Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple | Gazipur

Information

Landmark: Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple
City: Gazipur
Country: Bangladesh
Continent: Asia

Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple, Gazipur, Bangladesh, Asia

The Jeshoreshwari Kali Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, located in Ishwaripur, Satkhira District, Bangladesh.

This temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus.

Visual Characteristics

The temple complex is constructed primarily from brick and stone. The main temple structure is a multi-storied building with a distinctive pyramidal roof. The exterior walls are adorned with terracotta ornamentation depicting various deities and mythological scenes. The central shrine houses the idol of Goddess Kali. The surrounding area includes smaller shrines and a pond.

Location & Access Logistics

The temple is situated in Ishwaripur village, approximately 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) north of Shyamnagar town in the Satkhira District. Access from Dhaka involves traveling to Satkhira town (approximately 250 km or 155 miles southwest of Dhaka) via bus or private vehicle. From Satkhira town, local buses or auto-rickshaws can be hired to reach Shyamnagar. From Shyamnagar, a further 5 km journey by auto-rickshaw or cycle-rickshaw leads to the temple. There is a designated parking area for vehicles at the temple site.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The temple is believed to have been established in the 16th century by Raja Pratapaditya, the then-Hindu king of the Sundarbans region. It is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, sites where parts of the body of Sati, the consort of Shiva, fell. According to Hindu mythology, the wrist of Sati fell at this location. The temple is situated within the Sundarbans mangrove forest ecosystem, characterized by tidal rivers and dense vegetation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Pilgrims visit the temple for worship and to offer prayers to Goddess Kali. The main festival celebrated is Navaratri, which attracts a large number of devotees. Visitors can observe the architectural details and terracotta work. The temple pond is used for ritualistic bathing.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic restroom facilities are available within the temple complex. Shade is provided by trees and the temple structure itself. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the vicinity. Food vendors are typically present outside the temple complex, especially during festival times, offering local snacks and beverages.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit for pleasant weather is during the winter months, from October to March. The temple is open year-round. For experiencing the main festival, Navaratri (usually in September or October), specific dates should be checked. The morning hours (6:00 AM to 10:00 AM) and late afternoon (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) offer cooler temperatures and softer light for photography.

Facts & Legends

A significant legend associated with the temple is that the goddess Kali appeared in a dream to Raja Pratapaditya, instructing him to build the temple. It is also said that the idol of Kali was found in a nearby pond. The temple is renowned for its historical significance as a Shakti Peetha, drawing devotees from both Bangladesh and India.