Heavenly Abode- Dakhineshwar

Located on the banks of River Hooghly, Kolkata, the picturesque view of Dakhineshwar is enough to awake the spiritual vibes within leaving one enchanted and willing to come back more often. 

Since past one year, I had this resolved to be here, but for some reason, was just a passerby. Finally, this month, the opportune moment came, a moment I didn't want to miss out under all circumstances.

About Dakhineshwar:

Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a Hindu temple located in Dakhineshwar near Kolkata. Situated on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, the presiding deity of the temple is Bhavatarini, an aspect of Kali, meaning, 'She who liberates Her devotees from the ocean of existence i.e. World. The temple was built by Rani Rashmoni, a philanthropist and a devotee of Kali in 1855. The temple is famous for its association with Ramakrishna Paramhansa, a mystic of 19th Century Bengal.

The temple compound, apart from the nine-spired main temple, contains a large courtyard surrounding the temple, with rooms along the boundary walls. There are twelve shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva —Kali's companion—along the riverfront, a temple to Radha- Krishna, a bathing ghat on the river, a shrine dedicated to Rani Rashmoni. 'Nahavat-Khana', the chamber in the northwestern corner just beyond the last of the Shiva temples, is where Ramakrishna Paramhansa spent a considerable part of his life.

It is believed that Ramakrishna Paramhansa was the purest devotee of Goddess Kali, who due to his spiritual practices was able to visualise Goddess Kali in person. Upon being summoned by Kali, he awaited his destined meeting with 'Narendranath Dutta', aka Naren, who would later be known by the history as 'Swami vivekananda'. 

Reaching There:

Located just 9.1 Km from the Howrah Railway Station, and 10.6 Km from Netaji Subhas Chandra International Airport,Kolkata, the temple is an epitome of the heritage and customs of West Bengal and is beyond doubt not to be missed.

Taxis are available from both Airport as well as from the rail station.Hint: When in Kolkata, always insist on traveling by the meter rates only. The simple conversion..Whatever is the meter reading, twice is the amount one pays. So, if the meter reading says 25.00, your fare is Rs. 50/-. Fair Enough!!

Offering Prayers:

The things are quite systematic here. But if you do not want to get wait in a long queue, it is better to be early. The time between 6 am and 8 am is the best. After that the rush increases. Do not forget to take a dip in the Ganges..Its an experience you cannot afford to miss.

Photography:

Clicking photos of the deity and the idols is prohibited; however, you can click the photos of the temple from outside with due permission.