PopularFree EntrySelf-Manifested IdolArchitectural MarvelReligious, Spiritual, 18th Century HeritageTemple & Sacred Pond

Durga Temple (Monkey Temple) & Durga Kund

Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

Best: October – March (Festivals: Navratri and Shravan Month)

30–60 minutes Required

4.7 Rating

05:00 - 12:00Opening Hours

FREEAdult Entry

ModerateCrowd Level

9/10Safety Score

Highlights

Self-Manifested Idol: Legend says the icon of Durga appeared on its own.

Nagara Architecture: Intricate carvings and conjoined shikharas (spires).

Red Sandstone Spire: The entire structure is stained red with ochre to match the goddess's icon.

Durga Kund: A serene, historic pond right next to the temple.

Overview

The Durga Temple, famously known as the "Monkey Temple" due to the large resident monkey population, is one of Varanasi’s most iconic Shakti shrines. Built in the 18th century by Rani Bhabani of Natore (Bengal), the temple is striking for its vibrant red ochre exterior, symbolizing the power (Shakti) of the goddess. It is dedicated to Goddess Kushmanda (the fourth form of Durga), and the central idol is believed to be Swayambhu (self-manifested). Adjacent to the temple is the Durga Kund, a large rectangular sacred pond that was historically connected to the Ganges. The temple's North Indian Nagara architecture, featuring multi-tiered shikharas (spires), is considered one of the finest in the city.

#Durga Temple#Monkey Temple#Kushmanda Durga#Durgakund#Nagara Architecture

Full Schedule

Monday

05:00 – 12:0016:00 – 21:00

Tuesday

05:00 – 12:0016:00 – 21:00

Wednesday

05:00 – 12:0016:00 – 21:00

Thursday

05:00 – 12:0016:00 – 21:00

Friday

05:00 – 12:0016:00 – 21:00

Saturday

05:00 – 12:0016:00 – 21:00

Sunday

05:00 – 12:0016:00 – 21:00

05:00 - 12:00

Ticket Pricing

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Free Entry

How to Reach

Auto: Varanasi Junction (BSB)

6 km25 min

Approx Fare: N/A

Direct autos are readily available.

Taxi: LBS International Airport

26 km 60 min

Approx Fare: N/A

Taxi is the most comfortable option.

Walk: Assi Ghat

1.5 km15

Approx Fare: N/A

A pleasant walk through the local markets.

Auto: BHU Main Gate

2 km10 Minutes

Approx Fare: ₹10 – ₹20

Very close to the university campus.

Smart Tips

Monkey Alert: The monkeys here are "temperamental". Avoid carrying visible food, plastic bags, or wearing loose spectacles.

Photography Restriction: While the exterior is highly photogenic, photography is generally prohibited inside the inner sanctum.

Navratri Special: Visit on the fourth day of Navratri, which is dedicated to Goddess Kushmanda, for a grand celebration.

Clothing: Wear modest clothing as a mark of respect in this highly traditional space.

Emergency & Safety Info

Nearest Hospital

BHU Trauma Centre

(3.5 km away)

Police Station

Bhelupur Police Station

(1.5 km away)

Local Hotline

112

Available 24/7 for Tourists

Entry Price

FREE

Secure Payment100% Safe Transaction

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ADDRESS: F5XH+8HJ, Durga Mandir, Chakmadhu,
Bauria, Fort Gloster, Howrah,
Kolkata, West Bengal 711310

PHONE: +91 81005 39204

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Durga Temple (Monkey Temple) & Durga Kund

Highlights