Shri Batuk Bhairav Temple & Shri Aadi Bhairav Temple, Varanasi
About the Temple
Shri Batuk Bhairav Mandir is one of Varanasi’s most revered Bhairav shrines, dedicated to the child form (Batuk) of Lord Bhairav — the fierce yet protective manifestation of Lord Shiva. Situated on Rathyatra–Kamachha Road in Bhelupur, the temple is deeply rooted in the city’s spiritual life. Devotees gather here daily for darshan, sacred aartis, and special observances during major Hindu festivals.
History & Significance
Shri Batuk Bhairav Temple is one of the most ancient and revered Bhairav shrines of Varanasi. Batuk Bhairav is worshipped as the child form (Batuk/Balaroop) of Lord Bhairav, who himself is a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. According to local belief, Bhairav is the guardian of Kashi, and no spiritual journey in Varanasi is considered complete without his blessings.
Legends say that Lord Shiva manifested as Batuk Bhairav in Kashi to protect devotees from evil forces. While Bhairav in his full form is fierce and awe-inspiring, the Batuk form is compassionate and approachable, symbolizing protection, courage, and the removal of obstacles in a devotee’s life.
The temple, though modest in structure, is spiritually powerful. It is believed that the deity accepts even the simplest offerings — flowers, sweets, or even local customs like biscuits — with devotion. Worshippers especially seek blessings for protection from negative influences, fearlessness in life, and strength to overcome difficulties.
Festivals & Celebrations
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Mahashivaratri — Night-long vigils and pujas.
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Batuk Bhairav Jayanti — The most important day dedicated to Batuk Bhairav.
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Navaratri — Many devotees visit Bhairav shrines during this period.
Quick Facts
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Opening Hours:
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Monday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 11:30 PM
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Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM – 11:30 PM
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Wednesday–Sunday: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
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Main Rituals: Darshan, daily aarti, prasad, and special pujas during Mahashivaratri, Navaratri, and Batuk Bhairav Jayanti.
Visitor Information
Darshan & Aarti: Morning darshan from 6:00 AM; evening aartis attract large crowds. Mornings before 9:00 AM are calmer.
Offerings & Prasad: Flowers, incense, sweets, and in some traditions, biscuits or small food items. Prasad is distributed after rituals.
Accessibility: Located on a side street in Bhelupur, near Maharana Pratap Colony. Allow extra travel time from ghats or city landmarks.
Practical FAQ
Q1: Is there an entry fee?
A: No. Entry is free. Donations are voluntary.
Q2: Can I request a special puja?
A: Yes. Priests arrange special pujas and conduct regular aartis.
Q3: Best time to visit?
A: Early mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) for peace, evenings for energetic aarti.
Q4: How much time does a temple visit take?
A: On regular days, a visit takes 20–30 minutes. During festivals, expect 1–2 hours.
Q5: Are photography and videography allowed?
A: Photography outside the temple is generally allowed. Inside, it is best to ask temple authorities or follow posted guidelines.
Q6: Is the temple accessible for senior citizens?
A: Yes. The temple has a simple entrance without steep steps, but during peak crowds, mobility may be difficult.
Q7: Can prasad be taken home?
A: Yes. Packets of prasad are distributed and can be carried home or shared with family.
Q8: What festivals are most important here?
A: Mahashivaratri, Batuk Bhairav Jayanti, and Navaratri attract the largest crowds.
Q9: Is parking available near the temple?
A: Limited parking is available on side roads near the temple. Auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws are the easiest way to reach.
Q10: Can foreigners or non-Hindus visit?
A: Yes. The temple is open to all visitors, provided they respect local customs and dress modestly.
Q11: Is there an official temple trust website or donation link?
A: Currently, donations are usually made directly at the temple. Contact the priests for specific arrangements.
Reviews & Testimonials
Contact & Support
Contact Us
Temple Address: 8X3V+862, Rathyatra Kamachha Rd, near Kashirag Apartment, Maharana Pratap Colony, Gurubagh, Bhelupur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010.
Phone (public listing): +91 70524 09049(People suggested this number to contact)
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