Take on your spiritual quest with these old temples in Kolkata!

Explore these old temples in Kolkata to know the city's spiritual legacy that stands so tall and indulge yourself in a divine experience. Some temples are architectural in themselves.

Kolkata is famous for its vibrant culture, diverse traditions, and ethnicity. Also known as the City of Joy, it has numerous temples, many of which are now pilgrimage sites. It boasts the foundation of some of the oldest temples that draw visitors and devotees from all over the globe. These temples not only have religious importance but also hold architectural and cultural importance.

1. Black Pagoda Temple

Source

One of the oldest temples in Kolkata is the famous nine-jewelled Black Pagoda. Built in the 1730s, the temple is devoted to Lord Shiva. It was once the highest-standing building in Kolkata. You will be surprised to read that this temple has stood the test of time even after encountering an earthquake and a cyclone on the same day.

Where: Black Pagoda Temple – Rabindra Sarani, Kumartuli, Shobhabazar.

2. Kalighat Kali Temple

Source

One of the most famous and oldest temples in Kolkata is Kalighat Kali Temple. Often counted among the 51 Shakti peeths in India, this temple worships Goddess Kali and is one of the pilgrimage sites. According to legend, the temple is located on the spot where the right toe of Goddess Sati fell. The idol of Goddess Kali is one of the most magnificent and lively idols ever, with her four hands made of pure gold. Being in the temple just purifies your aura with positivity.

Where: Anami Sangha, Kalighat.

3. Daksihneshwar Kali Temple

Source

Another shrine of Goddess Kali in Kolkata is Dakshineshwar Kali Temple. It was founded by an ardent philanthropist and devotee of Kali, Rani Rashmoni, in the 19th century. It is believed that the Goddess herself appeared in Rani’s dream and asked her to build the Kali temple on the banks of river Hooghly. The temple is an architectural marvel with its beautiful sculptures. It is also said that renowned Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa spent the later years of his life in the temple.

Where: Kali Temple – Dakshineshwar, near Vivekananda Setu.

4. Parshwanath Jain Temple

Source

Jain temples honour the Tirthankars and one of those temples is Parshwanath Jain Temple in Kolkata. Located in the southern part of Kolkata, this temple is an example of magnificent architecture with intricate carvings, colourful elements, and stained glasses, which makes it a picturesque temple to visit. The interiors of the temple are also a beautiful sight featuring lush green gardens and majestic fountains.

Where: Jain Temple – Tala, Saktinagar, Belgachia.

5. Bhukailash Shiv Temple

Source

Originally built by Raja Joynarayan Ghosal in 1781, Bhukailash Shiv temple is a twin temple. Each temple has a massive 18-foot Shivling, which is among the largest shivlings. Although the temple was established a couple of centuries back, the original stonework is not what you see today. The beauty of the twin temples today is a result of restoration works done by the Kolkata Municipal Corporation.

Where: Shiv Temple - Bhukailash Road.

6. Belur Math

Source

A spiritual and educational centre was built by the renowned Indian spiritual leader and saint, Swami Vivekananda. Lying on the banks of the Hooghly River, the temple is well-known for its peaceful environment and stunning architecture. The buildings of the Math come together to form a unique blend of cultures. The premises have 4 unique temples to celebrate the diversity of Indian religions.

Where: Belur, Howrah.

7. Thanthania Kalibari

Source

Founded by Shankar Ghosh, Thanthania Kalibari is one of the most sacred and popular temples in Kolkata. Goddess Durga, in her form Siddeshwari, is worshipped in the temple. A very special aarti called Kali Puja is held here, attracting hundreds and thousands of Kali devotees from all over the state. The clay idol of Maa Durga is also present in the temple and is changed annually.

Where: College Street Market.

8. Hangseshwari Temple

Source

This temple, reminiscent of a Disney castle, showcases unique architecture with 13 exquisite minarets resembling budding lotus flowers. Managed as a heritage site by the Archaeological Survey of India, it spans six floors, with each of the 13 lotus bud-shaped minarets reaching a height of 27.5 meters. Embodying the principles of Yoga and Pranayama, the temple's design mirrors the human anatomy, with the central minaret crowned by a metallic idol of the rising Sun God. The idol of Goddess Kali, crafted from neem wood and adorned with blue paint, radiates beauty. Adjacent to the main temple lies the Ananta Basudeba Temple, while nearby stands the Swanbhaba Kali temple, erected in 1788 by Raja Nrisinhadeb Roy Mahasay. This terracotta temple showcases intricate artwork, enhancing its significance. 

Where: Hangseshwari Temple – Bansberia

9. Taraknath Temple

One of the oldest temples in Kolkata dedicated to Lord Shiva is the Taraknath Temple which is believed to have been built in the 18th century. The temple is always busy and crowded with devotees throughout the year. The influx of crowds is even more during special occasions like Gajan and Shivratri.

Where: Taraknath Temple Road.