About Tarakeshwar Temple West Bengal
- Tarakeshwar temple in West Bengal is considered quite an important pilgrimage spot among Hindus, particularly those from the West Bengal State. The temple has been renovated several times in the years since. The Tarakeshwar temple is one of the major pilgrimage destinations of Bengali people.
- Taraknath temple, West Bengal dedicated to Hindu God Shiva
- Eventually, the temple was built at this very spot, and it came to be known as the Taraknath temple of the city. A temple was built at a particular spot which became famous as the Taraknath temple of If Baba Tarakeshwar. Tarkeshwar temples were then built around Swayambhu Linga, who is called as Baba Taraknath.
History of Tarakeshwar Temple
- The temple is also one of the oldest temples of the city of Tarakeshwar, dating from 18th century. It was built by Raja Bharamalla. The temples in Tarakeshwar are considered as the proof of successful reigns of Chola dynasty. Tarkeshwar Temple has also registered its name in a handful of these renowned heritage sites under UNESCO Great Chola Temples tag. The Tarkeshwar Temple records maximum number of people during the holy day of Mahashivratri. Thousands of devotees, from across India, arrive to offer thousands of devotional prayers to the presiding deity, Lord Taraknath. There is a legend associated with Taraknath temples building.
Story behind Taraknath Temple
- According to the legend, the temple was built after Lord Shiva appeared in the dreams of His devotees and ordered them to find the Shiv Linga, which is located deep inside a forest, close to the city of Tarakeshwar, as well as build the temple there. One day, during the night, Taraknath Mahadev appeared in a dream to Bharmal Rao and said if you have any devotion to me, then construct my temple in that spot. The resident deity is Lord Siva, the temple of Taraknath witnesses a sea of pilgrims during the months-long Srabani Mela of July-August. There is a tank called Dudhpukur located to the north of Taraknath Temple, believed to fulfil the prayers of devotees, who take a dip in holy waters from a tank called Dudhpukur. Devotees and pilgrims come from all over the country for the Tarakeshwar Temple all through the year.
How to reach Taraknath Temple?
- By Air – Nearest Airpory from Tarakeshwar Temple is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata. From airport the temple is 32 km. far. You can easily take bus from there.
- By Train – Nearest station from temple is Tarakeshwar Railway Station. From there it is 1 km. far. You can easily opt bus, cab or auto for the mandir.
- By Road– Buses are available from Dharmatala, Howrah, Chinsura to Tarakeshwar or you can take direct cab to reach the place.
FAQs
Q. What is the best time to visit Tarakeshwar Temple West Bengal?
Ans. The temple is open throughout the year, but the best time to visit is during the winter months (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. Can non-Hindus visit the temple?
Ans. Yes, the temple is open to people of all religions, but visitors are expected to respect the temple’s customs and traditions.
Q. Are there any accommodations available near the temple?
Ans. Yes, there are several hotels and guesthouses located near the temple complex, offering comfortable accommodation for visitors.