Top 12 Famous Temples in Kolkata to Visit
Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is home to a plethora of temples that reflect the city's rich heritage and diverse religious traditions. Each temple has its own unique significance and architectural beauty, making them integral parts of Kolkata's spiritual landscape.
From ancient temples steeped in history to modern architectural marvels, Kolkata offers a unique spiritual experience to devotees and tourists alike.
List of Temples in Kolkata
Following is the list of renowned temples in Kolkata that are conveniently accessible via the nearby Kolkata, Sealdah, and Lake Gardens Railway Stations, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and Kolkata Airport, and Kolkata, and Babughat Bus Station:
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12 Best Temples to Visit in Kolkata
Explore the list of 12 famous temples in Kolkata that guide you through the spiritual heartland of India; here are those 12 temples:
1. Birla Mandir | Ballygunge
Since its public opening in 1996, this temple has seen a significant increase in visitors—for good reason. The temple's exquisitely designed exterior features small engravings that display passages from the Bhagavad Gita.
- Best Time to Visit: September to February.
- Temple Timings: 5.30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. to 9 p.m. - Every day.
- Nearby Places: CIMA Gallery, RANGE Contemporary Art Gallery, Quest Mall, and Mother House.
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2. Kalighat Temple | Khalighat
The Bengali population has great regard for Kalighat Mandir due to their tremendous respect for all versions of Goddess Durga. If you were unaware, Goddess Kali is regarded as one of the avatars.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.- Every day.
- Nearby Places: Mahanayak Uttam Mancha, Netaji Bhawan, and Kolkata Zoo & Zoological Garden.
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3. Chinese Kali Mandir | Tangra
If you are a devoted follower of Lord Kali, you should surely put this spot on your list. It is dedicated to the goddess and is primarily visited by Chinese people. The priests there are of Chinese heritage. Chinese customs revere the deity.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Temple Timings: 5 a.m. to 2 p.m.; 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.- Every day.
- Nearby Places: Victoria Memorial, Indian Museum, Science City, and St. Paul's Cathedral.
4. Dakshineswar Kali Temple | Dakshineswar
Situated beside the Hoogly River, the most well-known and iconic Dakshineswar Kali Temple is situated. This three-story Kali Mandir, which dates back to the early 19th century, is bound to astound you.
- Best Time to Visit: January to April.
- Temple Timings: 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Every day.
- Nearby Places: Calcutta Capsule, Yogoda Satsanga Society of India, Jorasanko Thakur Bari, and Eden Gardens.
5. Lake Kalibari Temple | Southern Avenue
The people of Kolkata have a deep devotion to Goddess Kali. Once more, the renowned Goddess Kali is revered at this shrine dedicated to her. However, the temple's goddess is that of Goddess Karunamoyee, another incarnation of Kali.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March.
- Temple Timings: 6 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. - Everyday.
- Nearby Places: Netaji Bhawan, Victoria Memorial, National Library, and Rabindra Sarovar Lake.
6. Agni Mandir | Metcalfe Lane
Agni Mandir honours the well-known Fire, God. Hindu mythology is replete with references to the god of fire, who is always called upon first when a prayer is offered for the five elements of the earth.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May.
- Temple Timings: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Every day.
- Nearby Places: Mother House, Eden Gardens, Arenas & Stadiums, South Park Street Cemetery, and Howrah Bridge.
7. Belur Math| Belur
Constructed by Swami Vivekananda, this temple honours Ramakrishna Paramahansa and serves as a centre for the Ramakrishna Mission. This temple is located across from Dakshineswar temple and was constructed on the banks of the Hoogly River.
- Best Time to Visit: March to April.
- Temple Timings: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Every day.
- Nearby Places: Chota Imambara, British Residency, Lucknow Zoo, and Hazratganj.
8. Calcutta Jain Temple | Badridas Temple Street
Also referred to as the Parshwanath Jain Temple, Rai Badridas Bahadur Mookim established it in 1867. This well-known Jain Dharamshala in Kolkata is made up of four separate structures, each of which provides breathtaking insights into the Jain culture.
- Best Time to Visit: August to September.
- Temple Timings: 6 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. - Every day.
- Nearby Places: Victoria Memorial, Fort William, Asutosh Museum of Indian Art, and Armenian Church.
9. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple | Sodepur
There was no other Sai Baba temple in Kolkata before the establishment of this one in 1913. For all of Sai Baba's followers, this is a significant location of pilgrimage and worship and one of the most popular temples nowadays.
- Best Time to Visit: March to May.
- Temple Timings: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Every day.
- Nearby Places: Khandoba Mandir, Baba Chavadi, and Lendi Baug.
10. Sri Bal Hanuman Mandir | Lake Town
The temple's main deity, Lord Hanuman, is depicted in various forms and poses, symbolising different aspects of his character and devotion. The temple's architecture reflects traditional Hindu temple design.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Temple Timings: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. - Every day.
- Nearby Places: Manasha Mandir, Lake Town Adhibasi Brindo Durga Puja Pandal.
11. ISKCON Temple | Minto Park
The ISKCON temple, which was constructed in honour of Lord Krishna, is spread out across the nation. In 1970, the ISKCON temple in Kolkata was founded to serve the devotees of Lord Krishna and his partner and everlasting love, Radha.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Temple Timings: 4 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. - Every day.
- Nearby Places: Asiatic Society, Mother House, South Park Street Cemetery, and Maidan.
12. Bhukailash Rajbari Temple | Khidirpur
Visit one of Kolkata's most significant and exquisite Lord Shiva temples to see the tallest idol of the God of Destruction. Yes, after a recent renovation, the twin temples are very breathtaking to behold for all those who worship the Almighty.
- Best Time to Visit: November to February.
- Temple Timings: 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. - Every day.
- Nearby Places: Rabindra Sarovar Lake, Shaheed Minar, and Indian Museum.
Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is home to several famous temples that reflect the city's rich heritage and religious diversity. These temples are not only places of worship but also architectural marvels. Visitors to Kolkata should not miss the opportunity to explore these sacred sites and immerse themselves in the spiritual ambience.
FAQs about Temples to Visit in Kolkata, India
What is the significance of the Kalighat Temple?
The Kalighat Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, believed to be the site where the right toe of Goddess Sati fell. It is highly revered by devotees of Goddess Kali and attracts pilgrims from far and wide.
Can visitors enter the Belur Math temple?
Yes, visitors are allowed to enter the Belur Math temple. However, there might be certain restrictions during specific rituals or events. It is advisable to check the visiting hours and guidelines before planning a visit.
Is photography allowed inside the temples?
Photography policies vary from temple to temple. While some temples may allow photography in certain areas, others may have restrictions. It is recommended to inquire about the photography rules at the entrance or check with the temple authorities.
Which temple is famous for Kolkata?
One of the most historic and well-known temples in Kolkata and the entire nation is Kalighat.
What is the name of the Kali Mata temple located in Kolkata?
Located in Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal, India, the Kalighat Kali Temple is a Hindu temple devoted to the goddess Kali.
Who found Kalighat Temple?
The nineteenth century saw the construction of the present temple, which dates back 200 years. The first temple was constructed by Jessore's monarch, Raja Basanta Roy.
Why is it called the Dakshineswar temple?
The Sanskrit term for Shiva, Dakṣiṇeśvara, is where Dakshineswar got its name.
Who built Dakshineswar Temple?
Rani Rashmoni, a Zamindar, philanthropist, and devotee of Kali Maa, constructed the temple in 1855.
Which river flows near Dakshineswar temple?
The Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, one of the most well-known sites of worship in Kolkata and all of eastern India, is situated on the banks of the Hooghly River.
Which God is most Worshipped in Kolkata?
Kali, Chandi, another version of Durga, Bheema, and Durga are the principal figures of the Kalikula tradition. Other regional goddesses include Bishahari and Manasa, the serpent goddesses, Shashthi, the infant protector, Shitala, the smallpox goddess, and Uma.
What are the important details about Birla Temple?
The stunning Birla Temple in Kolkata was constructed in the 20th century using white marble and cream-coloured sandstone, a style that is reminiscent of Rajasthani architecture. The Hindu deity Lord Krishna and his spouse Radha are the objects of the temple's dedication.
What is the name of the temple in Iskcon Kolkata?
For followers, the ISKCON Radha Krishna Temple is an extremely spiritual location. Also known as Sri Sri Radha Govind Mandir, ISCON's primary goal is to disseminate Lord Krishna's teachings.