Experts' Choice Award Dakshineswar Kali Temple
What the experts agree on
Kolkata's holiest Hindu shrine draws 20,000 daily pilgrims to worship Kali, the city's patron goddess, alongside shrines to Shiva and Krishna. Possibly the source of the city's name itself.
Fodor's "One of the most significant pilgrimage sites in India, with shrines to Shiva, Krishna, and Kali, the patron goddess of Kolkata." Full review
Lonely Planet "This ancient Kali temple is Kolkata’s holiest spot for Hindus and possibly the source of the city’s name." Full review
Frommer's "A major pilgrimage center, drawing some 20,000 visitors each day." Full review
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If you're uneasy about the idea of animal sacrifice, avoid the enclosure to the south of the temple where at least one goat is offered to Kali every day (a ritual that allegedly replaced the ancient practice of human sacrifice).
