Kalkaji Mandir is one of the most revered temples in Delhi. It is believed to hold immense spiritual significance, and devotees flock to the temple throughout the year.
The temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali in her fierce form, as Mahishasuramardini, the slayer of the demon Mahishasura. This is in contrast to many other temples dedicated to Kali, which depict her in a more benevolent form.
The temple is especially crowded during the Navratri festival, a nine-day celebration dedicated to the goddess. During this time, the temple is adorned with lights and decorations, and the atmosphere is electric with devotional fervor.
Besides Goddess Kali, the temple also houses idols of Lord Hanuman, Lord Shiva, and Lord Ganesha, making it a place of worship for a diverse range of Hindu deities.
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Quick Facts
- Address: NSIC Estate, Block 9, Kalkaji, New Delhi, Delhi 110019
- District: Kalkaji
- Affiliation: Hinduism
- Deity: Goddess Kali
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 4:00 am – 11:30 pm
Closed between-
11:30 am – 12 pm
(For Bhog purposes)
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
(For cleaning purposes) - Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Dress Code: decent outfit recommended
- Festivals: Maha Shivaratri, Vasant Navratri
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
History of Kalkaji Mandir
It is believed that Kalkaji Mandir is over 3000 years old. Pandavas along with Lord Krishna visited this temple to offer their prayers to Goddess Kali during the Mahabharata time.
The temple underwent several modifications over the years.
While Kalkaji Mandir is much older, it is believed that its oldest portion have been built around 1764 AD by the Marathas. Many additions were made in 1816 by the Peshkar of Akbar and Mirza Raja Kidar Nath.
According to the Hindu Scriptures, two demons created many problems for the Gods who were residing around the place where the Kalkaji Mandir is situated.
The gods approached Lord Brahma to tackle this problem and asked to visit Goddess Parvati to sought her help then Kaushiki Devi (woman of the cell) emerged from the mouth of Goddess Parvati.
Kaushiki Devi fought with these two demons but whenever Kaushiki Devi killed the demon, their blood fell on the dry land during the battle and due to this, many other demons came alive.
After seeing the army of demons, Kaushiki Devi knitted her eyebrows and then Goddess Kali emerged from her forehead.Goddess Kali not only killed the demons but also drank their blood.
All the deities pleased Goddess Kalika and requested her to reside at the same place where Kalkaji Mandir is located. Since then, the temple has become one of the most ancient shrines in the nation.
Architecture of Kalkaji Mandir
What sets Kalkaji Mandir apart from other temples in Delhi is its distinctive architecture. The temple’s red and white color scheme, intricate carvings, and spire-like shikhara are a testament to traditional North Indian temple architecture.
The complex also features a serene and lush garden that adds to the overall ambiance of tranquility.
The main sanctum of the temple houses the idol of Goddess Kali, who is depicted with her multiple arms and a fierce expression.
The idol is adorned with flowers, garlands, and vibrant fabrics, giving a visual representation of the deity’s power and grace.
How To Reach Kalkaji Mandir?
By Air
Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is the primary international airport in Delhi and one of the busiest in India located at about 15 KM from temple.
Upon arrival, you can easily hire a taxi or use other transportation options to reach your desired location in Delhi.
By Rail
H Nizamuddin Railway Station is 4 km away from the Temple. Hence, the temple is the nearest to this one.
By Road
Delhi has an extensive bus network. You can check the local bus routes to see if there’s a bus that stops near Kalkaji Mandir or in the Kalkaji area.
By Metro
If you opt for the metro, head to the “Kalkaji Mandir Metro Station” on the Violet Line. You can easily find this station on the Delhi Metro Map.
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