Of them, West Bengal’s Dakshineswar Temple is counted among the holiest religious centres for Hindus, built in honour of Goddess Kali. The temple is architecturally marvellous, situated on the right bank of the river Hooghly and has peaceful surroundings where many pilgrims, devotees, seekers and tourists from across the globe visit. This post looks at the Dakshineswar Temple operation times, what to do around the temple, how to get to this great place, and other useful information to ensure you make the most of your trip to this beautiful temple.
Location
Photo: Ravi Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons
The temple is situated at Dakshineswar, a small town in West Bengal close to Kolkata on the bank of the Hooghly River. Located at a distance of approximately twenty kilometres from the city’s heart, the temple is very calm and tolerant of believers. I think everyone knows the address of the Dakshineswar Temple, and detailed information can be obtained through the Internet.
How To Reach
Photo: Tage Olsin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Road: The temple is easily approachable by road from Kolkata. Private cars are also available for the 20km ride or a taxi can be hired, there are also buses from all parts of Kolkata which can lead to Dakshineswar.
By Rail: Nearby railhead is at Dakshineswar which is less than 2 km from the temple. There, you can take a train or local transport and go directly to the Dakshineswar Kali Temple Railway Station.
By Air: Located at a distance of 15 km from the temple, Kolkata’s Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is one of the well-known airports in India. To get to the temple, you can either hire a taxi from the airport or else use local transport.
Places To Visit Nearby
Here are some places you can check out near the temple.
1. Belur Math
Photo: Sengkrak / Wikimedia Commons
It is about 4 km away from the temple, West Bengal and is the maths created by Swami Vivekananda in memory of his master, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. The temple has beautiful architectural designs with a duality of Hindu, Islamic and Christian architectural designs. It is an excellent site for religious and pilgrimage tourists and those who are interested in the life of Ramakrishna or his teachings. This tourist attraction is great and you will love it.
Distance: 4 km from the temple
Activities: Meditation, photography, sightseeing
2. Howrah Bridge
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
This phenomenon is not very far from Dakshineswar Temple West Bengal; how can one talk about Kolkata without Howrah Bridge? Not many people are aware of this remarkable architectural structure because it is built on the Hooghly River and at night, looks simply mesmerising. One can just walk over the bridge, look at the catenary of the bridge and also look at the energy of the city while also being a good attraction site for people visiting the region.
Distance: 13 km from the temple
Activities: Walking, sightseeing, photography
3. Kumartuli
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons
Kumartuli or the colony of artisans is near the Dakshineswar temple address and it is responsible for the creation of idols particularly for the festival occasion of Durga Puja in Kolkata. It also lets tourists explore workshops where skilful sculptors refine idols of Goddess Durga and other gods and goddesses. This venue provides a distinct preview of the heritage of the city and is a perfect place to take memorable pictures and appreciate artistry in Kolkata.
Distance: 12 km from the temple
Activities: Cultural tours, photography
Things To Do
Here’e a list of things you can do on your visit:
1. Seek Blessings And Offer Prayers
Photo: Pramal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The central purpose of the place referred to in the book, ‘Dakshineswar Temple’ is to pray to Goddess Kali. People visit the place for blessings of prayers for peace, prosperity and shield. People bowing before the deity is customary, plus people present flowers as well as sweets to the deity to create a positive energy.
2. Explore The Temple Architecture
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The architectural features of the temple with the nine towers split into a ground, middle and third floor are as breathtaking as it sounds. The building has red and white colours with a Bengali touch of terracotta to it and if you are an architecture or history lover then it’s a place you would enjoy.
3. Enjoy The Riverfront View
Photo: Hamad Darwish / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There is a facility for leisure, opposite the temple and beside the Hooghly River where people can sit and enjoy. The area alongside the river is very peaceful, it is good for gaining awareness and taking pictures with a beautiful view during the sunrise and in the evening.
Where To Eat
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There are restaurants nearby the temple serving food which is really tasty, Bengali and Indian cuisine. Next, the dining joints are Aaheli which has Bengali Thali, Bhojohori Manna for Bengali food, Sholo Ana Bengali and Sonar Tori. These restaurants give the feeling of local foods, though the dining atmosphere is still nice.
Where To Stay
Photo: Curt Smith / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Some hotels are located close to the park and visitors can book into the many hotels that are located in the area to fit their capacity. A few of the options that are suggested are Hyatt Regency Kolkata, The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata, The Oberoi Grand and Hotel Raj Palace which offer economic accommodations. These hotels have easy proximity to the temple and many other places of tourist interest.
Best Time To Visit
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The ideal period to attend the temple is during winter, that is, from October to March; with the prevailing temperature being between 15 to 25°C. This time of the year is ideal for the walk and sightseeing around the temple as well as other landmarks. You can visit here alone or with your loved ones once you see the place you will love it. The Dakshineswar temple timings are from 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 3:30 – 8:30 PM.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Dhruba08 / Wikimedia Commons
While at the temple, one should expect to find that the temple is full during weekends, together with religious festivities. Visiting this site early in the morning is suggested, and booking a guide who will show you around the temple and give explanations is also helpful. There are enough amenities for the visitors with available ramps, resting places, and toilets.
Average Cost Of Trip
Currently, it takes INR 2000 – 3000 to do an average visit to the temple including food and transport plus visiting other attractions.
Cash Payments
While digital payments are widely accepted in most places of humane encounters, it is wise to have cash for minor purchases and contributions in the temple.
Tips For Travellers
- Respect temple traditions and follow dress codes if any.
- Carry bottled water and stay hydrated.
- Remove shoes before entering the temple premises.
- Photography may not be allowed inside the temple; check beforehand.
A distinctive fusion of spirituality, history, and breathtaking architecture can be found at Dakshineswar Temple. It is the ideal location for individuals looking for architectural beauty, spiritual fulfilment, and a taste of Bengali culture, as it is situated by the tranquil Hooghly River. For lovely recollections in the future, you can have some pictures of the Dakshineswar temple. Don’t miss this fantastic chance to see Dakshineswar Temple and book now with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Dhruba08 / Wikimedia Commons