Sri Sri Matri Mandir is a popular Hindu temple in Tarapith in the Birbhum district of West Bengal, India. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Tara, considered one of the ten Mahavidyas in Hinduism.
The Sri Sri Matri Mandir is believed to have been established around 250 years ago by a saint named Bamakhepa, a devotee of goddess Tara.
The temple is situated on the river Dwarka's banks and is surrounded by lush greenery. The temple complex includes several smaller temples dedicated to different deities like Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Hanuman.
The main deity of the Sri Sri Matri Mandir is the goddess Tara, who is worshipped as a black stone idol. The idol is believed to be self-manifested and is adorned with gold and silver ornaments. The temple also houses a sacred yantra, which is used for meditation and prayer.
One of the most unique features of the Sri Sri Matri Mandir is the practice of animal sacrifice, which is still prevalent in the temple. Devotees offer animals like goats and chickens to the goddess in the hope of fulfilling their wishes. However, there has been growing opposition to this practice in recent years, and some animal rights activists have been working to ban the practice.
The temple also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the famous Tarapith Mela, celebrated during January. During the festival, thousands of devotees from India come to Tarapith to pray to the goddess Tara.
The Sri Matri Mandir is an important pilgrimage site for devotees of the goddess Tara and attracts thousands of visitors annually. The temple's serene atmosphere, stunning architecture, and unique practices make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Hinduism and spirituality.
Places To Visit Nearby Sri Sri Matri Mandir:
Nalhati -
Nalhati is a small town located around 20 km away from Tarapith. The city is famous for its Nalateshwari Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali. The temple is on a hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Bakreshwar:
Bakreshwar is a town located around 50 km away from Tarapith. The city is famous for its hot springs and the Bakreshwar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The hot springs are believed to have medicinal properties and are a popular tourist attraction.
Shantiniketan is a small town located around 80 km away from Tarapith. The city is famous for the Visva-Bharati University, founded by the poet and Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. The city is also home to several museums and art galleries, making it a popular destination for art lovers.
Massanjore Dam is a popular tourist destination located around 100 km away from Tarapith. The dam is situated on the Mayurakshi River and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. The area around the dam is also a popular picnic spot.
Bhalki Machan:
Bhalki Machan is a nature reserve located around 110 km away from Tarapith. The account is home to several species of animals, including leopards, tigers, and elephants. The fund offers several trekking trails and is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts.
These are just some of the many places you can visit near the Sri Sri Matri Mandir in West Bengal. Each of these destinations offers a unique travel experience and can help you explore the diverse culture and heritage of the region.