History:

Tarakeshwar Temple is an ancient Shiva temple situated in Bankura district, in the state of West Bengal, India. According to Hindu mythology, this holy place is believed to have been created by none other than Lord Shiva Himself. The old temple dates back to the 12th Century AD. Tarakeshwar Temple is one of the most significant centres of worship in Bankura district. Devotees from different parts of the country flock to the temple to offer their prayers. Tarakeshwar Temple is known for its unique architecture, which is known to be one of the most beautiful examples of Bengal architecture. This temple is also home to one of the most intricate engravings of Lord Shiva in the ancient Hindu scriptures. Devotees come here to offer prayers to the Lord and also to get a glimpse of the engravings. It is one of the best temple in West-Bengal which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Tarakeshwar Temple is a prominent pilgrimage centre located in Bankura district of West Bengal, India. 2. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. 3. The Tarakeshwar temple was constructed by Raja Bishnupur Indra Narayan Roy in 1729 AD. 4. The temple is one of the Pancha Pitha Temples (five sacred sites) located in West Bengal. 5. The unique feature of the temple is that the Shivlinga is surrounded by Puja (Rituals) Ghats on all four sides. 6. Every year on the occasion of ‘Chaitra Sankranti’ (a festival in the Hindu calendar) thousands of devotees from all over the country visit this temple in order to offer prayers to Lord Shiva. 7. It is believed that Lord Shiva had come here to fulfill the wish of a young devotee Shri Haridas Thakur. 8. The nearby settlements are populated with a large number of artisans, who are known to have been dressed up idol for rituals and idols of the temple. Here are some facts about the West-Bengal temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in West-Bengal

Worship Method:

The main method of worship practiced in the Tarakeshwar Temple of Bankura in West Bengal is characterized by a blend of Shaiva and Sakta traditions. The temple follows the ancient form of worship, which includes Puja & Arati outside the temple, a special Aarti performed at dusk, along with the ritual of coconut breaking. Inside the temple, devotees offer Garlands to the deity who is symbolized as an aniconic form – Lingam within the shrine. After offering flowers and dedicated prayers, a priest offers Abhishekam, (holy bath) with water mixed with Panchaamrit - concoction of honey, milk, yogurt, ghee, sugar, and Gangajal, followed by sandalwood paste and holy perfume. The main puja consists of Aarti and Bhog, which is dedicated to Lord Tarakeshwar. Flowers and fruits are the main offerings made to the deity and on special occasions, some offering foods especially made from sweet ingredients are also made. During the Pradosha day, devotees from far and near visit to the temple in view of the puja and special Aarti performed by the priests. Visitors offer their prayers and perform circumambulations around the temple. This most visited temple in West-Bengal

Opening Timing:

The Tarakeshwar Temple in Bankura, West-Bengal generally opens at 7:00 am and closes at 6:00 pm. top temples in West-Bengal

How to reach:

The Tarakeshwar Temple in Bankura, West Bengal, is well connected by different modes of transportation. The temple is located about 15km away from Bankura town. By Road: Bankura is well connected to its nearby cities by roads. Buses, Taxis and private cabs can be taken from nearby cities to Bankura from where one can hire an auto-rickshaw or cab to reach the temple. By Rail: The nearest railway station is Bankura Station. From Bankura Station, one could either hire an auto-rickshaw or cab to reach the Tarakeshwar Temple. By Air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Airport in Kolkata. From there, one could take a bus or train to reach Bankura station and then follow the same route as above. famous temples in West-Bengal