Belur Math is the headquarter of Ramakrishna Mission and is situated amid palm trees and finely well-kept lawns. The idea behind establishing this place was inspired by one of the prominent seers of the 19th century - Ramakrishna Paramahansa.
For any spiritual devotee, this place is a must-visit. It was founded by the chief disciple of Ramakrishna Paramhansa; Swami Vivekananda. Due to its spiritual and religious significance, people from all over the world come here to bask in the spiritual vibes of this place.
The timings of the Belur Math Temple, Kolkata are as follows:
- April to September: 6:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
- October to March: 6:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM
- The timings to visit the Ramakrishna Museum (Tuesdays to Sundays) are:
- April to September: 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- October to March: 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM
The Belur Math is open on all days and there are no charges for entry.
History of Belur Math
It was the year 1897 when Swami Vivekananda arrived in Kolkata. He was accompanied by a small group of western disciples. The primary purpose of his visit was the establishment of monasteries that were founded by him. One was the Belur Math, which went on to become the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission.
Apart from Belur Math, he also founded another monastery at Mayavati sited in Champawat District, Himalayas. The purpose of both these monasteries was to train young men to become ascetics and help them find liberation as the end result.
Before the construction of the Math's building, Swami Vivekananda had spent his days as a wandering monk and had seen many architectural wonders like the Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri, Diwan-I-Khas, and various other historical buildings. It is said that he had incorporated all the ideas while designing the Belur Math Temple.
Major Attractions in and Around Belur Math Kolkata
1. Shri Ramakrishna Temple
The tranquillity around the space lets you feel that the Swami Ramakrishna is still here. On the main entrance, you will see the Swami is seated on a lotus with his uplifted eyes that hold eternal wisdom.
2. Shri Maa Sharda Devi Temple
Another majestic attraction that will let you feel the divine vibrations is the Shri Maa Sharda Devi Temple. While in the temple, you will feel the positivity enveloping your life.
3. Swami Brahmananda Temple
The heavenly temple is dedicated to the Swami Brahmananda, also known as the spiritual son of Ramakrishna Paramahansa. The temple is built on the same spot where his body was cremated after his passing away on 10 April 1922.
4. Evening Aarti
You can attend the evening aarti that is dedicated to Swami Ramakrishna Paramhansa and mother Sarada Devi. The timing of aarti is 5:30 PM every day in the evening. Attending the aarti can help you progress spiritually.
How to Reach Belur Math
By Air
If planning a trip to Belur Math, Kolkata via air, then you will need to deboard at the Netaji Subhash Chandra International Airport. And after deboarding at the airport, you will need to cover the remaining distance by some means of public transportation like a cab.
By Train
Belur Math is situated in the Northern part of Howrah. It is located at a 4 km distance from the Howrah train station. After deboarding at the train station, you can travel via public transport like a cab.
By Road
And depending on your location, you can also consider traveling by well-maintained road networks. For this, you will need to take a cab or hire a bus.
You can plan your trip and create your own route to the city with Adotrip’s technically driven circuit planner. Click here.
