The Kalighat Kali Temple, located in Kalighat, Kolkata, is one of the most revered temples in India and holds immense significance among the 51 Shakti Peethas. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, this temple is not just a religious destination but also a symbol of Kolkata’s spiritual heartbeat.
With its origins dating back centuries, the current temple structure was built in 1809 by the Sabarna Roy Choudhury family, a devout follower of Maa Kali. The temple draws hundreds of devotees daily, especially during festivals like Kali Puja, where the temple premises see an extraordinary influx of pilgrims seeking blessings from the fearsome yet compassionate Goddess Kali.
Kalighat Kali Temple – Key Details
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Kalighat Kali Temple |
| Deity Worshipped | Maa Kali (Form of Goddess Durga) |
| Affiliation | Hinduism |
| Location | Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal, India |
| Estimated Time Needed | Around 2–3 Hours |
| Booking Mode | Offline & Some Services May Be Available Locally |
| Major Festivals | Kali Puja, Navratri, Snan Yatra, Diwali |
Kalighat Kali Temple Opening & Closing Hours
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday–Sunday | 05:00 AM | 10:30 PM |
🔔 Note: The temple experiences high footfall on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and festival days. Early visits are recommended for peaceful darshan.
Kalighat Kali Temple Darshan & Aarti Timings
| Darshan / Pooja / Aarti | Timings |
|---|---|
| Morning Darshan | 05:00 AM – 02:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 05:00 PM – 10:30 PM |
| Darshan Break | 02:00 PM – 05:00 PM |
| Morning Aarti | 05:30 AM |
| Evening Aarti | 07:00 PM |
| Sandhya Aarti | 06:30 PM – 07:00 PM |
| Nitya Pooja | 05:30 AM – 07:00 AM |
| Bhog Offering | 12:00 PM |
| Pooja Timings | 05:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 04:00 PM – 10:00 PM |
Temple Highlights & Ritual Practices
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Snan Yatra: Devotees perform a sacred bathing ritual in the Kundupukur tank, believed to be spiritually purifying.
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Sanctum Sanctorum: Houses the idol of Maa Kali, featuring a gold tongue and three eyes.
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Nat Mandir: A large hall where devotees gather during peak aarti hours.
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Adjacent Shrines: Includes temples of Lord Shiva, Radha-Krishna, and other deities.
📿 Devotees offer red hibiscus flowers, sweets, and clothing items to the goddess as part of their prayers.
Important Visitor Tips
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Footwear: Not allowed beyond the designated area. Safe lockers are available near the entrance.
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Mobile Phones/Cameras: Photography is prohibited inside the sanctum.
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Entry Fee: Free for general darshan; donations and pooja offerings are accepted voluntarily.
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Dress Code: Modest traditional attire is recommended. Avoid western or revealing clothing.
FAQs – Kalighat Kali Temple 2025
Q: What are the best days to visit Kalighat Kali Temple?
Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Kali Puja days are considered especially auspicious.
Q: Is there an official website for online bookings?
Currently, there is no dedicated official website. The temple is under the West Bengal Government’s oversight. All bookings are done offline at the temple counters.
Q: How can I perform special poojas?
Speak directly to the temple priests or the Purohit Samiti near the temple entrance for offerings and rituals.
Q: What is the nearest metro station to the temple?
Kalighat Metro Station is the closest, just 5–10 minutes walking distance.
Contact Information
| Contact Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Kalighat Kali Temple |
| Address | Kalighat, Kolkata – 700026, West Bengal, India |
| Temple Authority | Managed under the Government of West Bengal |
| Phone Number | Not officially listed; temple authorities operate locally |
| Official Website | Not Available (Refer to trusted local government portals) |