The Dakshineswar Kali Temple, located on the eastern banks of the Hooghly River near Kolkata, West Bengal, is one of India’s most iconic temples. Dedicated to Goddess Bhavatarini, a form of Kali, the temple is revered not only for its spiritual energy but also for its historical and cultural significance. It’s a sacred destination deeply connected with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, one of the greatest mystics and spiritual teachers of 19th-century India.
Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking divine blessings or a traveler exploring Bengal’s rich heritage, Dakshineswar Kali Temple promises an experience that is both peaceful and powerful.
| Temple Name | Dakshineswar Kali Temple |
| Location | Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal, India |
| Deity | Goddess Kali (Bhavatarini form) |
| Founded By | Rani Rashmoni |
| Year of Establishment | 1855 |
| Architectural Style | Bengali Navaratna style with 9 spires |
| Associated Saint | Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa |
| Main Attractions | Kali sanctum, 12 Shiva temples, Radha-Krishna shrine, Panchavati garden |
| Temple Timings | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Major Festivals | Kali Puja, Amavasya, Durga Puja, Janmashtami |
| Nearest Railway Station | Dakshineswar Railway Station (~2 km) |
| Nearest Metro Station | Dakshineswar Metro Station (North-South Line) |
| Ferry Access | Yes (from Belur Math) |
| Nearby Restaurants | Dada Boudi, Arsalan, Bhojohori Manna, Haldiram’s |
| Nearby Hotels | The Lalit, Holiday Inn, Hotel Niharika, FabHotel De Sivalika |
Who is Goddess Bhavatarini?
Bhavatarini, meaning “the liberator of the universe,” is a benevolent form of Kali, the fierce feminine energy of destruction and transformation in Hinduism. As per the temple tradition, Bhavatarini Kali helps devotees cross the ocean of existence and attain salvation. She is depicted standing on the chest of Lord Shiva, symbolizing the triumph of divine feminine power over evil and ignorance.
Historical Significance
The temple was built in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni, a wealthy philanthropist and devout follower of Kali. Before embarking on a pilgrimage to Varanasi, Rani Rashmoni had a divine vision in which Goddess Kali instructed her to build a temple on the banks of the Ganga.
Following the vision, she purchased 20 acres of land in the village of Dakshineswar, and the temple was completed within 8 years. Rani Rashmoni personally supervised the construction and devoted her life to the service of the goddess.
But what truly elevated the spiritual importance of the temple was the presence of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, who served as its chief priest. His ecstatic spiritual practices and profound wisdom attracted followers from across India, including Swami Vivekananda.
Temple Architecture
The Dakshineswar Temple is a grand example of Bengali temple architecture with elements of Navaratna (nine-spired) style.
Key Architectural Highlights:
The main temple rises 100 feet with nine spires (three on each side and three on the top).
Constructed using red and white limestone, symbolizing purity and power.
The sanctum houses a black stone idol of Kali Bhavatarini standing on a silver-plated Shiva lingam.
The temple complex also includes:
12 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva arranged in a row
Radha-Krishna temple within the courtyard
The Nahabat Khana (music tower) where Sri Ramakrishna’s wife, Sarada Devi, stayed
The Panchavati garden where Ramakrishna meditated
The entire temple complex is spread over 25 acres, with tranquil gardens, bathing ghats, and sacred banyan trees creating a serene ambiance.
Temple Timings
| Activity | Timings |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 6:00 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Afternoon Break | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Aarti & Rituals | Morning & Evening daily |
| Special Aartis | During Kali Puja & Amavasya |
Note: Temple timings may vary on festivals and Amavasya (new moon) days.
Major Festivals Celebrated
The temple is a hub of celebration during major Hindu festivals:
Kali Puja:
The biggest annual event at Dakshineswar
Thousands of devotees gather to witness grand decorations and midnight aarti
Special bhajans, prasad, and cultural programs are organized
Amavasya:
Considered especially auspicious for Kali worship
Devotees fast and attend special evening rituals
Other Celebrations:
Durga Puja
Janmashtami
Ram Navami
How to Reach Dakshineswar Kali Temple
The temple is located around 12 km north of central Kolkata and is easily accessible by all modes of transport.
By Train:
Dakshineswar Railway Station is just 2 km away
Frequent local trains from Sealdah and Howrah
By Metro:
The Dakshineswar Metro Station (North-South Line) is a 5-minute walk
By Road:
Well connected via buses, taxis, and app-based cabs
By Ferry:
Regular ferry service from Belur Math across the Hooghly River
Nearby Restaurants
You can enjoy delicious Bengali and Indian cuisine at restaurants near the temple:
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Dada Boudi Restaurant | Bengali Thali | 2.5 km |
| Arsalan, Dunlop | Mughlai/Biryani | 3 km |
| Bhojohori Manna | Traditional Bengali | 4 km |
| Haldiram’s | North Indian Veg | 3.5 km |
| Wow! Momo | Fast Food | 2 km |
Nearby Hotels
| Hotel Name | Category | Distance from Temple |
|---|---|---|
| The Lalit Great Eastern | 5-Star | 11 km |
| Holiday Inn Express | 4-Star | 8 km |
| Hotel Niharika | 3-Star | 9 km |
| FabHotel De Sivalika | Budget | 2.5 km |
| OYO Flagship Dunlop | Budget | 3 km |
