About Tarakeshwar Temple in West Bengal.
- Tarakeshwar Temple in West Bengal is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus, particularly those from the state. The temple has undergone various renovations over the years. Tarakeshwar Temple is a popular pilgrimage destination for Bengali people.
- Tarakeshwar Temple in West Bengal is devoted to Hindu God Shiva.
- The temple was eventually built on this site and became known as the city’s Tarakeshwar Temple. A temple was established at a specific location, which became known as the Taraknath Temple of If Baba Tarakeshwar. The Tarkeshwar temples were then built around Swayambhu Linga, also known as Baba Taraknath.
History of the Tarakeshwar Temple
- The temple is also one of the oldest in Tarakeshwar, going back to the 18th century. It was constructed by Raja Bharamalla. Tarakeshwar temples are considered testimony of the Chola dynasty’s successful reigns. Tarkeshwar Temple is also listed as one of UNESCO’s Great Chola Temples. The Tarkeshwar Temple has the most visitors during the holy day of Mahashivratri. Thousands of devotees from around India come to give thousands of devotional prayers to the presiding deity, Lord Taraknath. There is a mythology about the construction of the Taraknath temple.
The story of the Taraknath Temple
According to history, the temple was erected after Lord Shiva came in the dreams of His devotees and instructed them to locate the Shiv Linga, which is deep within a forest near the city of Tarakeshwar, and build the temple there. Taraknath Mahadev appeared to Bharmal Rao in a dream one night and told him that if he had any devotion to me, he should build my temple there.
The resident deity is Lord Siva, and the temple of Taraknath sees a flood of pilgrims during the months-long Srabani Mela in July-August. There is a tank named Dudhpukur located to the north of Taraknath Temple, which is supposed to fulfill devotees’ requests. who take a dip in holy water from the Dudhpukur Tank. Devotees and pilgrims from all across the country visit the Tarakeshwar Temple throughout the year.
How to get to Taraknath Temple?
- By Air – The nearest airport to Tarakeshwar Temple is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. From the airport, the temple is 32 kilometers away. You may easily take the bus from there.
- By Train – Tarakeshwar Railway Station is the nearest station to the temple. There is a one-kilometer distance from there. You may easily get to the mandir via bus, taxi, or auto.
- By Road: Buses go from Dharmatala, Howrah, and Chinsura to Tarakeshwar, or you can take a direct cab.
3 night 4 day Tarakeshwar Temple itinerary ( by train and flight )
Day 1: Kolkata arrival
Arrive at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport if you’re traveling by plane.
If traveling by train, get to Sealdah Station or Howrah Junction.
After your travel, check into your accommodation in Kolkata and relax.
You can wander along the Hooghly River or visit neighboring sights like the Victoria Memorial and Dakshineswar Kali Temple in the evening.
Day 2: Tarakeshwar to Kolkata
Travel to Tarakeshwar from Kolkata after breakfast. From Howrah Junction, you can board a train to Tarakeshwar Railway Station. As an alternative, you may rent a car and go on a road trip.
As soon as you get to Tarakeshwar, check into your hotel or other lodging.
See the Tarakeshwar Temple, one of West Bengal’s most venerable and important Shiva shrines. Take some time to go around the temple complex and take in the serene atmosphere.
You are welcome to stay for the temple’s evening aarti, or prayer ceremony.
After having dinner at a nearby restaurant, retire for the evening.
Day 3: The Tarakeshwar
Visit Taraknath Temple, another important shrine close to Tarakeshwar Temple, first thing in the morning.
Investigate the stores and markets in the vicinity of the temple. You can sample local cuisine or go souvenir shopping.
If you want to do further sightseeing, you may go to neighboring destinations like Bishnupur, which is well-known for its terracotta temples, or Chandannagar, which is noted for its history of French colonization.
Head back to Tarakeshwar for dinner and a restful night.
Day 4: Journey back to Kolkata and Head Out
Check out of your hotel and head to the Tarakeshwar Railway Station after breakfast.
Remain in Kolkata via train, or make other arrangements for a car transfer.
If you’re departing by plane, proceed to the airport in time for your journey.
You might have some free time in Kolkata depending on when you’re leaving to go sightseeing or shopping.
Finish your trip to Tarakeshwar Temple by leaving Kolkata.
This itinerary provides a balance of temple visits, exploration of local attractions, and leisure time, ensuring a fulfilling experience in Tarakeshwar within the timeframe of 3 nights and 4 days.
FAQs
Q. What is the best time to visit Tarakeshwar Temple in West Bengal?
Ans. The temple is open all year, however the best time to visit is in the winter (November to February).
Q. Is there any dress code for visiting the temple?
Ans. Yes, visitors are advised to dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing or provocative clothes.
Q. Why is the temple at Tarakeshwar famous?
Ans. In 1720s, a devotee saw Lord Shiva in his dream. He followed the trail of the dream and stopped at the place, where Tarakeshwar temple is standing today. Devotees believe that Lord Shiva visits this temple every year to fulfill the wishes of people.
Q. Who built Tarakeswar Temple?
Ans. Thousands of devotees from throughout India gather here to pray to the presiding deity, ‘Lord Tarakeshwar’. The temple’s current structure is supposed to have been erected by Raja Bharamalla in 1729 AD.
Q. What is the story behind Tarkeshwar Temple?
Ans. History. According to tradition, Tarkasur was a demon who came here to meditate and worship Lord Shiva in exchange for a boon. Lord Shiva was pleased with his dedication and granted him a boon of immortality in response to Tarkasur’s prayer, with the exception of his son. Tarkasur began being evil by murdering saints and threatening gods.