Frequently Asked Questions - Kalighat Kali Temple

Architecture and Design Of Kalighat Kali Temple

The temple is a classic example of the Bengal style of temple architecture, with a single large dome and a large open courtyard. The inner sanctum, where the idol of Goddess Kali is housed, is heavily ornamented.
The temple complex also houses a number of smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Shiva, Radha-Krishna, and others.

Rituals and Offerings

Daily Rituals: The temple conducts several rituals throughout the day, including the morning "Mangala Aarti," the "Bhog Aarti" at noon, and the evening "Sandhya Aarti."
Offerings: Devotees often offer flowers, sweets, and red hibiscus (a flower sacred to Kali) as part of their prayers. Animal sacrifices, particularly goats, are still practiced here, a ritual that has been part of the temple tradition for centuries.

​Significance and Legacy

The Kalighat Kali Temple is a place of deep spiritual significance and a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the religious and cultural essence of Kolkata.

 Kalighat Kali Temple History and Background
History and Significance

The exact origin of the Kalighat Kali Temple is shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to date back several centuries. The temple in its current form was built around the early 19th century by the Sabarna Roy Chowdhury family, a prominent zamindar family in Bengal. The temple's name "Kalighat" is derived from the word "Kalikshetra," meaning "the land of Kali." The name of the city "Kolkata" (Calcutta) is also believed to have been derived from Kalighat.

Legend and Mythology

According to Hindu mythology, the Kalighat Temple is a significant Shakti Peetha. It is believed that the toes of the right foot of Goddess Sati fell here during Lord Shiva's Tandava dance after Sati’s self-immolation. The idol of Goddess Kali here is unique and different from other Kali idols in Bengal. The present idol is made of black stone with three huge eyes, four hands, and a long protruding tongue. Two of her hands hold a sword and a severed head, and the other two hands are raised to bless her devotees. Kalighat Kali Temple holds immense religious significance for Hindus, especially devotees of Goddess Kali. It is believed that the goddess fulfills the wishes of her devotees and offers protection against evil forces.

Send Your Inquiry Here

Kalighat Kali Temple Kolkata

Kalighat Kali Temple Kolkata Entry Charges

There is no entry fee for visitors. However, offerings and donations can be made at various points within the temple.

​

Q: What Is the opening and closing time of Kalighat Kali Temple Kolkata?

A: Kalighat Kali Temple is open everyday 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM again 4 PM to 10 PM.

Q: What are the entry charges?

A: There is no Entry Charges for Kalighat Temple.

Q: Is Kalighat Kali Temple worth visiting?

​A: The Kalighat Kali Temple is of spiritual significance and a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing the historical, religious and cultural essence of Kolkata.

Kalighat Kali Temple Nearby Attractions

1. Alipore Jail Museum

2. The Headquaters of Missionaries of Charities is just beside Kalighat Kali Mandir.

3. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Home is just 3 kms from Kalighat.

​

Must Know Facts About Viiting Kalighat Kali Temple​

​Like many popular pilgrimage sites in India, the Kalighat Kali Temple in Kolkata is known to have touts (also known as "pandas" or "guides") who approach visitors offering various services. These touts typically offer to help with rituals, fast-track entry, or provide guided tours for a fee. While some of these touts may offer genuine assistance, others might overcharge or insist on additional services.

If approached by a tout, a firm but polite "No, thank you" usually works. It’s best to avoid engaging in prolonged conversations with them. If you wish to make a donation, look for the official donation counters inside the temple premises. Some visitors may find hiring a guide useful for understanding the temple’s history and rituals. If you do choose to hire a guide, negotiate the fee upfront and make sure it is someone recommended by the temple’s official channels.

​​Call Us @

9038055530

9830366923

Kalighat Kali Temple is one of the oldest and most revered Hindu temples in Kolkata, West Bengal, dedicated to Goddess Kali. It is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas (holy shrines where parts of the goddess Sati's body are believed to have fallen) in Hindu mythology, making it a significant pilgrimage site for devotees from all over India and beyond.

Map Of Kalighat Kali Temple In Kolkata

Kolkata Registered Office
54 Ho Chi Minh Sarani (56/2/D, Biren Roy Road, West), Behala Chowrasta, Kolkata 700008,
+91-9038055530
+91- 9830366923
email: tabkolkata@gmail.com

Kalighat Kali Temple Timings

Morning: 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Evening: 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM

​