Belur Math (Sri Ramakrishna Temple)

Belur Math on the western bank of the Hooghly River is the global headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda. The main temple — Sri Ramakrishna Temple — was consecrated in 1938 and is a masterpiece of eclectic architecture, deliberately blending Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic, and Christian elements to symbolise Ramakrishna's message of the unity of all religions.

The ground plan resembles a cross (Christian), the main gate reflects Buddhist stupa gateways, the upper portion features Islamic arches, and the overall composition is inspired by Nagara temple tradition. Set on a 40-acre campus along the Ganga, the complex includes the temples of Holy Mother Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda, a museum, and a library. Vivekananda's ashes are interred here — making it one of the most architecturally unique and spiritually significant modern temples in India.