Belur Math: The Headquarters of Ramakrishna Math & Mission

Belur Math is a place of pilgrimage and serves as the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission founded by Swami Vivekananda, the chief disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.

Located on the west bank of Hoogly River (Belur, West Bengal), it is one of the prominent spiritual institutions in Kolkata. This temple welcomes people from all over the world irrespective of their religion.

The temple is known for its architecture that combines the motif of Christian, Islam, Hindu and Buddhist art as a symbol of unity of all religion. Atheists can also visit to experience the peaceful environment it upholds.

The temple is the heart of Ramakrishna Movement. The math celebrates Hindu festivals, Christian festivals, and conducts medical services, education and other spiritual activities.

Key Points about the Math 

Architecture of the Belur Math 

Designed by Swami Vivekananda, it celebrates the diversity of religions in India. The monument resembles a temple, a church and a mosque when seen from different angles. Thus the architectural style of the monument conveys the belief in universal faith.

The entry of the monument is inspired from Buddhist style and Ajanta Caves, windows and balconies drawn from the Rajput and Mugal style, and the central dome is inspired by European architecture. The temple has images of Lord Ganesha and Lord Hanuman representing success and power respectively.

Belur Math Campus 

The Math mainly comprises of museum, a shrine and a monastery. The campus is the headquarters of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission as well as a well-maintained museum showing the history of math and mission.

Several educational institutions, affiliated to the Ramakrishna Mission, are also located in the campus. A statue of Sri Ramakrishna, the green lawns and the trees further enhance the beauty and spiritual environment of the campus, eventually becomes a significant place of pilgrimage and spirituality.

Visiting Hours 

• No entry fee is needed to visit the Math.
• Timings for Belur Math (Open on all days) as follows-

April to September           :              06:00am to 11:30am and 04:00pm to 07:00pm

October to March            :              06:30am to 11:30am and 03:30pm to 06:00pm

• Timings for the Ramakrishna Museum (From Tuesday to Sunday) as follows-

April to September           :              08:30am to 11:30am and 04:00pm to 06:00pm

October to March            :              08:30am to 11:30am and 03:30pm to 05:30pm

• Aarti time is 05:30 pm and the songs sung during this time are the hymns of praising Sri Ramakrishna and Sri Sarada Devi. No religious offering made.

How to reach the Math?

The math is 4km away from Howrah Railway Station. Also from Howrah, one can take bus no-54 to reach Belur.

Nearby hotels

• De Sivalika Boutique Hotel
• Khesab Dham Guest House
• Yadav Hotel
• Aparna Guest House

Nearby Attractions 

• Dakshineshwar Kali Temple-4.5km
• Howrah Temple-6.5km
• Eden Gardens- 9.5km
• Swami Vivekananda’s ancestral home- 10km
• Victoria memorial- 13.4km

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