Durga Kund Temple, Varanasi
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
Durga Kund Temple is the red sandstone temple of Goddess Durga in southern Varanasi, standing beside a rectangular pond (kund). It dates from the 18th century, in the style of the north Indian Nagara temples, and the red walls reflected in the water make it one of the most photographed temples in the city. It is also called the Monkey Temple for the monkeys that live around it.
What to see and do
- See the red temple and its reflection in the kund
- Have darshan of Goddess Durga
- Walk around the pond and look at the carved details
- Visit it with Tulsi Manas Mandir, which is nearby
Ideal for
- Devotees of the Goddess
- Photographers
- Visitors who want a lively, local temple
Good to know
- Tuesdays and Navratri are the busiest days, with long queues
- Timings are not confirmed, so check locally
- Monkeys snatch bags and food, so keep belongings secure
- Dress modestly, and leave shoes at the entrance
- Allow about 30 to 45 minutes
Spiritual significance
Durga Kund is where Varanasi worships the Goddess in her fierce, protective form. The temple is a lively contrast to the calm of the Shiva temples.
Why it matters
- The Goddess of Kashi: the main Durga temple of Varanasi
- A red temple by a pond: one of the most striking sights in the city
- Busy at Navratri: a good place to see festival devotion