- Description

Kiriteswari has been recognized as Best Tourism Village 2023 in Bronze category.
Kiriteswari village emerges as a radiant gem where history, spirituality, and sustainable rural tourism converge. Named after the resplendent Kiriteswari Temple, which stands as a sacred sentinel to Goddess Dakshayani Sati.

The preservation of cultural treasures is as sacred as the temple itself. Initiatives like the month-long "Paush Mela" and "Kumari Puja" celebrate heritage, while folk dances and plantation drives keep traditions alive.

Kiriteswari is also a beacon of gender equality, environmental consciousness, and economic development, offering homestays, cultural fairs, and waste management initiatives.

- INTRODUCTION

Kiriteswari, a charming village nestled in Murshidabad, West Bengal, is a treasure trove of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Its name, meaning "crowned goddess," stems from a thousand-year-old temple dedicated to Goddess Dakshayani Sati. As a Shakti Pitha and one of the "51 peeths," Kiriteswari attracts devotees and tourists year-round. The village's commitment to sustainable rural tourism shines through its preservation of traditions, gender equality, environmental consciousness, and economic development. Homestays, ancient temples, cultural fairs, and initiatives for waste management and energy conservation showcase its holistic approach. Kiriteswari stands as a beacon of how tourism can enrich rural communities while conserving their essence.

- THEME

The central theme of Kiriteswari village revolves around its rich Cultural Heritage, including the ancient Kiriteswari Temple and the preservation of its natural resources. The village aims to promote rural tourism while conserving its unique cultural assets.

- NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

1. Kiriteswari Shiva Temple

2. Kiriteswari Gupta Mandir (Kiriteswari Old Temple)

3. Jain Mandir at Azimganj (Built in 1888)

4. Baranagar Rani Bhavani Temple (Built by Queen of Natore – Rani Bhavani)

5. Pancha Shiva Mandir (Five Shiva Temple)

6. BhattabatiRatneswar Temple (Pancha-Ratna Mandir)

7. Dadar-sthan Jain Temple & Goshala (Golden Temple and Cow shelter)

8. Nabagram Vivekananda Ecotourism Park

9. Benipur Tribal Village & Tribal Handicrafts

10. Tomb of Siraj-Ud-Dowla

- INITIATIVE/EVENTS/ACTIVITIES

● The village hosts a month-long fair during the Bengali month of 'Paush,' known as "Paush Mela,"where barter system exchanges handicrafts and food items in lieu of paddy.

● Kumari Puja: This event involves the worship of girl children irrespective of religion and caste during "Durga Puja."

● Various folk dances, including "Baha" and "Lagre" tribal dances, are practiced preserving the unique traditions and culture of the village.

● The village conducts annual plantation under the Social Forestry Programme.

● Tourism provides employment opportunities, with direct employment for 120 individuals and indirect employment for 600.

- IMPACTS

● The village's tourism initiatives contribute to economic sustainability, employment generation, and business development, benefiting local community.

● The preservation of cultural and natural resources helps maintain the village's unique identity and heritage.

● Social sustainability efforts promote inclusivity, gender equality, and women's empowerment within the community.

● Accessibility initiatives make the village more welcoming to travelers with specific access requirements, ensuring an inclusive tourism experience.