Kalighat Kali Temple: Dedicated to Goddess Kali, Kalighat Temple holds great importance among the Bengali people. Every year a large number of devotees of the Goddess throng this temple. It is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths found across the country. If you are planning to visit all the Kolkata Kali Temples, we would recommend you to start your journey from here.
Table of Contents
- About Kalighat Kali Temple
- History of the Temple
- Beliefs of Kalighat Kali Temple
- Tourism and Access
- Travel Tips
- Timings to visit Kalighat Kali Temple
- Local market near Kalighat Kali Temple
- Places to visit near Kalighat Kali Temple
- FAQs
About Kalighat Kali Temple
This is where you will find a huge statue of the goddess carved in black stone with three eyes, multiple arms and a protruding gold tongue. Many pilgrims visit this holy place to seek the blessings of Goddess Kali.
Kalighat Kali Temple is a major religious site in Kolkata, dedicated to the great goddess Kali. This temple is not only a centre of religious faith, but also has historical and cultural importance.
Every year thousands of devotees and tourists come to this temple to have darshan of Goddess Kali and worship her.
History of the Temple
The history of Kalighat temple is very ancient and it acquired its present form in the 19th century. It is said that this temple is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths, where the body parts of Goddess Sati fell. It is believed that the right toes of Goddess Sati had fallen here. There are many stories and mythology associated with the establishment of this temple, which makes it even more attractive.
Beliefs of Kalighat Kali Temple
There are many beliefs and beliefs prevalent about Kalighat temple. It is said that prayers done here with a true heart definitely bear fruit.
Devotees come here to fulfil their wishes and offer their reverence and devotion at the feet of Goddess Kali. There are many priests (priests) living outside and inside the temple, who assist the devotees in worship and guide them to perform the worship in the right manner.
Tourism and Access
Kalighat Kali Temple is one of the major tourist destinations of Kolkata. There are many facilities available around the temple for the tourists visiting here. It is very easy to reach here from any corner of Kolkata city. Kalighat metro station is near the temple, which makes reaching here even easier. Apart from this, facilities of taxis, auto-rickshaws and buses are also available.
Special Attractions
‘Kalighat Patit Pavani Ganga’ located near the temple is also a major attraction. This is a sacred ghat where devotees take bath and purify their souls. Apart from this, the market located near the temple is also quite famous, where a variety of religious items, offerings, and souvenirs can be purchased.
Travel Tips
- To avoid crowding in the temple, it is better to visit in the morning.
- Devotees are not allowed to take cameras and mobile phones inside the temple, so keep them at a safe place.
- Take help of local Pandas for puja and rituals, they will help you to perform the puja with correct rituals.
- Shop carefully for prasad and other items from shops outside the temple.
Timings to visit Kalighat Kali Temple
Kalighat Kali Temple, located in Kolkata, is an ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. The darshan timings here are from 5:00 am to 10:30 pm. Mangala Aarti takes place from 5:00 to 7:00 in the morning, while the temple remains closed from 1:00 to 3:00 in the afternoon.
Evening aarti starts at 6:30 pm. Special worship is done on Saturday and Amavasya. Bhog and Prasad are also organized for the devotees from time to time. It is always advisable to check the temple timings in advance.
Local market near Kalighat Kali Temple
The market near Kalighat Kali Temple is a reflection of the vibrant culture of Kolkata. Here you will find a variety of shops selling everything from Goddess Kali idols, offerings, flower garlands and religious books to traditional sarees and handicrafts of Bengal. You can also enjoy local delicious dishes while wandering through the streets of the market. The crowd and colorful atmosphere here will provide you a unique experience. This market of Kalighat is a wonderful place for every devotee and tourist.
Places to visit near Kalighat Kali Temple
Kalighat Kali Temple is a famous religious place in Kolkata. There are many attractive places near it which are very much liked by the tourists. Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum and Birla Planetarium are the prominent ones. The Victoria Memorial is an excellent example of British architecture, while the Howrah Bridge is an icon of Kolkata. The Indian Museum gives a glimpse of Indian history and culture. At the same time, exciting information about stars and planets is available in Birla Planetarium. By visiting these places you can enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Kolkata.
Conclusion of Kalighat Kali Temple
Kalighat Kali Temple is an ancient and sacred place, which provides devotees an opportunity to indulge in the devotion of Maa Kali. The religious, cultural and historical importance of this temple is unique. Devotees coming here get spiritual peace and blessings by having darshan of Maa Kali. The atmosphere of Kalighat is filled with devotion, which instills reverence and devotion in everyone’s mind. A visit to this holy place not only provides a spiritual experience but also connects you with Indian culture and tradition.
FAQs
Yes, Mobile is allowed in Kali Temple but in Airplane or Switched Off mode.
If you are looking for one spot in Kolkata that is a seat of faith, your search is likely to end at the Kalighat Temple with its long queues of devotees.
The Kalighat temple is open for visiting from 05:00 AM to 02.00 PM and 05.00 PM till 10.30 PM.
Kalighat Kali Temple is located in the neighbourhood of Kalighat, about a 10-minute walk from the Kalighat metro station.
The distance between Kolkata Airport (CCU) and Kalighat Kali Temple is 28 km. The road distance is 20.1 km.