Gangasagar
Sacred

Gangasagar

Sab tirath bar bar, Gangasagar ek bar

Also known as Sagar Island is an island in the Ganges delta and has been attracting both a pilgrim and adventure tourists. Being one of the most charming destinations, it offers unspoiled beaches on the estuary of the Ganges which is not that popular and less visited. A convergence of River Ganges and Bay of Bengal makes it a popular Hindu pilgrimage in the country. Every year, on the day of Makar Sankranti (as per the Hindu calendar), a large number of tourists gather here to take a dip here. After which they offer a prayer at the Kapil Muni Ashram or Temple.

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gangasagar History

Mythological History

This holy place is famous for the temple of Kapil Muni, the great saint who was believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Gangasagar has a very interesting mythological story to narrate. King Sagar wanted to conquer the entire universe and Awajoha yagna was organised by him. Seeing him conquer the universe, Lord Vishnu got sacred and he steals one of the strongest horses and hides him in Kapil Muni's ashram. In return of which 60000 sons of King Sagar distressed Kapil Muni when he was deep in meditation. This made Kapil Muni angry and in consequence, he cursed all of them with death. The only heir left was Bhagirath, the grandson of King Sagar. He requests Kapil Muni to take away the curse but Kapil Muni said if he washed the dead bodies of his ancestors with the holy water of the Ganges River then they will be blessed with salvation. He meditated and requested the deity Ganges and then travelling from Rishikesh, Haridwar it entered West Bengal.

Ganga mela

Gangasagar Mela

After Kumbh Mela, Gangasagar is the most popular and biggest fair. During Gangasagar Mela which takes place on the day of Makar Sankranti (January 12-15, of every year) a large number of visitors pours in to take a dip in the holy water of the Ganges River. Having various mythological beliefs, the mela is celebrated with huge enthusiasm and spirituality. It is believed that taking a dip in the holy river purifies the soul and after which the devotees visit the only temple of Kapil Muni. It is a point where the Ganges River immerses into the Bay of Bengal and is a religious connotation.

Places to Visit

Kapil Muni Temple
Kapil Muni Temple

Established in 1437 by Swami Ramanand the temple is dedicated to Sage Kapil.

Bakkhali
Bakkhali

White sandy pristine beach surrounded by Casuarina trees makes it the most charming beaches.

Sagar Beach
Sagar Beach

A calm and soothing beach apt to enjoy the sunset.

Onkarnath Temple
Onkarnath Temple

A sacred temple dedicated to Lord Onkar and his

Travel Tips

  • Carry mosquito and snake repellent
  • Carry warm clothes
  • Carry emergency lights
  • Avoid travelling at night.
  • Do not litter

Useful Information

  • Area
    282.1 square km
  • Altitude
    4 m
  • Best season
    October and March are ideal for a visit, whereas January is the best time.
  • Languages Spoken
    Bengali, English, Nepali, Urdu
  • Nearest Railway Station
    Kolkata Chitpur Railway Station, Howrah Junction or Namkhana station
  • Nearest Airport
    Netaji Subhash Chandra Airport

Featured Tour Packages

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Ganges Heritage Tour

The Ganges Heritage Tour is a well planned tour that lets you explore the ric...