Exploring Tarapith Mandir in Rampurhat: History, Bhog Prices, and Hotel Details

Tarapith Mandir Rampurhat |

History | Price of Bhog | Hotel Details |A to Z Info

Tarapith Mandir, nestled in the serene town of Rampurhat in West Bengal, stands as a testament to ancient spirituality and devotion. This temple, located on the banks of the Dwarka River, holds immense significance as one of the 51 Shaktipeeths of India. In this article, we will delve into the history, timings, nearby attractions, and how to reach Tarapith Mandir. Additionally, we will explore the unique puja services offered to devotees.

Tarapith Mandir photo:

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

Tarapith Temple History:

The history of Tarapith Mandir dates back to a time when Sage Vashishtha sought to master tantric arts. Failing in his attempts, he turned to Lord Buddha for guidance. Buddha advised him to practice at Tarapeeth, an ideal place to worship Maa Tara. Following this guidance, Vashishtha worshiped Maa Tara with Tantric rituals using Pancha Tarakara (five forbidden things). Pleased with his devotion, Mother Tara appeared and turned into a stone idol, which has been revered at Tarapeeth ever since.

Tarapith Mandir Timing

1. Temple Opening Hours:

The Tarapith Mandir is open every day of the year.

Timings: 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM.

2. Puja Timings:

Prabhat Darshan (Morning):

Timing: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM.

Madhyanya Darshan (Afternoon):

Timing: 1:30 PM to 6:00 PM.

Sandha Darshan (Evening):

Timing: 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM.

3. Temple Closure Periods:

The Tarapith Mandir remains closed during specific hours for ritual activities.

Closure for Bhog:

From 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM.

Closure for Sandha Aarti:

From 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.

Devotees are not allowed inside the temple during these three-hour intervals.

Festivals and Poojas at Tarapith Temple

The Tarapith Temple hosts various festivals and poojas throughout the year. These include the Sankranti Mela on every Sankranti day of the Hindu month, Dola Purnima in February/March, Basantika Parba in Chaitra (March/April), Gamha Purnima in July/August, and Chaitra Parba every Tuesday of Chaitra. The most prominent event is the Tarapith Amavasya Annual Festival in August.

The temple conducts daily pujas from 6 AM to 9 PM. The day begins with the melodious sounds of Shahnai and other musical instruments at 4 AM to awaken Devi Tara. Devotees then perform rituals, including cleaning the deity's room, adorning the idol with honey and ghee, and washing it with the pure water of Jivitkund. The idol is dressed in a sari, a necklace of skulls, and a mask before the mangalarti ceremony.

In the afternoon, a tantric sadhana pooja takes place, offering rice to the idol along with atap rice, meat from a sacrificed goat, rice pudding, fried fish, and other foods. After the annabhog, the temple briefly closes for the deity's rest. Evening Sandhya Aarti is performed, and the god's bed is prepared.

Before sacrifice, goats are bathed in the temple's holy tank. A special sword is used for a swift neck cut, collecting the goat's blood in a small vessel for offering to the deity.

Places to Visit Nearby:

1. Kendubilo (Joydeb Kenduli): Believed to be the birthplace of the 12th-century Sanskrit poet Joydeb, Kendubilo offers an ancient temple and the chance to explore the lyrical compositions of Gita Gobind. It's situated on the bank of the Ajay River.

2. Shantiniketan: Founded by Rabindranath Tagore in 1921, Shantiniketan is a renowned Central University known for producing eminent personalities such as Indira Gandhi and Amartya Sen. It's located 88 km away from Tarapith.

3. Barkeshwar: Known for its association with the 52 Shakti Peeths of India, Barkeshwar is believed to be the spot where the part between the eyebrows of Mata Sati fell. It also boasts ten hot springs with water temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 °C, situated 70 km away.

How to Reach Tarapith Mandir:

a) By Air:

The nearest airport is Kolkata Airport, approximately 200 km from Tarapith. From there, you can reach the temple using local transport services or taxis.

b) By Train(how to reach tarapith temple from rampurhat station) :

Rampurhat Railway Station, located 6 km away, serves as the nearest railway station. Local transport services and taxis are readily available from here to reach the temple.

c) By Road:

Tarapith is well-connected by road to various cities in the country, allowing easy access by private vehicle, public buses, or taxis.

What is the price of Bhog in Tarapith?

The temple offers special puja services to devotees, including:

1. Anna Bhog:

Offered at noon, this rice bhog starts from Rs 2101. Devotees can collect and have it at the temple or arrange to have it sent to their hotel room.

2. Sital Bhog:

This evening bhog includes Luchi (Paratha), Sweets, Suji, and Khoya. Like Anna Bhog, it starts from Rs 2101 and can be collected or delivered to your hotel room.

3. Bhandara (Narayan Seva):

Devotees can participate in the distribution of food to the needy, starting from 10 AM daily, within the temple premises.

For booking bhog contact below 👇

https://www.tarapithtemple.in

Photo Credit ( above 3 photos) : https://www.tarapithtemple.in

Accomodation:

1. "Hotel Astha" (Contact: 9800799280) offers AC rooms at a rate of seven hundred rupees.

2. "Bina Pani Deluxe Hotel" is conveniently located right next to the temple in Tarapith and can be reached at 8585873082.

3. Another option is the "Gangotri Hotel," which offers non-AC rooms priced at 400 rupees.

4. You can also consider "Bam Tara Hotel and Restaurant" at 8336033301, which is located near the Mayar Mandir and has an SBI ATM nearby.

5. Raktajaba Tourist Lodge

Contact no.-03461 253 556

Conclusion:

Tarapith Mandir in Rampurhat is not just a temple; it's a spiritual journey filled with history, devotion, and unique puja services. Whether you seek spiritual enlightenment or wish to explore the rich cultural heritage of West Bengal, a visit to this temple offers an enriching experience that connects the past with the present.

FAQ: Tarapith Mandir

1. What is Tarapith mandir famous for?

Tarapith, located in West Bengal, is renowned for its religious ceremonies and serves as the location for cremations at the Maha Shamshan. The Tarapith Temple is specifically devoted to Ma Tara, the Goddess Tara, and is recognized as one of the Shakti Piths. The revered saint Sadhak Bamakhepa dedicated his entire life to the worship of Ma Tara at this sacred place.

2. Which part of Sati fell in Tarapith?

For the countless worshippers who visit the temple, Tarapith is believed to be the spot where Sati's third eye descended to the earth in ancient times. This mystical and spiritually significant third eye is traditionally linked to profound insight and divine power, making it one of the most potent aspects of the Great Goddess.

3. How to worship Tara Devi?

You have the option to worship Goddess Tara Devi using either her photo or a yantra, as shown above. Additionally, you can choose to use either the Shri Chakra or the Shri Maha Meru Yantra, both of which are considered highly auspicious, for your worship of Goddess Tara Devi. The Shri Chakra is specifically suitable for honoring her.

4. Who is the saint of Tarapith?

Bamakhyapa, also known as Bamacharan Chattopadhyay, was a revered Hindu saint in Tarapith, with a shrine located near the Tara temple in Birbhum.

5. Which river is in Tarapith mandir?