and holiest cities in India.
Atmavireshwar represents Lord Shiva as the protector of the soul (Atma) and remover of ego, granting peace and liberation.
The temple can be visited year-round, but Shravan month and Maha Shivratri are the most auspicious times.
Morning: 5 AM – 12 Noon, Evening: 4 PM – 9 PM.