Temple and spiritual trail in Kolkata
Description
In this day tour, we will visit the most significant temples of Kolkata. The experience covers Belur Math, the global headquarters of Ramakrishna Mission, the Dakshineshwar Kali temple founded by Rani Rashmoni’s dream, Jain Temple dedicated to Pareshnath the 23rd Tirthankara, and the iconic Kali temple of Kalighat located beside a tributary of Hooghly river.
Tour Options
Itinerary
orientation
730AM- Hotel Pick up Our first destination is Belur Math, the worldwide headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission. This abode for spirituality is a great place to begin the Temple Trail in Kolkata. Built in 1938, according to Sri Ramakrishna’s principles of universality of religions, Belur Math incorporates the architectural motifs of a Hindu temple, a Buddhist chaitya, a Christian church and an Islamic mosque. We will visit the Sri Ramakrishna Temple, the Old Shrine, Swami Brahmananda Temple, Holy Mother Temple, Swami Vivekananda Temple, the Samadhi Enclosure, Old Math and the Ramakrishna Museum.
930AM- Dakshineswar Kali Temple We head to the famous Dakshineswar temple which houses the Goddess Kali. It was founded by Rani Rashmoni following a dream she had when she was about to start on her pilgrimage to Benaras. We will visit the nine-spired Kali Temple in the centre of the main courtyard. The idol of Kali is a basalt figure and looks mesmerising with its gold brocade covering. Our guide will tell you the story of how this place played an important role in India’s Independence.
11AM – Pareshnath Jain Temple We next visit a famous temple dedicated to the Jain faith. Jain merchants followed the East India Company to Kolkata. They form a significant part of the society today in Kolkata. This temple is dedicated to Pareshnath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankar. Ever since the temple was consecrated in 1867, a lamp has been glowing in the sanctum sanctorum ever since!
1230 PM- Kalighat Kali Temple The Kali temple at Kalighat is one of the most popular temples in Kolkata. Pilgrims throng here to pray to the goddess. Originally a small hut, this temple was built by King Manasingha in the beginning of 16th century. The present structure of the temple was built by the Sabarna Roy Chowdhury family in 1809. Our guide will tell you the story of the deadly cosmic dance of Lord Shiva where the toes of the right foot of his wife Sati fell in this temple premises. 2PM- Lunch 4 PM- Drop back to hotel
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(8)
Anirban was fantastic, funny and knowledgeable about the beautiful temples we saw. Highly recommended, and complimentary for those that have already done a general guided tour of Kolkata.
It is a good idea to pick this trip to visit the Kali temples which may be difficult without explanations and guidance for a single tourist.
On the plus side the guide was extremely efficient we were done by noon and saw all 4 temples so that was great but we often felt rushed and didn't get too linger/enjoy/take pictures very much. Guide was unaware lunch was included that was straightened out and he took us somewhere really good but there was a 400 rupee per person limit so be sure you have rupees with you to cover the additional charges. Also they do not have water in the vehicle, a first for me on a Viator trip, so you will need small denominations to buy water. The tour was close to $500 for the 3 of us. We thought it was expensive for what you got. But we did see the temples and the driver and guide are nice. So all and all it was OK.
The guide and the driver were very knowledgeable, personable, and communicated relevant information very well. Navigating the Kolkata traffic during office hours was challenging, and we had to take alternative routes. Despite all these issues, the temple visits were satisfying and peaceful. The guide provided a lot of background information and history. His knowledge was appreciated. Thank you very much!
Wonderful and enthusiastic tour guides. Very kind and helpful. They really cared about us. many many thanks to them..
Our guide Anirban was great. We travelled around the city seeing several sites. The various sites were all very interesting and Anirban added additional context and connections so we came away with a greater understanding of how the religions of the area relate to the history and development in the region. Recommend! Even in monsoon!!
Great overview of different temples located at different areas of Kolkata allowing the visitor to see different neighbourhoods and obtain some commentary on them. Equally interesting are the choices of the temples which differ in religion, style and atmosphere. Guide was friendly and spoke clearly.
My guide Anirban was very knowledgeable. Despite the really hot and humid weather, the tour was really good. It was nice to see a variety of temples and other parts of Kolkata on the drive between them.
