Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Dress Code & Temple Rules

• For sparsh (touch) darshan of the lingam, traditional dress is expected: men in dhoti-kurta, women in saree. Without it you may be allowed darshan only from outside the sanctum.
• For general darshan there is no strict traditional-only rule and western clothes are permitted, but modest cover of shoulders and legs is expected as a mark of respect.
• Leather items are not allowed inside; remove belts with metal buckles, wallets and leather bags before entering.
• Mobile phones, cameras, and electronics are prohibited in the sanctum area; free locker/cloakroom facilities operate near the corridor gates.
• Shoes are removed and deposited outside; cigarettes, lighters and any tobacco are not permitted.
• Carry as little as possible; security checks are thorough, and small bags speed up the queue. Offerings like Ganga jal, flowers and bilva leaves are allowed.

There are effectively two dress standards here, and the difference decides how close you get to the lingam. For sparsh darshan, the touch darshan where you can physically offer water or bilva leaves on the Jyotirlinga, traditional attire is required: dhoti-kurta for men, saree for women. Turn up in jeans and you will likely be directed to view the deity from outside the inner sanctum instead.

For ordinary darshan there is no traditional-only mandate and western clothes are accepted, but modesty is expected. Cover your shoulders and legs; avoid shorts, sleeveless tops and anything flashy. This is a working temple in a crowd of devotees, not a monument, so err conservative.

Security shapes what you can bring more than what you wear. Leather goods (belts with metal buckles, wallets, bags), mobile phones, cameras, cigarettes and lighters are all barred from the sanctum. Free lockers and cloakrooms operate near the corridor gates, but queues form at peak hours, so travel light, carry only your offerings, and leave valuables at your hotel where possible.

Compiled from public sources including Shri Kashi Vishwanath official portal - Rituals · Shri Kashi Vishwanath official portal - Important Parvas · Wikipedia - Kashi Vishwanath Temple · PilgrimageTour - Kashi Vishwanath timings & entry fee. Timings and seasonal closures change; confirm with the temple trust before travelling.