{"id":187971,"date":"2025-01-30T11:50:15","date_gmt":"2025-01-30T11:50:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/?p=187971"},"modified":"2025-02-17T11:04:36","modified_gmt":"2025-02-17T11:04:36","slug":"dhakeshwari-temple","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/tripxl.com\/blog\/dhakeshwari-temple\/","title":{"rendered":"Dhakeshwari Temple: Dhaka\u2019s Oldest Hindu Temple & Spiritual Landmark"},"content":{"rendered":"

Dhakeshwari Temple, also known as the National Temple of Bangladesh is an important worshipping site for Hindu devotees. Built in the 12th century, the shrine is dedicated to Devi Dakeshwari (Devi Durga). It is believed that Sati\u2019s crown fell on the spot where the temple was constructed. However, the gem was lost ages ago and the main idol has been shifted to Kumortuli, Kolkata. As one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, the temple attracts thousands of devotees each year. If you plan on visiting Bangladesh, particularly Dhaka, make sure to include this shrine in your itinerary.<\/em><\/p>\n

Quick Details<\/h2>\n

Dhakeshwari Temple Address:<\/strong> Bakshi Bazar, Dhakeshwari Road, Dhaka
\nPresiding Deity:<\/strong> Devi Dakheswari (Devi Durga)
\nDhakeshwari Temple Timings:<\/strong> Morning \u2013 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM; Evening \u2013 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
\nHow To Reach:<\/strong> Dhakeshwari Temple is located in Old Dhaka, so you can easily access the shrine by taxi or auto rickshaw.
\nNearest Airport:<\/strong> Dhaka Airport (18 km)
\nNearest Railway Station:<\/strong> Kamalapur Railway Station (11.9 km)
\nBest Time To Visit:<\/strong> November to March<\/p>\n

About<\/h2>\n
\"Dhakeshwari<\/div>\n

Photo: Alok Majumdar \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Dhakeshwari Temple Dhaka is a state-owned religious site that was built by Ballal Sen, a prominent ruler of the Sena Dynasty. Ever since the temple opened its doors, it has been a popular worshipping site for Hindus. The presiding deity of the temple is Devi Dakeshwari, another name for Devi Durga. According to the story, the temple was built on the spot where Ma Sati\u2019s crown fell, making it one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. However, the Durga idol in the shrine is a replica of the original idol, which is almost 800 years old.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Top Temples In Bangladesh<\/a><\/p>\n

Things To Do<\/h2>\n

1. Enjoy The Durga Puja Festival<\/h3>\n
\"Have<\/div>\n

Photo: Biswarup Ganguly \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

If you happen to plan your trip to the temple during Durga Puja, you are in for a unique experience. During this ten-day celebration, the temple comes to life with pujas, rituals, and decorations. Devotees from both Bangladesh and outside the country come here to witness the auspicious occasion. The celebration starts on Mahalaya and ends on Vijayadashami, the tenth day. From the elaborate aarti to the dhunuchi dance, everything about Durga Puja in temple creates a lasting impact.<\/p>\n

2. Take A Guided Temple Tour<\/h3>\n
\"Elegant<\/div>\n

Photo: \tAlok Majumdar \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Besides the elegant architectural work, there are plenty of other things to see and learn about the shrine. If you want to understand the religious significance of this place, you should take a guided tour. Exploring the temple by yourself can be exciting, but with a guide, you can learn a lot about the history. While you are at the shrine, you can observe the statues, and designs on the walls. An experienced guide will explain everything, including the rebuilding of the temple.<\/p>\n

3. Meditation And Prayer<\/h3>\n
\"People<\/div>\n

Photo: Nahid.rajbd \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

People come here not just to worship the deity, but also to meditate and find peace. The moment you enter the temple premises, you will be greeted by a calm and serene environment. Despite being a popular religious site, the temple offers a peaceful ambience which is perfect for meditation and prayer. Some people find this place to be a great way to take a break from their chaotic lives. It helps them to disconnect from the outside world and get closer to the divine. <\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Harvest Festival Of Bangladesh<\/a><\/p>\n

Places To Visit Around The Temple<\/h2>\n

1. Lalbagh Fort<\/h3>\n
\"Lalbagh<\/div>\n

Photo: Shmunmun \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Located at walking distance from the temple is Lalbagh Fort. This 17th-century Mughal fortress happens to be one of the most famous places in Dhaka. Initially, the fort was used as the residence of a Mughal governor, but now it has turned into a tourist attraction. Since the fort is located close to the temple, you can easily get there by walking. Once you are there, you can check out Pari Bibi\u2019s grand mausoleum, which boasts intricate architectural designs. The landscaped gardens outside the fort make the place even more beautiful.<\/p>\n

Distance From The Temple:<\/strong> 600 meters
\nTimings:<\/strong> 10 AM – 1 PM and 1:30 PM – 5 PM<\/p>\n

2. Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace)<\/h3>\n
\"Take<\/div>\n

Photo: Ehsanul Siddiq Aranya \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

By taking a short drive from the temple, you can reach Ahsan Manzil and witness its beauty with your own eyes. This historical mansion was built several centuries ago and was inhabited by the Nawab family. At present, the mansion is turned into a museum, where you can see various items from the British colonial period in Dhaka. The highlight of the mansion is the striking pink colour, which makes it stand out from its surroundings. <\/p>\n

Distance From The Temple:<\/strong> 3.3 km
\nTimings:<\/strong> 10:30 AM – 4 PM<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Things To Do In Dhaka<\/a><\/p>\n

3. Curzon Hall<\/h3>\n
\"Curzon<\/div>\n

Photo: \u0985\u09ad\u09bf\u099c\u09bf\u09ce \u09a6\u09be\u09b8 \/ Wikimedia Commons<\/a><\/p>\n

Even though Curzon Hall is located a bit far away from the temple, you can easily reach there by taxi or public transport. As a part of the University of Dhaka campus, Curzon Hall is famous for its beautiful architectural work. The unique blend of Mughal and European architectural styles adds a stunning charm to the building. At first, Curzon Hall was planned to be a town hall, but later it was converted into an academic building. Visitors come here to see the brilliant architectural work and immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere. <\/p>\n

Distance From The Temple:<\/strong> 11.7 km
\nTimings:<\/strong> 8 AM – 5 PM<\/p>\n

Where To Stay<\/h2>\n
\"An<\/div>\n

Photo: Vojtech Bruzek \/ Pexels \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

There are many accommodations near the temple. From hotels to guesthouses, you have a variety of options to choose from based on your budget and preference. For a luxurious stay, you can book your stay in hotels like Pan Pacific Sonargaon or InterContinental Dhaka. However, if you want budget-friendly options, then smaller hotels like Hotel Grand Circle Inn could be a good choice.<\/p>\n

Suggested Read:<\/strong> Things To Do In Bangladesh For An Unforgettable Experience<\/a><\/p>\n

Where To Eat<\/h2>\n
\"Try<\/div>\n

Photo: Rajdeep Das \/ Wikimedia Commons \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

When you are in Bangladesh, you cannot miss their authentic cuisine. Luckily, there are plenty of dining places near the temple, where you can try delicious dishes. One of the prominent places is Al-Razzaque Restaurant, which is famous for serving biryani, kebabs, and other local dishes. For a mix of Bengali and Mughlai flavours, you should head to Kasturi Restaurant.<\/p>\n

Other Factors To Consider<\/h2>\n
\"To<\/div>\n

Photo: Rana Sawalha \/ Unsplash \/ Image For Representation Only<\/a><\/p>\n

Tips For Travellers<\/strong><\/p>\n