Mangala Aarti at Kashi Vishwanath Temple

What is the Mangala Aarti?

Mangala Aarti is the first ritual of the temple's day. Performed in the pre-dawn hours — the official portal describes it as taking place during Brahma muhurta — it marks the ritual awakening of Lord Vishwanath. The deity is bathed and worshipped with lamps, hymns and bells before the doors open for general darshan.

Spiritual significance

Mangala means auspicious. According to Hindu tradition, the hours before dawn are especially favourable for worship and meditation, and to witness the deity's first darshan of the day is considered deeply meritorious. For many pilgrims, Mangala Aarti is the high point of a visit to Kashi.

Typical timing

According to the official schedule (verified September 2026): 3:00 – 4:00 AM. The official schedule states that ticket holders are permitted during this aarti.

Timings can change on festival days and special occasions. See the full daily schedule.

Who can attend

The official schedule states that ticket holders are permitted during Mangala Aarti. Places are limited, and demand is highest on Mondays, in Sawan and around festivals.

Booking information

Aarti attendance is sold only by the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Trust through its official portal. You register, choose the aarti, date and slot, enter each visitor's details and pay online. Prices are set by the trust and may change; we do not publish them. See our booking guide.

What devotees should know

• Phones, cameras and bags are not allowed inside. Print or note your booking details and use the lockers. See what not to carry.
• Dress modestly; traditional clothing is appropriate. See the temple rules.
• Viewing space near the sanctum is limited, and staff direct where ticket holders stand or sit.
• Photography is not permitted.

How early to arrive

The temple opens at about 2:30 AM on the published schedule. Plan to reach the entry point well before that — leaving time for the walk through the lanes, lockers and security in the dark. Many visitors stay within walking distance for this reason; see where to stay. Check the reporting time and gate shown on your ticket or on the official portal.

Identification and documents

Carry the original government photo ID used for booking (a passport for foreign nationals) and your e-ticket in printed or written form.

Getting there before dawn

Autos and taxis are fewer in the small hours. Arrange transport the evening before, or stay close enough to walk. Carry a small torch or use street lighting; leave your phone at the hotel if you can, since it can't come inside.

Mind the date

Mangala Aarti starts at 3 AM. If you book the aarti for a given date, you need to be at the temple in the early hours of that date — the night after the previous evening.

Compare all five aartis in the aarti guide.