Maa Kali, known for her fierce yet protective form, is one of the most powerful goddesses in Hinduism. She represents the destruction of evil and darkness but also nurtures and protects her devotees.
Across India, you’ll find many ancient temples dedicated to Kali Mata and her various forms. For centuries, these temples have attracted millions of devotees seeking her blessings.
In this blog, we will learn about 10 famous temples of Kali Mata each rich with history, tradition, and deep spiritual energy.
Famous Temples of Kali Mata
1. Kalighat Temple, Kolkata
Kalighat Temple in Kolkata is one of the most ancient and revered shrines dedicated to Maa Kali. According to legend, the toe of Goddess Sati fell here, making it one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. This temple is always bustling with devotees, and its spiritual energy can be felt the moment you step inside.
The idol here is unlike typical depictions of Kali. She is shown with three eyes, four arms, and her tongue out in a fierce form, but the love and devotion surrounding the temple give it a unique energy. Kalighat Temple is considered one of the holiest places to worship Maa Kali, especially during the festivals of Kali Puja and Durga Puja, when it is beautifully decorated, and grand celebrations take place.
Address: Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700026
Timings: 5:30 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 10:30 PM
2. Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kolkata
Another must-visit temple in Kolkata is the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, built in 1855 by the philanthropist Rani Rashmoni. This temple is associated with Bhavatarini, a form of Kali who is believed to rescue her devotees from the cycle of birth and death. The beautiful temple complex is situated on the banks of the Hooghly River and is also associated with the spiritual leader Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, who was a devoted priest here.
The temple's architecture, with its nine spires, is one of the most impressive parts of the shrine. Herein, you can feel a calm sense of energy despite the large number of visitors. It's a perfect place to connect with the goddess and reflect on your spiritual journey.
Address: Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700076
Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM - 7:30 PM
3. Kamakhya Temple, Assam
Perched on the Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Kamakhya Temple is one of the most important Shakti Peethas in India. The temple doesn’t have an idol of the goddess; instead, devotees worship a natural rock formation representing the yoni (womb), which is a powerful symbol of feminine energy and fertility.
The temple celebrates a unique festival known as Ambubachi Mela which attracts thousands of devotees and Tantric practitioners. During this time, the temple remains closed for three days, as it is believed that Maa Kamakhya undergoes her annual menstrual cycle.
Address: Kamakhya, Guwahati, Assam, 781010
Timings: 5:30 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM
4. Kalikambal Temple, Chennai
Kalikambal Temple is located in the bustling Parry’s Corner (also known as George Town) of Chennai, making it a significant site for Kali worship in South India. Dedicated to Maa Kalikambal, an incarnation of Maa Kali, the temple has a simple yet striking design.
It is said that the great Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji visited this temple in 1677 to seek the blessings of the goddess before embarking on his southern conquests. Today, the temple remains a major spiritual site, with devotees visiting to seek blessings for protection, good fortune, and success.
Address: 212, Thambu Chetty St, near DHL Express Courier, Mannadi, George Town, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600001
Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:30 PM - 9:00 PM
5. DakshinKali Temple, Kathmandu, Nepal
Though located in Kathmandu, Nepal, the Dakshina Kali Temple holds strong significance for the devotees of Kali Mata in India as well. Dedicated to Dakshina Kali, a fierce form of the goddess, this temple is known for its tradition of animal sacrifices, which are offered to appease the goddess. This practice has been a key part of Kali worship here for ages now.
Located in a valley surrounded by green hills and rivers, the temple is about 22 kilometers from Kathmandu city. And every year thousands of devotees travel long distances to seek the blessings of the goddess. The scenic beauty of the location is what adds to the spiritual experience.
Address: Pharping-Kulekhani Road, Dakshinkali 44600, Nepal
Timings: Open 24 hours
6. Kalika Mata Temple, Pavagadh, Gujarat
The Kalika Mata Temple is situated atop the Pavagadh Hill in Gujarat, an important Shakti Peetha where it is believed the toe of Goddess Sati fell. The temple, located within the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), holds both historical as well as spiritual significance.
You can either trek up to the temple or take a cable car ride. And reaching up, to the top, you’ll be welcomed with some breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The temple draws huge crowds during Navratri, with thousands of devotees coming to seek the blessings of the goddess for health, wealth, and happiness.
Address: Pavagadh Bava Bazar, Pavaghadh, Gujarat, 389360
Timings: 6:00 AM - 7:30 PM
7. Tarapith Temple, Birbhum, West Bengal
Tarapith is a small town in West Bengal, famous for the Tarapith Temple, dedicated to Maa Tara, a fierce form of Kali. This temple is particularly significant in the tantric tradition, where practitioners come to perform spiritual rituals. Maa Tara is believed to be a compassionate goddess who helps her devotees overcome obstacles and achieve spiritual growth.
Located near a cremation ground, which is also considered sacred, the temple possesses a mysterious and intense energy. Devotees believe that the goddess listens to their prayers more closely here, especially those related to overcoming fear, uncertainty, and adversity.
Address: Near Dwaraka River, Rampurhat subdivision, Birbhum district
Timings: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Also Read - All About Maa Saraswati: The Goddess of Wisdom and Arts
8. Baitala Deula, Bhubaneswar, Odisha
The Baitala Deula Temple in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is an architectural marvel with its unique Khakhara-style design, which is quite distinct from most other temples. It is dedicated to Goddess Chamunda, a fierce form of Kali, also known as the slayer of demons.
The temple's structure is small but has an intriguing design which makes it stand out from all others. The energy here feels quite dark and mystical, which aligns with the fierce and powerful form of the goddess worshiped inside. If you're a fan of ancient Indian architecture and spiritual places with some historical significance, Baitala Deula is a must-visit.
Address: 6RRJ+XW4, Barhadanda Road, Old Town, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751002
Timings: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
9. Kali Mandir, Patna
Located near the Ganga River, Kali Mandir in Patna is a peaceful shrine dedicated to the goddess Kali. This temple is especially popular during Kali Puja and Navratri when devotees gather in large numbers to offer their prayers and seek blessings from the goddess.
Despite its simple architecture, the temple possesses a profound energy and a quiet, spiritual atmosphere to sit and pray in peace.
Address: H5R7+627, Kali Mandir Rd, Sanjay Gandhi Nagar, Kankarbagh, Hanuman Nagar, Patna, Bihar, 800020
Timings: 6:00 AM - 10:00 AM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Takeaway
These 9 temples dedicated to Maa Kali offer different kinds of spiritual experiences, each with its own unique rituals, traditions, and history. Whether you're a devout follower or simply curious about the divine feminine energy, visiting these temples will provide you with deep spiritual insights and the opportunity to connect with the goddess in her various forms.
