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Tarapith Temple, West Bengal

Locality/village : Tarapith State : West Bengal Nearest Town : Rampurhat Country : India Best Season To Visit : All Languages : Bengali, Hindi & English Temple Timings : 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM Photography : Not Allowed

Tarapith Temple - Maa Taara Temple Complex - Birbhum West Bengal

Tarapith Temple is situated on the banks of the north flowing Dwarka River, Birbhum, some 264 km from Kolkata, West Bengal. Tarapith Temple is regarded as one of the Mahapeeths and extremely holy place for all Hindus. It is believed that the eyeball of Sati fell down at Tarapith. In Bengali, the eye ball is called ‘Tara’ and that is why the name of the village was changed from the earlier Chandipur to Tarapith.

Tarapith Temple is quite renowned for being one of the few temples where tantric rituals of Hinduism are followed. Dedicated to Goddess Tara, a fearsome incarnation of the Divine Mother, this is the most important center for Tantrik worship in India

The temple is symbolic of Shiva’s destructive aspect in the form of Kali. Her bloodlust is said to be assuaged by an animal sacrifice each morning in the temple premises and the blood is offered to satisfy her. In Hinduism, Maa Tara is the second of the Dasa (ten) Mahavidyas or “Great Wisdom [goddesses]”.Here tara means “star” because eye ball of Devi Sati fall here. She is also known as Kalika, Ugra-kali, Mahakali and Bhadra-kali. She is the tantric manifestation of Durga or Mahadevi, Kali, or Parvati.

The main temple is a four-sided, marble block structure capped by a curved roof called a dochala, from which projects a smaller four-sided tower with its own dochala.

Tarapith Temple base is thick with thick walls, built of red brick. The superstructure has covered passages with many arches raising to the pinnacle with a spire (shikara). The image of the deity is enshrined under the eaves in the sanctum. There are two Maa Tara images in the sanctum. The stone image of Maa Tara depicted as a mother suckling Shiva – the “primordial image” (seen in the inset of the fierce form of the image of Tara) is camouflaged by a three feet metal image, that the devotee normally seen. It represents Maa Tara in her fiery form with four arms, wearing a garland of skulls and a protruding tongue. Crowned with a silver crown and with flowing hair, the outer image wrapped in a sari and decked in marigold garlands with a silver umbrella over its head. The forehead of the metal image is adorned with red kumkum (vermilion). Priests take a speck of this kumkum and apply it on the foreheads of the devotees as a mark of Maa Tara’s blessings. The devotees offer coconuts, bananas and silk saris, and unusually bottles of whisky. The primordial image of Maa Tara has been described as a “dramatic Hindu image of Maa Tara’s gentler aspect”.

  • History & Significance
  • Festivals & Puja
  • Shani Dev - Idol
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Story behind the Tarapith Temple begins with Vashishta’s desire to master the Tantrik Arts. When he doesn’t get success after long practices he visits Buddha who had a vision of Tarapith being the perfect location to worship Maa Tara. On Buddha’s instructions Vashishtha came to Tarapith and worshipped the goddess by the left-handed Tantrik ritual utilizing the 5 forbidden things (Panchamakara). Maa Tara pleased with his devotion appeared before him in the form of the Divine Mother suckling Shiva to her breast and then turned to stone. Since then, the image of Maa Tara in her motherly incarnation suckling Lord Shiva is worshipped at Tarapith.

The old temple of Goddess Tara is somewhat damaged. The present temple with eight roofs was built in 1225 by one Jagannath Ray of Mallarpur village. On the main gate of the temple the statue of Goddess Durga and her full family are carved. On the left, the war of Kurukshetra (Mahabharata) and on the right stories from Ramayana is depicted.

Tarapith is also famous for Bamakhepa known as the ‘mad saint’, who is worshipped in the temple. He resided in the cremation grounds as a mendicant and practiced and perfected Yoga and the Tantric art under the guardianship of another famous saint known as the Kailashpathi Baba. Bama Khepa dedicated his entire life to the worship of mother Tara. His ashram is also located close to the temple.

Unlike most Indian villages and towns, the smashan or cremation ground is not situated on the periphery of the village. As cremation grounds are seen to be polluting, most Indian smashans are located far from the center of town. Both the Tarapith mandir and smashan are very close (within 100 yards or so) to the center of the town. It is said that Tara Maa’s footprints are preserved in the smashan; this is a common theme in Hinduism, where deities or their especially holy followers are said to leave their footprints in rocks. Many Sadhus and Tantrikas live in the smashan, some with permanent huts as residences. The smashan is filled with dogs, traditionally polluting animals that were said to share food with the Vamamarga saint Bamakhepa, whose samādhi or tomb is located next door to the main Tarapith temple.

The Tarapith Amavasya Annual Festival is the most important festival here which is celebrated in August every year.

Prarthana in Tarapith Temple

Early morning at 4’O clock Devi Tara wakes up from her sleep with the symphony of shahnai and other musical instruments and after that the process of her worship gets start. According to rules, a group of followers open the door to the garbha griha or sanctum sanctorum, wash her feet, clean the room and undo her bed. After this ghee, honey and aromatic oil are applied to the sacred stone idol before washing it with the water of the pure Jivitkund. After bathing the idol it is embellished with a saree, mask and a garland of skulls. Then starts the mangalarti and the morning bhog or morning food offering. Again in the afternoon puja is commenced and annabhog or rice offering is presented according to the norms of tantric sadhana. The annabhog consists of atap rice, five kinds of dishes, fried fish, meat of sacrificed goat, payesh or rice pudding and karanbari or alcoholic beverage. After the annabhog, the temple is closed for some time for the deity to take some rest. The sandhya aarti takes place in the evening followed by the making up of her bed for sleeping on a beautifully adorned bedstead.

Tarapith Temple is usually crowded by the poor from the nearby villages waiting for their daily free meal. The priests adorn vermillion on the forehead of the goddess. Speck of this vermillion is put on every devotee’s forehead as Ma Tara’s blessing. Devotees offer food, silk sarees and sometimes bottles of whiskey to the goddess. Puja is done to bring out the peaceful motherly nature of Ma tara for the benefit of her devotees. After a ritual sacrifice, sometimes devotees smear a little blood on their forehead as a mark of respect for the goddess.

Blood sacrifice of goats is the daily norm in the temple. Devotees who offer such goat sacrifices seek blessings from the deity. They bathe the goats in the holy tank near the temple before the sacrifice. They also purify themselves by taking bath in the holy tank before offering worship to the deity. The goat is then tethered to a stake, the designated post in a sand pit, and the neck of the goat butchered with a single stroke by a special sword. A small quantity of the blood of the goat is then collected in a vessel and offered to the deity in the temple. The devotees also smear their forehead with a bit of blood from the pit, as a mark of reverence to the deity.

Tarapith Temple Daily Pooja Schedule

Open all days of the week: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM

As regards the birth of Shani, there are different stories. Foremost and accepted is the one in the ancient ‘Scanda Poorana’ of Kasi Khanda which is as follows.

God Surya was married to Daksha daughter Sadnya. Sadnya could not tolerate the radiance of God Surya. She used to feel that by doing penance she could increase her brilliance. Or, by the power of her penance, she could diminish the glare of God Surya. But for God Surya, she was a spouse worshipping wife. From God Surya, she had three children. One was Vaivastahva Manu. The second was Yama Raj. And the third was Yamuna. Sadnya loved her children very much. But, she was very upset with the radiance of God Surya. One day, she thought that she would separate from God Surya, go to her parents’ home and undertake great penance. And if there was opposition, she would go far away to a lonely and undertake great penance.

By strength of her penance, Sadnya created a ‘Chaya’ (shadow) of herself and named her Suvarna. And, and then the shadow of herself became Suvarna. After handing over the children to Chaya, Sadnya told her that Chaya would thereafter play the role of womanhood and nurse her three children. She told her if any problem arose, she should call her and she would come rushing to her. But she cautioned her that she must remember that she was Chaya, not Sadnya, and nobody should know this difference.

Sadnya hander over her responsibilities to Chaya and went away to her parents’ place.

She went home and told her father that she could not stand the radiance of God Surya. And therefore, without telling her husband she had come away. Listening to this, her father scolded her very much and told her that without being called, if the daughter returns home, both her and her father would be cursed. He told her to go back to her home immediately. Then, Saudnya began to worry that if she went back, what would happen to the responsibilities which she had given to Chaya. Where would Chaya go?

And their secret would be exposed. So, Sadnya went to the dense jungles in Uttar Kurukshetra and took repose there.

She was fearful of her safety in the jungle because of her youthfulness and beauty. And she changed her form into that of a mare so that none could recognize her and started her penance. Elsewhere, the union of God Surya and Chaya begot three children. God Surya and Chaya were happy with each other. Surya never doubted anything. The children of Chaya were Manu, God Shani and Putri Bhadra (Tapti).

As per the second story, the creation of God Shani was the result of Maharishi Kashyap’s great ‘yagna’. When God Shani was in the womb of Chaya, Shiv Bhaktini Chaya was so engrossed in penance of God Shiva that she did not care for her food even.

She prayed so intensely during her penance that the prayers had a profound influence on the child in her womb. As a result of such a great penance of Chaya, without food and shade in the blazing sun, the complexion of God Shani became black. When God Shani was born, Surya was surprised to see his dark complexion. He began to doubt Chaya. He insulted Chaya by saying that this was not his son.

From birth itself, God Shani had inherited the great powers of his mother’s penance.

He saw that his father was insulting his mother. He saw his father with a cruel gaze. As a result his father’s body was charred black. The horses of God Surya’s chariot stopped. The chariot would not move. Worried, God Surya called out to God Shiva. God Shiva advised God Surya and explained to him about what had happened. That is, because of him the respect of mother and child had been tarnished and insulted. God Surya accepted his fault and apologized. And regained his earlier glorious looks and the power of his chariot’s horses. Since then, God Shani became a good son to his father and mother and an ardent disciple of God Shiva.

In our routine lives, there is a great importance of the kindness and the power of God Shani. Shani occupies the seventh place among the nine planets which govern the world. This is viewed as unlucky in conventional astrology. As per ‘Kaagol Shastra’, the distance of Shani from the earth is 9 crore miles. Its radius is about one billion and 82 crore and 60 lakh kilometers. And its gravitational force is 95 times higher than that of the earth. Planet Shani takes 19 years to complete one revolution around the Sun. The astronauts have viewed the Shani’s colours as beautiful, strong, influencing and eye-catching. It has twenty two satellites in its ring.

Shani’s gravitational power is more than that of the Earth’s. Therefore, when we think good or bad thoughts and make plans, they reach Shani by the strength of his power. In astrological terms, the bad influence is considered as unlucky. But the result of good deeds will be good. Therefore, we must understand God Shani as a friend and not as foe. And for bad deeds, he is Sade Saathi, disaster and an enemy.

Tarapith is a temple town in Birbhum. It is a major Hindu pilgrimage centre and several thousand devotees visit the temple every day.

Tarapith Temple - Maa Taara Temple Complex - Birbhum West Bengal

Tarapith is at a distance of 264 km from Kolkata, 96 km from Santiniketan, 116 km from Durgapur, 150 km from Deoghar and 205 km from Mayapur.

If you want to make a travel to this place you can choose any of the following options:

Tarapith Temple By Bus

The state owned buses connect Tarapith with to Esplanade/Dharamtalla bus stand of Kolkata or with the neighboring cities.

Tarapith Temple By Air

The nearest airport is at Kolkata, at a distance of 225 km from Tarapith. One can avail taxi services from airport to Tarapith. From Kolkata Delhi, Mumbai and other major airports are easily accessible.

Tarapith Temple By Train

The nearest railway station is Rampurhat, at a distance of about 9 km from Tarpith. Taxi services from railway station to Tatapith are available. Rampurhat is linked with Howrah and Sealdah.

Tarapith Temple, West Bengal 

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Tarapith Temple

Prominent Shakti-Peetha Site

Tarapith Tarapith Temple Landscape Image

Also known as Maa Tara Temple, Tarapith Temple is a key attraction in the city, soaked in mythological stories. It is one of the 51 Shakti-Peethas in India.

Suggested Duration - 1 to 2 hours

What To Expect?

The temple is adorned with beautiful sculptures of Maa Tara and Lord Shiva. The devotees take a holy dip at the sacred tank adjacent to the temple before offering their prayers.

  • The devotees here offer coconuts, bananas, silk saris, and even whisky bottles.
  • You can also pre-book a special darshan at the temple.
  • The temple remains open from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Tarapith Temple, Tarapith Overview

Tarapith Temple, located in Tarapith , West Bengal , is a sacred pilgrimage site and a revered temple dedicated to the goddess Tara. This ancient temple holds immense religious and spiritual significance and attracts devotees from all over the country.

The architecture of the Tarapith Temple is unique and distinct. The main temple structure is built in the traditional Bengali style with intricate terracotta artwork adorning its walls. The temple complex comprises several other smaller shrines and structures, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere for devotees.

The presiding deity of Tarapith Temple is Goddess Tara, who is considered a form of Goddess Kali. Devotees believe that offering prayers and seeking blessings from Goddess Tara brings protection, fulfilment of desires, and spiritual enlightenment. The temple is also associated with the famous Tantric saint Bamakhepa, who is believed to have attained spiritual enlightenment through his devotion to the goddess.

Best time to Visit Tarapith Temple

Temperate weather conditions, ranging from about 12°C to roughly around 25°C, make Tarapith's wintertime (September through March) amicable for visitors. Celebrations such as the beloved Durga Puja, Navaratri holiday period, and Kali Puja also take centre stage during this same period offering an extraordinarily lively atmosphere bursting with joyfulness.

More About Tarapith Temple

One of the unique aspects of Tarapith Temple is the practice of animal sacrifices as a form of worship. Although this practice might be unfamiliar to some, it holds significance in the Tantric tradition and is performed by a specific group of priests called "Brahmacharis."

The temple complex features a sacred pond called "Kund" where devotees can take a holy dip before offering prayers. The serene surroundings and the religious ambience create an atmosphere of devotion and spiritual awakening.

Tarapith Temple is particularly renowned for its annual festivals and celebrations. Navaratri, Durga Puja, and Kali Puja are the major festivals celebrated with great fervour and enthusiasm. During these festive occasions, the temple comes alive with vibrant decorations, cultural performances, and religious rituals. Devotees gather in large numbers to participate in the festivities, seeking blessings and divine grace from the goddess.

Tarapith Temple Services

Devotees visiting the Tarapith Temple in West Bengal are privy to various amenities aimed at supporting their spiritual pursuit and providing solace. Among these amenities are:

  • Darshan: The temple allows devotees to have darshan (sacred glimpse) of the presiding deity, Goddess Tara. Devotees can offer prayers, seek blessings, and experience a spiritual connection with the goddess.
  • Puja and Archana: The temple priests perform various puja rituals and archana (offering prayers with sacred chants) on behalf of devotees.
  • Bhog and Prasad: Prasad, or blessed food offered to the deity, is distributed among devotees as a divine blessing. Devotees can partake in the prasad offered at the temple and experience the sanctity and auspiciousness associated with it.
  • Animal Sacrifices: As per the Tantric tradition, certain rituals involving animal sacrifices are performed by designated priests called "Brahmacharis." Devotees who wish to participate in these rituals can make arrangements with the temple authorities.
  • Annadanam: The temple organises annadanam, a charitable practice of offering free meals to devotees. This service ensures that visitors to the temple are provided with nourishing meals, reinforcing the spirit of generosity and community.
  • Festivals and Celebrations: Tarapith Temple is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations, including Durga Puja, Navaratri, Kali Puja, and other religious events.

Tarapith Temple Aarti

The Tarapith Temple in West Bengal carries out an important aarti ceremony as a tribute to the presiding deity, Goddess Tara. This ritual is conducted to honour her and seek her blessings. While specific details may vary, here is a general description of the aarti at Tarapith Temple:

  • Every day of the week, from 6 AM to 9 PM., the temple hosts puja. The Shahnai and other instruments play a melodic wake-up call for Devi Tara every morning at 4 AM, after which the worship begins.
  • The ritual begins with a group of devotees unlocking the Garbha Griba's door, at which point they wash her feet, tidy up her room, and re-make her bed. Honey and ghee are applied to the idol before it is washed in the pristine water of Jivitkund. After that, a sari, a skull garland, and a mask are placed on the idol.
  • Now in the mangal arati phase, rice is offered to the deity in the afternoon as part of the tantric sadhana ritual of pooja. Atap rice, goat meat, rice pudding, fried fish and five other dishes round out this annabhog.
  • After the annabhog, the temple is left closed so the god can rest. The evening Sandhya Aarti is performed, and then a bed is prepared for the deity.
  • The ritual sacrifice of goats begins with a ritual bath in the temple's holy tank. The goat's neck is then severed with a single slash from a specially designed blade. An offering of the goat's blood is made in a tiny jar.

Nearby Tourist Spots

Here are some tourist spots near the temple that allow visitors to explore the cultural and natural heritage of the region:

  • Nalhateshwari Temple
  • Tarapith Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Mallarpur Shiv Temple
  • Birchandrapur Temple
  • Tarapith Bazar
  • Tarapith Cremation Ground
  • Aghor Ashram
  • Bama Kali Temple

Restaurants and Local Food in Tarapith Temple

The temple administration provides prasad to devotees as a part of the religious rituals. The customary prasad comprises basic vegetarian dishes that are first presented to the divine entity and then shared among the faithful. The surroundings of Tarapith Temple is also home to many dining establishments which provide a range of culinary options for visitors to enjoy outside of their temple offerings. Some of the popular restaurants near Tarapith Temple include:

Bhadu Dhaba: Experience authentic rustic dining at Bhadu Dhaba located conveniently near the temple, serving up delectable North Indian and Bengali fare with equally impressive vegetarian options alongside delicious non-vegetarian preparations.

Kalyani Restaurant: Kalyani Restaurant caters primarily to vegetarians with their inviting selection of dishes that offer delightful flavours from both Northern and Southern India, paired with impeccable hygiene standards ensuring a blissful mealtime experience.

Gita Bhawan Restaurant: Savour pure vegetarian cuisine amidst the calming atmosphere of Gita Bhawan Restaurant which is situated in close proximity to the temple. It is perfect for guests seeking tranquillity complemented by superb culinary offerings.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Tarapith Temple

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Tarapith Temple Travel Guide

Tarapith Temple is a famous Devi temple located in the Birbhum district of West Bengal. Dedicated to the goddess Tara, the temple is a significant pilgrimage site for tantric worship and is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas.

Tarapith Temple is a famous Hindu temple located in the Birbhum district of West Bengal, India. Dedicated to the goddess Tara, the temple is a significant pilgrimage site for tantric worship and is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. The temple is known for its unique architecture and the strong spiritual aura that attracts devotees and tourists alike. The serene surroundings and the religious significance of the temple make it a must-visit for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and a deeper understanding of Hindu mythology and worship.

About Bamkhepa and his association with Tarapith temple

Bamakhepa was a famous tantric saint who was believed to have supernatural powers and a deep connection with the goddess Tara. His spiritual practices and miraculous healing abilities earned him a revered status among the devotees of Tarapith Temple. The temple complex also houses a sacred pond, where devotees take holy dips as part of their religious rituals.

The annual Tarapith Mela, also known as the Tarapith Tara Mela, is a significant festival celebrated with great fervor at the temple. During this festival, devotees from all over the country gather to seek blessings from goddess Tara and participate in various religious rituals and cultural festivities.

The Tarapith Temple stands as a symbol of faith, devotion, and the mystical allure of tantric traditions in Hinduism. Whether you are a devout follower seeking spiritual solace or a traveler interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Indian religious heritage, a visit to Tarapith Temple promises an insightful and enriching experience.

How to reach Tarapith

Tarapith is well-connected by road and can be reached easily from major cities in West Bengal. If you are traveling by air, the nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, approximately 4-5 hours away from Tarapith by road. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach Tarapith.

If you prefer traveling by train, the nearest major railway station is located in Rampurhat, which is around 6 kilometers away from Tarapith. From Rampurhat, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the Tarapith Temple.

For those traveling by road, there are regular bus services from Kolkata and other neighboring cities to Tarapith. You can also choose to hire a private taxi or drive your own vehicle to reach the temple.

Distance of Tarapith from Major cities

Here are the distances of Tarapith from some major cities in West Bengal:

– From Kolkata: Tarapith is approximately 264 kilometers away from Kolkata. It takes around 5-6 hours by road to reach Tarapith from Kolkata.

– From Siliguri: The distance between Siliguri and Tarapith is about 410 kilometers. It takes approximately 8-9 hours by road to reach Tarapith from Siliguri.

– From Durgapur: Tarapith is around 175 kilometers away from Durgapur. It takes approximately 4 hours by road to reach Tarapith from Durgapur.

Best Time to Visit Tarapith

The best time to visit Tarapith is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and conducive for exploring the temple and its surroundings. The temperature during these months is typically mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Additionally, the annual Tarapith Tara Mela, which falls in the month of March or April according to the Hindu calendar, is also a great time to experience the vibrant festivities and religious fervor at the temple.

During the monsoon season from June to September, the region experiences heavy rainfall, which can make travel and outdoor activities challenging. It is advisable to avoid visiting Tarapith during this time due to the inclement weather and potential disruptions to travel plans.

Best Places to Visit in and Around Tarapith

After visiting the Tarapith Temple and immersing yourself in its spiritual ambiance, there are several other notable places to explore in and around Tarapith. These attractions offer a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural experiences.

Nalateswari Temple

Located in the vicinity of Tarapith, the Nalateswari Temple is dedicated to the goddess Nalateswari, an aspect of the goddess Sati. The temple’s serene surroundings and intricate architecture make it a serene destination for spiritual seekers and those interested in ancient Hindu temples.

Tamsa River

The Tamsa River flows near Tarapith and provides a picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy serene boat rides or simply unwind by the riverbanks, taking in the tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty.

Tarapith Hill

For those inclined towards trekking and panoramic views, a visit to Tarapith Hill is highly recommended. The hill offers a relatively easy trek and rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding landscapes. It’s an ideal spot to witness captivating sunrises or sunsets.

Fullara, situated near Tarapith, is renowned for its historical significance and spiritual allure. The Fullara Temple, dedicated to the goddess Fulora, attracts devotees and history enthusiasts alike. The temple’s architecture and the legends associated with it make it a compelling stop for explorers.

Kankalitala Temple

A short distance from Tarapith, the Kankalitala Temple beckons visitors with its distinctive architecture and cultural importance. The ancient temple is revered for its connection to the goddess Sati and offers a glimpse into the region’s rich religious heritage.

Best Tourist Destinations Near Tarapith

While Tarapith Temple is a captivating destination in itself, the surrounding area offers a diverse range of attractions to enhance your visit. From ancient temples to natural landscapes, there’s something for every traveler seeking to further explore the cultural and spiritual richness of the region.

Brahmayoni Temple

Dedicated to the goddess Brahmayoni, this temple is situated close to the Tarapith Temple and is known for its tranquil ambiance and intricate architectural details. The serene surroundings make it an ideal place for quiet contemplation and spiritual reflection.

Jaydev Kenduli

For those interested in the cultural heritage of Bengal, a visit to Jaydev Kenduli is a must. It is the birthplace of the famous 12th-century poet Jayadeva, known for his composition “Gita Govinda.” The annual Jaydev Mela held here attracts music and dance enthusiasts from all over the country.

Kenduli Mela Ground

Adjacent to the Jaydev Kenduli village, the Kenduli Mela Ground is a vibrant hub of traditional music, dance, and folk performances during the annual fair. The lively atmosphere and colorful displays of arts and crafts offer a delightful immersion into the local culture.

Located a short distance from Tarapith, Bakreshwar is renowned for its hot springs and historical significance. The Bakreshwar Temple complex, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an important pilgrimage site and an oasis of serenity amidst natural hot water springs.

If you’re an aficionado of history and architecture, a visit to Dubrajpur is recommended. The town boasts remarkable examples of terracotta temples and ancient structures that provide insights into the region’s rich historical and artistic legacy.

List of Puja Offered at Tarapith Temple

When visiting the Tarapith Temple, you can partake in and witness various pujas and religious rituals offered to the presiding deity, goddess Tara. The temple is renowned for its spiritual significance and the following are some of the prominent pujas that devotees can participate in:

The Tara Puja is a significant ritual offering dedicated to goddess Tara. Devotees gather to offer prayers, flowers, and other sacred items in reverence to the divine goddess.

The Kali Puja, honoring the fierce form of goddess Kali, is a prevalent ritual at the Tarapith Temple. It involves the chanting of mantras and the offering of traditional lamps and auspicious items to seek the blessings of goddess Kali.

Rudra Abhishek

The Rudra Abhishek is a sacred worship ritual dedicated to Lord Shiva, consort of goddess Tara. Devotees participate in the ceremonial bathing of the Shiva Linga with water, milk, and other holy substances, accompanied by the chanting of Vedic hymns.

Sahasra Chandi Path

The Sahasra Chandi Path is a grand puja comprising the recitation of the Chandi Path, a sacred text honoring goddess Chandi. This elaborate recital is conducted with devotion and fervor, invoking the presence and blessings of goddess Chandi.

Bhairav Puja

The Bhairav Puja is dedicated to Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. Devotees offer prayers and seek the divine protection and blessings of Bhairav in this solemn ritual.

List of Places to Stay in Tarapith

As a visitor to Tarapith, it’s essential to have comfortable accommodations during your stay. Consider the following options for a pleasant and convenient experience:

Hotel Sonar Bangla

Located in the heart of Tarapith, Hotel Sonar Bangla offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms for a relaxing stay. The hotel’s proximity to the Tarapith Temple makes it an ideal choice for those looking to be close to the spiritual center.

Hotel Center Point

Situated in a prime location, Hotel Center Point provides well-appointed rooms and convenient facilities for guests. Its proximity to the main attractions of Tarapith ensures easy access to the temple and surrounding areas.

Nirala Resort

For a serene and peaceful retreat, Nirala Resort offers a tranquil setting amidst lush greenery. The resort’s comfortable accommodations and courteous service are complemented by its natural surroundings, providing a relaxing stay away from the hustle and bustle.

Hotel Samrat

Conveniently located near the Tarapith Temple, Hotel Samrat offers comfortable rooms and modern amenities to cater to the needs of visitors. Its accessibility and warm hospitality make it a popular choice for travelers seeking a convenient stay.

Yatri Nivas

Yatri Nivas provides a comfortable and affordable lodging option for visitors to Tarapith. The establishment’s focus on hospitality and guest satisfaction ensures a pleasant and convenient stay in the vicinity of the temple.

Choose from these accommodations based on your preferences and enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay in Tarapith.

Restaurants and Shopping in Tarapith

After immersing yourself in the spiritual and cultural richness of Tarapith, take the opportunity to explore the local cuisine and shopping options that the area has to offer.

Restaurants in Tarapith

Annapurna restaurant.

Indulge in authentic Bengali cuisine at Annapurna Restaurant, known for its delectable local dishes and traditional flavors. From mouthwatering seafood delicacies to aromatic vegetarian preparations, this restaurant offers a satisfying culinary experience.

Kosha Mangsho Stall

For a taste of the renowned Bengali dish, Kosha Mangsho (slow-cooked mutton curry), visit the popular Kosha Mangsho Stall. Savor the tender and flavorful dish served with steaming rice, a staple in Bengali households.

Experience the flavors of local vegetarian cuisine at Durga Bhog, where you can relish a variety of dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic spices. The restaurant’s cozy ambiance adds to the overall dining experience.

Madhu’z Pizza

Craving a break from traditional fare? Head to Madhu’z Pizza for a tempting selection of pizzas, including both classic and innovative toppings. Enjoy a casual dining experience with delicious pizzas made to order.

Maa Tara Sweets

Sample an array of delectable sweets and snacks at Maa Tara Sweets, a popular destination for traditional Bengali sweets like Rasgulla, Sandesh, and more. Treat yourself to the flavors of local confectionery.

Shopping Places in Tarapith

Kali mandir market.

Explore the Kali Mandir Market, located near the Tarapith Temple, for an assortment of religious items, souvenirs, and local handicrafts. Find unique mementos and religious artifacts to commemorate your visit.

Tarapith Haat

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Tarapith Haat, a bustling market where vendors offer an array of clothing, accessories, and trinkets. Discover distinctive souvenirs and take home a piece of Tarapith’s cultural charm.

Shakti Handicrafts

Peruse a variety of handcrafted items and traditional artifacts at Shakti Handicrafts, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of local artisans. Browse through intricate textiles, terracotta figurines, and other artisanal creations.

Maa Tara Saree Store

For those inclined towards fashion, Maa Tara Saree Store presents a collection of elegant and vibrant sarees, reflecting the regional textile and design preferences. Explore the store’s diverse range of sarees and textiles.

Holy Essence

Visit Holy Essence for a selection of religious souvenirs, incense sticks, and spiritual adornments to commemorate your spiritual journey in Tarapith. Find meaningful tokens to cherish the sacred memories of your visit.

Send Your Enquiry

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Tarapith Travel Guide

Tarapith is a small temple town in Birbhum district of West Bengal, known for the Tarapith Mandir. Tarapith Mandir is a Tantric temple and attached cremation (maha smasan) grounds where sādhanā (tantric rituals) is performed. The Tantric Hindu temple is devoted to the goddess Tara, a terrifying Tantric aspect of the Devi, the chief temples of Shaktism.

Tarapith derives its name from its association as the most important center of Tara worship and her cult. Tarapith is also famous for Sadhak Bamakhepa, known as the avadhuta or “mad saint”, who worshiped in the temple and resided in the cremation grounds as a vagrant and practiced yoga & tantric arts under the tutelage of another famous saint, the Kailashpathi Baba. Bamakhepa dedicated his entire life to the worship of Tara. His ashram is also located close to the Tarapith Mandir.

There are several legends narrated on the origin and importance of this place, all related to the goddess Tara deified in the Tarapith temple. One of them narrates, Shiva had drunk the poison that had emerged by the churning of the cosmic oceans, to save the universe. To relive him of the intense burning, Tara breast fed Shiva and transferred the effect of poison in his throat to her own body. Another local narration is that Vasishtha chose this place for the worship of Sati as it was already known as a Tarapith.

Among piths, Tarapith is a siddha pith, which grants enlightenment, wisdom, happiness and siddhis. However there is a continuous debate on whether Tarapith can be called a true Shakti Pith as it is not included in the list of 51 Shakti Piths of the subcontinent.

How to Reach Tarapith Mandir

  • By Air – If you are catching a flight land at Kolkatat. Kolkata is 220 km away from Tarapith and you can hire a private car which are quite abundant outside the airport and head off for Tarapith.
  • By Rail – The nearby stations are Rampurhat, Burdwan, and Asansol. From here you can either hire a car or take local buses to reach the temple.
  • By Road – If you are travelling by car, you need to take the Panagarh Morgram expressway. If one is travelling from Suri, he/she has to turn right just before entering Rampurhat and travel around 11 km to reach Tarapith.

Distance of Tarapith Mandir from Below Places:

Tarapith temperature:.

  • Summer (Mar to Jun) — Temperatures are hot and range between (24°C) to (38°C)
  • Monsoon (Jul to Sep) — Regular rainfall happens. This is not a good season for tourists
  • Winter (Oct to Feb) — Temperatures are moderate and range between (9°C) to (24°C)
  • Best Season to Visit — Oct to Feb is the best season for tourism

What to See in Tarapith

Maa tarapith mandir.

Tarapith Kali Temple

Photo by Munita Prasad, Public Domain

The Tara temple , immersed in the mythologies of Bengal is a medium sized temple in the rural confines of Bengal. Its fame as a pilgrimage center with the deity of Tara enshrined in it is due to its type of worship (which includes blood offerings), the hymns sung there, the powers of the nearby tank, and adjoining cremation ground.

The old temple of Goddess Tara is somewhat damaged. The present temple with eight roofs was built in 1225 by one Jagannath Ray of Mallarpur village. The main  Mandir  is a four-sided, marble block structure capped by a curved roof called a  Dochala,  from which projects a smaller four-sided tower. The facade of the temple is made of terra cotta and is embellished with scenes from various Indian epics. Its central relief depicts the goddess Durga slaying the buffalo demon Mahishasura.

Three archways lead one toward the  sanctum sanctorum’s  double door upon which ornate metalwork beautifully displays reliefs of Tara’s sacred flower (the hibiscus), chakra motifs, and portraits of Shiva and Tara on opposite sides. 

Ma Tara’s sacred  murti  (divinely-empowered image) is spectacular to behold. Her mask is made of silver and its finely-crafted face is graced with three eyes. These eyes look northward except during an annual festival when the entire  murti  is placed in a nearby “resting temple” located near the main Mandir.  On this special occasion only, Ma Tara faces west, overlooking the cremation ground. The murti’s  mouth is smeared with red vermilion paste in a manner resembling blood, and she has a long protruding tongue. Her tongue is also covered in red pigment, but at its tip, silver is exposed as the  vermilion  gets worn away from the many offerings of whiskey fed to the goddess on a daily basis

Cremation Ground

tarapith temple visit timings

The cremation ground (maha smasan), amidst dark forest surroundings, is located on the river side at the end of town limits, away from the village life. In Bengal, the cremation ground of Tarapith is also considered integral to the Shakti pith. It is believed that goddess Tara can be seen in shadows drinking blood of goats which are sacrificed every day at her altar, to satiate her anger.

Tantric practitioners believe that Tara is attracted to bones and skeletons and the cremation ground is her favored residence. Goddess Tara’s iconographic representations show her within cremation grounds. Tantric experts have, therefore, been flocking these grounds for generations for performing their Tantric sādhanā  (spiritual practice); many Sadhus permanently reside here

Bamakhepa Shrine

Bamakhepa , goddess Tara’s ardent devotee lived near the temple and mediated in the cremation grounds. He was a contemporary of another famous Bengali saint Ramakrishna. He died in 1911 and his corpse was buried in a seated, cross-legged position near the entrance of the burning ground. Above this spot there now stands a large, red  Samadhi  that receives daily ritual worship with burning candles, incense, and prayers offered by the many pilgrims and  sadhus  who visit the sacred burning ground as a fundamental component of their spiritual journey to the temple.

Entering through the main road which leads into the village, one immediately sees a bright pink  Mandir dedicated to Bamakhepa, called the Shri Bamdev Smriti Mandir. Across the road opposite this is a sacrificial wood .  Entering this  Mandir   one sees a white Bamakhepa statue sitting cross-legged. To the left of this is an enshrined painting of Bamakhepa and to the right is a white Shiva  lingam  above which hangs an old painting depicting Tarapith and various scenes from the saint’s life

Other Details

What to do in tarapith mandir.

It is a place for devotion, peaceful union with the universal creator, a place for soul-searching. So activities are restricted to worship or frequent visit to temples. If you are interested in tantric culture and rituals, you can spend some more time in the cremation ground talking to the sadhus and other inhabitants

Where to Eat

There are plenty of moderate eating houses serving standard Bengali meals. Although there is no taboo about hard drinks consumption, it is not sold openly. It is safe to carry your brand

What to Buy

There is nothing much to buy except the images and models of Maa Tara

Tarapith is a pretty small place and the best way to stray about is to walk. At best, you can get a rickshaw to go to nearby places

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ABOUT TARAPITH MANDIR

Tarapith Mandir (Tarapith Temple) is a small temple situated on the banks of the river Dwarka that flows through Birbhum, West Bengal.

This ancient temple is considered exceptionally auspicious by the members of the Hindu community and is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. It is considered to be a haven for the practitioners of Tantrism.

According to the legends, when Lord Shiva’s wife Goddess Sati committed suicide by jumping into the ritual fire.

Shiva roamed the entire universe moaning her loss. It is believed that one eyeball of Sati fell right here in Tarapith.

The village was earlier called Chandipur, but later its name was changed facing Tarapur or Tarapith because the Bengali word for eyeball is Tara.

Thus, the temple is dedicated to Ma Tara, who is believed to be the second out of the ten goddesses of great wisdom.

She is also called Kalika, Bhadra-Kali, and Mahakali. She is worshipped as the tantric depiction of Goddess Durga. The temple is a spiritual and an architectural wonder. If you come looking for peace and miracles, this is the place for you.

Quick Facts

Address:  Dinanath Mangeshkar Rd, Mangeshi village, Mardol, Goa 403401 Architecture: Ancient Festivals: Durga Puja, Sankranti Mela, Basantika Parba Deity: Goddess Tara Entry Fee : Nil Temple Timings : 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Time Required :  1-2 hour Best Time to Visit : September to March Photography: Not allowed inside

History of Tarapith Temple

A time ago, sage Vashisht, one of the seven holy sages, walked the face of this earth in flesh and blood. He was an ardent devotee of Goddess Tara and worshipped her day and night However, to his dismay, despite worshipping the Goddess for days at a stretch, he was unable to get her  darshan’. 

Finally, the divine intervened and the sage was asked to visit a site in Rampurhat and meditate on the Goddess at the cremation ground there. There, the goddess showed her divine self to the sage.

And after the vision was granted, she turned herself into a stone image so that she could be worshipped by all and sundry. Because of the blessings of Maharishi Vashisht, and the divine presence of Ma Tara, this place is known for its wish-fulfilling abilities.

Tarapith Mandir is also famous for a saint named Bama Khepa, also known as the mad saint, who is held in great reverence here. His shrine is located in the vicinity of the temple in Birbhum. He was a great worshipper of Ma Tara who devoted his entire life to her service.

He lived and meditated in the cremation grounds near her temple. Bama Khepa is said to have perfected yoga and Tantric worship and rituals under the guidance of Kailashpathi Baba who was an extremely famous saint there.

People from all over the country used to come to him seeking help with illness and distress. He was a controversial figure of his time and was disliked by the temple priests because of his unusual behavior.

He was even roughed up by them once for taking food meant for the deity. It is believed that after this incident, the Goddess Tara appeared in the dream of the Maharani (Queen)of Natore and asked her to feed the saint first as he was her son.

After his incident, Bama Khepa was fed before the deity in the temple and nobody stopped him.

According to the legend. Ma Tara appeared in front of Bama Khepa in her ferocious form and later took him to her breast.

Also Read: ABOUT KALIGHAT TEMPLE

Architecture of the Tarapith Mandir

tarapith temple visit timings

The main temple is a marble block structure which has four sides covered with a curved roof known as a dochala. There is a smaller tower with four sides coming out from beneath this structure having its own dochala.

Tarapith Mandir has a thick base with thick walls composed of red bricks. The deity’s image is kept in the attic in the chamber. There is a stone image of Maa Tara in the form of a mother suckling Shiva.

Another three feet metal image of Maa Tara is presented in her fiery form with four arms wearing skulls all around her neck in the form of a garland and her tongue sticking out. The image has a silver crown over its head with flowing hair.

The image is wrapped in a sari and decorated with garlands having a silver umbrella over its head. The forehead of the deity is decorated with red kumkum. This kumkum is applied on the foreheads of the devotees by the priests as a symbol of Maa Tara’s blessings. The devotees offer bananas, silk saris and coconuts to the deity.

Interesting Facts About Tarapith Mandir

Tarapith Temple

Pooja takes place in the afternoon where rice is offered to the deity as a part of the Tantric rituals. The Anna Bhog that is served after this Puja consists of rice, the meat of the sacrificed goat, rice pudding, fried fish, and five kinds of dishes.

After the Anna Bhog, the temple shuts down for a few hours to allow the deity to relax. In the evening, the Sandhya Aarti begins post which it is time to make deity’s bed.

Goats are bathed in the holy tank before sacrificing them for the deity. Their neck is cut in a single stroke and their blood is collected in a small vessel to offer to the Goddess.

Other festivals, besides the Durga Puja, that are celebrated here include Sankranti Mela, that is held on every Sankranti day of the Hindu month coinciding with 14-15 January on the Gregorian calendar, Dola Purnima, which is organized during February/March,

Basantika Parba held during the month of Chaitra (March/April), Gamha Purnima. It is celebrated in July/August, and Chaitra Parba, which is organized every Tuesday of the month of Chaitra.

Mysterious Cremation Ground

tarapith temple visit timings

The cremation ground near the temple is one of the most mysterious places in India. The place is covered by trees and forests and has a river flowing through it. Here, you will find many ash-smeared tantric performing their tantra-puja and rituals on the cremation ground.

It is believed that goddess Tara wanders here and drinks fresh blood of the sacrificed animals lying on the cremation ground.

The practitioners of Tantrism here believe that the cremation ground is the natural abode of the Goddess because she is attracted to bones, skulls, and blood.

They have built their huts here and decorated them with human as well as animal skulls like those of jackals and vultures that have been deemed unfit for Tantric rites. Some huts even have snake skins decorating them.

If you are especially curious about this place you can pay it a visit but the girls are generally asked to stay away from the cremation ground.

How to reach the Tarapith Mandir ?

The nearest airport Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose airport is at Kolkata. One can avail taxi or bus services from airport to reach Tarapith.

The nearest railway station is Rampurhat. Taxi services from railway station to Tatapith are available. Rampurhat is well linked with Howrah and Sealdah.

The state owned and private buses connect Tarapith with Esplanade / Dharamtala bus stand of Kolkata and with the neighboring cities of the state.

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Note: We don’t make any guarantees if the above-stated facts are not correct .  If you think any information provided by us is wrong then contact us .

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Shiva

Tarapith Temple

  • Tarapith,West Bengal
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Tarapith Temple

The Tara temple in Tarapith steeped in the narrated myths is a medium sized temple in the rural precincts of Bengal. Its fame as a pilgrimage centre with the deity of Tara enshrined in it is due to "the temple’s founding myths, its type of worship (which includes blood offerings), the hymns sung there, the powers of the nearby tank, and the inhabitants and rituals of the adjacent cremation ground". The temple base is thick with thick walls, built of red brick. The superstructure has covered passages with many arches rising to the pinnacle with a spire (shikara). The image of the deity is enshrined under the eaves in the sanctum. There are two Tara images in the sanctum.The stone image of Tara depicted as a mother suckling Shiva – the "primordial image" (seen in the inset of the fierce form of the image of Tara) is camouflaged by a three feet metal image, that the devotee normally seen. It represents Tara in her fiery form with four arms, wearing a garland of skulls and a protruding tongue. Crowned with a silver crown and with flowing hair, the outer image wrapped in a sari and decked in marigold garlands with a silver umbrella over its head. The forehead of the metal image is adorned with red kumkum (vermilion). Priests take a speck of this kumkum and apply it on the foreheads of the devotees as a mark of Tara's blessings. The devotees offer coconuts, bananas and silk saris, and unusually bottles of whisky. The primordial image of Tara has been described as a "dramatic Hindu image of Tara’s gentler aspect".

The priests of the temple offer puja (worship) with great reverence to bring out her motherly aspect to the devotees, blending the North Indian fierce depiction of the Sati myth of the goddess with the peaceful motherly visionary form of Tara seen by Buddha and his disciple Vasishtha of the Tantric tradition – the Buddhist Tara form. At Tarapith, though the softer motherly aspect of the fierce goddess is emphasized. Chanting hymns or poems in her praise is also a part of the devotional appeal made to the goddess.

The devotees take a holy bath at the sacred tank adjacent to the temple before entering the temple premises to offer worship and even after the worship. The waters of the tank are said to have healing powers and even restore life to the dead.

Blood sacrifice of goats is the daily norm in the temple. Devotees who offer such goat sacrifices seek blessings from the deity. They bathe the goats in the holy tank near the temple before the sacrifice. They also purify themselves by taking bath in the holy tank before offering worship to the deity. The goat is then tethered to a stake, the designated post in a sand pit, and the neck of the goat butchered with a single stroke by a special sword. A small quantity of the blood of the goat is then collected in a vessel and offered to the deity in the temple. The devotees also smear their forehead with a bit of blood from the pit, as a mark of reverence to the deity.

About The Temple

Tarapith Temple

Some 264 km from Kolkata, Tarapith is situated on the banks of the north flowing Dwarka River, in Birbhum, in West Bengal.Tara Maa of Tarapith, another form of Kali, has two hands, is garlanded with snakes, is adorned in sacred threads, and has Shiva lying in her left lap sucking her breast. But the temple is dedicated to the destructive aspect of Shiva, which takes the form of Kali. She requires sacrifice daily to satisfy her blood lust so every morning goats are sacrifices on the alter of the temple. The temple is busy through out the year and is surrounded by poor who come to have free meal. This is one of the most sacred places where every year several millions of devotees come to offer Puja. Tarapith is regarded as Mahapeeth and extremely holy place for all Hindus. It is said that wherever you are in this beautiful world, whatever be you and your religion, the kindness and blessings of Maa Tara will reach you to fulfill your desires, if you are an honest and upright person. She will provide you relief from pain if any your heart and mind. This is the reason for which every year millions of devotees gathers at this place to offer Puja and prayer.

About The Deity

Tarapith Temple

The idol of Ma Tara is spectacular to behold. Her mask is made of silver and its finely-crafted face is graced with three eyes. These eyes look northward except during an annual festival when the entire murti is placed in a nearby “resting temple” located near the main mandir. On this special occasion only, Ma Tara faces west, overlooking the cremation ground. The murti’s mouth is smeared with red sindoor (vermilion) paste in a manner resembling blood, and she has a long protruding tongue. Her tongue is also covered in red pigment, but at its tip, silver is exposed as the sindoor gets worn away from the many offerings of whiskey fed to Tara on a daily basis. Priests pour the liquor into a small vessel which is then offered to the goddess by holding it up to immerse her tongue. A mixture of liquor, water, and sindoor that has been offered to the goddess is considered especially sacred.

Ara Ma’s murti also has a luxurious mane of matted locks made from what feels like human hair. Atop this rests a very large, ornate crown adorned with a five-petalled hibiscus flower as well as a pentagram. Judging by various calendar art prints and photos of the murti, this crown has undergone various alterations as it is periodically crafted anew by artisans. Despite these changes, the motif of a star persists. The star symbolism is most likely an allusion to the name “Tara,” which in Sanskrit means “star.”

Although this representation of the goddess is certainly the most renowned, concealed within it is the far more ancient adi rup the original stone form of the goddess Tara that has been worshiped at Tarapith for countless centuries. According to some myths surrounding Tarapith, this particular rock formation is the goddess Sati’s third eye which fell to the earth ages ago and landed in the cremation ground where it turned to stone. The adi rup’s shape is said to reveal the goddess in her maternal aspect, cradling and suckling Lord Shiva like a baby.   Tara Maa has Four Incarnations these are:

  • Tara (also worshipped as Goddess of wealth-Lakshmi)
  • Maha Ugro Tara
  • Neel Saraswati (also worshipped as Goddess of Knowledge who safeguards against water accidents)

Maa Tara is one of Dus (Ten) Mahavidyas of Maa Shakti. She is also the Guru of Brihaspati (Jupiter) who in turn is the Guru of all the nine planets.

Legend and Stories

Tarapith Temple

Amrit Manthan was made with the objective of churning out AMRIT from the ocean.The Devas and Asuras took part in this churning exercise together. Amrit is the holy nectar which offers immortality to anybody who drinks it. Both the Devas and the Asuras wanted to have it. However, it is not the only thing that came out of the water. Many invaluable gems and stones and medicines were also yielded by the ocean. Likewise the ocean also yielded poison . The poison was so strong that if it fell on the ground then all Life would be wiped out. Fearing such devastation the Asuras and Devas went to Lord Shiva for help. He promised that He would drink the poison and save the world from destruction. As He drank the poison He was filled with pain. His body started burning from inside. When the pain became unbearable Maa Tara came and She fed Shiva her milk and He was cured.

When Sati Maa could not tolerate the taunts and insults made by her father Daksha against her husband Lord Shiva, She immersed Herself in fire. As He received the shocking news, an angered Lord Shiva broke into a Dance carrying the body of His beloved wife on his shoulder. The world shook from fear of destruction. Fearing that the whole world would come to an end, the Devas went to Lord Vishnu to somehow stop Lord Shiva from destroying the world. Lord Vishnu cut the body of Sati Maa into 108 pieces with His Sudarshan Chakra. With the body gone which was the source of grief, Lord Shiva regained His composure and the world was saved. It is believed that some parts of the body fell in the ocean and some on land covering the whole of the Indian subcontinent. The places where the parts of the body fell have become holy places and are known as Shakti Pithas, where Mother is worshiped in her different Incarnations. There are 51 Shaktipithas in all so far, there may be more. Maa Tara is one of Shakti's Incarnation. It is believed that she is the third eye of Maa Shakti. Tarapith is where Maa Tara is worshipped.

We first come to know of Tarapith from Brahmrishi Vashistdev. Brahmrishi Vashistdev wished to receive Siddhi from Tara Maa, for this he had to do Sadhana, but after years of Sadhana he could not earn Siddhi. Then one day he heard a devya vani from the skies. It asked him to visit Buddharupi Janardhan in Mahachin. On meeting Buddharupi Janardhan, Vashistdev was asked to meditate on the banks of river Dwarka in Birbhum district of what is now called West Bengal. On doing so Vashistdev received Siddhi from Tara Maa. Years later Jayadatta a rich trader was travelling by river on his boat with his family. After travelling for some time Jayadatta decided to rest as he came across this place. As they camped there, his son was bitten by a poisonous snake and he died instantly. Having lost his son Jayadatta wandered about aimlessly in great sorrow. He came across a place where he saw a fisherman trying to wash cut pieces of a fish with water from a nearby pond. As the fisherman sprinkled water on the dead fish, the pieces joined together and the fish regained life and jumped back in the pond. On seeing this miracle Jayadatta decided to put the same magic water on his dead son. On doing so his son also regained life.Jayadatta realized this was a miracle pond in a very special place. He could feel the power all around. He handed the business over to his son, retired from the materialistic world and went into Sadhana.

In recent times this holy place which is now known as Tarapith was made famous by His Holiness Bamakhyapa. Bamakhyapa was a very powerful Sadhak of Maa Tara, whose life totally revolved around Maa. There are many Miracle stories involving Bamakhyapa and Maa Tara. He was a chosen and beloved son of Maa. It is largely because of Bamakhyapa that we know of Tarapith.Bamakhyapa used to worship Neel Tara.There is an actual photograph of an oil painting of Neel Tara which was worshipped by Bamakhyapa. It is said that the oil painting was painted in early 1900. The said information was given by Shri Soumendra Bhattacharya of Rampurhat.

Arti / Pooja / seva

The Tara Devi Mantra is Hreem Shreem Hoom Phat, Om Hreem Shreem Hoom Phat, Shreem Hreem Shreem Hoom Phat. The Puja includes Kalash Sthapana, Panchang Sthapana(Gauri Ganesh, Punyavachan, Shodash Matrika, Navgraha, Sarvotabhadra), 64 yogini Pujan, Shetrapal Pujan, Swasti Vachan, Sankalpa, Ganesh Pujan and Abhishek, Navgraha Pujan and 108 chants of each planetary mantra, Invocation of major Gods and Goddesses in Kalash, Brahman Varn, Abhishek and Puja of Idol of Tara Devi, Tara Devi Yantra Puja, Tara Devi Mantra Japa, Tara Devi Kavach recitation, Tara Devi Yajna, Aarti and Pushpaanjali.

Prasad and offerings

Normally she is satisfied with Milk made Peda (a kind of sweet made with milk), But, her favorite items for eating is, "madhu-mishrit-anya" or honey mixed pulao or rice, All types of fish but specially "Sole and Rahu Fish", Meat of Goat (chag), every type of wine and alcohol (Indian or English), Ganja (Cannabis) and Tobacco for smoke, food prepared with the head of the Fish.

Java Kusum (China Rose) or Java or Gurhal, Aprajita or Nilkanth (Butterfly-Pea), Lotus or Padma or Kamal, Kaner or Oleander, Bilva-Patra (Wood apple tree leafs), these flower are very dear to Goddess Ugra Tara. Garland of these flowers are easily available near to Temple.  A garland of the above flowers, especially Rudraksha-Garland, a type of seed which is highly suspicious and significant in Hinduism because of, which consider as the tear of Rudra (anger form of lord Shiva), Lemon Garland, Garland of raw lump of Turmeric, Garland of bones of human beings and as well as animals, Garland of human skull (not for everyone, followers of Tantric rituals).

Legend has it that Tara Maa provides Moksha to devotees regardless of their Karma if they get her blessings. Tara Maa is present everywhere in the universe and is known as Brahmamayi Tara. One should say Jay Jay Tara with the true belief all his problems get solved.

Significance

People approach this temple for immense abundance in all spheres of life, for peace and protection, for compassion, serenity, wisdom and knowledge and for divine grace and blessings of Maa Tara Devi.

Accessibility

This temple is situated in Tarapur Village in Rampurhat block of Birbhum District in West Bengal, India.

The nearest Airport is Kolkata.

The best way is to reach here is through Rampurhat Railway Station, which is approximately 220 Km from Sealdah or Howrah Railway Station in Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal and also one of the Metros of India.From Rampurhat Railway Station, one has to make a journey by different road transports like Autos, Buses, Cabs, and so on, which are available 24 hours from Rampurhat Railway Station.Tarapith temple is at a distance of 7 Km from Rampurhat Railway Station. Another route to come here is via Barddhaman Railway Station, 120km from this place.

This place is also well connected with different cities of West Bengal by road network. State Highway no. 13 is the nearest Highway to this temple.Rampurhat also lies close to Bolpur (Shantiniketan, famous for Vishvabharati University, and home to Rabindra Nath Tagore), Barddhaman, Malda towns in West Bengal. All these places are well connected with Rampurhat by rail and road network.

Temple Address

Devotees visit this temple to seek fulfillment of the following:-

  • Protection from evil
  • Destruction of ego
Jayantii Manggalaa Kaalii Bhadrakaalii Kapaalinii Durgaa Shivaa Kssamaa Dhaatrii Svaahaa Svadhaa Namostu Te

Meaning - We salute the Devi Kali, who is always victorious and always auspicious, we offer salutations to Bhadrakali Devi who wears a skull garland, we salute Shiva's consort and the embodiment of self-control and supports all beings, Devi Durga, who is Swaha as well as Swadha. We offer our salutations to you.

Om Maha Kalyai Ca Vidmahe Smasana Vasinyai Ca Dhimahi Tanno Kali Prachodayat

Meaning - Om the great Goddess Kali who stays in the ocean of life and burial grounds, we focus our energies on you, may you grant us our wishes and bless us

Kaalika Kalahey Gorey Paathuthvaam Parameshwari Mandapey Thathra Mathangi Thatha Sowmya Swayamwarey

Meaning - Let the ever charming, mother of the universe, protect us and stay in this mandap and bestow her blessing on us as mother Mathangi.

Katyayani Mahamaye Mahayoginyadheeshwari Nandgopsutam Devipatim Me Kuru Te Namah

Meaning - Oh Goddess Katyayani, the great vigour of the Lord, the owner of great magical power and the mighty one who controls all, please make the son of Nanda Maharaj my husband. I offer my salutations to you.

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  • 1 Understand
  • 2.1 By train
  • 3 Get around
  • 4 See and do
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  • 7.1 Rampurhat

tarapith temple visit timings

Tarapith is a temple town in the central region of West Bengal , India. It is a major Hindu pilgrimage centre and several thousand devotees visit the temple every day.

Understand [ edit ]

According to Hindu belief, an insulted Sati, the wife of Lord Shiva, sacrificed herself at a yagya (fire worship ritual) which was being performed by her father Dakshmaharaj. Angry with this incident Lord Shiva started the Tandava Nritya (Dance of Destruction). In order to prevent the destruction of all creation, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan charka (wheel) to cut the body of Sati into several parts. Sati's body was scattered all over the Indian subcontinent. There are 51 such holy spots where temples have been erected and they are called Pithas or the Shakti Pithas. Some of the Pithas are in West Bengal. The most popular of them are Kalighat (in Kolkata), Bakreshwar and Tarapith. It is believed that the eyeball of Sati fell down at Tarapith. In Bengali, the eyeball is called 'Tara' and that is why the name of the village was changed from the earlier Chandipur to Tarapith.

It is said that in ancient times Saint Bashistha attained his divinity by meditation under a Simul tree on the bank of river Dwaraka. He attained his divinity by worshipping the Goddess Sati or Tara (in the form of Kali) and sitting on the panch mundi ashan or the sitting place surrounded by 5 skulls of different animals, like human, owl, elephant, black snake and monkey. That Simul tree is no more there and river Dwaraka has moved away. Subsequently, a number of saints like Saint Bamakshyapa (19th-century devotee) and Kamalakanta (18th-century devotee, who composed many songs, and still sung) came here to worship the Goddess for their spiritual salvation.

The old temple of Goddess Tara is somewhat damaged. The present temple with eight roofs was built in 1225 by one Jagannath Ray of Mallarpur village. On the main gate of the temple, the statue of Goddess Durga and her full family are carved. On the left, the war of Kurukshetra (Mahabharata) and on the right stories from Ramayana are depicted.

This article also covers Rampurhat, a nearby city often used as a waypoint to Tarapith.

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ], by bus [ edit ].

  • 24.11599 87.79785 3 Tarapith Bridge Bus Stand ( near bridge on the Dwaraka River ).  
  • 24.1704 87.79002 4 Rampurhat Bus Stand . ( updated Oct 2022 )

By car [ edit ]

Several highways run over Tarapith. Panagarh–Morgram Highway heads south to Durgapur via Suri , Dubrajpur and Ilambazar and heads north to Morgram via Nalhati . NH 114 (previously NH 2B) heads south to Bardhaman via Sainthia and Santiniketan .

Get around [ edit ]

Map

Tarapith is a small town and you can walk around and rickshaws are also available. Beware of crowds during peak season.

See and do [ edit ]

  • 24.1134 87.7966 1 Temple of Tarama , ☏ +91 7001815500 (for puja or worship) . ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • 24.1145 87.795639 2 Tarapith Burning Ghat ( Sadhak Bamdeber Ghat ). Named after Sadhak Banakshyapa. ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • 24.114306 87.796194 3 Tarapith Mahasmasan . It is an auspicious place well known for its tantric rituals. ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • Bamdev Sangha Ashram ( a few metres from Tarama temple ). You can see a graceful environment at Bamdev Sangha Ashram. ( updated Jan 2018 )

Buy [ edit ]

  • There are many shops trying to attract attention of the pilgrim-tourists.

Eat and drink [ edit ]

There are plenty of moderate eating houses serving standard Bengali meals.

Most hotels have restaurants - check if they provide meals for non-guests. Many of the hotels provide a variety of cuisine.

Since hard drinks are not available openly, it is better to carry one's own stock of hard drinks if you need one.

Sleep [ edit ]

There are around 350 lodges or hotels in Tarapith, mostly catering to budget tourists. There is little that is luxurious as this is a pilgrimage centre. There is no problem in getting a place to stay but many people get back to Rampurhat or move on to other places.

  • 24.11698 87.79868 1 Hotel Shanti Nibas . Check-in: Noon , check-out: 11:30AM . ₹200-1500 .  
  • 24.10928 87.79828 2 Orbit Hotel Tarapith , Kabi Chandrapur . 10 minutes walk from Maa Tara Temple. TV, a work desk and a closet supplied in the room. 24-hr room service, security and house-keeping. Dining facilities available in the restaurant. ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • 24.11842 87.79547 3 Hotel Sonar Bangla , Kabi Chandrapur, Tarapith Temple Road , ☏ +91 3461 253199 , +91 9732127224 , +91 9547712240 , +91 90647 57937 . Air-conditioned rooms, restaurant, banquet/conference hall, swimming pool, free car parking. ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • 24.11965 87.79527 4 Swagatam International , ☏ +91 3461 253446 , +91 9674319687 , +91 9830703258 . Restaurant cuisine - Bengali, Chinese, Gujarati, Tandoori and North Indian dishes. Arrangements for marriage party and conference. Swimming pool. ₹1,200 for Delux (2 beds) to ₹3,000 for AC Delux (4 beds) . ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • 24.11459 87.79828 5 New Bideshini Hotel , Chandipur, near Tarapith bus stand/Tarapith police station , ☏ +91 9046799885 , +91 9475224122 , +91 9434556058 . AC/ Non-AC rooms with geyser, TV with cable line, 24-hr generator service (except AC and geyser), free bus/car parking in hotel premises. ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • 24.11472 87.79787 6 Bam Tara Hotel and Restaurant , near Bridge Bus Stand , ☏ +91 83360 33301 , +91 96353 58161 , +91 94321 44030 . Cottage, suite, delux AC, non-AC rooms. ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • 24.1219 87.7951 7 Hotel Yashoda International , ☏ +91 9051211000 . Surrounded by lush greenery but only a short walk from Maa Tara temple. 63 luxurious rooms with balcony and all modern facilities. 24-hr room service. ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • 24.1179 87.7958 8 Hotel Classic , ☏ +91 9732193989 (mobile B.Mondal), +91 9734662445 (mobile N.Mondal), +91 3461 253419 (landline) . Situated on the main road from Rampurhat to Sainthia. Very close to Maa Tara Temple. 40 AC and non-AC rooms. 24-hr power back-up, TV, fridge, geyser, car parking, car rental, travel desk. ₹1,200-6,000 . ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • 24.10904 87.79698 9 Larica Holiday Inn Tarapith , ☏ +91 9874688884 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • 24.11872 87.79627 10 Raktajaba Tourist Lodge ( Benfish Lodge ), Tarapith Main Road , ☏ +91 3461-253556 , +91 33-23575215 , +91 33 23554931 , [email protected] . Well furnished AC and non-AC room with attached bath, balcony, intercom, geyser, restaurants with a variety of food options. Ample car parking. Arrangements for 'Puja' & 'Darshan' (on payment). Internet reservation. ( updated Feb 2018 )

Rampurhat [ edit ]

  • Binapani Hotel , Deshbandhu Main Rd , ☏ +91-9609221575 . ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • 24.17435 87.78573 11 Hotel Birbhum International , TP Banerjee Rd , ☏ +91 97339 03699 . Check-in: 11AM , check-out: 10AM . ( updated Oct 2022 )
  • Hotel Nandita , Panch Matha Road , ☏ +91-9932486061 . ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • Hotel Taja , Rampurhat Bus Stand , ☏ +91-8145442377 . ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • Babulal Hotel and Restaurant , Deshbandhu Main Road , ☏ +91-7797751067 . ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • Jinarul Hotel , Birbhum Bus Stand , ☏ +91-9734787091 . ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • Joybati Hindu Hotel , Bharasal Road , ☏ +91-9775037206 . ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • New Bengal Muslim Hotel , Nischintapur-Dumka Military Road , ☏ +91-9775037206 . ( updated Jan 2018 )
  • Mukherjee Lodge , J.L.Banerjee Road, Sanghata Para , ☏ +91 99327 99619 , +91-346125 5318 . ( updated Jan 2018 )

Go next [ edit ]

  • Santiniketan - 88 km

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Tarapith: A Sacred Temple Town in West Bengal

Tarapith, a serene temple town nestled in the Birbhum district of West Bengal. Renowned for its Tantric temple dedicated to the fearsome goddess Tara, Tarapith offers a unique blend of spirituality, mythology, and cultural richness. Discover the captivating legends, divine rituals, and architectural marvels that make Tarapith an enchanting destination for pilgrims and seekers alike. In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of Tarapith, explore its notable attractions, provide travel guidance, and offer insights into the local culture. Join us on this journey of spiritual exploration and tranquility.

Table of Contents

Unveiling the Mysteries of Tarapith

Situated in the heart of Birbhum district, Tarapith derives its name from its association as the most important center of Tara worship. Discover the profound significance of this sacred place, which is dedicated to the terrifying Tantric aspect of Devi, the goddess Tara. Explore the legends and narratives surrounding Tarapith, including the tale of Shiva drinking the cosmic poison and Tara’s selfless act of saving him. While Tarapith is not included in the list of 51 Shakti Piths , it is regarded as a siddha pith, bestowing enlightenment, wisdom, happiness, and siddhis.

Exploring the Tara Temple

Tarapith Temple Complex

The Tara temple stands as a testament to the mythologies and traditions of Bengal. Delve into its architectural splendor, featuring a four-sided marble structure adorned with intricately crafted terra cotta facades depicting scenes from Indian epics. Witness the sacred murti of Ma Tara, a divinely-empowered silver image with three eyes and a long protruding tongue. Learn about the unique worship practices, including blood offerings, hymns, and the annual festival when Ma Tara faces west, overlooking the adjacent cremation ground.

The Sacred Cremation Ground: Maha Samsan

Tarapith Maha Samsan

Discover the mystical cremation ground, known as the maha smasan, which plays an integral role in the Tantric traditions of Tarapith. Immerse yourself in the serene ambience surrounded by dark forest landscapes. Explore the belief that Tara resides in these grounds, attracted to bones and skeletons. Witness the daily sacrifices of goats, offered to satiate her anger. Engage with Tantric practitioners and sadhus who have sought spiritual enlightenment through their sādhanā in this sacred space.

Paying Homage to Sadhak Bamakhepa

Sadhak Bamakhepa

Learn about Sadhak Bamakhepa, the legendary avadhuta or ‘mad saint’ of Tarapith. Discover his devoted worship of Ma Tara and his profound influence on the spiritual fabric of the region. Visit the Bamakhepa Shrine, where his tomb stands as a symbol of reverence and spiritual dedication. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of devotion and spirituality as you witness the daily rituals performed by pilgrims and sadhus who visit this shrine.

How to Reach Tarapith

Plan your journey to Tarapith with ease. Whether you prefer air, rail, or road travel, we provide convenient options to reach this sacred destination. Explore the nearest airports and railway stations, along with the suggested routes by road. Plan your itinerary and embark on a spiritual quest to Tarapith during the best season for tourism, which spans from October to February.

Embracing the Local Culture

Immerse yourself in the local culture of Tarapith, known for its warm hospitality and tranquil ambiance. Discover the local cuisine, with numerous moderate eating houses serving authentic Bengali meals. While hard drinks are not openly sold, visitors are encouraged to carry their preferred brands. Explore the local markets for images and models of Maa Tara, perfect as souvenirs of your spiritual journey.

Getting Around Tarapith

As a small and picturesque town, Tarapith is best explored on foot. Take leisurely walks to absorb the spiritual essence of the place. Alternatively, rickshaws are available for convenient transportation to nearby attractions.

Tarapith beckons you with its ancient rituals, architectural wonders, and spiritual serenity. Journey to this mystical temple town to experience the divine presence of Ma Tara, engage with Tantric practices, and seek solace amidst the enchanting surroundings. Let the legends and traditions of Tarapith guide you on a path of devotion and self-discovery.

You may add to few near by fantastic destinations like Shantiniketan, Bakreswar or Ayodhya Hills, Purulia which will multiply your enjoyment with extended vacation.

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"The city of Tantra Mantra"

Tarapith tourism.

Tarapith is a famous Hindu pilgrimage in the state of West Bengal and a Shakti Peetha, believed to be the spot where Sati's third eye fell. Tara, another form of Sati, is worshipped in the temple.

The town of Tarapith is a small, crowded rural town near the Dwarka river in Birbhum district and is also called the city of Tantra Mantra or black magic. Another legend tells the story of how Shiva had drunk the poison - Halahala, that would save the universe. To soothe his burning throat, Tara had breast-fed Shiva and nursed him. The history of the place is steeped in black magic and there is a huge cremation ground adjacent to the powerful Shakti peeth. Chanting can be heard at the cremation grounds at all hours and a sense of mystery engulfs the village.

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Tarapith Temple

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Tarapith temple tarapith West bengal, Photos, & History and attraction in 2023

Tarapith Temple Tarapith (mandir) is one of the 51 shakti pithas of Mata Sati where the eye string of Maa Sati fell hence the name Tarapith. It is located in Birbhum district of West Bengal state. Every day thousands of people come here to visit the Tarapith temple and seek blessings from maa tara.

Click Here : Book Your Trains Kolkata to Tarapith From Here

The Tarapith temple tarapith carries with it a traditional history. Through this article I will tell you everything about the Tarapith Temple, the history of the temple, what is the best time to visit the Tarapith and what prasads are offered in the Tarapith.

rampurhat jn. railway station

People believe that if you take any wish to Tarapith temple tarapith and if you have any wish from mother it will surely be fulfilled, my house is in Kolkata and the distance from my house to Tarapeeth is 250 km. Despite being so close, I haven’t had the chance to visit tarapith for so long. But suddenly I wanted to say to all my friends let’s all go and visit Tarapith temple. And everyone agreed so we packed our backpacks and went out to visit Tarapith .

Click Here : Book Your Hotels in Tarapith From Here

But I truly said it was very great experience to visit tarapith, and I say if I got another chance to visit definitely I do. Another thing that I liked very much in Tarapeeth is that the food there is very tasty food available at a sum standard price. I wouldn’t say where the food is very cheap, Or too much higher. but yes you will get very good food there.

Also read :  best places to visit in Mussoorie in 2023

Table of Contents

History of Tarapith temple tarapith:

tarapith temple

Located on the banks of river Daroka near Bakreshwar in Birbhum district is the Siddha Peeth of Rishi vashishth Mansaputra of Brahma, which we know as Tarapith temple tarapith. And besides, Tarapith is also famous for the sanyasi Bamakshyapa, He was a great devotee of Maa Kali. Bamakshyapa used to call Maa Kali Tara Maa and sang Jai Tara Jai Tara Jai in front of Mahasmashana and performed Sadhana, Since then Kalima here came to be known as Tara Ma and village Chandipur came to be known as Tarapeeth.

History of Tarapith temple tarapith construction :

At the time of human creation, Lord Brahma first gave birth to ten sages, namely Marichi, Pulasto, Bulah, Atri, Narada, Angira, Kratu, Daksha, Vigu and Vishishta Deva. After the birth, Rishi vashishth dev asked where is my mother, and Brahma told Vishishta Deva that she is Jagat Janani Tara Ma, If you practice, you will see her.

tarapith maha samshan

Brahma sent him to the Himalayas and said that there you will meet a sage named Janardana. Rishi Vasishta Dev went there and learned the method of worshiping tara maa and then Brahma sent him to Chandipur in West Bengal and told him to go there and worship Tara Maa. After many years of sadhana, Rishi Vasishta got the mother’s darshan there.

Reconstruction of the Tarapith temple is the first time :

About 700 AD, a famous businessman of Ratnagar, Sainthia in Birbhum district was returning to his home town Ratnagar from the dwarka river route along with his son and Majhi Mullah after completing his business in North India. As it was too late for their return, they halted their boat at the Chandigarh crematorium and proceeded towards Chandi Maa’s temple. And at that time an old woman came to him to beg and he drove her away without giving anything, the mother came to him in the form of that old woman. Then on his way to the temple, the businessman’s son was bitten by a snake and his son died instantly.

tarapith maha samshan

And when he went to mother’s temple in despair, in a pond in front of mother’s temple, which is called Pranapukur, a fisherman was immersing dead fish in that pond and those fishes were coming alive, then the merchant brought water from that pond and fed his son, and surprisingly, by the tara maa’s grace, his son was alive, becomes. And then businessman Jayadatta got a dream from Maa, I am present as Rock idol of Chandipur Mahasmashana. You, my devotee, bring my rock idol and set up a temple. And then Jayadatta brought the mother’s stone idol and established the Tarapith temple tarapith in her honour.

Reconstruction of the Tarapith temple tarapith is the 2nd time :

About 400 years after the construction of the mother’s temple, in the 11th century when the mother’s temple was destroyed due to flooding in the river Dwarka, and then the kings of the Sur dynasty Sangad built the mother’s temple for the second time, and installed the mother’s Rock idol there for the second time.

samadhi of bamakhepa tarapith  temple tarapith

Reconstruction of the Tarapith temple is the 3rd time :

500 years after the construction of the temple by king Sangad of the Sur dynasty, the temple was again damaged by the floods of the Dwarka river and destroyed. Then in 1695 AD, the contractual king of Birbhum district, Ramjivan Chowdhury, established a new temple some distance from the cremation ground. And re-established the mother in the form of rock in that temple.

tarapith maha samshan

And some years after about 1775 AD Ramakrishna Roy, adopted son of Rani Bhavani of Natore, renovated the temple in a new form and Chandipur Mauja took charge of the temple, This is today’s Tarapith temple tarapith.

How to reach tarapith temple tarapith:

The nearest railway station to Tarapith is Tarapeeth railway station but not all trains stop there so most people go to Rampurhat station. If you are going to Tarapith temple tarapith from Kolkata then you will get many trains from Kolkata which will take you to Rampurhat station. Many trains leave for Tarapeeth daily from Sealda Howrah and Kolkata station you can take any train between them as per your timing to reach Tarapith or Rampurhat railway station.

rampurhat jn. railway station

I would recommend you to take the 7:20 am Ma Tara Express from Sealdah to Tarapith temple tarapith this train always arrives on time. About 6 of us friends went to Tarapeeth and we also went to Rampurhat by Matara Express at 7:20 from Sealdah. If your Howrah station is nearby then Ganadevta Express leaves for Rampurhat at 6:35 from Howrah. That train is also very good if you want you can come to Rampurhat by that train.

tarapith temple

How to do puja in Tarapith temple tarapith:

Tarapith Temple tarapith is very crowded every week on Tuesday and Saturday, if you want to do puja on Shuni or Tuesday you may have to stand in a long queue so if you want you can do puja on any other day of the week to avoid veer. And besides, there are three types of lines where puja is offered.

tarapith temple

If you find a line of thousand rupees, then you don’t need to stand in a long line, then there is a line of 500 rupees, and also 300 rupees. And if you want, you can stand in a straight line and worship the mother without paying any money.

tarapith temple

If you go to do mother’s pooja first of all you have to talk to a priest there you will find many priest and in little pay they do pooja. Buy puja items like flowers, prasad from one of the shops ahead, They also will fix you priest.And then go straight to the pooja line, when you get close to the mother temple the priest will come right up to you and complete your pooja.

What is the cheapest and easiest way from Kolkata to Tarapith ?

The cheapest and easiest way to reach Tarapeeth from Kolkata is by train, for just 90 rupees you can travel in general compartment and only 250 rupees for sleeper compartment.

Tarapith Maa’s Temple was built first by whom?

About 700 AD, a famous businessman of Ratnagar jaydutta The first temple was built here. kings of the Sur dynasty Sangad built the mother’s temple for the second time.

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tarapith temple visit timings

Tarapith Temple (Birbhum)- the Divine Feminine

  • Travel Tips
  • October 1, 2019 in City Tours , Travel Tips
  • bengal tourism West Bengal
  • Manish Bhickta

tarapith temple visit timings

At first glance, the village of Tarapur looks like any other Indian village- sleepy, rustic, and slowly fading into oblivion. However, there is one thing that sets this village apart from almost every other village in India- the Tarapith Temple. The temple has been attracting devotees desirous of boons and miracles for decades now.

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About Tarapith Temple, Birbhum

Tarapith temple is a small temple situated on the banks of the river Dwarka that flows through Birbhum, at a distance of 264 km from Kolkata. This ancient temple is considered exceptionally auspicious by the members of the Hindu community and is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. It is considered to be a haven for the practitioners of Tantrism.

According to the legends, when Lord Shiva’s wife Goddess Sati committed suicide by jumping into the ritual fire, Shiva roamed the entire universe moaning her loss. It is believed that one eyeball of Sati fell right here in Tarapith. The village was earlier called Chandipur, but later its name was changed facing Tarapur or Tarapith because the Bengali word for eyeball is Tara. Thus, the temple is dedicated to Ma Tara, who is believed to be the second out of the ten goddesses of great wisdom. She is also called Kalika, Bhadra-Kali, and Mahakali. She is worshipped as the tantric depiction of Goddess Durga. The temple is a spiritual and an architectural wonder. If you come looking for peace and miracles, this is the place for you.

History of Tarapith Temple

A time ago, sage Vashisht, one of the seven holy sages, walked the face of this earth in flesh and blood. He was an ardent devotee of Goddess Tara and worshipped her day and night However, to his dismay, despite worshipping the Goddess for days at a stretch, he was unable to get her darshan’. Finally, the divine intervened and the sage was asked to visit a site in Rampurhat and meditate on the Goddess at the cremation ground there. There, the goddess showed her divine self to the sage. And after the vision was granted, she turned herself into a stone image so that she could be worshipped by all and sundry. Because of the blessings of Maharishi Vashisht, and the divine presence of Ma Tara, this place is known for its wish-fulfilling abilities.

Tarapith temple is also famous for a saint named Bama Khepa, also known as the mad saint, who is held in great reverence here. His shrine is located in the vicinity of the temple in Birbhum. He was a great worshipper of Ma Tara who devoted his entire life to her service. He lived and meditated in the cremation grounds near her temple. Bama Khepa is said to have perfected yoga and Tantric worship and rituals under the guidance of Kailashpathi Baba who was an extremely famous saint there, and people from all over the country used to come to him seeking help with illness and distress. He was a controversial figure of his time and was disliked by the temple priests because of his unusual behavior. He was even roughed up by them once for taking food meant for the deity. It is believed that after this incident, the Goddess Tara appeared in the dream of the Maharani (Queen)of Natore and asked her to feed the saint first as he was her son. After his incident, Bama Khepa was fed before the deity in the temple and nobody stopped him. According to the legend, Ma Tara appeared in front of Bama Khepa in her ferocious form and later took him to her breast.

The architecture of the Tarapith Temple, Birbhum

Tarapith Temple

The Tarapith temple is a medium-sized temple located in the rural suburbs of West Bengal. The main temple is built with marble and its four sides are covered with a curved roof called the Dochala. The thick temple base is built of red brick, the passages inside the structure are covered and have many high-rising arches. The image of Ma Tara- the deity of the temple- is enshrined in the eaves of the sanctum. This temple houses two images. One is a stone image of the Goddess feeding the child form of Shiva, and the other one is an image of her depicting her ferocious form, wearing a garland of skulls. Her outer image that is her benign form is wrapped in a sari and decked in marigold garlands and has an umbrella over her head. The forehead of this image is covered with kumkum, and priests take a speck of this kumkum and apply it on the foreheads of devotees as a mark of blessings of Goddess Tara. Bananas, coconuts, sweets, sarees, and even alcohol is offered to the Goddess by the worshippers. Daily a goat is sacrificed in the temple premises and the blood of the animal is offered to Goddess Tara in return for favors.

The best time to visit the Tarapith Temple

Tarapith Temple

The Tarapith Temple is open to devotees every day from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Every day at 4 AM melodious Shahnai is played in the temple premises to wake the Goddess up. Then the door of the Garbha Griba is opened by a group of priests who wash her feet, clean her room, and remake her bed. Before bathing the idol in the pure water of Jivitkund, the devotees apply ghee and honey to it. Then they adorn the idol with a saree, vermillion, a garland of skulls, post which the mangal aarti begins.

Another Pooja takes place in the afternoon where rice is offered to the deity as a part of the Tantric rituals. The Anna Bhog that is served after this Puja consists of rice, the meat of the sacrificed goat, rice pudding, fried fish, and five kinds of dishes. After the Anna Bhog, the temple shuts down for a few hours to allow the deity to relax. In the evening, the Sandhya Aarti begins post which it is time to make deity’s bed.

Goats are bathed in the holy tank before sacrificing them for the deity. Their neck is cut in a single stroke and their blood is collected in a small vessel to offer to the Goddess.

The months from September to March are ideal to pay a visit to this place because of favorable weather. Summers are unusually hot and humid in West Bengal, hence it would be difficult for you to brave the heat and temple queue at the same time. Usually, tourists visit the temple during November and December as the weather is pleasant. Another auspicious occasion to visit the temple is during the magical festival of Durga Puja. The temple shines in its full glory during the festival.

Other festivals, besides the Durga Puja, that are celebrated here include Sankranti Mela, that is held on every Sankranti day of the Hindu month coinciding with 14-15 January on the Gregorian calendar, Dola Purnima, which is organized during February/March, Basantika Parba held during the month of Chaitra (March/April), Gamha Purnima, which is celebrated in July/August, and Chaitra Parba, which is organized every Tuesday of the month of Chaitra.

Things to keep in mind while visiting the Tarapith Temple

Tarapith Temple

The entry to the temple is absolutely free and the temple remains open from six in the morning to nine at night. Pets are strictly not allowed inside the temple. Photography is also prohibited here. Once inside the temple, you are expected to respect the sanctity of both the temple and the deity that resides in it and maintain cleanliness.

How to reach the Tarapith Temple

The Temple is situated in a small village of Tarapur in rural West Bengal. It is at a distance of 264 km from Kolkata . You can drive down State Highway 13 from Birbhum and reach there in an hour.

Panagarh, in West Bengal, is the nearest bus stand to this temple. It is situated at a distance of 81 km from the temple. Durgapur is 82 km.

To reach the temple by train, take a direct train from Kolkata and alight at Rampurhat railway station. The Tarapur village, where the shrine is located, is just a few kilometers from Rampurhat.

There are also a few budget hotels at Rampurhat lest you should plan to stay for a few days.

Visiting the cremation ground near the Tarapith Temple

Tarapith Temple

The cremation ground near the temple is one of the most mysterious places in India. The place is covered by trees and forests and has a river flowing through it. Here, you will find many ash-smeared tantric performing their tantra-puja and rituals on the cremation ground. It is believed that goddess Tara wanders here and drinks fresh blood of the sacrificed animals lying on the cremation ground. The practitioners of Tantrism here believe that the cremation ground is the natural abode of the Goddess because she is attracted to bones, skulls, and blood. They have built their huts here and decorated them with human as well as animal skulls like those of jackals and vultures that have been deemed unfit for Tantric rites. Some huts even have snake skins decorating them. If you are especially curious about this place, you can pay it a visit, but the girls are generally asked to stay away from the cremation ground.

Tarapith Temple offers you solace from the worldly chores. Visit it once to experience the bliss of the divine.

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Tarapith Temple West Bengal

Tarapith Temple, West Bengal

Tarapith is a modest temple near Birbhum, 264 kilometres from Kolkata, on the banks of the Dwarka River. The Hindu community considers the temple fortunate due to its age and antiquity. The regal temple, one of India’s 51 Shakti Peeths, is still one of the most significant locations where tantric rites are practised. The poor frequently frequented it throughout the year, who came to receive a free lunch.

About Tarapith Temple

Tarapith is a tiny temple town near Rampurhat in the Birbhum district of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is famous for its Tantric temple and the adjacent cremation grounds (Maha Smashan), where sdhan (tantric rituals) are performed. The Tantric Hindu temple is devoted to the Goddess Tara, a terrible Tantric aspect of the Devi, and is one of the principal Shakti temples. Tarapith takes its name from the fact that it was the most important centre of Tara worship and her cult.

Sadhak Bamakhepa, also known as the avadhuta or “crazy saint,” worshipped in the temple and dwelt in the cremation grounds as a mendicant and practised and polished yoga and the tantric arts under the guidance of another famous saint, Kailashpathi Baba, is also associated with Tarapith. Bamakhepa devoted his entire existence to the adoration of Tara Maa. His ashram is also situated near the Tara shrine and the Dwaraka river.

West Bengal’s Tarapith is a small village in the Sahapur Gram Panchayet, Margram Police Station, on the banks of the Dwarka River. It is situated on the floodplains between verdant rice paddies. It resembles a Bengali village with its thatched-roof homes and fish ponds. The settlement is located 6 kilometres from the Birbhum district’s Rampurhat Subdivision. The closest railway stations are “Rampurhat” and “Tarapith Road.”

Temple Legend

The legend of the temple may be traced back to when Vashishta unsuccessfully attempted to master the Tantrik Arts despite his attempts. This prompted him to pay a visit to Lord Buddha, who advised him to practise in Tarapith, the ideal place to worship Ma Tara. Thus, Vashishta travelled to Tarapith and began to worship Ma Tara using the left-handed Tantrik ritual and Panchamakara, or the five banned items. Ma Tara appeared before him as a heavenly mother nursing Lord Shiva to her breast before transforming into stone. Since that day, this deity’s mother figure has been revered at Tarapith.

The Tarapith Temple is also well-known for the insane saint Bama Khepa, who is revered there. Under the tutelage of Kailashpathi Baba, an additional renowned saint, he perfected both Yoga and Tantric art while residing in the cremation grounds. Bama Khepa devoted his life to Ma Tara’s worship. His ashram is located next to the temple.

Temple Architecture

The base and walls of the Tarapith Temple are made of red bricks. The main temple is a four-sided tower made of marble blocks with a curving roof known as a dochala. Underneath this structure is a smaller tower with four sides and its dochala protruding. There is a stone depiction of Maa Tara as a mother breastfeeding Shiva. The image of the deity is maintained in the chamber’s attic.

Another three-foot-tall metal statue of Maa Tara is depicted in her fiery form, with four arms wearing a garland of skulls around her neck and her tongue protruding. The picture has a silver crown and flowing hair above its head. The picture is draped in a sari, adorned with garlands, and topped with a silver umbrella. The deity’s forehead is adorned with red kumkum. Priests apply this kumkum to the foreheads of devotees as a symbol of Maa Tara’s blessings. The devotees present the deity with bananas, silk saris, and coconuts.

Importance of Temple

In addition to being a well-known Shakti Pitha, the place is also very important from a religious tourism point of view. The temple is the home of the Goddess Tara. It is different from other temples in many ways. This temple is unique, especially given its surroundings, because it is next to a cemetery where people are cremated. The religion here calls for blood sacrifices. This temple is also different because of the intense ceremonies and hymns held here. Red bricks make up the base of the temple. There are two images of Tara in the sanctum. The people who worship Tara see a metal image that covers up the stone image of Tara. A lot of people go to the temple often, and it is a popular place for tourists to go.

Tantra Sadhana and Tantrics are said to be best done in Tarapith. The cremation site is on the bank of the River Dwarka. There are several Trantric huts and hermitages there. Under the banyan trees, there are some thatched-roof Trantric cottages made of mud. People are afraid of the place because skulls with red paint are buried in the clay walls. People say that you can see the Goddess Tara in the shadows drinking the blood of goats killed every day at her shrine to calm her anger. People with faces covered in ash are often seen in and around the temple.

Festivals and Poojas at Tarapith Temple

Sankranti Mela is held every Sankranti day of the Hindu month. Dola Purnima is held in February/March, Basantika Parba is held in Chaitra (March/April), Gamha Purnima is held in July/August, and Chaitra Parba is held every Tuesday of Chaitra. The Tarapith Amavasya Annual Festival, held at the temple every August, is a very important and well-known festival. It is also the most well-known event at the temple.

Every day of the week, from 6 AM to 9 PM, puja is held in the temple. The Shahnai and other musical instruments wake Devi Tara up every morning at 4 AM, after which worship begins. In this process, a group of devotees open the door to the Garbha Griba, wash her feet, clean her room, and re-make her bed. Honey and ghee are put on the idol before it is washed with the pure water of Jivitkund. Then, a sari, a necklace of skulls, and a mask are put on the idol. The mangalarti starts after this.

As part of the tantric sadhana, Pooja also happens in the afternoon, when rice is given to the idol. This anna bhog has atap rice, meat from the sacrificed goat, rice pudding, fried fish, and five other kinds of food. After the annabhog, the temple is closed for a while so that the god can rest. Evening Sandhya Aarti is performed, and the god’s bed is made.

Before they are killed, goats are made to bathe in the holy tank of the temple. The goat’s neck is then cut off with one cut from a special sword. The goat’s blood is put into a small vessel and given to the god.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to go to the temple is between September and March when the heat has gone away, and the weather is nice. Most tourists like to visit between November and December when it is cold, and the Tarapith Temple is beautiful. Durga Puja is another happy time when people visit the temple to see the celebrations going on in the city.

Local Culture

Tantric worship of the Goddess has been done for hundreds of years. In West Bengal, Tarapith is one of the most important places for Tantric practice, which was at its best when Sadhok Bamakhepa Dev was alive. Hindus love their Goddess Tara a lot, and they often go to see Her when they have a hard time.

Most of the time, they pray to the deity and choose the “Mannat.” When their wishes come true, they give the Goddess the promised things, like a double goat sacrifice (Jora patha Bali), sarees, jewellery, valuable things, etc.

Tarapith Mandir Timing

The Tarapith Mandir is open every day of the year from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM.

The Tarapith Mandir is closed from 12 PM to 1:30 PM for Bhog and from 6 PM to 7:30 PM for Sandha Aarti. Devotees are not permitted during these three hours.

Darsan Dresscode

There is no required attire for visiting Tarapith. Nevertheless, please wear modest attire.

How to Reach Temple

By Air : The nearest airport is Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose airport. One can take a cab or bus from the airport to Tarapith.

By Train : Rampurhat is the closest train station via road. Rampurhat has excellent connections to Howrah and Sealdah. From the train station to Tatapith, taxi services are available.

By Road : state-owned and commercial buses connect Tarapith with Kolkata’s Esplanade/Dharamtala bus station and the state’s adjacent cities.

Temple Location Map

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Tarapith Mandir Rampurhat – Guide

Tarapith Mandir is a major temple in Rampurhat the state of West Bengal, situated on the banks of the Dwarka River flowing in Birbhum at a distance of 264 km from Kolkata. Let us tell you that this ancient temple is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths of India. According to a legend, the eye string of Mata Sati had fallen here in Tarapeeth, hence this religious place is also known as Nayan Tara Temple.

Earlier the name of this village used to be Chandipur but now it was changed to Tarapeeth because in Bengali the eyeball is called Tara. The Tarapeeth temple is dedicated to Maa Tara. According to Hindu traditions, Maa Tara is considered the second of the ten goddesses of great wisdom and is also known as Kalika, Bhadra-Kali and Mahakali. Tarapith Temple is full of mysteries and exciting facts

History of this Temple

The history of the Rampurhat Tarapith Mandir dates back to the time when sage Vashishtha wanted to master the tantric arts, but failed despite his persistent efforts. He then went to meet Lord Buddha who asked Varishta to practice at Tarapeeth which was an ideal place to worship Maa Tara.

At the behest of Buddha, Vashishtha came to Tarapeeth and started worshiping Maa Tara with Tantric rituals using Pancha Tarakara, ie five forbidden things. After this, Mother Tara appeared in front of him after being pleased with Vashisht’s prayer and after that she turned into stone. After that day this idol is worshiped in Tarapeeth.

Rampurhat Tarapith Mandir Timings

Rampurhat Tarapith Mandir opens at 6:00 AM in the morning and close at 9:00 PM in the evening. Morning aarti is performed at 6:30 AM in the morning and evening aarti is performed at 8:30 PM in the evening.

Places to visit near this Temple

Kendubilo also known as Joydeb Kenduli is a temple town. It is believed to be the birthplace of 12 th century Sanskrit poet Joydeb and has an old temple. Poet Joydeb is famous for the lyrical composition Gita Gobind. It is situated on the bank of Ajay river.

Shantiniketan

Shantiniketan, established by Rabindranath Tagore in 1921, was declared a Central University in 1951. It has given rise to eminent personalities like Indira Gandhi and Amartya Sen, which is 88 km away.

52 Shakti Peeths of India. It is so called because the part between the eyebrows fell here. It also has ten hot springs. The water temperature in these springs ranges from 60 to 80 °C, which is 70 km away.

Tarapith Mandir Rampurhat entrance

Also Read:  Chandrika Devi Mandir Bageshwar, Timings, History, Travel Guide and How to reach

How to reach Rampurhat Tarapith Mandir

By Air- The nearest airport from Rampurhat Tarapith Mandir is Kolkata airport which is at a distance of 200 km from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.

By Train- The nearest railway station from Tarapith Mandir is Rampurhat railway station which is at a distance of 6 km from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.

By Road- Roads to this temple are well connected with the other cities of the country so you can easily reach this temple by using your own vehicle or by any public buses or taxi from any part of the country.

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The greatness of Tara Ma is endless.Shakti (power) is very popular among the Dasamahavidya. Tara Ma is the second of the Dashamahavidya. She is decorated with  “Mundamala,Kharba, Lambodori, Bhisana,  Byaghracharmabrata, Nabayoubana, Chaturbhuja & Trinayana”. She sits on the White Lotus of the nature. We can read about Tara Ma from the Aryta’s Bhattarikanamstottor 100th Sloke (Para) .She gave darshan to Basisthadev  after satisfied with his Sadhana.She is now situated in the little village Tarapith of west Bengal, India.She is very famous among all over india because of her wish fullfilling dristi.

Boishak Amavasya 2024

For selected/anjali puja, send anjali puja to tara mata :- send puja to for your selected date, upcoming special puja :- boishak amavasya 2024.

  Send Puja to Tara Mata for upcoming Boishak Amavasya 2024

  Puja Date : 8th May 2024.

🔴Cash On Delivery (COD) available.{ COD IS FREE }

🔴Prasad will be sent to your address via Courier.

🔴You will get Puja Photos as Genuine Puja Proof.

Sadhak Sri Sri Bamdev | Tarapith | Bamdev, Bamakhepa, Atla Village, Ma Tara's Son

Sadhak Sri Sri Bamdev was born in the Atla village which is around 2 K.M away from Tarapith.His father was Sarbananda Chattopadhyay.  According to many books his birthdate is 12 th Falgun of 1244 Bengali year(1837). It was the day of Maha Shivratri.He was very concentrated in the Sadhana of Tara Ma from his early childhood. He used to call Tara Ma as “Choto Ma"  Mouliksha Ma as “Boro Ma". After completing his Sadhana he used to help many people to overcome their problems,rescue them from many dangers. Tarapith PujaService

Tarapith,Tara Ma, Tarapith, Tara Devi, Ma Tara | Tarapith Temple | Tarapith Mandir

The Tarapith Temple is siuated in the small village Tarapith of West Bengal state.The curent temple was situated in 1225 bengali year, around 300 yeras ago. The temple is built with 4 chala & its height is 64 feet.The desings are the evidence that though the British Rule the devotees kept their heritage unchanged.The artist desinged the temple's front with many types of plants & flowers.In the other side there is Devi Durga's  murti & in the 3rd side there is war between Ram & Ravan. This will help Indian  mythology Immortal.

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  1. Tarapith Temple Bengal, timings, history, guide & how to reach

    tarapith temple visit timings

  2. Tarapith Temple Bengal, timings, history, guide & how to reach

    tarapith temple visit timings

  3. Tarapith Temple Bengal, timings, history, guide & how to reach

    tarapith temple visit timings

  4. Tarapith Temple West Bengal

    tarapith temple visit timings

  5. Tarapith Temple Bengal, timings, history, guide & how to reach

    tarapith temple visit timings

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    tarapith temple visit timings

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  1. I visit Tarapith Hotel Krishna koli

  2. Beutiful Railway station #Tarapith#Ma Tara express #rampurhat station

  3. Tarapith Temple visited with family 🌺 Tarapith Temple 🛕 🌺

  4. Family trip to Tarapith:2 ||visit to Sonajhurir haat & Barishaler rannaghor||#Shantiniketan #family

  5. visit to tarapith, tarapith Temple#ashortaday #maakali #kalipuja #tarapith #bengali #birbhum #shorts

  6. Tarapith Tour ||Bharat sevashram || মাত্র ১১০ টাকায় রুম || Tarapith hotel || তারাপীঠ ভ্রমন 2022

COMMENTS

  1. Tarapith Temple West Bengal

    Tarapith is a small temple located on the banks of the Dwarka River that flows in Birbhum, at a distance of 264 km from Kolkata. The temple is ancient and is considered to be extremely auspicious by the Hindu community. The regal temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peeths in India, is one of the most important places where tantric rituals are followed ...

  2. Tarapith Temple, West Bengal

    Tarapith Temple is regarded as one of the Mahapeeths and extremely holy place for all Hindus. ... Rampurhat Country: India Best Season To Visit: All Languages: Bengali, Hindi & English Temple Timings: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM Photography: Not Allowed. ... It is a major Hindu pilgrimage centre and several thousand devotees visit the temple every day ...

  3. Tarapith: Explore The Land of Holy Temples

    There are a lot of things to do in Tarapith. Visit the Tara Maa Temple and explore the temple complex. Participate in the arti, offer puja to the goddess. ... so it's important to know the temple timings beforehand. The temple remains open throughout the year, typically from 5:30 AM to 10 PM. Darshan timings vary from 4:30 AM or 5:30 AM to 12 ...

  4. Tarapith Mandir Timings: 3 Timings to Know Before You Visit

    It's important to know when the temple holds special events and rituals if you want to visit and take part in prayers or offerings. So, before you go, it's a good idea to check the temple's schedule. The Tarapith Mandir timings can vary, but generally, it opens at 5:30 AM and stays open until 10 PM. You can find more details below:

  5. Tarapith Travel Guide with All Info

    Embark on a spiritual journey to Tarapith, a revered pilgrimage destination located in West Bengal, India. This travel guide delves into the ancient history, explores the mystical geography, and provides essential information on how to reach Tarapith from Kolkata. Discover the best time to visit, explore the main tourist attractions, savor local delicacies, find recommended […]

  6. Tarapith Temple (2019)- A Complete Guide

    The best time to visit the Tarapith Temple. The Tarapith Temple is open to devotees every day from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Every day at 4 AM melodious Shahnai is played in the temple premises to wake the Goddess up. Then the door of the Garbha Griba is opened by a group of priests who wash her feet, clean her room, and remake her bed.

  7. Tarapith Temple, Tarapith

    The temple is also associated with the famous Tantric saint Bamakhepa, who is believed to have attained spiritual enlightenment through his devotion to the goddess. Tarapith Temple is known for. The temple is renowned for its association with the Tantric tradition of worship. Timings. Opens: 5: 30 AMCloses: 10: 00 PM.

  8. Tarapith Temple

    The Buddha instructed Vasishtha to worship Tara through the practices of vamachara. During this time, Buddha had a vision of Tarapith as an ideal location for enshrining the image of Tara in a temple there. Buddha advised Vasishtha to go to Tarapith, the abode of Tara. At Tarapith, Vasishtha did penance by reciting Tara mantra 300,000 times.

  9. Tarapith Temple Travel Guide

    - From Durgapur: Tarapith is around 175 kilometers away from Durgapur. It takes approximately 4 hours by road to reach Tarapith from Durgapur. Best Time to Visit Tarapith. The best time to visit Tarapith is during the winter months from October to February when the weather is pleasant and conducive for exploring the temple and its surroundings.

  10. Tarapith Mandir: Ultimate Travel Guide (2024)

    Tarapith Travel Guide. Tarapith is a small temple town in Birbhum district of West Bengal, known for the Tarapith Mandir. Tarapith Mandir is a Tantric temple and attached cremation (maha smasan) grounds where sādhanā (tantric rituals) is performed. The Tantric Hindu temple is devoted to the goddess Tara, a terrifying Tantric aspect of the ...

  11. About Tarapith Mandir

    Temple Timings : 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM Time Required : 1-2 hour Best Time to Visit: September to March Photography: Not allowed inside. History of Tarapith Temple. A time ago, sage Vashisht, one of the seven holy sages, walked the face of this earth in flesh and blood.

  12. Tarapith Temple

    Some 264 km from Kolkata, Tarapith is situated on the banks of the north flowing Dwarka River, in Birbhum, in West Bengal.Tara Maa of Tarapith, another form of Kali, has two hands, is garlanded with snakes, is adorned in sacred threads, and has Shiva lying in her left lap sucking her breast. But the temple is dedicated to the destructive aspect ...

  13. Tarapith

    Tarapith is a small town and you can walk around and rickshaws are also available. Beware of crowds during peak season. See and do [edit] 1 Temple of Tarama, ☏ +91 7001815500 (for puja or worship). (updated Jan 2018) 2 Tarapith Burning Ghat (Sadhak Bamdeber Ghat). Named after Sadhak Banakshyapa. (updated Jan 2018)

  14. Tarapith: A Sacred Temple Town in West Bengal

    Tarapith, a serene temple town nestled in the Birbhum district of West Bengal. Renowned for its Tantric temple dedicated to the fearsome goddess Tara, Tarapith offers a unique blend of spirituality, mythology, and cultural richness. Discover the captivating legends, divine rituals, and architectural marvels that make Tarapith an enchanting ...

  15. Maa Tara Temple, Tarapith

    Tarapith temple is Located about 200 Kms away from Kolkata City in a Birbhum District of West Bengal. Its my Experience where we were in all 10 peoples who started from Chandannagar for tarapith Temple. We moved from Chandannagar to Bandel Jn and from there we took 13017 Ganadevta Express which was on Right time and departed Bandel Jn at 6:50am.

  16. Tarapith Tourism (2024)

    Tarapith is a famous Hindu pilgrimage in the state of West Bengal and a Shakti Peetha, believed to be the spot where Sati's third eye fell. Tara, another form of Sati, is worshipped in the temple. The town of Tarapith is a small, crowded rural town near the Dwarka river in Birbhum district and is also called the city of Tantra Mantra or black magic. . Another legend tells the story of how ...

  17. Tarapith

    Tarapith is a town and Hindu pilgrimage site located in Rampurhat subdivision of Birbhum district of the Indian state of West Bengal.The town is particularly known for its Tantric temple and its adjoining Hindu crematory ground. The Tantric Hindu temple is dedicated to the goddess Tara.. Tarapith is also famous for Tantric saint Bamakhepa, who worshipped in the temple and resided in the ...

  18. Tarapith Temple: A Spiritual Haven in West Bengal

    Tarapith Temple. Tarapith is a small temple located on the banks of the Dwarka River that flows in the Birbhum district. The temple is ancient and is considered to be extremely auspicious by the Hindu community. The regal temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peeths in India, is one of the most important places where tantric rituals are followed even today.

  19. Tarapith Temple Tarapith West Bengal, Photos, & History And Attraction

    Tarapith Temple Tarapith (mandir) is one of the 51 shakti pithas of Mata Sati where the eye string of Maa Sati fell hence the name Tarapith. It is located in Birbhum district of West Bengal state. Every day thousands of people come here to visit the Tarapith temple and seek blessings from maa tara.

  20. Tarapith Temple (2019)- A Complete Guide

    The best time to visit the Tarapith Temple. The Tarapith Temple is open to devotees every day from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Every day at 4 AM melodious Shahnai is played in the temple premises to wake the Goddess up. Then the door of the Garbha Griba is opened by a group of priests who wash her feet, clean her room, and remake her bed.

  21. Tarapith Temple, West Bengal

    Tarapith is a tiny temple town near Rampurhat in the Birbhum district of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is famous for its Tantric temple and the adjacent cremation grounds (Maha Smashan), where sdhan (tantric rituals) are performed. The Tantric Hindu temple is devoted to the Goddess Tara, a terrible Tantric aspect of the Devi, and is one ...

  22. Tarapith Mandir Rampurhat, timings, history, guide & how to reach

    Also Read: Chandrika Devi Mandir Bageshwar, Timings, History, Travel Guide and How to reach. How to reach Rampurhat Tarapith Mandir. By Air-The nearest airport from Rampurhat Tarapith Mandir is Kolkata airport which is at a distance of 200 km from this temple. From here you can easily reach this temple by using local transport services or taxi.

  23. Taramaa

    The Tarapith Temple is siuated in the small village Tarapith of West Bengal state.The curent temple was situated in 1225 bengali year, around 300 yeras ago. ... Thanks for Visit Us. Up. This is a personal spiritual website of Goddess Tara Maa. We had no relation with the Tarapith Mandir committee whatsoever.