About Dakshineswar Kali Temple
Dakshineswar Kali Temple stands on the eastern bank of the Hooghly river in the northern part of Kolkata, West Bengal. It is dedicated to Goddess Bhavatarini, a form of Kali whose name means She who carries her devotees across the ocean of worldly existence. The temple is one of the most loved shrines in Bengal and is deeply connected with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, the 19th-century mystic who served here as priest and whose life inspired Swami Vivekananda.
The temple was built by Rani Rashmoni, a devout and generous zamindar of Kolkata. Legend says the goddess appeared to her in a dream and asked her to build a temple on the banks of the Ganga. The temple was consecrated in 1855. Soon after, the young Gadadhar, later known as Sri Ramakrishna, became its priest. Here he worshipped Kali with intense devotion, experienced spiritual realisations, and taught many disciples. His room in the temple complex is still preserved for visitors.
The main temple is built in the Bengali Navaratna style, with nine spires rising in two tiers on a high platform. Facing the river is a row of twelve identical Shiva temples, and there is also a temple of Radha-Krishna. The complex includes the Nahabat, the Panchavati grove and bathing ghats on the river.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple timings & aarti
Usually open about 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM, with slightly shorter hours in winter. Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Mangala Aarti | Early morning, at opening (approx.) |
| Bhog Aarti | Around midday, before closing (approx.) |
| Sandhya Aarti | Around sunset (approx.) |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Dakshineswar Kali Temple
By air
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata, is about 10 km away.
By train
Dakshineswar Railway Station is about 1 km away; Howrah Station is about 15 km away. Dakshineswar Metro Station is close to the temple.
By road
Buses, taxis and app cabs run from all parts of Kolkata. Ferries connect the temple ghat with Belur Math across the river.
Festivals at Dakshineswar Kali Temple
- Kali PujaOct/Nov
- Sri Ramakrishna JayantiFeb/Mar
- Snana Yatra (Temple Foundation Day)May/Jun
- Durga PujaSep/Oct
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest traditional clothing recommended.
- Entry
- Free entry for all. Photography is not allowed inside the temple, and phones may need to be deposited.
- Visit Sri Ramakrishna's room and the Panchavati, which are peaceful places for reflection.
- Take the ferry across the river to Belur Math.
- Weekends and Tuesdays and Saturdays are busier; weekday mornings are calmer.
- Use the metro to avoid traffic from central Kolkata.
Places to visit near Dakshineswar Kali Temple
- Belur MathHeadquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, across the river, about 5 km by road or a short ferry ride
- AdyapeathTemple and charitable complex, about 3 km away
- Kalighat Kali TempleFamous Shakti Peetha in south Kolkata, about 20 km away
- KumartuliClay idol-makers' quarter, about 10 km away
Frequently asked questions
What are the Dakshineswar Kali Temple timings?
Usually about 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with slightly shorter hours in winter.
Who built Dakshineswar Kali Temple?
It was built by Rani Rashmoni and consecrated in 1855.
How do I go from Dakshineswar to Belur Math?
You can take a ferry across the Hooghly from the temple ghat or travel about 5 km by road over the Vivekananda Setu.
What is the connection between Ramakrishna and Dakshineswar?
Sri Ramakrishna served as priest of the Kali temple and lived here for many years; his room is preserved in the complex.
Is photography allowed in Dakshineswar Temple?
No, photography is not permitted inside the temple.
What is the aarti time at Dakshineswar Kali Temple?
Mangala Aarti: Early morning, at opening (approx.); Bhog Aarti: Around midday, before closing (approx.); Sandhya Aarti: Around sunset (approx.). Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
Is there a dress code at Dakshineswar Kali Temple?
Modest traditional clothing recommended.
How to reach Dakshineswar Kali Temple?
By air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata, is about 10 km away. By train: Dakshineswar Railway Station is about 1 km away; Howrah Station is about 15 km away. Dakshineswar Metro Station is close to the temple. By road: Buses, taxis and app cabs run from all parts of Kolkata. Ferries connect the temple ghat with Belur Math across the river.
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