Kali Bari Temple: A Bengali Cultural Hub in Delhi
Experience Bengali culture and spiritual solace at Delhi's Kali Bari Temple, a vibrant hub of tradition and devotion since the 1930s.
Located on Mandir Marg, close to the Birla Temple, the Kali Bari Temple is more than just a religious site; it's a cultural landmark for the Bengali community in Delhi. Founded in the 1930s, the temple started as a small shrine and has grown into a prominent center for Bengali heritage and traditions. Subhas Chandra Bose was the first president of the temple committee, which was formalized in 1935. The temple's architecture blends traditional Bengali design with modern aesthetics, featuring intricate carvings, ornate pillars, and vibrant frescoes depicting Hindu mythology. The idol of Goddess Kali is inspired by the Kalighat Kali Temple in Kolkata. The temple complex includes a building for visitors, an enriched library, and a Peepal tree where devotees tie holy threads to fulfill wishes. The Kali Bari Temple is known for its Durga Puja celebrations, one of the oldest in Delhi, dating back to 1925. The temple also celebrates Navratri, Shivratri, and Janmashtami. The temple is open daily, with morning aarti at 5:20 a.m. and evening aarti at 6:10 p.m. Visitors can experience a sense of mental peace and witness traditional rituals that have remained unchanged for decades.
Local tips
- Visit during Durga Puja to witness the temple's most vibrant celebrations and cultural events.
- Dress modestly when visiting the temple to respect religious customs.
- Check the temple's timings before your visit, as it closes in the afternoon.
- Explore the nearby Birla Temple (Laxminarayan Temple) and other attractions on Mandir Marg.
- Bengali tourists can find accommodation at the temple's guest house.
A brief summary to Kali Bari Temple
- Mandir Marg, near Birla Temple, New Delhi, Pocket H, Type 2, President's Estate, Delhi, 110001, IN
- Monday 4:45 am-12:30 pm
- Tuesday 4:45 am-12:30 pm
- Wednesday 4:45 am-12:30 pm
- Thursday 4:45 am-12:30 pm
- Friday 4:45 am-12:30 pm
- Saturday 4:45 am-12:30 pm
- Sunday 4:45 am-12:30 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
The nearest metro station to Kali Bari Temple is Ramakrishna Ashram Marg. From the metro station, you can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus to reach the temple. Several buses also stop near the temple, including routes 118EXT, 347, and 391. Delhi Metro fares range from Rs 10 to Rs 60.
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Taxi
Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available in Delhi. You can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from any part of the city to reach Kali Bari Temple. From New Delhi Railway Station, a taxi will cost approximately ₹100-₹130 and takes around 6 minutes. Taxi fares in Delhi start at approximately ₹11.90 per km.
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Walking
Kali Bari Temple is located near Birla Temple on Mandir Marg. If you are already in the Mandir Marg area, you can easily walk to the temple. It is approximately 2 km from Ramkrishna Ashram metro station. Landmarks such as Gole Market and Talkatora Stadium are nearby.
