Paradise India Tourism

Tour Details

Kankalitala, a revered Shakti Peetha in West Bengal, holds immense religious significance for devotees of the Goddess Kali. Located near Bolpur in the Birbhum district, it’s one of the 51 Shakti Peethas where parts of Goddess Sati’s body are said to have fallen, according to Hindu mythology. In Kankalitala, it is believed that the waist (kankal) of Sati fell, hence the name.

Historical and Mythological Significance
Kankalitala’s history is steeped in ancient lore. According to mythology, when Sati immolated herself, Lord Shiva carried her charred body across the universe in a state of grief. To ease his pain, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to dismember her body, and the parts fell at different places, which became sacred sites. The spot where Sati’s waist fell became Kankalitala. These sites are considered immensely powerful, and devotees believe that visiting them can absolve sins and grant blessings.

The Temple Complex
The temple complex at Kankalitala is modest yet profoundly sacred. Unlike other grand temples, Kankalitala retains a rustic charm, emphasizing devotion over grandeur. The main deity, Goddess Kali, is worshipped with deep reverence. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene atmosphere that enhances spiritual experiences.
A significant feature of the temple is the sacred pond, Kundupukur, which is believed to have healing powers. Pilgrims often take a dip in the holy water as a form of purification. The temple complex also has several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, adding to its spiritual ambiance.

Price Includes

2 Nights Hotel Accomodation
All transportation in destination location
Toll & Parking
Food (as per book plan)

Price Excludes

Guide Service Fee
Entry Fees
Room Service Fees

Complementaries

Umbrella
Sunscreen
T-Shirt
Entrance Fees

What to expect

The temple complex at Kankalitala is modest yet profoundly sacred. Unlike other grand temples, Kankalitala retains a rustic charm, emphasizing devotion over grandeur. The main deity, Goddess Kali, is worshipped with deep reverence. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene atmosphere that enhances spiritual experiences.

A significant feature of the temple is the sacred pond, Kundupukur, which is believed to have healing powers. Pilgrims often take a dip in the holy water as a form of purification. The temple complex also has several smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, adding to its spiritual ambiance.

Morning:

Arrival at Bolpur: Bolpur is well-connected by rail (Shantiniketan Railway Station) and road. You can reach Bolpur from Kolkata (around 3 hours by train or car). Check-in to your hotel or guesthouse.

Breakfast:

Enjoy a local Bengali breakfast at a nearby restaurant or hotel.

Late Morning:

Shantiniketan: Visit Visva-Bharati University, founded by Rabindranath Tagore, which is the main attraction in Bolpur. Explore the campus, visit the Rabindra Bhavan Museum, and enjoy the peaceful environment. Explore Tagore's Ashram (the area where Rabindranath Tagore lived and worked), and the Upasana Griha (prayer hall).

Lunch:

Try a traditional Bengali meal in Bolpur. Many eateries around Shantiniketan serve delicious rice and fish preparations.

Afternoon:

Visit Sonajhuri Forest (near Shantiniketan), which is known for its natural beauty. Take a walk, enjoy the rural countryside, or go shopping for local handicrafts. If interested, you can attend a cultural program or Baul music performance, which is a popular feature in Shantiniketan.

Evening:

Evening at Shantiniketan: Enjoy the tranquil evening at the Tagore's Amar Kutir, which is an ideal spot for handicrafts and local art. You can buy some souvenirs made by local artisans here.

Dinner:

Enjoy a traditional Bengali dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant.

Overnight:

stay in Bolpur.

Morning:

Early Breakfast: Head out early to Kankalitala, located about 10-12 km from Bolpur. Kankalitala Temple: Visit the Kankalitala Temple, one of the Shakti Peethas of West Bengal. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Sati, and it's believed that her bones fell here, making it an important religious site. The temple is set against a backdrop of a peaceful pond, surrounded by natural beauty—ideal for some quiet reflection.

Late Morning:

Drive to Lavpur: After visiting Kankalitala, head to Lavpur, about 15-20 km from Bolpur. Lavpur is known for its rural landscapes and tranquil ambiance. In Lavpur, you can visit Lavpur Village, which offers a glimpse into rural Bengal's life and culture.

Lunch:

Have lunch at a local restaurant or carry a packed lunch to enjoy in the scenic surroundings of Lavpur.

Afternoon:

Explore the Ramkrishna Mission in Lavpur. The serene atmosphere here makes it a great place to relax and meditate. You can also take a walk around the village, witnessing the simple village life, paddy fields, and local flora and fauna.

Evening:

Return to Bolpur. You can either relax at your accommodation or stroll around Santiniketan, enjoying the evening vibes, or catch any local cultural performance if available. Dinner: Enjoy dinner at your hotel or one of the local eateries in Shantiniketan.

Overnight:

Stay in Bolpur.

Morning:

Breakfast: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation.

Late Morning:

Rabindra Museum: Before departure, you can visit the Rabindra Museum (Rabindra Bhavan), which showcases a collection of memorabilia related to Tagore and his life. Explore the Prakriti Bhavan (Nature Study Centre) which gives insights into Tagore’s deep connection with nature.

Lunch:

If time permits, have a final lunch in Bolpur before departure. Try local specialties like shorshe ilish (hilsa fish in mustard sauce) and rosogolla for dessert.

Afternoon:

Depending on your departure time, you can visit nearby places such as Patha Bhavan, a school where students are taught in a unique, Tagore-inspired educational system, or simply relax in the serene atmosphere of Bolpur before heading back.

Departure:

Leave for the station or bus stop to catch your train/bus back to Kolkata or your next destination.