Maa Annapurna Temple Varanasi - Goddess of nourishment

January

4.5 - 27.9 °C

February

7.7 - 31.9 °C

March

11.3 - 39.0 °C

April

17.3 - 43.2 °C

May

20.8 - 45.2 °C

June

23.9 - 44.4 °C

July

24.0 - 39.1 °C

August

23.9 - 36.5 °C

September

22.6 - 36.1 °C

October

16.4 - 35.9 °C

November

10.8 - 32.9 °C

December

6.0 - 29.1 °C

Major Airports :

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS)

Nearest Railway Station :

Varanasi Junction Railway Station (BSB)

Discovering Divine Nourishment

Maa Annapurna Temple is situated in the heart of the ancient and sacred city of Varanasi. It is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the embodiment of sustenance and nourishment, just a stone's throw away from the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple. The spiritual energy of this sacred city envelops you as you step into its hallowed grounds.

Known locally as Bhavani Devi, Maa Annapurna is celebrated as the embodiment of feminine energy and revered as the mother of the three worlds. This temple of Annapurna Devi holds a special place in the hearts of pilgrims who come here seeking blessings for abundance and sustenance. As you walk through its hallowed halls, you'll be captivated by the temple's intricate carvings and exquisite artwork, showcasing the rich architectural heritage of North India.

Behold the Grace of The Divine Goddess

Within the sanctum of the temple, behold the divine idol of Goddess Annapurna, depicted with grace as she delicately holds a ladle and the vessel of sustenance. This poignant representation symbolises her divine role as the provider of nourishment. As devotees gather, they humbly offer a variety of food items as part of their worship, expressing reverence for her eternal benevolence.

Explore The Temple’s Rich Heritage

Erected in 1725 by Peshwa Baji Rao I, the Maratha chieftain, the temple boasts of a rich heritage. This sacred place also has the revered temples of Lord Kuber and Surya, as well as the nearby Dhundhiraj Ganesh Temple, enhancing its spiritual allure.

Legend has it that Maa Annapurna herself served food to Lord Shiva, symbolising the divine act of nourishment and sustenance. This temple also holds the honour of being the place where Adi Shankaracharya composed the Annapurna Stotram, a hymn dedicated to the goddess.

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Timings

Opening time - 05:00 AM to 01:30 PM and 03:30 PM to 10:00 PM

Experience the Joy of Festivals at The Temple

During the Navratri celebrations in September–October, devotees honour Goddess Annapurna as a manifestation of Durga during the Nav Durga Yatra. Specifically, on the eighth day of Navratri, they venerate her divine form known as Mahagauri Durga. Join in this sacred celebration to pay homage to the goddess's boundless grace and generosity.

The temple is also renowned for its celebrations during Dhanteras and the Annakoot festival, held after Deepavali. A pulsating energy fills the air as you immerse yourself in the temple's atmosphere during festivals like Navaratri and Deepavali. Among these festivities, the Annakoot festival shines as a symbol of unity and gratitude. Devotees from all walks of life come together, offering a delightful array of food to Goddess Annapurna, expressing profound appreciation for the abundance they have received.

While the temple graciously provides annadanam, or free meals, every day in the afternoon, individuals and groups extend kindness by serving food to those in need. This compassionate gesture resonates deeply with the temple's dedication to embodying the spirit of Goddess Annapurna, nurturing not only the body but also the soul.

Beyond the Temple

Once you are done exploring Maa Annapurna Temple, Varanasi’s spiritual and other wonders await. Reach the ghats at the banks of the river Ganga and start with Dashashwamedh Ghat known for the beautiful spectacle of the Ganga Aarti. You can venture forth to Manikarnika Ghat, where the solemn rites of cremation unfold, symbolizing the eternal cycle of life from birth to death. Seek solace and serenity at Assi Ghat, where the gentle caress of the sacred Ganga offers an unparalleled riverside experience, inviting contemplation and reflection. Beyond the ghats, Varanasi’s magnificent temples await. Go on a journey of inner awakening and enlightenment at Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Kala Bhairava Temple, Durga Temple, or Bharat Mata Temple. Travel back in time at the Ramnagar Fort, plumb the spiritual depths of Sarnath, marvel at the modern magnificence of New Vishwanath Temple, or revel in the artistic splendour of Bharat Kala Bhavan. There is so much to be discovered, one trip will not feel enough!

Best Time to Visit

A typical visit to Shri Annapurna Temple takes 30 minutes to one hour, depending on crowd levels and participation in rituals. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for a peaceful darshan.

The temple can be visited year-round, though festival days draw larger crowds.

How to Reach

By Air: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) is the nearest airport to the city. It is well connected to major Indian cities, and taxis and app-based cabs are readily available for onward travel.

By Train: Varanasi Junction (BSB) serves as the nearest major railway station. From the station, auto-rickshaws and taxis offer easy access to different parts of the city.

By Road: The temple is located in Varanasi’s old city area, where narrow lanes make walking the most practical option. Visitors can reach nearby landmarks by auto-rickshaw or cycle-rickshaw and explore the final stretch on foot.