10 Shiva Temples In Kolkata For A Spiritual Experience

A view of Shiva temples in Kolkata, showcasing rich architecture, and cultural heritage.

Kolkata is a city of many faces, and besides its literal meaning associated with 128 deities, it has cultures and traditions intact. Sometimes, many temples have been built on the streets of Kolkata over the years, and to this date, people recognize most of these temples for architecture, culture, or historical artefacts. Below are some of the most significant Shiva temples in Kolkata to ease your tour because if you plan to go through all the possible temples, it won’t end.

Top 10 Shiva Temples In Kolkata

Some of the top Shiva Temples in Kolkata which are famous among the pilgrims and devotees.

1. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

A view of Dakshineswar Kali Temple, which is one of the best Shiva temples in Kolkata.

Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

It is the most well-known Hindu temple in Kolkata. Dedicated to Goddess Bhavatarini, a facet of Kali, the Dakshineswar Temple was constructed in 1855 by the philanthropist Rani Rashmoni. Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, the temple is a wonder of architecture with nine spires. 12 minor shrines devoted to Lord Shiva are part of the temple complex, along with the main shrine to Goddess Kali.

Location: Dakshineswar, Kolkata
Timings: 5:30 AM – 11 AM and 4:30 PM – 9 PM

2. Tarakeshwar Temple

A view of Baba Tarakeshwar temple, one of the holy Shiva temples in Kolkata.

Photo: Rajjat Bayas / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

One of the most famous Shiva temples in Kolkata is Tarakeshwar Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva and is situated outside of Kolkata. Thousands of devotees go there, particularly during Maha Shivaratri and the month of Shravan. The temple is well-known for its elaborate festivities and customary rites, making it a significant destination for Shiva worshippers. Lord Taraknath, the temple’s primary deity, is thought to be a potent embodiment of Lord Shiva. The temple complex is a must-see for everyone looking for spiritual fulfilment since it is uncomplicated but radiates a celestial air.

Location: Tarakeshwar, Kolkata
Timings: 6 AM – 2 PM and 4 PM – 9 PM

3. Kalighat Temple

An image of Kalighat Temple, one of the most famous Shiva temples in Kolkata.

Photo: Hiroki Ogawa / Wikimedia Commons

Kolkata, popularly known as the city of joy, is India’s intellectual and cultural centre. It is well-known for its collection of sacred sites and is home to many spiritual structures. The next famous Shiva temple in Kolkata to obtain the blessings of lord Shiva is the Kalighat temple. The Kalighat Temple, another renowned temple of Goddess Kali is a sacred place of Lord Shiva, Conventional, it is defined as one of the fifty-one Shakti Peeths, and indeed, this ancient temple located in the heart of Kolkata is visited by thousands of devotees.

Location: Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026
Timings: 5 AM – 2 PM and 5 PM – 10:30 PM

4. Maha Kaleshwar Mandir

An image represents the idols of Hindu deitiy Shiva at a temple in Kolkata.

Photo: its Suren / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

One of the holiest Hindu temples devoted to Lord Shiva is the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. It is well-known for its distinctive and rigorous rituals in addition to its religious importance. Knowing the temple’s hours and schedule can help you get the most out of your trip to this hallowed location. We will go over the many times, customs, and crucial details for devotees and tourists at the Mahakaleshwar Temple in this extensive guide.

Location: Maha Kaleshwar Mandir, Bally, Howrah, near Belur Math
Timings: 4 AM – 7 AM, 10:30 AM – 1 PM, 6 PM – 7 PM and 8 PM – 10 PM

5. Baba Bhoothnath Dham

A picture of a Shiva at one of the top Shiva temples in Kolkata, West Bengal.

Photo: Chandan Parihar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

In addition to the burial site at Nimtala Ghat, the state has one of its oldest, most overlooked and important Shiva temples. Baba Bhootnath Dham, also known as Kaamna Poorti Mahadev, is revered as a sacred place where all desires are fulfilled. In this place, the pre-Nataraja form of Lord Shiva, known as Bhootnath, is worshipped. The origins of this 300-year-old custom of worshipping Lord Shiva using the ashes of a burned body from the nearby cremation cemetery are little understood, but everyone talks about it.

Location: Strand Bank Rd, Ahiritola, Beniatola, Kolkata, West Bengal 700005
Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM

6. Ram Hari Biswas Ghat

 An image of Devotees worshipping Hindu deities at a temple in Kolkata, West Bengal.

Photo: ankiyay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

In the early nineteenth century, Ramhari Biswas and Pran Krishna Biswas were the landowners of Khardah at the time. There are 26 temples here beside the Hooghly River, which deviates from the modern pattern of 12 Shiva temples. There is a Shiva lingam at every temple, which may be composed of Kosthi Pathar touchstone.

Location: Ram Hari Biswas Ghat RdBose Para, Khardaha, West Bengal 700116
Timings: 5 AM – 5 PM

7. Belur Math

An image represents the peaceful Shiva temple, which is located in the heart of Kolkata.

Photo: Garv Chaplot / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Its architecture, which represents the union of all religions—Christian, Buddhist, Islamic, and Hindu that makes it noteworthy. The Belur Math Railway Station, which is devoted to the Belur Math Temple, was also opened in 2003. In addition to being a symbol of religious unity, Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, is home to a temple to Lord Shiva.

Location: Belur Math Rd, Belur Math, Howrah, West Bengal 711202
Timings: 6:30 AM – 11:30 AM & 3:30 PM – 8:30 PM

8. Birla Mandir

An amazing view of Birla Mandir, which is one of the best Shiva temples in Kolkata.

Photo: Nikhilb239 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

A temple devoted to Buddha and fresco paintings depicting his life can also be seen within the Birla Mandir complex. Other gods including Shiva, Ganesh, Saraswati, Hanuman, Brahma, Lakshmi, and Saibaba also have their own shrines within the temple. Another important Shiva temple in Kolkata is Birla Mandir. Lord Shiva and other deities are housed in a temple in the Lakshmi-Narayan Temple. This magnificent temple, perched on a mound, provides sweeping city views and serves as a calm haven amidst the bustle of the city.

Location: 29, Ashutosh Chowdary Ave, Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal 700019
Timings: 5 AM – 11 AM and 4:30 PM – 9 PM

9. Nandikeswari Temple

An image represents the Statue of Lord Shiva, a Hindu deity, holding a trident and sword.

Photo: Karan Mridha / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Located in the Hooghly district, Nandikeswari Temple is devoted to the goddess Nandikeswari and has a temple to Lord Shiva as well. These holy Shiva temples devotees and visitors alike frequent the temple because of its serene atmosphere and lovely surroundings. North of Bardhman, the temple is 92 km away. The idols are Lord Shiva as Nandikishore Bhairav and Devi Maa as Nandini, and Maa Sati’s necklace fell here.

Location: 165, Mayurakshi Sarani, Beside Sainthia Railway Station, Sainthia, West Bengal 731234
Timings: 6:30 AM – 10 PM

10. Shyambazar Shiva Temple

Offer prayers at the serene Shyambazar Shiva Temple located in Kolkata, West Bengal.

Photo: SuvadipSanyal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Shyam Bazar Shiva Temple in Kolkata is perhaps one of the oldest Shiva temples in this city. Mainly during festivals and occasions such as marriage, people come to this holy abode to pray and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva and is well-known for both its elaborate architecture and its connection to the Gajan festival, a colourful event honouring the god. The temple draws worshippers from all around the city and serves as an important religious hub for the neighbourhood.

Location: 96, Bhupendra Bose Ave, Shyambazar, Bidhan Sarani, Shyam Bazar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700004
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 9 PM

The 10 best Shiva temples in Kolkata are presented here, which illuminate the city of Kolkata with peace, meditation, and heavenly blessings for whoever is looking for them. A visit to these holy Shiva temples is the voyage of discovering oneself or the self, even if one is merely a tourist. Plan a trip with TripXL and wish Load Shiva a good day by paying your respects!

Cover Photo: spandan pattanayak / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Shiva temples is during the auspicious Hindu festivals like Shivratri when special pujas and celebrations are held. However, you can see these temples yearly to experience their spiritual ambience.
While there's no strict dress code, wearing modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is advisable. Avoid wearing revealing attire as a mark of respect for the sacred space.
The Belur Math Shiva Temples in Kolkata follow the principles of the Ramakrishna Mission. The daily rituals include chanting mantras, meditation, and aarti. Special pujas are performed on auspicious occasions like Shivratri.
Yes, most Shiva temples allow devotees to perform special pujas and rituals, such as Abhishek, Rudrabhishek, and other personalized offerings. You can inquire with the temple authorities for specific details and procedures.
The Nandi bull is considered the vahana (vehicle) of Lord Shiva. It symbolizes strength, devotion, and the power of wisdom.

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