मार्कण्डेय महादेव मंदिर

A sacred presence stands on the banks of the Ganga–Gomati confluence at Kaithi, just beyond Varanasi’s bustle — the Markandey Mahadev Temple, where time itself was said to be suspended in devotion.  

Legend tells of Rishi Mrikandu and Marudvati, who sought a child and were offered a choice: a son of long life or one of wisdom and brevity. They chose the latter, and Markandeya was  born. Gifted with devotion and mastery of the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra, he faced death at age 16. But when Yama, the god of death, appeared, the young sage clung to a Shiva linga  and refused to leave. The noose slipped around both him and the linga, and in that moment, Lord Shiva emerged as Kalantaka—the time-destroyer—striking death down to protect his  devotee.  

Marks of that cosmic event remain: the temple is believed to enshrine the very linga where Shiva intervened, granting immortal refuge to Markandeya and blessing future devotees—   promising that “he who comes here finds Shiva before death can claim him.”  

Over centuries, millions have flocked to this Jyotirlinga-level site, especially during Sawan, Mahashivaratri, and Pradosh, seeking healing and protection. Every Monday, the temple  

draws thousands, and a special fair during Shravan and Kartik months brings the place alive with devotion.  

This temple’s stones are worn, but its power endures. Every day, the pilgrim’s whispered reverence echo the story of a boy sage who beat death — reminding us that in Varanasi, devotion still shapes eternity.