12 Temples in Kolkata: One Comprehensive Guide to Spirituality 

Are you looking for famous temples in Kolkata or trying to find a spiritual escape while visiting the city of Tagore or Satyajit Ray? If yes, this is the blog for you. 

Kolkata, often referred to as the “City of Joy,” is rich in history, culture, and spirituality. The city is home to numerous temples, each with its unique architectural style, religious significance, and cultural heritage. Kolkata, one of the rain-soaked wonders of West Bengal, is also the cultural capital of India. 

For those seeking spiritual escape or interested in exploring the religious sites in Kolkata, this guide offers a deep dive into the most famous temples in the city. Whether you’re on a Kolkata temple tour or simply exploring the religious places to visit in Kolkata, this list will guide you through the best that the city has to offer.

Top 12 Temples in Kolkata

1. Kalighat Kali Temple

Among the Kolkata temple list, Kalighat Kali Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, believed to be where the toes of Goddess Sati fell, making it a significant spiritual site for devotees. It is one of the oldest temples in Kolkata, with its origins dating back to over 200 years. Among Kolkata Hindu temples, this is the famous one. 

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, the fierce form of the Divine Mother. The main idol of the temple is unique, as it is not made of stone but of black basalt, and the image is adorned with gold jewelry. Among religious places to visit in kolkata, Kalighat is a place where the divine energy of Goddess Kali is believed to be immensely powerful, drawing thousands of devotees daily. 

The temple complex is always bustling with activity, from daily rituals to major festivals like Kali Puja and Durga Puja. This is one of the favourite destinations near Kolkata for weekends by the local Bengalis.

• Location: Kalighat, Kolkata.

Timings:

• Morning: 5:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Evening: 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM

• Activities:
  • Participate in the daily rituals and aarti.
  • Explore the nearby markets selling religious items, sweets, and offerings.
  • Visit during the Navratri festival for grand celebrations.

2. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Among Kolkata Hindu temples, this is the famous one. Built by the philanthropist Rani Rashmoni in 1855, Dakshineswar Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhavatarini, an aspect of Kali. It is famously associated with the mystic and saint Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, who served as the temple’s priest.

The temple is an architectural marvel, featuring a nine-spired structure that stands along the banks of the Hooghly River. The temple complex includes the main shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali and 12 smaller shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The surroundings and spiritual significance of this temple make it one of the most visited religious sites in Kolkata. The temple also has a rich history linked to the spiritual awakening and teachings of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.

• Location: Dakshineswar, Kolkata.

Timings:

• Morning: 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM
• Evening: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM

• Activities:
  • Attend the morning and evening aarti, which draws large crowds of devotees.
  • Take a boat ride along the Hooghly River for a unique view of the temple.
  • Visit the nearby Ramakrishna Mission and Vivekananda Museum.

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3. Belur Math

Among famous temples in Kolkata, Belur Math, established by Swami Vivekananda, serves as the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. The architecture of the temple is a fusion of Hindu, Islamic, Christian, and Buddhist styles, symbolizing unity among all religions. Apart from the famous food restaurants of Kolkata, there are a huge number of street food vendors at this place.

Situated on the western bank of the Hooghly River, Belur Math is a peaceful retreat that attracts spiritual seekers from around the world. The surroundings and spiritual significance of this temple make it one of the most visited religious sites in Kolkata. 

The temple complex is dedicated to Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, with additional shrines for Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. The atmosphere, combined with the temple’s architectural beauty, makes it a significant pilgrimage spot. The mission at Belur Math also plays a vital role in educational and charitable activities. The Kolkata temple guide is totally incomplete if you miss this place. 

• Location: Belur, Kolkata.

Timings:

• Morning: 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM
• Evening: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM

• Activities:
  • Explore the various shrines dedicated to different faiths and learn about the teachings of Ramakrishna.
  • Attend the evening prayer service, which includes devotional songs and meditation.
  • Enjoy a quiet moment by the riverbank and witness the sunset over the Hooghly River.

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4. Birla Mandir

Among the Kolkata temple list, Birla Mandir, a magnificent temple built by the industrialist Birla family, took nearly 26 years to complete. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, with its intricate marble carvings being a standout feature. Your Kolkata temple tour is incomplete without visiting this place. 

This modern temple is a striking blend of traditional Hindu temple architecture and modern design. 

The marble structure of Birla Mandir is adorned with carvings depicting scenes from the Bhagavad Gita, along with intricate designs on the pillars and walls. Among religious places to visit in kolkata, this temple is especially popular among devotees and tourists alike, offering a peaceful ambiance for prayer and meditation. The temple is beautifully illuminated during the evening, making it a sight to behold.

• Location: Ballygunge, Kolkata.

Timings:

• Morning: 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM
• Evening: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM

• Activities:
  • Attend the morning and evening aarti, especially during Janmashtami.
  • Explore the detailed carvings and sculptures depicting various deities and mythological scenes.
  • Take part in the temple’s special events and religious discourses.

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5. Pareshnath Jain Temple

The Pareshnath Jain Temple is known for its stunning architecture, which includes stained-glass windows, marble floors, and intricately designed pillars. It was built in 1867 by Ray Badridas Bahadur and is dedicated to the 10th Jain Tirthankara, Shri Shitalnathji.

This temple is a prominent religious site for the Jain community in Kolkata. It is famous for its design and peaceful atmosphere, making it a place of worship and a tourist attraction. The surroundings and spiritual significance of this temple make it one of the most visited religious sites in Kolkata.  

The temple is surrounded by well-maintained gardens with fountains, adding to its serene environment. The temple complex also houses smaller shrines dedicated to other Jain deities and a museum displaying Jain artifacts. For the best view, you need to visit this place in the early morning. However, The Kolkata temple timings vary, with most temples opening early in the morning and closing by late evening, offering ample time for devotees and tourists to explore.

• Location: Badridas Temple Street, Kolkata.

Timings:

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
• Evening: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM

• Activities:
  • Visit the temple in the early morning for a peaceful prayer session.
  • Explore the temple’s gardens and fountains.
  • Learn about Jainism by visiting the temple museum.

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6. ISKCON Temple

The ISKCON Temple in Kolkata is part of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, a global spiritual movement. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and follows the teachings of A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON. Among Kolkata Hindu temples, this is the famous one. 

Among religious places to visit in kolkata, the ISKCON Temple is a hub for devotees of Lord Krishna and those interested in learning about the Bhagavad Gita and the teachings of Lord Krishna. The temple is vibrant with devotional activities, including chanting, dancing, and feasting. It offers a spiritual retreat within the bustling city, with regular lectures, kirtans (devotional songs), and prasadam (sanctified food). The temple also celebrates major Hindu festivals, particularly Janmashtami, with great fervor.

• Location: Minto Park, Kolkata.

Timings:

• Morning: 4:30 AM – 1:00 PM
• Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Activities:
  • Participate in the daily kirtan and bhajan sessions.
  • Attend lectures on the Bhagavad Gita and other scriptures.
  • Enjoy the vegetarian prasadam served at the temple.

7. Tarakeshwar Temple

Tarakeshwar Temple, located on the outskirts of Kolkata, is one of the most famous temples in the region, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It attracts thousands of devotees, especially during the month of Shravan and Maha Shivaratri.

The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Shiva devotees and is known for its traditional rituals and grand celebrations. The temple’s main deity, Lord Taraknath, is believed to be a powerful manifestation of Lord Shiva. The temple complex is simple yet exudes a divine aura, making it a must-visit for those seeking spiritual fulfillment. The surrounding area is filled with shops selling religious items, making it a vibrant location during festival times.

• Location: Tarakeshwar, Kolkata.

Timings:

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Activities:
  • Offer prayers to Lord Shiva and perform the traditional abhishekam (ritual bathing).
  • Visit during Maha Shivaratri for the grand celebrations and night-long prayers.
  • Explore the nearby markets for religious souvenirs.

8. Thanthania Kalibari

Thanthania Kalibari is a small yet significant temple dedicated to Goddess Siddheshwari Kali. The temple, built in 1803, is known for its traditional rituals and is especially crowded on Tuesdays and Saturdays, which are considered auspicious days for Kali worship.

Despite its modest size, Thanthania Kalibari holds immense religious significance for the local community. The surroundings and spiritual significance of this temple make it one of the most visited religious sites in Kolkata. 

The temple’s simplicity and spiritual ambiance make it a revered site for devotees of Goddess Kali. The idol of the goddess is made of clay and is replaced every year, following traditional rituals. The temple’s location near College Street also makes it easily accessible for visitors exploring Kolkata’s cultural hub.

• Location: College Street, Kolkata.

Timings:

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Evening: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Activities:
  • Participate in the daily puja and aarti.
  • Visit the temple on special occasions like Kali Puja for grand rituals.
  • Explore the nearby College Street area, known for its bookstores and cultural heritage.

9. Chinese Kali Temple

Among Kolkata Hindu temples, this is the famous one.  The Chinese Kali Temple is a unique temple in Kolkata where the Chinese community worships Goddess Kali. It symbolizes the cultural amalgamation of Indian and Chinese traditions in the city.

Located in the Chinatown of Kolkata, this temple is a symbol of cultural harmony, where the local Chinese community, mostly of Hakka origin, worship Goddess Kali alongside a traditional Chinese setup. The temple reflects a blend of Chinese and Indian rituals, and the prasad (offerings) often include noodles and chop suey, which is a unique feature of this temple. 

It is a fascinating place to witness the cross-cultural practices that have evolved in Kolkata. The Kolkata temple guide is totally incomplete if you miss this place. 

• Location: Tangra, Kolkata.

Timings:

• Morning: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Activities:
  • Experience the unique fusion of Chinese and Indian rituals during prayer sessions.
  • Taste the special prasad that includes Chinese delicacies.
  • Explore the surrounding Chinatown area for authentic Chinese cuisine

10. Kasba Adya Kali Mata Temple

Within the Kolkata temple list, The Kasba Adya Kali Mata Temple is a rare example of cultural integration, where the Chinese community in Kolkata worships Goddess Kali alongside traditional Chinese deities, reflecting a unique blend of religious practices. The surroundings and spiritual significance of this temple make it one of the most visited religious sites in Kolkata. 

Situated in Tangra, popularly known as Kolkata’s Chinatown, the Kasba Adya Kali Mata Temple is a testament to the city’s diverse cultural landscape. The temple, although modest in size, is a symbol of the strong bond between the Chinese community and the local Indian traditions. The rituals performed here are a mix of Chinese and Hindu traditions, making it a unique spiritual destination. The temple is particularly famous for its prasad, which often includes Chinese dishes, adding a special flavor to the religious experience.

• Location: 110, 1, Banku Bihari Chatterjee Rd, Rath Tala, Kasba, Kolkata, West Bengal 700042

Timings:

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Evening: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Activities:
  • Participate in the unique fusion rituals blending Chinese and Hindu traditions.
  • Enjoy the prasad, which includes traditional Chinese dishes like noodles.
  • Explore Chinatown for authentic Chinese food and cultural experiences.

11. Lake Kalibari

Lake Kalibari is relatively lesser-known but holds a special place for locals, dedicated to Goddess Kali, and is famous for its peaceful surroundings and spiritual significance. The Kolkata temple guide is totally incomplete if you miss this place. 

located in the beautiful surroundings of Southern Avenue, Lake Kalibari is a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, and while it may not be as famous as Kalighat or Dakshineswar, it is cherished by the local community for its tranquility and spiritual ambiance. 

The temple is located near Rabindra Sarobar Lake, offering a calming environment for meditation and prayer. The simplicity of the temple, combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings, makes it a hidden gem among the religious sites in Kolkata.

• Location: Southern Avenue, Kolkata.

Timings:

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Evening: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Activities:
  • Participate in the daily rituals and special pujas dedicated to Goddess Kali.
  • Enjoy a peaceful walk around Rabindra Sarobar Lake after visiting the temple.
  • Visit during the evening for a serene spiritual experience.

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12. Maa Bhabatarini Temple 

Maa Bhabatarini Temple, also known as Garia Kalibari, is one of the oldest Kali temples in Kolkata, and it is believed to have miraculous powers, drawing devotees from all over the city. The simplicity of the temple, combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings, makes it a hidden gem among the religious sites in Kolkata. 

Thanthania Kalibari is a historic temple dedicated to Maa Bhabatarini, an incarnation of Goddess Kali. Established in 1803, the temple has a rich history and is deeply revered by the locals. The Kolkata temple guide is totally incomplete if you miss this place. 

The temple is simple in its structure but powerful in its spiritual energy. It is especially crowded on Tuesdays and Saturdays, which are considered auspicious days for Kali worship. The temple is located near Garia, making it accessible to both devotees and tourists exploring the cultural heart of Kolkata.

• Location: F97J+8F2, Garia Station Rd, Barhans, Garia, Rajpur Sonarpur, West Bengal 700084

Timings:

• Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Evening: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Activities:
  • Participate in the special pujas and aartis, especially on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
  • Explore the nearby College Street area, known for its vibrant culture and historic landmarks.
  • Visit during festivals like Kali Puja for an immersive spiritual experience.

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Kolkata, with its rich spiritual heritage, offers a unique blend of famous temples and hidden gems that reflect the city’s deep religious and cultural roots. From the grandeur of Dakshineswar and Belur Math to the serene surroundings of Lake Kalibari and Thanthania Kalibari, these temples provide a profound spiritual experience for devotees and tourists alike. Whether you’re embarking on a Kolkata temple tour or simply seeking solace in the city’s religious sites, this guide will help you discover the divine essence of Kolkata. However, before planning your visit, make sure to check the Kolkata temple timings to ensure you don’t miss any special rituals or ceremonies.