Durga Temple

The Durga Temple in Varanasi, locally known as the Monkey Temple due to the large population of monkeys in its premises, is dedicated to Goddess Durga. Built in the 18th century in Nagara style using red sandstone, the temple sits beside the Durga Kund, a sacred tank where devotees take a ritual dip. The temple complex is especially vibrant during Navratri, when thousands gather for special prayers and cultural performances. Despite the nickname, the temple is a serious place of Shakti worship and is considered one of the most important Durga shrines in Varanasi.