The Dakshineswar Kali Temple, located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River in Kolkata, is a significant Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Kali. Founded by Rani Rashmoni in 1855, the temple is renowned for its association with the revered mystic, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. The temple complex, adorned with intricate architecture, houses 12 Shiva shrines, a central Kali temple, and a Radha-Krishna temple, making it a focal point of spiritual and cultural significance in the region.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple, located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, is one of the most revered Hindu temples in Kolkata, dedicated to Goddess Kali. The temple was founded by Rani Rashmoni in 1855 and is known for its association with Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, a renowned mystic and spiritual leader. The temple complex houses a series of 12 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, along with a central temple devoted to Goddess Kali. There is also a Radha-Krishna Temple within the premises.
Temple Specialty: The main deity, Bhavatarini (a form of Kali), is worshipped in the temple. The complex includes 12 Shiva temples, a temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna, and the sacred 'Nahabat' (music tower) where Sri Ramakrishna resided. The temple is a significant place of pilgrimage and is especially crowded during festivals like Kali Puja and Navaratri.
Temple Address: Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700076, India.
Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude): 22.6556° N, 88.3578° E
Temple Timings:
- Morning: 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Evening: 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Temple Sevas:
- Daily rituals and aarti
- Special pujas during festivals
- Annadanam (food offerings to devotees)
Traveling Facilities:
- Food Facilities: There are several eateries and food stalls near the temple complex offering traditional Bengali cuisine and snacks.
- Stay Facilities: Various hotels and guesthouses are available in the vicinity for accommodation.
Nearby Railway Station:
- Dakshineswar Railway Station
Nearby Airport:
- Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata Airport)
Nearby Bus Station:
- Dakshineswar Bus Stand
Bus Routes to Temple:
- Regular bus services are available from different parts of Kolkata to Dakshineswar. Buses from Esplanade, Howrah, and other major hubs in Kolkata have frequent services to Dakshineswar.
Train Routes to Temple:
- Local trains from Sealdah and Howrah stations frequently run to Dakshineswar Railway Station, making it accessible by suburban train services.
Air Ways to Temple:
- The nearest airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Dakshineswar.
Nearby Cities to Temple:
- Kolkata
- Howrah
- Barrackpore
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places:
- Belur Math (Headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission)
- Adyapeath Temple
- Bally Bridge (Vivekananda Setu)
- Alambazar Math
- Kolkata's various attractions including the Victoria Memorial and Indian Museum
Shopping Famous For:
- Traditional Bengali sarees and handicrafts
- Religious artifacts and souvenirs
- Local sweets like Rasgulla and Sandesh
Dakshineswar Kali Temple stands as a beacon of spiritual heritage and architectural grandeur in Kolkata. With its rich history, daily rituals, and vibrant festivals, the temple attracts countless devotees and tourists. Its proximity to key transport hubs and the availability of food and accommodation facilities enhance the overall experience for visitors. Nearby attractions such as Belur Math and the vibrant cityscape of Kolkata further enrich the visit, making Dakshineswar a must-visit destination for those seeking spiritual solace and cultural immersion.
