Inheritage Foundation
Preserving Our Past, Enriching Our Future
Documenting and digitizing India's architectural heritage, one site at a time
Belur Math
Howrah, West Bengal, India, West Bengal
Math
Composite / Neo-Vedanta Style
Modern Era (20th Century)
Modern HQ of Ramakrishna Mission, site of national cultural importance.
Year Built
1938
Built By
Swami Vivekananda
Patronage
Ramakrishna Mission, Devotees
Area
160000 m²
Belur Math
overview
Overview data: 0% complete
Heritage Overview
Math
Belur Math
Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River near Kolkata, Belur Math serves as the global headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda. Its unique architecture synthesizes Hindu, Christian, and Islamic motifs, reflecting the movement's philosophy of religious harmony. The serene campus includes temples dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, Sarada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda, attracting spiritual seekers and visitors from around the world. It's a center for spiritual learning and philanthropic work.
Location
Howrah, West Bengal, India(West Bengal)
Year Built
1938
Visit Information
Visiting Hours
6:30 AM - 11:30 AM & 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Daily.
Entry Fee
Free entry.
Website
https://belurmath.org/Heritage Status
Modern HQ of Ramakrishna Mission, site of national cultural importance.
Preservation Status
Excellent, well-maintained modern complex.
Historical Context
Consecrated in 1938, its history is intrinsically linked to Swami Vivekananda's vision to materialize Sri Ramakrishna's message of religious harmony and the synthesis of Yoga paths. Vivekananda conceptualized the design, executed by Swami Vijnanananda (a direct disciple and qualified engineer). Its founding (land purchased 1898, construction began 1900s) occurred amidst Bengal's socio-religious ferment and burgeoning nationalism, positioning the Ramakrishna Mission as a force for spiritual renewal, education, and service, embodying 'practical Vedanta'.
Archaeological Survey
N/A (Managed by Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission).
Location Map
Architectural Details
Composite / Neo-Vedanta Style
Modern Era (20th Century)
Built by
Swami Vivekananda
Materials
Chunar stone, Concrete, Marble
Dimensions
Height34.3m
Area160000m²
Featured Image
Excavation Details
N/A - Modern site (consecrated 1938). Significance is historical and religious, related to Swami Vivekananda and the Ramakrishna movement.
Restoration Work
Routine maintenance of the well-preserved modern complex (Ramakrishna Mission).
Patronage
Ramakrishna Mission, Devotees
Construction Technique
Modern masonry, Concrete casting
Architectural Influences
4 items
Building Techniques
Synthesis of diverse religious architectural motifs, Dome construction, Modern structural methods
Coordinates
22.629300, 88.357100
Accessibility Info
{"notes":"Well-maintained complex with paved pathways. Most major areas accessible. Some buildings might have steps.","restrooms":"Available, generally clean","wheelchair_accessible":"Good/Partial (most ground floor areas accessible, ramps often present)"}
Visitor Facilities
8 items
Best Visit Times
Weather is most pleasant during winter (October to February). Evenings are serene, especially during Aarti time. Visit on weekdays to avoid larger weekend crowds. Check timings for museum and specific temples within the Math.
Seasonal Events
3 items
Visitor Restrictions
Maintain silence and a spiritual atmosphere; it's a place of worship and meditation. Modest dress code is strictly enforced. Photography is restricted inside temples, museum, and prayer halls. Follow campus rules regarding movement and timings.
View Count
21
Is Featured
Yes
Is Published
Yes
Completion Score
67
Completion Status
in-progress
Created By
68408625-44a5-46e3-b746-71290aac1079
Created At
2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00
Updated At
2025-04-28T08:04:19.982836+00:00