Tarakeshwar Temple West Bengal – Guide
Tarakeshwar Temple is considered an important pilgrimage centre especially for the Hindus of the state of West Bengal. Taraknath Temple is located in a small town called Tarakeswar near Serampore in the Hooghly district of West Bengal.
The presiding deity of the temple is the revered Hindu god Lord Shiva. The Tarakeshwar Temple West Bengal is recognized as the centre of the Shiva circle in the whole of Bengal. The temple is actually located at a distance of 58 kms from Kolkata city, this temple is one of the revered twelve Jyotirlinga temples across the country.
Tarakeshwar Temple West Bengal Timings
Tarakeshwar Temple West Bengal opens at 6:00 AM in the morning and close at 6:00 PM in the evening.
History of Tarakeshwar Temple
Tarakeshwar Temple West Bengal was constructed during the 18th century. There is a historical events associated with the construction of this particular temple. A follower of Lord Shiva, named Vishnu Das, came to Ayodhya to live permanently with his family. He and other members of his family were viewed with extreme distrust by the local people. However, Vishnu Das was able to prove his virtuousness by holding tightly to the red hot iron bar and thus, earned an excellent reputation among the local people.
After some time, rather after a few days, a particular area within the forest which was near was found by Vishnu’s brother. This was the area of the forest where milk was released by the cows in their respective udders at a certain place every day.
On probing that specific spot, both Vishnu and his brother discovered a Shiva Lingam. Finally, a temple was constructed at the specific spot which came to be popularly known as Taraknath Temple. The Tarakeshwar Temple was rebuilt several times over the years and the present structure of the mentioned temple was built by Raja Bharmalla in 1729 AD.
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Place to visit near this Temple
Dudhpukar Tank
Dudhpukar Tank is a major attraction of Tarakeswar. This milk tank is attached to the temple of Taraknath. According to mythological belief, this kund is a miraculous place. For this reason, travellers come close to taking a dip inside this water tank to fulfil their wishes.
It is said that the water of this kund is full of medicinal power. A person who takes a dip in this pool once remains healthy. According to historians, this tank was built by Raja Bharmalla during the construction of Taraknath temple in 1729 AD.
Buddha Temple of Deulpara
This beautiful temple of Lord Buddha is situated at a distance of 6 km from this town. This abode of Lord Buddha was constructed in 1985. According to various records, the Dalai Lama is credited as the founder of this only Buddhist temple in Hooghly district. Apart from being a beautiful example of architecture, this temple offers a picturesque view to the travellers. Inside this temple complex you will find a beautiful idol of Lord Buddha. The garden of this temple is another attraction after visiting this site.
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How to reach Tarakeshwar Temple West Bengal
By Air- Nearest Airport from Tarakeshwar Temple West Bengal is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata which is 32 km away from this temple. You can easily take bus from there to reach the temple.
By Train- Nearest railway station from this temple is Tarakeshwar Railway Station which is at a distance of 1 km from this temple. You can easily opt bus, cab or auto to reach the temple.
By Road- Buses are available from Dharmatala, Howrah, Chinsura to Tarakeshwar or you can take direct cab to reach this Temple from any part of the country.
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