Is Durga Temple (India) Worth Visiting?
Durga Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple due to the numerous monkeys residing there, is a significant Hindu temple in Varanasi, India. It's all about experiencing the vibrant religious culture and intricate architecture that India is known for, making it a popular destination for both pilgrims and tourists.
The temple's standout feature is its red ochre colour and its dedication to the goddess Durga. Its popularity stems from its religious importance and the unique atmosphere created by the resident monkeys, offering a memorable and somewhat chaotic experience that many find appealing.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit Durga Temple (India)
Planning your visit to Durga Temple? Knowing the best time to visit will help you avoid crowds and make the most of your experience. Here's what you need to know about the opening hours and the best time to see this iconic temple.
- Opening Hours: The temple is generally open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily. However, timings may vary slightly depending on the season and special festivals.
 
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the temple and its surroundings.
 
- Best Days/Times to Go: To avoid large crowds, try visiting on weekdays, especially during the morning hours (6:00 AM to 10:00 AM). Weekends and public holidays tend to be busier.
 
- Estimated Visit Duration: Allow approximately 1-2 hours to fully experience the temple, observe the rituals, and explore the surrounding area.
 
Location Details about Durga Temple (India)
Want to know where Durga Temple is located? Finding the temple is easy with these location details. Here's everything you need to know about the temple's location and accessibility.
- Address: Durga Kund Road, Durgakund, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221010, India.
 
- Parking Availability: Limited parking is available near the temple. It's advisable to hire a local auto-rickshaw or taxi, as parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours.
 
- Wheelchair Accessibility: The temple has limited wheelchair accessibility due to the presence of steps and uneven terrain. It's best to check with the temple authorities in advance for assistance.
 
How Much to Enter / Visit Durga Temple (India)
Curious about the cost of visiting Durga Temple? The good news is that visiting this sacred site is free. Here's what you need to know about tickets, passes, and tours.
- Entry Fee: Entry to Durga Temple is free for all visitors.
 
- Pricing Variations: There are no pricing variations between weekends and weekdays, or for adults and children, as entry is free for everyone.
 
- Where to Buy: As there are no tickets, there is no need to buy anything to enter the temple. However, you may want to purchase offerings such as flowers or sweets from vendors outside the temple.
 
How To Go to Durga Temple (India)
Planning your journey to Durga Temple? Getting there is relatively straightforward with various transportation options available. Here's how to go to Durga Temple using different modes of transport.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) in Varanasi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing service like Traveloka to reach Durga Temple, which is approximately 25 km away.
 
- By Train: Varanasi Junction (BSB) is the main railway station. From the station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Durga Temple, which is about 7 km away.
 
- By Road: Varanasi is well-connected by road to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and neighbouring states. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach the city. Once in Varanasi, local transport options like auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are readily available to reach the temple.
 
- Public Transport Tips: Auto-rickshaws are a convenient and affordable way to get around Varanasi. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Ride Hailing services are also available for a more comfortable ride.
 
Things To Do in or near the Durga Temple
Looking for things to do in and around Durga Temple? There's plenty to see and experience in this vibrant part of Varanasi. Here are some nearby attractions and activities to make your visit memorable.
- Activities in Durga Temple:
- Participate in the daily prayers and rituals.
 
- Observe the intricate architecture and the red ochre colour of the temple.
 
- Interact with the resident monkeys (but be cautious and avoid direct eye contact).
 
- Explore the Durga Kund, a sacred pond adjacent to the temple.
 
- Purchase religious souvenirs and offerings from the vendors outside the temple.
 
 
- Activities Nearby Durga Temple:
- Visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, another famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
 
- Explore Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of the largest residential universities in Asia.
 
- Take a boat ride on the Ganges River and witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony.
 
- Wander through the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city and experience the local culture.
 
- Visit the Bharat Mata Temple, which houses a map of undivided India.
 
 
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Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the Durga Temple India
Navigating public transport near Durga Temple? While Varanasi doesn't have an MRT system, there are several bus stops nearby that can help you get around. Here's what you need to know about nearby bus stations.
- Nearby Bus Stops:
- Durga Kund Bus Stop: Located right outside the temple, this bus stop is served by local buses connecting to various parts of Varanasi.
 
- Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Bus Stop: Approximately 2 km from Durga Temple, this bus stop offers a wider range of bus routes to different parts of the city.
 
- Ravindrapuri Bus Stop: About 3 km from the temple, this bus stop is another convenient option for catching local buses.
 
 
Tips To Go to Durga Temple (India) and Safety Tips
Planning a safe and enjoyable visit to Durga Temple? Here are some essential tips to keep in mind. From what to bring to ensuring your safety, these guidelines will help you make the most of your trip.
- What to Bring:
- Comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
 
- Modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as this is a religious site.
 
- Sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
 
- A water bottle to stay hydrated.
 
- Hand sanitiser, as hygiene can be a concern.
 
 
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings safe.
 
- Avoid direct eye contact with the monkeys and do not feed them, as they can become aggressive.
 
- Negotiate the fare with auto-rickshaw drivers before starting your journey.
 
- Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
 
- Respect the local customs and traditions.
 
 
Best Hotel Area in India
Deciding where to stay in India can be overwhelming, given the country's vastness and diversity. Here's a guide to some of the best areas to stay, catering to different preferences and travel styles.
- New Delhi: Ideal for first-time visitors, offering a mix of historical sites, modern amenities, and excellent connectivity.
 
- Jaipur, Rajasthan: Perfect for those interested in history and culture, with stunning forts, palaces, and vibrant markets.
 
- Goa: Great for beach lovers and those seeking a relaxed atmosphere, with a variety of beaches, nightlife, and water sports.
 
- Kerala: Suitable for nature enthusiasts and those looking for a tranquil escape, with lush greenery, backwaters, and Ayurvedic treatments.
 
- Mumbai: Best for experiencing the bustling city life, Bollywood, and diverse culinary scene.
 
Where to Eat Inside or near Durga Temple (India)
Craving some delicious Indian food near Durga Temple? While there might not be cafes inside the temple itself, Varanasi offers a plethora of dining options nearby. Here are some places to eat, from cafes and restaurants to local street food.
- Cafes/Restaurants:
- Kashi Chat Bhandar: A popular spot known for its delicious local snacks and sweets, located a short auto-rickshaw ride from Durga Temple.
 
- Brown Bread Bakery: Located in the Assi Ghat area, this bakery offers a variety of baked goods, sandwiches, and continental dishes.
 
- Dina Chat Bhandar: Another famous chat place near Dashashwamedh Ghat, offering a range of local snacks and sweets.
 
 
- Local Street Food:
- Chole Bhature: A spicy chickpea curry served with fried bread, a popular breakfast and snack option.
 
- Lassi: A creamy yogurt-based drink, available in various flavours like sweet, salted, and mango.
 
- Baati Chokha: A traditional dish consisting of baked wheat balls (baati) served with mashed potatoes and eggplant (chokha).
 
 
Shopping Places near Durga Temple (Vārānasi)
Looking for shopping destinations near Durga Temple in Varanasi? While the immediate vicinity is more focused on religious sites, there are several shopping places within a reasonable distance. Here are some options for your retail therapy.
- Vishal Mega Mart: A large supermarket offering a variety of groceries, household items, and clothing.
 
- IP Vijaya Mall: Located a bit further away, this mall offers a range of branded stores, a food court, and entertainment options.
 
- Thatheri Bazaar: Known for its brassware and metal crafts, this market is a great place to find unique souvenirs and traditional items.
 
Best Hotels to Stay near Durga Temple (India)
Finding the perfect place to stay near Durga Temple? While options directly adjacent to the temple may be limited, Varanasi offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels to consider in India.
- The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
 
- Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
 
- Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
 
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Hotels with Swimming Pools near Durga Temple
Want to relax by the pool after a day of exploring Durga Temple? While finding hotels with swimming pools directly near the temple might be challenging, there are several options in Varanasi and other parts of India that offer this amenity.
- The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
 
- Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
 
- Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
 
Hotels with Parking near Durga Temple
Driving to Durga Temple and need a hotel with parking? Finding accommodations with parking facilities can make your trip much more convenient. Here are some hotels in India that offer parking for their guests.
- The Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
 
- Rambagh Palace, Jaipur
 
- Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
 
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Best Accommodations near Indira Gandhi International Airport
Need a convenient place to stay near Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi? Here are some of the best accommodations that offer easy access to the airport, making your travel seamless and stress-free.
Average Room Rate hotels near Durga Temple
Planning your budget for accommodations near Durga Temple? Hotel prices can vary depending on the season, availability, and type of accommodation. It's always a good idea to check Traveloka for the latest prices and deals to get the best rates.
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Conclusion
When planning your trip to Durga Temple and the surrounding areas in India, Traveloka is your go-to platform for booking accommodations and flights. With a wide range of options and competitive prices, Traveloka makes it easy to find the perfect hotel to suit your needs and budget.
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