Kalighat Kali Temple

Kalighat Kali Temple, in south Kolkata, is among the 51 Shakti Peethas, the sites where parts of Sati's body are said to have fallen. Here, tradition holds, it was her right toes. The temple stands beside the Adi Ganga, the old bed of the Ganga, and the city's name itself is linked with it: Kolkata is said to come from Kalikshetra, the field of Kali.

The goddess is worshipped here as Dakshina Kalika, in an unusual image: a black stone face with three large eyes, a long gold tongue, and four golden arms, rather than the more common statue of the goddess standing on Shiva. The Bhairava of the shrine is Nakuleshwar.

The present structure was completed in 1809 with support from the Roy Choudhury zamindar family. The temple is one of the most revered Shakta sites in eastern India.

The present temple was built in 1809 in the Bengal style, with the support of the Sabarna Roy Choudhury family, on the site of an older shrine. It has a tall, tiered tower in the Bengali aatchala form, and an adjoining pillared hall, the Natmandir, which was added in the 1830s.

Next to the temple is the Kundupukur, a sacred pool, and the Adi Ganga flows nearby. The surrounding lanes are lined with stalls selling flowers, sweets and religious items, and the temple is central to the life of the neighbourhood.

The daily rituals begin at dawn, with offerings of red hibiscus flowers and garlands, and the temple is open until late. Tuesdays and Saturdays are the busiest, and goat sacrifices are made in a separate area on certain days.

Kali Puja at Diwali, the Snana Yatra in summer and Poila Baisakh, the Bengali New Year in April, bring the largest crowds. Devotees also visit during Navaratri and Durga Puja.

• Kali Puja
• Snan Yatra
• Poila Baisakh

The crowds can be heavy, and visitors are advised to be wary of touts, called pandas, who offer to guide them. Use the official queue or ask for a ticket at the temple counter. Dress modestly and leave footwear at the entrance.

The Kalighat metro station is a short walk from the temple. Nirmal Hriday, the home for the dying founded by Mother Teresa, is in a building next to the temple, and visitors can also see the Alipore Zoo and the Victoria Memorial.

Kalighat has its own metro station on the north–south line. The temple is a short walk from there.

• Dakshineswar Kali TempleWest Bengal · about 15 km in a straight line

• Kalisthan Temple, NahanHimachal Pradesh
• Kali Mata Temple, NakhleraHimachal Pradesh
• Mata Shyama Kali TempleHimachal Pradesh
• Kali Math Temple LehLadakh

See all 2 Kali temples in West Bengal

Where is Kalighat Kali Temple located?

Kalighat Kali Temple is located at Kalighat, Kolkata 700026, in Kolkata, West Bengal, India.

Who is the presiding deity at Kalighat Kali Temple?

The presiding deity at Kalighat Kali Temple is Kali (also known as Kalika, Bhadrakali), worshipped in the Shakta tradition.

What are the timings of Kalighat Kali Temple?

Kalighat Kali Temple is generally open 05:00–14:00, 16:00–22:30. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.

When was Kalighat Kali Temple built?

Kalighat Kali Temple was established 1809 CE (present form). Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.

What is the architectural style of Kalighat Kali Temple?

Kalighat Kali Temple is built in the Bengali temple style, characteristic of Kali shrines of this region.

Which festivals are celebrated at Kalighat Kali Temple?

The principal festivals celebrated at Kalighat Kali Temple include Kali Puja, Snan Yatra, Poila Baisakh. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across West Bengal and beyond.

How can I reach Kalighat Kali Temple?

Kalighat has its own metro station on the north–south line. The temple is a short walk from there.

Why is Kalighat Kali Temple significant?

One of the 51 Shakti Peethas, where the toes of Sati are said to have fallen. Gave Calcutta (Kalikata) its name.

What is the best time to visit Kalighat Kali Temple?

October to February for weather; Kali Puja and Tuesdays or Saturdays are the busiest.