Kolkata is a beautiful city, which is not only famous for its literary success, colonial architecture, and dynamic culture, but also for its magnificent divine places. The evidence lies in the prestigious temples in Kolkata that reflect years of faith, artistry, and community. Each temple in this “City of Joy” has a unique story to tell, dedicated to devotion and tradition. So, even if you are a pilgrim looking for spiritual solace or a traveler curious about historical sites, exploring these Kolkata temples provides an in-depth understanding of the city’s soul. Through this comprehensive blog, let’s have a complete overview of these divine temples in detail to understand the significance they hold, their beauty, and their cultural impact.
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List of Top 10 Temples in Kolkata
Here is a complete overview of some of the most magnificent temples in Kolkata, each with its own profound history, stunning architecture, and spiritual significance, that are waiting to be explored. So, when in Kolkata, do not forget to visit these spiritual sites for a mesmerizing experience.
1. Birla Mandir
The Birla Mandir in Ballygunge is one of the most renowned temples in Kolkata. The Mandir has deities Radha and Krishna, along with Lord Ganesha, Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Durga, inside. After twenty-six years of construction, the physical structure of the temple is a combination of traditional architecture and modern workmanship. It is an exceptional building that has detailed carvings, colourful decorations, and an elegant, yet grand architecture. The beauty of the building not only stimulates such devotional sentiment, but it is also a very popular location for film and television shoots. Visiting this temple in Kolkata is like walking into an art gallery with sacred artwork all around. Therefore, it is a must-visit temple.
Location
- Ballygunge, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Timing
- Morning: 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM
- Evening: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Activities
- Darshan & prayer rituals, experiencing devotional ambience, photography (outside), attending religious festivals, film & TV shoots
Architecture Style
- Nagara style, inspired by Rajasthani temples, built with white marble.
2. Dakshineswar Kali Temple
The Dakshineswar Kali Temple is one of the most recognized temples in Kolkata, quietly positioned on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, which flows by. Dedicated to Goddess Bhabatarini, a form of Kali, the design resembles a traditional Bengali temple with three stories and nine spires. The temple is significant because of Ramakrishna Paramahansa, the saint who lived and taught from this temple. Among temples in Kolkata, Dakshineswar combines the elements of intense devotional energy, history, and craftsmanship. Thus, this temple should definitely be on your list.
Location
- Eastern bank of the Hooghly River, Dakshineswar, Greater Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Timing
- 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM & 3:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Activities
- Darshan (worship), participation in aarti, paying respects at smaller shrines, observing historical/ spiritual associations (Ramakrishna Paramahansa), visiting the Radha-Kanta temple and river ghats, photography of architecture and river views
Architecture Style
- Built in the Nava-Ratna (nine-spire) Bengal style, with ‘Aat-Chala’ mini-Shiva temples in the compound.
3. Belur Math
Belur Math is ranked among the best temples in Kolkata for both spiritual seekers and architects. Founded by Swami Vivekananda, the buildings have a subtle blend of Hindu, Islamic, Christian, and Buddhist architecture to represent the fundamental unity of all religions. The main shrine honors Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, while there are side shrines for Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. Belur Math’s charitable and educational work also makes it a place of service among the temples in Kolkata that inspire.
Location
- Belur, Howrah district, West Bengal, on the west bank of the Hooghly River, India
Timing
- Morning: ~6:00 AM to 11:30 AM
- Evening: ~4:00/4:30 PM to ~6:00-8:30 PM (varies by season)
Activities
- Darshan / prayer, evening aarti, meditation, visiting the Ramakrishna Museum, participating in festivals (e.g. Ramakrishna Jayanti, Durga Puja, Christmas), enjoying the river ghat, educational & charitable work by Ramakrishna Mission
Architecture Style
- Fusion of Hindu, Islamic, Christian & Buddhist motifs, with a dome, cross-shaped plan, and multi-faith design elements.
4. Pareshnath Temple
The Pareshnath Jain Temple is an example of grace and tranquillity amongst temples in Kolkata. Built in 1867 by Ray Badridas Bahadur, the temple is dedicated to Shri Shitalnathji, the 10th Jain Tirthankara. The building features stunning architecture, including impressive stained glass windows, marble flooring, and beautiful pillars inside the temple. It is surrounded by well-kept gardens, fountains, smaller shrines for other Jain deities, and a museum showcasing Jain heritage artifacts. Many visitors say that as the morning sunlight shines through the stained glass, it creates a spiritual calmness very unique to these temples in Kolkata.
Location
- Badridas Temple Street, Gouribari, Manicktala, North Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Timing
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Evening: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Activities
- Worship / darshan of Tirthankaras (mainly Shri Shitalnath Ji, also Chandraprabha, Mahavir etc.), observing continuous ghee lamp in the sanctum since 1867, visiting smaller shrines & Dadabari, enjoying the gardens, fountains, pond, feeding fish, viewing stained glass, mirrors, chandeliers & art by Ganesh Muskare.
Architecture Style
5. Tarakeshwar Temple
The Tarakeshwar Temple is an important pilgrimage site among Kolkata temples, especially for followers of Lord Shiva. Located on the outskirts of Kolkata, the temple is dedicated to Lord Taraknath, an important aspect of Lord Shiva. During the Shravan month and at Maha Shivaratri, this temple fills with thousands of worshippers. The rituals and celebrations are traditional and extravagant, filled with devotion, worship, music, and lights. For those looking for spiritual fulfillment, Tarakeshwar is one of the temples in Kolkata that resonates deeply in the heart.
Location
- Tarakeswar town, Hooghly district, West Bengal, India
Timing
- Morning Darshan: ~ 6:00 AM – 1:30 PM
- Evening Darshan / Puja: ~ 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Activities
- Worship / darshan at the temple, ritual bathing at Dudhpukur pond, visiting nearby shrines (Kali, Lakshmi-Narayan), participating in festivals like Shivaratri, Gajan, Monday observances during Shravan.
Architecture Style
6. ISKCON Temple
The ISKCON Temple, also called Sri Sri Radha Govinda Mandir, represents devotion and fine architecture among temples in Kolkata. Established in 1970, the temple worships Lord Krishna together with Radha. Its design includes beautiful ornamentation and gold accents, which create a radiant and uplifting atmosphere. Spread over a large area, the temple has various sections that carry religious importance, including prayer halls and spaces for meditation and community gatherings. This temple in Kolkata stands as a vibrant center of Krishna bhakti and spiritual learning.
Location
Timing
- Morning: ~ 4:30 AM – 1:00 PM
- Evening: ~ 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Activities
- Daily aartis (Mangala, Tulasi, Gaura, etc.), chanting sessions, darshan, guru puja, classes (Srimad Bhagavatam), prasad & vegetarian food, festivals like Rath Yatra, youth programs & meditation/community gatherings
Architecture Style
- Marble and granite ISKCON-style temple with simple ornamentation, wooden altar, and clean devotional aesthetics.
7. Mira Mandir
Mira Mandir is a sacred and serene temple among the temples in Kolkata. It is dedicated to Saint Mira, who is renowned for her devotion to Lord Krishna. Located in a tranquil neighborhood of Kolkata, it draws devotees throughout the year, especially on Janmashtami, when the midnight ceremonies are especially emotional. Mira Mandir feels intimate and devotional, which shows devotion from the heart. For anyone who is looking to engage with devotional traditions in Kolkata, Mira Mandir is one of the best places to visit.
Location
Timing
- Daily: 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Activities
Architecture Style
8. Chinese Kali Temple
Chinese Kali Temple is a remarkable temple among the temples in Kolkata, because it has a beautiful representation of worship traditions. The temple is devoted to Kali Ma and is maintained by Chinese priests and worshippers, which also includes some Chinese-style ritual. The prasad served here is also Chinese. The temple is a meeting point for visitors and devotees of this worship tradition. The Chinese Kali Temple reflects how temples in Kolkata are sites of cultural points and harmonious religious fusion.
Location
Timing
- Daily: 5:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Activities
- Worship of Kali Ma, Chinese-style rituals, offering prasad, cultural gatherings, devotional ceremonies
Architecture Style
9. Thanthania Kali Bari
Thanthania Kali Bari is one of the oldest and most respected temples in Kolkata. The temple was started in 1803 by Shankar Ghosh. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga, in her aspect as Siddeshwari. Every year, Kali Puja attracts hundreds of thousands of devotees who come to view the weekly clay image of the goddess. The rituals are traditional and powerful. The temple’s location in the College Street Market makes it accessible to the public, but the feeling in the temple is intense. Of all the temples in Kolkata, Thanthania Kali Bari possesses a strong sense of history, devotion, and community.
Location
Timing
- Daily: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Activities
- Daily worship, Kali Puja celebrations, tantric rituals on special no-moon nights, and participation in major religious festivals.
Architecture Style
10. Kasba Adya Kali Mata Temple
Situated in Tangra, which is known as Kolkata’s “Chinatown” on a local street map, Kasba Adya Kali Mata Temple serves as an example of how the Chinese community has embraced the traditions of worship from India. Although small in size, the temple has great cultural significance; the ceremonies blend aspects of traditional Hindu rites with the influences of Chinese traditions, and the prasad even includes locally-made Chinese food. There is genuine warmth and a sense of community in the devotion. This temple in Kolkata is not only visited for its spiritual atmosphere, but also for the stories it contains of friendship, shared culture, and spiritual togetherness.
Location
Timing
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Evening: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Activities
Architecture Style
Conclusion
To many visitors, the temples in Kolkata are merely holy spaces. However, they are living experiences of faith, culture, history, and architecture. By immersing oneself in these temples, you can feel how generations of people devoted themselves to a higher power, witness craftsmanship in stone and marble, and appreciate the potential for religion and culture to bring together communities. If you ever visit Kolkata, these temples are surely not to be missed as they represent light, ritual, and compassion.
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