Birla Mandir Lakshmi Narayan
A breathtaking white marble Hindu temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna, known for its intricate carvings and serene spiritual ambiance.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Birla Mandir Lakshmi Narayan
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking white marble Hindu temple dedicated to Radha-Krishna, known for its intricate carvings and serene spiritual ambiance.
"A temple full of art. A beautiful moment like going to a temple and watching the evening aarti will make you happy."
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts or revealing clothing. :pray:
🚫 No Photography Inside
Photography is prohibited inside the temple. Respect the rules. :noentrysign:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Marble Architecture
Entire Temple Complex
Marvel at the exquisite white marble craftsmanship, adorned with detailed carvings and motifs.
Evening Aarti Ceremony
Main Shrine
Witness the serene and devotional evening aarti, a truly spiritual experience.
Deities of the Main Shrine
Main Shrine
Pay homage to the beautifully crafted marble idols of Radha and Krishna.
Illustrative Wall Carvings
Temple Walls
Admire the intricate carvings depicting scenes and shlokas from the Bhagavad Gita.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Attire and Photography Rules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts or revealing clothing. :pray:
🚫 No Photography Inside
Photography is prohibited inside the temple. Respect the rules. :noentrysign:
✨ Evening Aarti Experience
Attend the evening aarti for a truly spiritual and mesmerizing experience. :sparkles:
🚶♀️ Peaceful Exploration
Take your time to admire the intricate carvings and serene ambiance. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts or revealing clothing. :pray:
🚫 No Photography Inside
Photography is prohibited inside the temple. Respect the rules. :noentrysign:
✨ Evening Aarti Experience
Attend the evening aarti for a truly spiritual and mesmerizing experience. :sparkles:
🚶♀️ Peaceful Exploration
Take your time to admire the intricate carvings and serene ambiance. :walking:
🚗 Easy Access
Located on Ashutosh Choudhury Avenue, it's easily accessible by road. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Birla Mandir for its stunning white marble architecture and serene, spiritual atmosphere, making it a highlight for both devotees and tourists. The evening Aarti is particularly noted for its devotional charm. However, some guests have expressed frustration with unclear photography rules and the way security guards enforce them.
"Birla Temple is located on Ashutosh Choudhury Avenue, Ballygunge, kolkata. It is also known as Laxminarayan Mandir.
Very beautiful architecture. A temple full of art.I went to visit with my family in the evening.The entire temple is adorned with beautiful handwork.A beautiful moment like going to a temple and watching the evening aarti will make you happy.A peaceful place. Although it is next to the road, it is not very populated.
Everyone, go and visit, your mind and soul will be better."
iam pattanayak
"Birla Mandir in Kolkata is truly mesmerizing. The white marble architecture is stunning and looks even more beautiful in the evening lights. The atmosphere is very peaceful, perfect for prayer and meditation. A must-visit spiritual place in the city for both devotees and tourists."
yoshita singh
"The temple is very beautiful. But I didn’t see any sign saying that photography is not allowed. When I went to take a photo of the idol, the security guard started shouting loudly. This is not the right way. If photography is not allowed, then please put a board like other temples do."
deep acharjee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Birla Mandir (Lakshmi Narayan Mandir) is located on Ashutosh Choudhury Avenue in Ballygunge, Kolkata. It's easily accessible by road via taxi or ride-sharing services. The nearest metro station is Garcha, though it's a bit of a walk. Many visitors find it convenient to take an auto-rickshaw or bus to the Ballygunge area and then a short walk to the temple.
Yes, Birla Mandir is accessible by public transport. Several bus routes pass through the Ballygunge area. While the nearest metro station might require a short walk, it's a viable option for reaching the vicinity.
From Howrah Station, you can take a taxi or a pre-paid cab directly to Birla Mandir. Alternatively, you can take a local train to Sealdah Station and then a taxi or bus to Ballygunge.
Parking availability can be limited, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to check locally or consider using ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
While the main prayer areas are generally accessible, some parts of the temple complex might have steps. It's recommended to inquire about specific accessibility for wheelchairs upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee to visit Birla Mandir. It is a free-access temple for all devotees and visitors.
The temple is open daily from 5:30 AM to 11:00 AM and again from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
To experience a more peaceful visit, aim for early mornings (around 5:30 AM) or late evenings, just before closing. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.
The evening Aarti is a highlight and usually takes place around sunset, offering a serene devotional experience. Specific timings can vary slightly, so it's best to check upon arrival.
Yes, festivals like Janmashtami, Radhashtami, Holi, and Diwali are celebrated with great fervor. However, expect larger crowds during these times.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises. Security guards are present to enforce this rule.
Yes, you are generally allowed to take photos of the beautiful exterior architecture of the temple.
The prohibition on photography inside is a common practice in many religious sites to maintain sanctity and prevent distractions during prayer and worship.
While there are no designated spots for photography inside, the exterior offers many picturesque angles. Be respectful of worshippers when taking exterior photos.
If you are caught taking photos inside, security guards may ask you to delete them and may even escort you out. It's best to adhere to the rules.
🎫 🙏 Onsite Experience
The main shrine is dedicated to Radha and Krishna. There are also side shrines for Durga, Shiva, Hanuman, Ganesha, and the ten avatars of Vishnu.
The architecture is a blend of Nagara-style and Rajasthani temple design, with sandstone exteriors and white marble interiors, featuring intricate carvings.
Built by the Birla family, it's a significant religious and architectural landmark in Kolkata, known for its serene atmosphere and artistic beauty.
Yes, despite being near a busy road, the temple offers a very peaceful and spiritual environment, ideal for meditation and reflection.
Major Hindu festivals like Janmashtami, Radhashtami, Holi, and Diwali are celebrated with vibrant rituals and devotion.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food stalls or restaurants inside the temple premises. Visitors are expected to maintain the sanctity of the place.
The temple is located in the Ballygunge area, which has numerous eateries, cafes, and restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. You can find options ranging from local Bengali food to international fare.
It's best to consume any food outside the temple premises. Bringing food inside is generally not permitted to maintain cleanliness and sanctity.
Yes, Kolkata offers a wide array of vegetarian dining options, and you'll find many restaurants in the Ballygunge area serving delicious vegetarian dishes.
Many visitors prefer to eat before or after their visit to fully immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to visit during less crowded hours, perhaps early morning, to ensure a more comfortable experience for children. Ensure everyone in the family dresses modestly to adhere to temple etiquette. The temple is easily accessible, making it a convenient outing for families exploring Kolkata.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Devotees
The presence of multiple deities, including Radha-Krishna, Shiva, and Durga, caters to a wide range of devotional practices. Many visitors find the temple to be a place that truly rejuvenates the mind and soul, offering a deep sense of peace and connection.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts (Exterior)
Look for unique angles and lighting conditions to showcase the temple's beauty. The surrounding area also provides context for your shots. Remember to be respectful of worshippers and avoid any intrusive photography that might disturb the sanctity of the place.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel of Birla Mandir
The walls are adorned with intricate carvings that illustrate scenes and shlokas from the Bhagavad Gita, adding a layer of spiritual narrative to the visual splendor. The ceiling is a dazzling display of chandeliers and electric diyas, enhancing the divine ambiance. The temple's design also draws inspiration from motifs found in the Lingaraj Temple of Bhubaneswar and the Lakshmi Narayan Temple, showcasing a rich heritage.
Designed by Nomi Bose, the temple's aesthetic appeal is further amplified by its serene surroundings. The meticulous attention to detail in every carving and structure makes it a significant landmark for both art enthusiasts and devotees.
Spiritual Significance and Worship
Beyond the main deities, the temple complex features several side shrines dedicated to other important Hindu gods and goddesses, including Durga, Shiva, Hanuman, Ganesha, and the ten avatars of Vishnu. This multi-deity presence makes it a comprehensive place of worship for various spiritual inclinations.
Daily worship hours are from 5:30 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM. The evening Aarti is particularly renowned for its serene and devotional atmosphere, drawing many visitors seeking spiritual solace. The temple actively celebrates major Hindu festivals like Janmashtami, Radhashtami, Holi, and Diwali with vibrant rituals, music, and great devotion, making it a lively spiritual hub during these times.
Visitor Experience and Etiquette
It's crucial for visitors to adhere to the temple's etiquette. Modest dress is essential, meaning shoulders and knees should be covered. While the exterior offers ample opportunities for photography, photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple. This rule is enforced by security guards, and visitors are advised to comply to avoid any unpleasant interactions.
Many reviewers suggest visiting in the evening to witness the temple illuminated, especially during the Aarti. The overall sentiment is that a visit to Birla Mandir offers a rejuvenating experience for both the mind and soul, making it a must-visit for those exploring Kolkata.
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