Why Varanasi's Annapurna Devi Mandir Is Famous: Story & Facts
The Annapurna Devi Mandir in Varanasi is a Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of food and nourishment. It is close to the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Built in 1729 by the Maratha leader Baji Rao I, this temple is famous for its beautiful architecture, two divine idols (one brass, one golden), and its role in helping feed people. Every year, festivals like Annakoot make the temple even more special.
Introduction
When you walk in the busy streets of Varanasi, you will reach a temple that celebrates food, giving, and blessings—the Annapurna Devi Mandir. People visit here not just to pray but to feel the spiritual energy and see a temple that truly represents nourishment.
The temple is very close to the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, making it part of a major spiritual hub in Varanasi.
Why is Annapurna Devi Mandir famous in Varanasi?
The Annapurna Temple is famous for several reasons:
Goddess of Food: Annapurna is considered the goddess who provides food to the world. This makes the temple spiritually very important.
Historical Background: Built in 1729 by Maratha Peshwa Baji Rao I, the temple reflects Maratha culture and devotion.
Architecture: The temple is built in Nagara style with two divine idols—one brass, one golden.
Festivals: The Annakoot Festival is celebrated with much joy, attracting thousands of devotees.
Community Service: The temple feeds visitors and needy people daily, making it unique.
What is the Story of Kashi Annapurna?
The story behind the temple is simple but powerful:
Lord Shiva once said that everything in the world, including food, is an illusion.
Goddess Parvati wanted to teach an important lesson. She made all the food disappear, causing hunger everywhere.
Shiva realised the importance of food and approached Parvati.
Parvati then appeared as Goddess Annapurna and gave food to the world.
This story is why the temple is called Annapurna Devi Mandir and why people visit here to seek blessings for abundance and nourishment.
How Far is Annapurna Devi from Varanasi?
The temple is located in Visheshwarganj, very near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
From the main Varanasi city area, it is only a short walk of about 500–700 meters.
Visitors can easily reach it by auto, cycle-rickshaw, or on foot.
Being close to one of Varanasi’s most famous temples makes Annapurna Devi Mandir convenient for pilgrims and tourists..
If you are planning a trip to Varanasi, you can also explore this temple as part of a Kashi Tour Package (1 Night / 2 Days) offered by See City Destination for a smooth and guided experience.
Quick Facts About Annapurna Devi Mandir, Varanasi
What is the Speciality of Annapurna Devi Temple?
The temple has many special features that make it unique:
Two Idols: A brass idol for daily worship and a golden idol revealed only during the Annakoot festival.
Daily Food Offering: Anyone hungry can eat at the temple; devotees also donate food.
Festivals: The Annakoot Festival, celebrated the day after Diwali, is famous for showing the golden idol and feeding thousands.
Architecture: Built in Nagara style with a beautiful pillared hall, reflecting Maratha heritage.
Cultural Significance: The temple is a centre of devotion, learning, and community service.
Planning to witness the Annakoot Festival? You can contact See City Destination or call +91 6392124866 for guided tour assistance.
Architecture of Annapurna Devi Mandir
The Annapurna Temple’s structure is simple but elegant:
Sanctum Sanctorum: Houses the main idols of the goddess.
Mandapa (Pillared Hall): Where devotees gather for prayers and festivals.
Idols: Brass for daily worship, golden for annual festival display.
The temple’s design allows easy movement for devotees while showing the rich culture of the Maratha period.
What Happens Daily at Annapurna Devi Mandir?
Every day, the temple follows a routine that connects people with both spirituality and community care:
Opening Hours: 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Morning Aarti: Early morning prayers start with chants and bells.
Darshan: Devotees offer flowers, sweets, and prayers.
Food Offering: From 9 AM to 3 PM, the temple serves meals to visitors and anyone in need.
Evening Aarti: A peaceful ritual with lights and music that fills the temple with energy.
This daily routine keeps the temple alive with devotion and kindness.
Why Is the Annakoot Festival So Special at Annapurna Temple?
The Annakoot Festival is the most important celebration at Annapurna Devi Mandir:
Celebrated the day after Diwali.
The golden idol of Goddess Annapurna is revealed to devotees.
Special prayers are offered, and food is distributed to thousands of visitors.
People from Varanasi and nearby cities participate in this festival.
During this time, Varanasi glows with lights, chants, and happiness. The Annakoot festival reminds everyone to share food and kindness.
How Can You Visit Annapurna Devi Mandir in Varanasi?
If you plan to visit the temple, here are a few details:
Location: Visheshwarganj, near Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Temple Hours: 4:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily.
Best Time: Visit early morning or evening to avoid rush hours.
Festival Visit: During Annakoot, arrive early as the temple gets crowded.
Dress Code: Wear modest clothes and remove shoes before entering.
Local Tip: Combine your visit with Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Dashashwamedh Ghat for a complete Varanasi experience.
Key Takeaways About Annapurna Devi Mandir
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Annapurna, the goddess of food and nourishment.
Built in 1729 AD by Peshwa Baji Rao I.
Features two idols — brass (daily) and golden (festival).
Celebrates Annakoot Festival after Diwali.
Located near Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Visheshwarganj.
Serves food to everyone, representing the value of sharing and kindness.
People Also Ask
Q1: Why is Annapurna Temple famous?
Answer: It is famous because it honours Goddess Annapurna, who provides food. The temple’s festivals, history, and community service also make it special.
Q2: What is the story of Kashi Annapurna?
Answer: Goddess Parvati disappeared food to teach its value. Lord Shiva realised its importance, and she appeared as Annapurna to provide food to the world.
Q3: How far is Annapurna Devi from Varanasi?
Answer: It is in Visheshwarganj, just a short walk (about 500–700 meters) from the main city area near Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Q4: What is the speciality of Annapurna Devi?
Answer: The temple serves food to the needy, has two unique idols, celebrates the Annakoot festival, and has Nagara-style architecture.
Q5: When is the golden idol shown?
Answer: The golden idol is shown only during the Annakoot Festival, the day after Diwali.
Final Thoughts: Why Every Devotee Should Visit Annapurna Devi Mandir
The Annapurna Devi Mandir in Varanasi is not just a temple—it is a place that teaches kindness, care, and respect for food. From its history, architecture, and festivals to its daily food offerings, the temple is a living example of spirituality and community service.
Visiting this temple gives you a deep sense of devotion, culture, and tradition, making it one of the must-see spiritual spots in Varanasi.
Plan your Varanasi trip:
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Whether you want a guided tour, a complete itinerary, or help with local tips, See City Destination can help you explore Varanasi and Annapurna Devi Mandir effortlessly.
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