Temple and spiritual trail in Kolkata

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.

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.

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!

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