Belur Math, Howrah
Howrah, West Bengal
Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, on the west bank of the Hooghly river in Howrah, across the water from Dakshineswar. It was founded by Swami Vivekananda, who established the Mission in 1897, and the main temple, built in the 1930s, blends Hindu, Buddhist, Christian and Islamic motifs. The grounds hold the temple of Sri Ramakrishna, the temples of Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda, a museum, and quiet lawns by the river.
What to see and do
- See the main temple of Sri Ramakrishna, with its blend of architectural styles
- Visit the temples of Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda in the grounds
- Walk in the quiet gardens by the Hooghly river
- See the museum on the grounds, if it is open
Ideal for
- Followers of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda
- Visitors who want a quiet, orderly place of devotion
- Anyone interested in the spiritual history of modern India
Good to know
- One source gives about 6 to 11:30 am and 4 to 9 pm from April to September, and 6:30 to 11:30 am and 3:30 to 8:30 pm from October to March, so check the official site
- The museum has its own schedule and is reported closed on Tuesdays
- Dress modestly, and keep silence in the temples
- Phone and camera rules inside the temples are not confirmed, so ask at the gate
- Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours
Spiritual significance
Belur Math is the heart of the Ramakrishna movement, founded by Swami Vivekananda. Its message, that all faiths are paths to the same truth, is built into the temple itself.
Why it matters
- The Ramakrishna Math and Mission: founded by Swami Vivekananda
- A temple of all faiths: it blends many traditions in its design
- A calm place by the river: quiet lawns beside the Hooghly