Description

Tarapith, a popular Hindu pilgrimage in West Bengal is also a Shakti Peetha, believed to be the spot where Devi Sati's third eye fell. Tara, another form of Sati, is also worshipped in the temple. The town of Tarapith is a small, crowded rural town near the Dwarka River in Birbhum District and is also called the city of Tantra Mantra or black magic. Another legend tells the story of how Shiva had drunk the poison - Halahala, which would save the universe. To soothe his burning throat, Tara had breast-fed Shiva and nursed him. The history of the place is steeped in mythological stories, old legends considered true, and black magic and there is also a large cremation ground adjacent to the powerful Shakti peeth. Chanting can be heard at the cremation grounds at all hours and a sense of mystery engulfs the village.

Duration

Distance: 230km from Kolkata.
Time: More than 5 hours by road, 4.5 hours by train and then 20 min by car.

Best Time to Visit

Winter is the best time because of the pleasant weather it offers.

Hotel Range

1200/- to 4000/- approx. per room per night.

Tips

One can visit the Samadhi of Bama Khepa in the cremation ground. Bama Khepa (1837 - 1911) was a famous Tantric saint practising at the Tarapith cremation ground.