Date built:	–
Deity:	Uttarark Aditya
Architectural style:	Dravidian architecture
Major festivals	–
Locale:	Varanasi
District::	Varanasi
Address:	–
Phone	9305041589.

1. Introduction & Spiritual Essence

The Uttarark Aditya Temple in Varanasi is a sanctified abode dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God) in his form as Uttarark Aditya. Situated in the historic precinct of Alaipur near Bakaria Kund, this temple serves as a vital spiritual axis for devotees seeking relief from astrological afflictions and ancestral obligations. In the complex cosmology of Vedic astrology, this form of the Sun is specifically worshipped to pacify the ill-effects of the Moola Nakshatra.

Phalaśruti (Spiritual Benefits): The primary significance of this temple lies in its connection to the Bakaria Kund. According to the Kashi Khand, worshipping here—specifically by taking a dip in the Kund during the month of Pausha (December-January) and offering prayers—purifies the devotee. It is believed to cleanse ancestral karma and offer liberation (Moksha) to the souls of departed parents. For those born under the Moola star, a visit here is considered highly auspicious for overcoming life’s stagnation and financial hurdles.

2. Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend

While the exact construction date of the current edifice is not recorded in public archives, the temple’s spiritual lineage is deeply rooted in the Kashi Khand of the Skanda Purana. The temple is not merely a structure but a manifestation of a divine narrative involving Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, and a devotee maiden.

The Legend of Sulakshana and the White Goat

According to Kashi Khand, Chapter 47, a pious Brahmin named Priyavrat resided in Kashi with his wife, Shubhavradha. They were blessed with a daughter named Sulakshana, who was born under the Moola star—a difficult astrological placement. As she reached marriageable age, her father worried intensely about her horoscope and eventually succumbed to illness. Overcome by grief, her mother too passed away, leaving Sulakshana orphaned.

Sulakshana performed the final rites of her parents and dedicated her life to severe penance (Tapasya) before the Uttarark Aditya. Tradition holds that a white goat would visit her daily. The goat would bath in the nearby Kund, wait all day, consume dry grass in the evening, and depart. This continued for years.

One day, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati happened to fly over the area. Witnessing the emaciated Sulakshana and the devoted goat, they were moved. Lord Shiva offered Sulakshana a divine boon. Remarkably, she asked for the boon to be granted to the goat instead of herself. Pleased by her selflessness, Goddess Parvati ordained that Sulakshana would become her eternal companion. The goat, in return for its devotion, would take rebirth as the daughter of the Kashi Raja.

It was also revealed that the Kund was where the goat performed its daily austerity. Goddess Parvati declared that devotees bathing in this Kund during the Paushya month on Sundays and worshipping Uttarark Aditya would receive divine blessings. This is why the water body is known as Bakaria Kund (from the word Bakri, meaning goat).

3. Architectural Marvels

The temple is situated on the banks of the Bakaria Kund, blending seamlessly with the riverfront architecture typical of Varanasi. According to available structural data, the temple follows the Dravidian architectural style, characterized by its pyramidal tower and ornate pillars.

Key Features:

The Shikhara: Unlike the curvilinear Nagara style of North India, the Dravidian style features a stepped pyramidal roof (Kalasha) that tapers to a square capstone, symbolizing the ascent from the material to the spiritual.
The Mandapa: The temple complex includes a hall for congregational worship, often used during special Uttarark ceremonies.
Bakaria Kund: The architectural highlight is the stepwell design of the Kund itself. Ancient stone steps lead down to the water, allowing devotees to perform Snana (ritual bathing) even during the winter months.

While the temple does not currently hold a UNESCO or ASI protection status, its Dravidian architecture in Varanasi—a city dominated by the Nagara style—makes it a unique architectural study.

4. Darshan & Ritual Logistics

While specific opening hours for smaller local shrines can vary, the general rhythm of a temple in Varanasi follows the cycles of the Sun. Below is the standard schedule for Uttarark Aditya Temple and the associated Bakaria Kund.

Session	Timings	Activity
Morning	05:00 AM – 12:00 PM	Morning Aarti, Surya Namaskar, Abhishekam
Evening	04:00 PM – 09:00 PM	Evening Aarti, Diya Offering
Kund Bathing	06:00 AM – 06:00 PM	Ritual Bathing (Open to Public)

Key Sevas and Booking

Devotees can perform specific rituals dedicated to Lord Aditya:

Uttarark Aditya Archana: Offering flowers and sacred grains (usually wheat) to the Sun God.
Kund Snan: Ritual bathing in Bakaria Kund, especially recommended on Sundays.
Shanti Yagna: Fire rituals performed for pacifying Moola Nakshatra afflictions.

Online Booking: For standard darshan, online booking is usually not required as it is a local shrine. However, for specific Yagnas or large Annadanam (free food distribution) events, coordination is managed through the temple trust. You may call the provided contact number at 9305041589 for inquiries regarding specific rituals.

2026 Festival Calendar (Tentative)

The following dates are based on the 2026 Gregorian calendar. Please verify with local Panchangam as dates may shift slightly due to local moon sightings.

Makar Sankranti: January 14, 2026 (Highly significant for Surya worship).
Ratha Saptami: February 4, 2026 (Major festival for Lord Surya).
Maha Shivaratri: February 26, 2026 (Celebrated due to the temple’s connection with Lord Shiva and Parvati).
Paush Purnima: January 13, 2026 (Ideal day for Kund Snan).

5. Practical Visitor Guidance

Dress Code: Traditional Indian attire is recommended. Men should wear dhotis or trousers and shirts, while women should wear sarees, salwar kameez, or full-length skirts. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops to respect the sanctity of the shrine.

Photography Rules: Photography inside the sanctum sanctorum is strictly prohibited. However, you may take photos of the Bakaria Kund and the exterior architecture.

Mobile Lockers: There are no high-tech automated lockers in this local shrine. It is advisable to carry minimal valuables. Small bags can be deposited at the shoe stand (free or nominal fee).

Accessibility: The temple is located near the river bank in Alaipur. The area has narrow lanes. While the main prayer hall is accessible, the steps leading down to the Bakaria Kund may be steep and require assistance for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues.

6. Pilgrimage Connectivity

How to Reach Uttarark Aditya Temple

The temple is located in Alaipur, Bakaria Kund, which is accessible via the ghats of Varanasi.

Nearest Railway Station: Varanasi City Station (approx. 2 km / 10 mins by auto). Varanasi Junction (BSB) is about 4 km away.
Nearest Airport: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS), located approximately 25-30 km from the temple.
By Road: The temple is located near the road winding along the Ganga. Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are the best mode of transport to reach the entrance from Varanasi City Station.

Nearby Sacred Sites

Kedareshwar Temple: Located close to Assi Ghat, this ancient Shiva temple is a must-visit for a holistic Kashi Darshan.
Trilochan Temple: A historic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, situated at the confluence of the Ganga and Varuna rivers.
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple (New): Located about 3-4 km away, this is the primary spiritual anchor of the city.

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the significance of Moola Nakshatra in this temple?

The Moola Nakshatra is considered a challenging star in Vedic astrology. Lord Surya, as Uttarark Aditya, is worshipped here to alleviate the negative effects associated with this star, particularly regarding financial stability and family harmony.

2. Is there a VIP darshan entry available?

As this is a local temple rather than a major commercial shrine, there is no formal VIP darshan ticket system. All devotees generally receive equal access to the deity, though specific ritual timings may require prior booking via the contact number.

3. Can I perform rituals for my ancestors at this temple?

Yes. The temple is historically linked to the purification of ancestral karma. The ritual of bathing in the Bakaria Kund and offering water to the Sun God is traditionally performed for the peace of departed ancestors.

4. When is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?

The best time to visit is early morning (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant and the atmosphere is serene. Avoid weekends and Surya-related festivals if you prefer a quieter darshan.

5. Is the water in Bakaria Kund safe for bathing?

The Kund is considered a sacred water body. While it is maintained by local authorities, the water is not treated like a modern swimming pool. It is traditionally used for ritual dipping (up to the waist) rather than full swimming. Devotees often have faith in the sanctity of the water.

Photo Gallery

Uttarark2-300x293, Uttarark Aditya Temple, Varanasi — Uttarark2-300×293, Uttarark Aditya Temple, Varanasi

How to Reach:

Uttarark Aditya is located in Alaipur, Bakaria Kund, near Varanasi City Station. Devotees can travel upto the place by Auto/Cycle Rickshaw.

Contact Details

Official Address

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