Historical Jalpesh Mandir of Jalpaiguri
Jalpesh Shiva Temple, also known as Jalpeshwar Temple, is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in the Jalpaiguri district (Appx. 6km from Maynaguri Indira more, Maynaguri Indira More to Changrabandha Road) of West Bengal, India. The temple is situated in the small village (Jalpesh, Uttar Bhuskadanga) of Jalpaiguri, which derives its name from the temple itself. Jalpesh Shiva Temple is heritage temple of Koch Kamata Kingdom.
Jalpesh Shiva Temple and Coochbehar Kings
According to historical records and local beliefs, the temple was built by the Kings of the Koch dynasty, who ruled over Kamatapur (parts of present-day West Bengal and Bangladesh) during the medieval period.
Built of Jalpesh Shiva Temple
In 1524 Maharaja Vishwa Singha, father of Maharaja Naranarayan of Kamata kingdom (Cooch Behar), founded the Jalpesh temple. Later he rebuilt the temple in 1563. Again after 100 years, Raja Pran Narayan rebuilt this temple in 1663 AD. Then Mahidev Raikat declared his independence in 1621 AD after refusing to submit to the Koch dynasty during the reign of Raja Lakshmi Narayan of Kochbihar state and refused to pay tribute to the Koch Raja. Since then the temple was under the supervision of Raikats of Baikunthapur (present Jalpaiguri) . Over period of time, Jalpesh Mandir has undergone renovations, modification and additions, with contributions from so many rulers and devotees. It was restored on 30 January 1899 by Rani Jagadeswari Devi, wife of King Jagendra Deva Raikat.
Koch Rajbanshi peoples play important role to save the heritage of this temple. Today, the Jalpesh Temple is a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it attracts a large number of devotees and visitors from different parts of the country.
The distance between Siliguri and Jalpesh Shiva Temple is approximately 67 kilometers. The travel time can vary depending on the mode of transportation and traffic conditions. By road, it usually takes around 1.5 to 2.0 hours to reach the temple from Siliguri.
Jalpesh Mandir Location Click Here
Ticket Price to Visit Jalpesh Shiva Mandir
There are two types of gate to enter inside Jalpesh temple, one is ordinary and another is VIP. Ordinary ticket price is Rs. 20/.
The Jalpesh Shiva Temple is considered one of the most significant Shiva temples in West Bengal (earlier Koch Kamata Kingdom or Coochbehar state) and attracts a large number of devotees throughout the year. It is believed to have been established more than 500 years ago and holds immense religious and cultural importance in the region.
Jalpesh Shiva Temple Architecture
The architecture of the temple showcases the traditional Koch Kamatapuri style, with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various Hindu deities. The main deity worshipped in the temple is Lord Shiva, who is revered as the presiding deity of the temple. Devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and offer flowers, fruits, and other offerings to seek blessings from Lord Shiva.
The temple is particularly famous for its annual festival called “Shivaratri,” which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. During this festival, devotees from far and wide gather at the temple to participate in special prayers, rituals, and cultural events. It is an auspicious occasion celebrated with great fervor and devotion.
Historical Fare at Jalpesh Shiva Mandir premise
Maha Shivaratri festival celebrated by this temple every year. Pilgrims flock to Sravani Mela to offer special worship to Lord Shiva in July to August month. Since the construction of the temple in the 17th century, the famous fair on Shiva Ratri has started here. The fair is one of the oldest fairs of India. Hundreds of thousands of people gather for the fair from different parts India as well as abroad . Handicrafts of Koch Rajbanshi and Kamata cultural program is main attraction here. When the Dooars were part of Bhutan, trade in the hills and plains centered around Maynaguri town. As a result, the commercial importance of this fair was immense. The name Bhotpatti or Bhutanir ghat comes from Bhutanese colonies situated once upon a time. Before India’s independence, elephants were sold here. People from Bhutan, Nepal, Bangladesh and other nearby states visit the fair here.
Apart from its religious significance, the Jalpesh Shiva Temple is also known for its tranquil and serene surroundings. It is situated amidst lush greenery and provides a peaceful environment for devotees to connect with the divine.
Visiting the Jalpesh Shiva Temple offers a unique spiritual experience and an opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage of Koch Rajbanshi Kamtapuri. The temple’s beauty, architecture, and religious fervor make it a popular destination for devotees and tourists alike.