Tarakeshwar

Situated at a distance of 58 kilometers from Howrah, one can get Esplanade – Arambagh bus service to reach Tarakeshwar. Taraknath Temple of Tarakeshwar is one of the prominent pilgrimage centers in Bengal. Local train is also available from Howrah. Pilgrims visit the temple throughout the year, especially on Mondays. But thousands of pilgrims visit Tarakeswar on the occasions of 'Shivaratri' and 'Gajan', the former taking place in Falgun (February - March) while the latter lasts for five days ending on the last day of Chaitra (mid - April). The month of Sravana (mid - July to mid - August) is considered auspicious.

To See

Taraknath, an 'atchala' structure with a 'natmandir' in front and close by are the shrines of Kali and Lakshmi-Narayan and hence the name Tarakeshwar. This temple dates back to the 18th century. Legend has it that a devotee by name Vishnu Das and his brother discovered a site in the nearby jungle, where cattle discharged the contents of their udders (milk) at a particular spot each day. Upon investigation, they discovered a Shiva lingam. A dream is said to have revealed to them that this Shiva lingam was a manifestation of Tarakeshwar - Lord Shiva A temple was built at this spot, and was renovated in subsequent years. The god worshipped here is ‘Shayambhu’ alias Lord Shiva. Dudhpukur, a tank to the north of the Shiva temple is believed to fulfil the prayers of those taking a dip in it.
There is a Buddhist Temple just 6 kilometers away from Tarakeswar at Deulpara. It is the only Buddha Temple in Hooghly District.

To Reach

• By Air - Nearest airport is at Kolkata (Kolkata Airport), which is air linked with all major Indian and international cities. Tarakeshwar is only 62 kilometers by road from the airport.
• By Rail - Local trains from Howrah main line run very frequently. Many important express and passenger trains halt here.
• By Road - Tarakeshwar is 58 kilometers by road from Kolkata via Grand Trunk Road or Delhi road. Taxis and private cars in Kolkata are easily available..