New Vishwanath Temple (BHU)

About

The Shri Vishwanath Mandir, often called the New Vishwanath Temple or Birla Mandir, stands at the heart of the Banaras Hindu University campus. It was envisioned by Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, the founder of BHU, and built with the support of the Birla family.

Completed in the 1960s, the temple is modelled on the original Kashi Vishwanath and its white marble shikhara is one of the tallest temple spires in India. The walls carry verses from the Gita and other scriptures.

Unlike many old temples, it was built to be open to everyone, regardless of caste or religion. The calm, spacious complex and the green university campus around it make it a peaceful break from the crowded old city.

Don't miss

• Towering white marble shikhara
• Gita verses on the walls
• Open to people of all faiths
• Green BHU campus

Travel tips

• Evenings are lovely, with the temple lit up and the campus calm.
• Combine with Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, also inside BHU.
• Pair with Sankat Mochan and Durga Kund, which are on the way.

Location

Inside Banaras Hindu University campus