Tarakeswar Mandir Temple Guide – History & Timings
Tarakeswar Mandir: The Taraknath or Tarakeswar Temple, located in the town of Tarakeswar in West Bengal’s Hooghly district, is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Taraknath. Constructed in 1729, the temple showcases the traditional Atchala architectural style with a Natmandir (prayer hall) situated in front. Nearby, one can find temples dedicated to Goddess Kali and Lakshmi-Narayan. Adjacent to the north of the temple lies a revered pond known as Dudhpukur, believed to grant devotees’ wishes upon taking a holy dip.
Renowned spiritual figure Sarada Devi, the consort of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, is said to have visited this temple multiple times for worship.
Also known as Baba Taraknath, Baba Tarakeswar, or Baba Tarakeswarnath, this fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva is linked with the myth of consuming Halahal poison during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). He is regarded as the divine consort of Goddess Tara, and a Shivlinga associated with this form is located not far from Tarapith, another spiritual hub in Bengal.
Moning Time | Evening Time | |
All Days | 6:00 AM to 1:30 PM | 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM |
According to legend, King Bharamalla once dreamt of a Shivalinga hidden deep within a forest near Tarakeswar. Guided by this divine vision, he later discovered a self-manifested (Swayambhu) Linga at the very spot. To honor this sacred find, the present-day Baba Taraknath Temple was constructed over the Linga in the year 1729.
Devotees flock to the Tarakeswar temple year-round, with Mondays drawing the largest crowds due to their sacred association with Lord Shiva. During the month of Phalgun (February–March), the Shivaratri festival attracts thousands of worshippers, while the Gajan festival in Chaitra (mid-April) sees a surge in spiritual activity.
The month of Shravan (July–August) holds special significance for Shaivites, and every Monday during this time, Tarakeswar transforms into a sea of devotees. Special rituals and celebrations take place during Mahashivaratri and Chaitra Sankranti, and every Monday, the temple conducts elaborate pujas. On Shravan Mondays, lakhs of pilgrims arrive to perform the holy ablution of Lord Taraknath with water from the Ganges, creating a vibrant, devotional atmosphere.
Spiritual Journey from Sheoraphuli Nimaitirtha Ghat to Tarakeswar During Shravan
Every year during the auspicious month of Shravan (July–August), thousands of devotees of Lord Shiva, known as kanwariyas, undertake a sacred pilgrimage from Sheoraphuli Nimaitirtha Ghat to the Tarakeswar Temple in Hooghly, West Bengal.
The journey begins at Sheoraphuli, where pilgrims collect holy water from the River Ganga. With the sacred “Gangajal” in hand, they walk barefoot for nearly 39 kilometers to reach Baba Taraknath Mandir in Tarakeswar. This spiritual walk is called “Kanwar Yatra”, and it is a significant expression of faith, devotion, and endurance.
Why Shravan is Special:
- Shravan is considered the most sacred month for Shaivites (followers of Shiva).
- Mondays (Shravan Somvar) during this month are especially powerful for worship.
- Devotees believe that offering Gangajal to the Shivalinga during Shravan washes away sins and brings blessings.
The Experience:
- The entire route becomes vibrant with chants of “Bol Bam!” echoing through the air.
- Food and water stalls, first aid stations, and resting places are arranged by locals and volunteers.
- The spiritual atmosphere, community support, and deep devotion make this an unforgettable experience.
