Why is Kal Bhairav called the kotwal of Kashi?
In Hindu tradition, Kal Bhairav, a fierce form of Shiva, is the guardian of Kashi — its kotwal or magistrate — who protects the city and keeps account of its people's deeds. Many pilgrims seek his darshan at the start or end of a Kashi pilgrimage. His temple is at Bhaironath near Maidagin, about 2 km from Kashi Vishwanath.
Kal Bhairav Temple
- Presiding deity
- Kal Bhairav (a fierce form of Shiva)
- Location
- Bhaironath, near Maidagin, Varanasi
- From Kashi Vishwanath
- About 2 km (approximate)
On this page
The tradition
Because of this, Kal Bhairav is worshipped as Kashi's kotwal. A popular belief holds that a pilgrimage to Kashi is incomplete without his darshan, and that even Yama, the god of death, has no power in Kashi without Bhairava's leave.
What to expect
The temple is small, busy and full of devotion. Devotees commonly offer mustard oil, flowers and sweets, and many receive a black thread (kala dhaga) tied on the wrist as protection. Sundays and Tuesdays, and the festival of Kalashtami, are especially busy.
Getting there
From Kashi Vishwanath, take an e-rickshaw towards Maidagin (10–20 minutes) or walk (25–30 minutes). The last stretch is through a lane.
Visiting tips
- Carry little; there may be security checks and crowding.
- Dress modestly.
- Agree prices for offerings before buying.
Combine with
Frequently asked questions
Should I visit Kal Bhairav before or after Kashi Vishwanath?
Practice varies. Many pilgrims visit Kal Bhairav at the start of their Kashi stay to seek permission, others at the end. Both are common.
What is offered at Kal Bhairav?
Commonly mustard oil, flowers and sweets. Many devotees receive a protective black thread.
Sources and further reading
We link to primary and authoritative sources. External links open in a new tab.
- Kaal Bhairav Mandir, Varanasi (encyclopaedia entry with cited references) (opens in a new tab)
Wikipedia — Reference work, checked September 2026
- Banaras: City of Light — Diana L. Eck (Knopf, 1982; Columbia University Press reprint) (opens in a new tab)
Columbia University Press — Scholarly source, checked September 2026
Written and maintained by the KashiVishwanathTemple.net Editorial Team. Last updated . Found an error? Tell us — see our editorial policy.
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