Where is Dhakeshwari temple?

In Old Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. It is the country's National Temple.

Is Durga Puja held at Dhakeshwari temple?

Yes, Dhaka's largest Durga Puja is held here, followed by the Bijaya Sammelani.

Where is the original Dhakeshwari idol?

The original metal idol was taken to Kumortuli, Kolkata, during Partition. A replica is worshipped in Dhaka.

Dhakeshwari National Temple, Dhaka

This Old Dhaka temple is the largest Hindu temple in Bangladesh. The goddess is Dhakeshwari, a form of Durga.

Last checked: 2 Nov 2026 · 1 sources

What it is and where

The Dhakeshwari temple is a state-owned Hindu temple in Old Dhaka, designated Bangladesh's National Temple and renamed Dhakeshwari Jatiya Mandir in 1996. It is the largest Hindu temple in Bangladesh. The name means Goddess of Dhaka, and she is a form of Durga. (Source: Wikipedia, Dhakeshwari Temple)

History

The temple dates to the 12th century, traditionally to 1100 CE, built by King Ballal Sen of the Sena dynasty. Because of repeated repairs and rebuilding, its present architectural style cannot be dated to that period. (Source: Wikipedia, Dhakeshwari Temple)

During Partition the original metal idol was taken to Kumortuli in Kolkata, and a replica is worshipped at the Dhaka temple. It is also counted among the Shakta pithas, where, by tradition, a jewel from Sati's crown fell. (Source: Wikipedia, Dhakeshwari Temple)

The temple was severely damaged in the 1971 Liberation War and over half its buildings were destroyed. The Pakistan Army took over the main worship hall as an ammunition store. After Ramna Kali Mandir was destroyed in 1971, this became Bangladesh's most important Hindu place of worship. (Source: Wikipedia, Dhakeshwari Temple)

Durga Puja and Janmashtami

The largest Durga Puja celebration in Dhaka is held here. Dignitaries visit to greet the community, and a cultural programme called Bijaya Sammelani follows in the adjoining parade ground. (Source: Wikipedia, Dhakeshwari Temple)

The Janmashtami procession starts from the temple and winds through Old Dhaka. It began in 1902, stopped in 1948 and resumed in 1989. (Source: Wikipedia, Dhakeshwari Temple)

In the complex

The complex has a Pancharatna-style temple, four Shiva temples, a Natamandir front hall, rows of rooms, a large pond and a historic gate. Outside are five or six pagodas with Shiva lingas. (Source: Wikipedia, Dhakeshwari Temple)

💡 Old Dhaka gets crowded around the pujas. Leave extra time and follow the temple's customs.

💡 We found no official source for visiting hours or rules, so ask the temple authorities before you go.

Questions

Where is Dhakeshwari temple?: In Old Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. It is the country's National Temple.
Dhakeshwari temple history: By tradition King Ballal Sen built it in 1100 CE. Over half its buildings were destroyed in 1971.
Is Durga Puja held at Dhakeshwari temple?: Yes, Dhaka's largest Durga Puja is held here, followed by the Bijaya Sammelani.
Where is the original Dhakeshwari idol?: The original metal idol was taken to Kumortuli, Kolkata, during Partition. A replica is worshipped in Dhaka.

Durga Puja 2027 Shakti Peethas in WB and Bangladesh Shyama Puja in Bangladesh Kumartuli Calendar 2027

Sources

Wikipedia, Dhakeshwari Temple