Dakshineswar Kali Temple is one of the top Hindu pilgrimage sites in Kolkata and holds an important place in the hearts of its devotees. Devoted to Goddess Kali, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, besides its enormous sacred importance, is an architectural marvel in the city of Kolkata. Dakshineswar Kali Temple was built by Rani Rashmoni in the year 1855. This renowned temple in Kolkata houses a series of 12 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Besides, it also includes a bathing ghat, Radha Krishna Temple, Nahabat Khana and Rani Rashmoni shrine. The River Hooghly, which flows beside it, enhances the overall grandeur of the temple. Besides being a temple, this popular sacred site in Kolkata is famous for being associated with Ramakrishna Paramhansa, a mystic belonging to 19th century Bengal. He stayed at the temple with his wife Sarada Devi.
Architecture of Dakshineswar Kali Temple
Dakshineswar Kali Temple is built in the traditional architecture of Bengal. It is built in 'Navaratna' - nine spire design. Facing south, this popular Hindu temple in Kolkata has three storeys with nine spires. Comfortably standing on an elevated platform, Dakshineswar Kali Temple boasts an imposing height of 100 feet. The main sanctum sanctorum houses an idol of Goddess Bhavatarini, the presiding deity, and one of the many forms of Goddess Kali. The idol stands on the chest of Lord Shiva.
Location
Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700076, India.
Opening & Closing Timings
Dakshineswar Kali Temple is one of the major tourist attractions in West Bengal, and hence, remains open all days a week, i.e., from Sunday to Saturday. However, the visiting hours are from 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Along with Dakshineswar Kali Temple, tourists can also choose to explore other equally enthralling tourist attractions of Kolkata. Tourist places that are located in close proximity to the temple are: