Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a renowned Hindu temple in Dakshineswar, close to Kolkata, West Bengal, India. It is dedicated to Goddess Kali, an intense manifestation of the Divine Mother in Hinduism. The temple was constructed in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni, a prosperous philanthropist and Kali devotee. The temple is on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River and has an area of approximately 25 acres.
The central temple features a nine-spired building and contains the idol of Goddess Bhavatarini, an incarnation of Kali. The temple premises also feature 12 smaller shrines of Lord Shiva and a Radha-Krishna temple. The temple is popular for its links with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, the 19th-century saint, who was head priest here for 30 years. His divine teachings and experience at the temple draw devotees and seekers worldwide.
The temple attracts more than 1 million pilgrims every year, particularly during celebrations such as Kali Puja, Durga Puja, and Snan Yatra. The architecture of the temple depicts the traditional Bengali style with its high spires and detailed designs. Dakshineswar Kali Temple is not only a religious place but also an icon of Bengal’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. It is still one of the most frequented pilgrimage destinations in eastern India.
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Overview Table of Dakshineswar Kali Temple
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Kolkata, West Bengal, on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River |
| Built in | 1855 |
| Built by | Rani Rashmoni |
| Main Deity | Goddess Kali |
| Temple Area | 25 acres |
| Main Temple Height | 100 feet |
| Shiva Temples | 12 smaller temples dedicated to Lord Shiva |
| Timings | 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM (every day) |
| Famous For | Connection with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa |
| Distance from Kolkata | About 13 kilometers |
| Festivals | Kali Puja, Navratri |
| Special Features | Thousand-petaled silver lotus, large courtyard, and river bathing ghat |
Timings of Dakshineswar Kali Temple
| Activity | Timings |
|---|---|
| Morning Opening | 6:00 AM |
| Morning Closing | 12:30 PM |
| Afternoon Opening | 3:00 PM |
| Evening Closing | 8:30 PM |
| Aarti Timings | 5:00 AM (Morning) and 7:00 PM (Evening) |
| Special Pooja Timings | Check with temple authorities |
Prices of Sevas and Darshans at Dakshineswar Kali Temple
| Seva/Darshan | Price (Approx.) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Darshan | Free | General visit to the temple for darshan of Goddess Kali |
| Mangal Aarti | Free | Morning aarti performed to wake the deity |
| Sandhya Aarti | Free | Evening aarti performed with lamps and chanting |
| Nitya Bhog | Free | Daily offering of food to the deity |
| Special Poojas | ₹100 – ₹5,000 | Poojas like Kali Pooja, Shiva Abhishek, etc. (price varies based on type) |
| Festival Darshan | Free (or donation-based) | Special darshan during festivals like Kali Puja, Navratri, etc. |
| Annadanam | Free (or donation-based) | Free food offering for devotees (on specific days) |
| Ganga Aarti | Free | Aarti performed at the ghat by the Hooghly River |
How to Reach Dakshineswar Kali Temple
The Dakshineswar Kali Temple is located near Kolkata, West Bengal. Here are the routes to reach the temple:
By Air:
- The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata.
- From the airport, take a taxi or cab to the temple. It is about 20 kilometers and takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
By Train:
- The nearest railway station is Dakshineswar Railway Station, just 1 kilometer from the temple.
- Local trains from Sealdah Station (Kolkata) frequently run to Dakshineswar.
By Metro:
- Take the Kolkata Metro to Dum Dum Metro Station.
- From there, take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus to the temple (around 8 kilometers).
By Bus:
- Many government and private buses run from Kolkata to Dakshineswar.
- Look for buses going to Dakshineswar Bus Stand, which is near the temple.
By Car/Taxi:
- From Kolkata city center, drive towards Baranagar via BT Road or Kolkata Barrackpore Expressway.
- The temple is about 13 kilometers from Kolkata and takes around 30-40 minutes by car.
By Boat:
- You can also take a boat ride from Belur Math or other ghats on the Hooghly River to reach the temple.
Contact Details of Dakshineswar Kali Temple
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal – 700076, India |
| Phone Number | +91-33-2564-5222 (Temple Office) |
| info@dakshineswarkalitemple.org (example, check official website) | |
| Official Website | www.dakshineswarkalitemple.org |
| Emergency Contact | +91-33-2564-5100 (For any urgent assistance) |
Note: For specific inquiries about poojas, darshan, or festivals, it is best to contact the temple office directly or visit their official website.
FAQs About Dakshineswar Kali Temple
What are the temple timings?
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3:00 PM to 8:30 PM every day.
Is there an entry fee?
No, there is no entry fee for visiting the temple.
Can I book poojas online?
Yes, some poojas can be booked online through the temple’s official website.
What is the best time to visit?
Early morning or evening during aarti time is the best time to visit for a peaceful experience.
Are photography and mobile phones allowed?
Photography is not allowed inside the main temple. Mobile phones should be kept on silent mode.
Is there parking available?
Yes, parking facilities are available near the temple for cars and two-wheelers.
How far is the temple from Kolkata?
The temple is about 13 kilometers from Kolkata city center.
Are there facilities for elderly or disabled visitors?
Yes, the temple has ramps and seating arrangements for elderly and disabled visitors.
Can I bring offerings to the temple?
Yes, you can bring flowers, fruits, or sweets as offerings.
Is there a dress code?
Visitors are expected to dress modestly. Avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothes.
Are non-Hindus allowed to visit?
Yes, the temple welcomes visitors of all faiths.
What are the main festivals celebrated here?
Kali Puja, Navratri, and other Hindu festivals are celebrated with great devotion.
Is there a canteen or food facility?
Yes, there is a canteen where you can have prasadam or simple meals.
How can I donate to the temple?
Donations can be made at the temple office or through their official website.
Who can I contact for more information?
You can call the temple office at +91-33-2564-5222 or visit their official website.