Kolkata, West Bengal
Kalighat Kali Temple is a revered Hindu shrine located in Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, dedicated to Goddess Kali. Recognized as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, the temple holds significant spiritual importance in Hindu mythology. The temple's origins trace back to the 15th century, with the current structure established in 1809 by the Sabarna Roy Choudhury family. It is believed that the toes of Goddess Sati's right foot fell at this site, making it a prominent Shakti Peetha. Built in the traditional Bengali 'ath-chala' style, the temple features a distinctive roof with eight slopes, and the sanctum houses a unique idol of Goddess Kali, crafted from black stone, adorned with gold and silver, and characterized by a protruding silver tongue and three eyes. The temple witnesses grand celebrations during festivals such as Kali Puja, Durga Puja, and Poila Baisakh, making it one of Kolkata's most significant religious destinations and attracting millions of devotees annually.
Kalighat Kali Temple holds immense religious significance as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, sacred sites where parts of Goddess Sati's body are believed to have fallen. According to Hindu mythology, the toes of Goddess Sati's right foot fell at this site, making Kalighat a prominent Shakti Peetha and a center of Shakti worship. The temple's origins trace back to the 15th century, with the current structure established in 1809 by the Sabarna Roy Choudhury family, who were prominent zamindars of the region. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, one of the most powerful and revered forms of the Divine Mother in Hinduism. The unique idol of Goddess Kali, with its protruding silver tongue and three eyes, represents the fierce and protective aspect of the divine feminine. The temple witnesses grand celebrations during major festivals including Kali Puja (celebrated during Diwali), Durga Puja, Poila Baisakh (Bengali New Year), and various Amavasyas (new moon nights), attracting thousands of devotees seeking blessings and spiritual solace. Kalighat Kali Temple continues to serve as a vital center of devotion and spiritual practice, maintaining its significance as one of the most important Shakti Peethas in India.
Ath-Chala Style: Built in the traditional Bengali 'ath-chala' style, featuring a distinctive roof with eight slopes
Unique Kali Idol: The sanctum houses a unique idol of Goddess Kali, crafted from black stone, adorned with gold and silver
Silver Tongue: The idol is characterized by a protruding silver tongue, representing the fierce aspect of the goddess
Three Eyes: The idol features three eyes, symbolizing the goddess's all-seeing nature
Gold and Silver Adornments: The idol is adorned with gold and silver decorations
Traditional Bengali Architecture: The temple showcases traditional Bengali temple architecture
Sacred Sanctum: The main sanctum houses the revered idol of Goddess Kali
Temple Complex: The temple complex includes various structures and facilities for devotees
Visiting Hours: Morning: 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM; Evening: 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM; The temple remains closed from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM for Bhog (offering)
Entry Fee: No entry fee; donations are accepted
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, Durga Puja, and Poila Baisakh
Best Time to Visit: October to March, coinciding with major festivals and favorable weather conditions
Bhog Timing: The temple is closed from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM for Bhog (offering), so plan visits accordingly
Respectful Behavior: Visitors should maintain respectful behavior and follow temple customs and traditions
Location: Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026, India
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 23 km
Major Railway Stations:
Howrah Junction Railway Station – approx. 10 km
Sealdah Railway Station – approx. 6 km
Kolkata Railway Station – approx. 8 km
Metro Station: Kalighat Metro Station or Jatin Das Park Metro Station – directly accessible, providing convenient access via the Kolkata Metro network
The temple is strategically located in Kalighat, making it easily accessible from various parts of Kolkata and well-connected to major transportation hubs.
Kalighat Kali Temple is well connected by road, metro, and rail. The temple is located in Kalighat, which provides excellent connectivity to Kolkata city center and surrounding areas. The Kalighat Metro Station and Jatin Das Park Metro Station are directly accessible, providing convenient access via the Kolkata Metro network. 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 Howrah Junction, Sealdah, and Kolkata stations, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local visitors and tourists. The temple's location in Kalighat and excellent connectivity make it easily accessible and a popular destination for devotees, spiritual seekers, and tourists exploring Kolkata's rich religious heritage. The temple attracts millions of devotees annually, especially during major festivals, making it one of the most visited religious sites in Kolkata.