Kali Mandir
The Kali Mandir in Araria is a prominent and visually striking temple dedicated to Maa Khargeshwari Kali, a fierce form of Goddess Durga, and is widely known for its unusually towering height in a region of generally smaller temples. It is a six-story structure with domes reaching a height of 152 fe et, making it a distinctive landmark in the skyline of Araria. Although local history suggests the temple was originally built in 1884, the current imposing structure is the result of significant renovation and reconstruction that began in 1987, financed and supported by the devout local community. The temple is not just a place of worship; it is the spiritual heart of the local Hindu populace, particularly during the festival of Durga Puja and Kali Puja, when devotees flock in large numbers. The temple is central to the cultural and religious identity of the town, symbolizing the unwavering faith of the people. Visitors are drawn by the spiritual energy, the unique architecture, and the chance to witness the elaborate rituals and prayers dedicated to the Goddess Kali. The temple complex is well-maintained and provides facilities for the hundreds of pilgrims who visit daily, reflecting the strong organizational structure of the temple trust. The sheer scale and modern construction of the temple make it stand out from the older, more rustic temples of the region.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 Hours:Place Type:
Religious Place/Temple:Entry Fees:
Entry Fee: Entry to the Kali Mandir is completely Free for all devotees and visitors, promoting universal access to the place of worship.
Special Puja Costs: There is No mandatory fee, but pilgrims often pay a small amount (approx. Rs.50 - Rs.2...Entry Fee: Entry to the Kali Mandir is completely Free for all devotees and visitors, promoting universal access to the place of worship.
Special Puja Costs: There is No mandatory fee, but pilgrims often pay a small amount (approx. Rs.50 - Rs.200) to a priest (Pujari) to perform a special individual Puja in their name, with this fee covering the cost of the necessary ritual items (Samagri).
Photography Fee: There is No photography fee, but photography inside the main sanctum (Garbhagriha) is strictly prohibited and carries severe restrictions.
Shoe Stand/Parking Fee: A nominal fee (approx. Rs.10 - Rs.20) may be charged by local vendors or temple-designated personnel for parking two-wheelers or keeping footwear safe outside the temple premises.Timing:
Regular Timings: The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, covering all major times for morning and evening worship.
Ideal Visit Time: The Early Morning (during the first Aarti around 6:30 AM) offers the most spiritually charged atmo...Regular Timings: The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, covering all major times for morning and evening worship.
Ideal Visit Time: The Early Morning (during the first Aarti around 6:30 AM) offers the most spiritually charged atmosphere and the least crowd. Late Afternoon is also pleasant for a relaxed visit and to witness the evening Aarti.
Crowd Control: Visitors should avoid the main Aarti times on Tuesdays and Saturdays (auspicious days for Maa Kali) if they prefer a quieter experience.
Festival Timings: During Kali Puja, the temple remains open late into the night and is intensely crowded.Special Events:
Kali Puja: The most important festival is Kali Puja (usually in October or November), celebrated with intense devotion, animal sacrifice (where permitted/practiced), and elaborate rituals, drawing the largest crowds of the year.
Durga Puja/Navar...Kali Puja: The most important festival is Kali Puja (usually in October or November), celebrated with intense devotion, animal sacrifice (where permitted/practiced), and elaborate rituals, drawing the largest crowds of the year.
Durga Puja/Navaratri: The Navaratri (nine nights) festival dedicated to Goddess Durga is celebrated with great pomp and traditional fanfare, with special Pujas and fasting at the temple.
Shivaratri: Since Shiva is the consort of Kali, Mahashivaratri is also an important day for worship and offerings, though less central than Kali Puja.Best Photo Spots:
The 152-Foot Dome: The best photo spot is from a short distance, capturing the entire height of the temple and its prominent dome, emphasizing its scale against the blue sky or the dawn light.
The Main Entrance Arch: A frontal shot of the in...The 152-Foot Dome: The best photo spot is from a short distance, capturing the entire height of the temple and its prominent dome, emphasizing its scale against the blue sky or the dawn light.
The Main Entrance Arch: A frontal shot of the intricately decorated main archway, capturing the sculpted deities and the details of the facade before entering the main hall. The Bell Tower (if any) A close-up of any traditional bell tower or a cluster of large bells outside the main hall, symbolizing the spiritual call and the religious atmosphere.
The Ritual Corner: Capturing the preparation area for offerings (flowers, sweets, coconuts) with the main temple in the background, providing a photo that reflects the active religious life.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Darshan and Worship: The central activity is offering prayers (Puja) and taking a glimpse (Darshan) of the main idol of Maa Kali, participating in the Hindu ritual of devotion and lighting incense (Dhoop).
Climbing for the View: If the upper floors are open, climb the stairs to the top for the unique architectural view and the rare, commanding vista of the surrounding area, utilizing the full height of the structure.
Observing Aarti: Attend the morning or evening Aarti (ritual of light), which is a vibrant and powerful religious ceremony accompanied by bells, conches, and devotional songs, providing a deep cultural immersion. Circumambulation (Parikrama) Perform a respectful circumambulation of the main temple structure, reciting prayers or mantras, which is a traditional devotional act.
Information
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Why Famous:
The Six-Story Height: It is instantly famous for being a unique Six-Story Temple in Bihar, with its 152-foot-tall domes, which is an exceptional architectural feat in the region, drawing attention and devotion.
Maa Khargeshwari Kali: It is t...The Six-Story Height: It is instantly famous for being a unique Six-Story Temple in Bihar, with its 152-foot-tall domes, which is an exceptional architectural feat in the region, drawing attention and devotion.
Maa Khargeshwari Kali: It is the principal shrine of Maa Khargeshwari Kali in the region, a revered form of the Goddess, making it a powerful pilgrimage spot for devotees of Shakti (the Divine Feminine Power).
Community-Led Renovation: The temple is celebrated as a symbol of the local community's dedication, as the major renovation and expansion since 1987 were completely community-funded and managed. -
Architecture:
Contemporary Temple Architecture: The temple represents a contemporary style of Hindu temple architecture, with a significant emphasis on height, employing reinforced cement concrete (RCC) and modern materials to achieve the lofty, six-story structure and a prominent dome. <...Contemporary Temple Architecture: The temple represents a contemporary style of Hindu temple architecture, with a significant emphasis on height, employing reinforced cement concrete (RCC) and modern materials to achieve the lofty, six-story structure and a prominent dome.
Dimension: The main structure is approximately 152 feet tall, making it a high-rise temple. The base and main prayer hall might measure around 80 feet by 60 feet.
Towering Domes and Shikharas: The most notable feature is the dome-like Shikhara (spire) that tops the building, giving it its immense height and making it a visible point from a distance. The six floors likely house various smaller shrines dedicated to other deities or used for administrative/meditative purposes.
Exterior Decoration: The exterior is typically adorned with colorful, modern bas-relief sculptures and painted images of various Hindu deities and mythological scenes, contrasting with the simpler, older temples in the region. The use of marble or polished stone cladding adds to its majestic look. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest major airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) (160 KMS). From IXB, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to Araria.
By Train: The temple is located near Araria RS Railway Station (ARR), making it easily accessible by a short Auto-... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Thakurbari Shiva Mandir (1 KMS) 2. Mahadev Chowk (1 KMS) 3. Jama Masjid (4 KMS) 4. Badi Dargah (4 KMS) 5. Araria Fort (R. Area) (4 KMS) 6. Raniganj Vriksh Vatika (30 KMS) 7. Forbesganj (30 KMS) 8. Sultan Phokher, Forbesganj (32 KMS) 9. Kusiargaon Biodiversity Park (10 KMS) 10. Purnea City (70 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Be mindful of the steps, especially on the upper floors. Be careful with fire from the burning camphor or incense. Wear respectful, modest Indian clothing.
Packing: Carry a small bottle of drinking water. It is customary ...
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