The spiritual heartbeat of Kolkata

On the western bank of the Hooghly River, a mere hour's drive from the pulsating energy of Kolkata, lies an oasis of tranquillity - Belur Math. Revered by people of all faiths, this spiritual haven is a witness to the enduring legacy of Swami Vivekananda, the illustrious disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, a 19th century saint from Bengal who is regarded as the Prophet of the Modern Age. The sprawling math complex, with its pristine white buildings and verdant gardens, beckons visitors seeking solace, introspection, and a deeper connection with the divine.

Whether you're a devout follower of Ramakrishna's teachings or simply someone yearning for a break from the urban chaos, Belur Math's serene ambiance promises a truly enriching experience.

A testament to prophetic vision

Belur Math holds a special place in the hearts of millions of devotees worldwide for it was here that Swami Vivekananda, one of the foremost thinkers and religious leaders of the present age, spent the final years of his remarkable life. Regarded as ‘one of the main moulders of the modern world, Swami Vivekanand consecrated the grounds in 1898 with the sacred relics of his revered guru. His prophetic words about Belur Math, envisioning it as a beacon of universal harmony, continue to resonate through the ages, as the site blossoms into a global centre for spiritual enlightenment.

The spiritual oasis

The sprawling campus of Belur Math is adorned with temples dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda, each enshrining their relics and embodying the essence of their teachings. The centrepiece is the imposing sandstone temple dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna. This unique structure transcends religious boundaries, blending elements of Hindu temples, Buddhist caves, Christian churches, and Islamic mosques. Smaller, yet equally exquisite, temples dedicated to Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda stand as reminders of their spiritual legacies. This place was sanctified by the presence of Swami Vivekananda and several other disciples of Swami Ramakrishna Paramhans. The room in which Swamiji attained Mahasamadhi has been preserved here. Ma Sarda Devi also visited this place quite a few times.

Timings

Opening time - 06:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 04:00 PM to 09:00 PM

Preserving the legacy

The journey begins as you step from the car park into a meticulously curated dual-level museum that narrates the life of Ramakrishna and the adventures of his esteemed disciple, Swami Vivekananda. Within its walls, visitors encounter a collection of their personal belongings displayed in orderly fashion, alongside a selection of informative books available in both English and Indian languages. Additionally, there's a sales counter offering handmade crafts and decorative items for those seeking souvenirs.

A space of peace and calm

As visitors wander through the lush green lawns and shaded pathways of Belur Math, they're enveloped by a sense of serenity and tranquillity. The verdant surroundings, punctuated by vibrant flora, enhance the spiritual ambiance of the place, inviting contemplation and reflection.

An inward journey

Belur Math offers a plethora of experiences for visitors seeking spiritual nourishment and enlightenment. From exploring the sacred shrines and relics to immersing oneself in the teachings of Hindu scriptures and philosophy, there's something for every seeker on the path to self-discovery.

Activities and festivals

The monastery pulsates with life during festivals and celebrations, where devotees come together to honour the divine and bask in the joy of communal worship. Apart from the celebration of traditional Hindu festivals such as Durga Puja, Lakshmi Puja, Kali Puja, Saraswati Puja, Shivaratri, and the birthdays of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Ma Sarda and Swami Vivekananda, Belur Math also observes in a solemn way the birthdays of Sri Krishna, Buddha, Jesus Christ and Chaitanya. The Christmas Eve celebration with the singing of carols and reading from the Bible is very impressive. This inclusivity reflects the spirit of the Ramakrishna Movement, emphasizing the universality of the human quest for the divine.

A hub of activity

Beyond its serene atmosphere, Belur Math bustles with activity. The Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission headquarters are situated here, coordinating the work of over 161 branches worldwide. The Math actively engages in charitable activities, running a dispensary offering free medical care, and providing financial aid to the underprivileged. The monastery exemplifies the spirit of selfless service espoused by Swami Vivekananda and his disciples.

A beacon of hope, harmony and humanity

In essence, Belur Math transcends its role as a mere religious institution; it is a sanctuary of spirituality, a haven for seekers of truth, and a beacon of hope in an often-tumultuous world. As visitors depart from its hallowed grounds, they carry with them not just memories, but a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper connection to the divine.