The Kali Paltan Mandir, or the Augarnath Temple, is in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. It is a significant monument as it plays a role in the Indian Freedom Struggle. This temple is important not only because it is dedicated to Goddess Kali but also because it intertwines both our beliefs and history. Though India is not fighting any freedom struggle wars at this moment, this temple is still a place that stands for all the brave martyrs who fought for India. It is now a place for devotees and pilgrims to pay their respects and remember the brave soldiers who fought the very first battle for India’s freedom.
History Of Kali Paltan Mandir
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The name Kali Paltan Mandir translates as “battalion of Kali”, it was used as a meeting ground by the sepoys who were mostly Hindus to pray and socialize together. This temple was necessary for the sepoys as it became a launchpad for the rebellion against the Britishers. The Indian soldiers, which mainly consisted of Hindus and Muslims, were enraged by the use of cow and pig fat as grease for the cartridges used in the Enfield rifle.
The sepoys met at the mandir on May 9, 1857, and planned their rebellion. They played out their plans the very next day. This rebellion soon spread to other parts of India, but the efforts were unsuccessful.
Must Read: Places To Visit In Uttar Pradesh
Facts About Kali Paltan Mandir
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The Kali Paltan Mandir is said to be dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Shiv Linga that resides inside this temple is said to be swayambhu, or self-manifested. This fact draws many devotees of Lord Shiva from all over the world to visit this famous temple. Locals believe that those who come to worship Lord Shiva get rid of all their sins and obtain his blessings for a new life.
There is a newly constructed temple within the complex for Lord Krishna where regular prayers are conducted, and many attend it daily. There is also a memorial built for all the sepoys who lost their lives in the Revolt of 1857.
Famous Temples To Visit Near Kali Paltan Mandir
There are many different temples near Kali Paltan Mandir. Visit them while you are here for an incredible journey. Whether you are a solo traveller or with your family, these incredible temples will surely make your trip enjoyable.
1. Mansa Devi Temple
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This famous temple is dedicated To the goddess Durga, a space that is considered sacred by many devotees and pilgrims. This temple is the epitome of tranquillity that attracts many people from across the country to seek blessings from the Goddess.
It is one of the oldest temples in Meerut. People visit it to seek good luck and blessings, and its architecture consists of complex carvings and statutes that are years old. It is a must-see spot that you should visit to enjoy its ambience.
Best Time To Visit: February to October
Operating Time: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Suggested Read: Vindhyachal Mata Mandir
2. Hanuman Chowk Mandir
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This is a special place amongst the locals as they come here often to pay their respects to the great Lord Hanuman. This sacred temple is situated at the Hanuman Chowk Junction, where it gets its name from. It might seem odd to have a temple right at the centre of a junction but that is what makes it so popular.
Every day, people visit this temple to pay homage, partake in rituals, and offer prayers to seek blessings and good luck so that they may continue living healthy and long lives.
Best Time To Visit: March to December
Operating Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
3. Digambar Jain Temple
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One of the most revered Jain Shrines in Meerut, Digambar Jain Temple is an essential monument in the city. It is believed to be at least a thousand years old. The deity that people worship here is Bhagwan Parshavnath, who attracts devotees from all across the country. Interestingly, it is not the deity that often attracts tourists; it’s the architecture.
This temple has seven altars and spires in the courtyard. The first one is called ‘Tihkal Wale Baba,’ which is believed to have been constructed by the deities themselves. Locals believe that if you genuinely pray to the first altar, then all your wishes will come true. Winter is the perfect time. The months from October are extremely cool and pleasant for a perfect day out with your friends and family. The temple is open to pilgrims all day of the week from morning till evening.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Operating Time: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Suggested Read: Kashi Vishwanath Temple
4. John’s Church
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John’s Church, also known as Saint John the Baptist Church, is said to have been built between 1819 and 1821. The plot was founded by Rev. Henry Fischer, a captain in the British Army and a clergyman of the Church of England. If you wish to get some peace and learn about the place’s history, then this is the best place for you.
It played an essential role in the Revolt of 1857. It is one of the oldest churches and the first to be built in North India. It is safe to say it is pretty popular and a big, good crowd always visits the Church. The crowd increases in size during Christmas, Easter and Good Friday. Tourists can visit the Church on any day of the week from morning to evening, and every Sunday morning, regular mass is conducted. During the summer, Sunday mass usually starts at 8:30 a.m.; however, during the winter, it starts at 9 a.m. The entire year is a good time to visit the Church, but the winter season in Meerut is extremely pleasant and adds more charm to the beautiful city.
Best Time To Visit: All year round
Operating Time: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
5. Shahid Smarak
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The Shahid Smarak was dedicated to all the martyrs and freedom fighters who died in the Independence War in 1857. It traces the history of our soldiers from the 1970s. This place often instills a sense of patriotism and pride. There is also a museum, with two galleries with huge collections of paintings and interesting artefacts from the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny.
Tourists can visit this site any day of the week from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Meerut has agreeable weather at all times, so tourists can come anytime they please, but many say that winter in Meerut is a must.
Best Time To Visit: All year round
Operating Time: 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Further Read: Picnic Spots Near Agra
Now that you have all the information about this famous temple and all its neighbouring tourist sites, you must hurry and book your trip to Uttar Pradesh to immerse yourself in the stories of the lands and their connection to our past. Visit the Kali Paltan Mandir to immerse yourself in the place’s spirituality and divine aura. Many tourists visit this mandir to seek blessings from the Goddess Kali.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kali Paltan Mandir
What is the architectural style of the Kali Paltan Mandir?
Due to its period, the architectural style of the temple is Traditional Hindu style. It has four gopurams or entries that lead to the inner sanctum of the temple.
What are the timings and entry fees for the temple?
The Augurnath Temple is open from 6 am to 8:30 pm on all days of the week. There is no entry fee. Everyone is free to go and visit this auspicious place.
Are there any nearby tourist attractions to visit?
Yes, there are many. To name a few - the ecological park, Bhagat Square, Mustafa Castle, and Government Freedom Struggle Museum.
What is the best time to visit Augurnath Mandir?
The best time to visit would be January to April. These months have the perfect weather to go out and enjoy some sightseeing.
How do you reach Kali Paltan Mandir?
You can take a direct flight to Meerut and then take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the mandir.
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