We Bengali’s pride oneself in our culture, tradition, history, people, food and our rich heritage and rightly so. Kolkata is usually been a well-liked destination for people from everywhere the planet. within the process of discovering this majestic ‘queen of palaces’ visitors often discovers their roots, ethos and spiritual identities. Sitalnath Jain temple, located at Badridas Temple Street within the northeastern a part of Kolkata, is one among the various marvels of architecture that finds an area of pride among the gorgeous structures adorning the town. Surprisingly, many folks haven’t yet explored this beautiful and serene destination!

Such is that the architecture and therefore the ambience, from the gateway to the garden you’ll end up spellbound from the very moment you set foot inside the temple premise.

Construction of the temple began in 1842 and it had been completed by 1867. The doors of the temple were thrown hospitably the general public soon after. In terms of its architecture and grandeur, consistent with the reports Sitalnath Jain temple is second to no other Jain temple within the city and, perhaps, even India.

Heavily decorated with gold trim adding a majestic look to the temple. the sweetness of the temple is enhanced by the luxurious artistry that uses mirror-inlaid pillars with floral designs adorning this magnificent edifice.  German tiles and Belgian chandeliers, Italian marble flooring are used beautifully within the temple. The colored glass windows transport you to a bygone era. The singhasan on which the idol of Sitalnath Ji has been kept is decorated with Navratri (nine precious gems). To the south of the Sitalnath Jain Temple stands the Sri Chanda Prabhuji’s temple. On its right is Dada Ji Guru temple. The fourth temple towards the north was established to honor Mahavira, the last Tirthankara of the Jains. As you walk up to the garden you discover urns, glass mosaics, planters, fountains, rockery and tile work, benches, railings, ornamental pillars, metal shamianas, a comfortable greeting room, a museum, a little aquarium and several other beautiful European statues making for the right setting for fantasy land. The garden is so beautiful that you simply could be enticed to only sit here and luxuriate in the peaceful atmosphere that prevails. The sunset here makes for an experience that will only be described as divine bliss.

Purohit Joginder Tiwari, who has been here since 1981, feels a deep sense of reference to the Almighty and needs to serve during this temple as long as he can.

Visiting hours: 6 a.m. to 12 noon 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Location: Badridas Temple Street (Maniktala)

Nearest Landmark: Sahitya Parishad

Entry Fee: Nil

Photography: Not allowed inside the temple

Parking: Not available

Food isn’t allowed inside.