Kolkata, West Bengal
Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a renowned Hindu temple located in Dakshineswar near Kolkata, West Bengal, India, dedicated to Goddess Kali in her form as Bhavatarini. Situated on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, the temple was built in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni, a philanthropist and devotee of Kali. The temple is renowned for its association with the mystic Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, who served as its head priest, bringing spiritual prominence to the temple. Built in the traditional Navaratna (nine-spired) style of Bengal architecture, the three-story temple stands over 100 feet tall and features a complex with twelve identical Shiva temples, a Radha-Krishna temple, and a bathing ghat on the Hooghly River. The temple attracts millions of devotees and tourists annually, especially during festivals like Kali Puja, making it one of Kolkata's most significant religious and spiritual destinations.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple holds immense religious significance as a major center of Kali worship and is closely associated with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, one of the most revered mystics and saints of 19th-century India. Rani Rashmoni, a devout follower of Kali, initiated the temple's construction after a divine vision instructed her to build a temple on the Ganges' banks. The temple was consecrated on May 31, 1855, and Sri Ramakrishna's tenure as head priest brought spiritual prominence to the temple, attracting numerous devotees and establishing it as a center of spiritual learning and devotion. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali in her form as Bhavatarini, meaning "She who liberates her devotees from the ocean of existence." The temple complex includes twelve identical Shiva temples along the riverfront, representing the twelve Jyotirlingas, and a temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna, reflecting the diverse aspects of Hindu worship. The temple hosts several significant festivals including Kali Puja (celebrated during Diwali), Navratri with the sacred Kumari Puja, and Kalpataru Utsav held annually on January 1st, commemorating Sri Ramakrishna's revelation as an avatar. The temple continues to serve as a vital center of devotion, attracting millions of devotees seeking spiritual solace and blessings.
Navaratna Style: Built in the traditional Navaratna (nine-spired) style of Bengal architecture
Three-Story Structure: The temple stands over 100 feet tall with three stories
Main Sanctum: The sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of Bhavatarini standing on a silver lotus throne
Twelve Shiva Temples: Twelve identical Shiva temples along the riverfront, representing the twelve Jyotirlingas
Radha-Krishna Temple: A temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna within the complex
Bathing Ghat: A bathing ghat on the Hooghly River for ritual bathing
Rani Rashmoni Shrine: A shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni, the temple's founder
Nahabat (Music Tower): The music tower, notable as the residence of Sarada Devi, Sri Ramakrishna's wife
Visiting Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free entry for all visitors
Dress Code: Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully as it is a place of worship
Photography: Check photography policies before taking pictures; some areas may have restrictions
Festival Periods: The temple becomes particularly crowded during festivals like Kali Puja, Navratri, and Kalpataru Utsav
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for a peaceful visit, or during festivals to experience the celebrations
Ritual Bathing: Visitors can use the bathing ghat on the Hooghly River for ritual bathing
Respectful Behavior: Visitors should maintain respectful behavior and follow temple customs and traditions
Location: Dakshineswar, on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, near Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 16 km
Major Railway Stations:
Sealdah Railway Station – approx. 8 km
Howrah Railway Station – approx. 10 km
Kolkata Railway Station – approx. 9 km
Metro Station: Dakshineswar Railway Station – directly accessible, connected to the temple by the 350-meter Dakshineswar Skywalk, providing convenient access
The temple is strategically located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River in Dakshineswar, making it easily accessible from various parts of Kolkata and well-connected to major transportation hubs.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple is well connected by road, metro, and rail. The temple is located in Dakshineswar on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, which provides good connectivity to Kolkata and surrounding areas. The Dakshineswar Railway Station is directly accessible and connected to the temple by the 350-meter Dakshineswar Skywalk, providing convenient access. Public bus services operated by the West Bengal Transport Corporation and other operators provide regular connectivity to the area from various parts of Kolkata. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly in the area, offering convenient access for visitors. The temple is easily accessible from major railway stations including Sealdah, Howrah, and Kolkata stations, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local visitors and tourists. Ferry services may also be available across the Hooghly River, providing an alternative mode of transportation. The temple's location and excellent connectivity make it easily accessible and a popular destination for devotees, spiritual seekers, and tourists exploring Kolkata's rich religious heritage. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like the Adyapeath Temple and Belur Math.