The name Calcutta is an anglicized version of bengali name “Kalikata” means “ground of goddess kali”.
As a tourist in the city of Joy “Kolkata” ,how could i have missed going to Ghats.
The best part of my solo trip was that evening boat ride on the river Ganga.
The boat journey with 20 passenger from Belur Ghat to Dakhineshwar temple ghat in a span of 20 minute was splendid.The mighty Ganges took my breath as the boat embarks it’s journey. An impressive golden light reflecting on the water as the sun sets.
And i remember those beautiful lines by Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore ..
“Clouds come floating into my life,no longer to carry rain or usher storm ,
but to add color to my sunset sky.”
Dakshineshwar Temple built in 1847 by Rani Rashmoni as per husband’s wish.This temple became a pilgrimage site for people of all castes,creed & religion.In the main Navaratna temple of Dakshineshwar complex. Kali is worshiped as Bahavatarini and this form of goddess kali is calm.
Opening Time : 5 A.M. to 10.00 P.M.
Ramakrishna Paramhansa ,the famous spiritual leader is associated with this temple .Belur Math conceptualized by Swami Vivekanada .The renowned disciple of Ramakrishna is located south of Dakshineshwar temple on the bank of holy Ganges.It was founded in 1935 to celebrate diversity of all religions .
I spent my second day evening there ,thanks to my friend who suggested me to stand in the ganga river water for sometime which works magically as a stress reliever.
Kalighat ,another religious attraction which is considered as one of the 52 Shakti Peethas of India is located in South Kolkata.
There surrounding a small market where you can see plenty of sweet stores selling “Sondesh” for Puja Bhog. Luckily on that Sunday i didn’t face much crowd at the temple.
Else you have to stand in a long queue to enter the temple on a crowded day like Saturday & Tuesday.
The city exhibits the beautiful Bengali culture which show their love for art ,music (Robindro Sangeet) ,literature and of course food.
Every Bengali mother is a great cook .Luckily i had a chance to enjoy delicious Bengali food at my friend’s house.
Never miss the road-side Kulhad Chai there which is a special charm of this lovely city.
Park Street is full of many oldest & popular restaurants offering the authentic Bengali food .Never to be missed the typical bong delicacy like “Mishti Doi” ,”Nolengur Sondesh” ,”pantua” “Kachuri” etc.I didn’t have enough time to explore the city but I thanked enough for those beautiful Memories.
