Belur Math

On the west bank of the Hooghly River stands the tranquil headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda. Its central temple is a remarkable synthesis of Hindu, Christian and Islamic architectural elements, expressing the movement's message of religious unity. Set within riverside gardens, the complex also holds shrines to Ramakrishna and Sarada Devi and a museum on the order's history. Pilgrims and visitors walk the grounds in quiet contemplation, and ferries across the river link the site to central Kolkata.