The village of Kiriteshwari, located approximately 18 kilometres from Murshidabad, West Bengal has received the honour of being named the top tourism village in India. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee shared the news, expressing her delight and announcing that Kiriteshwari was chosen as the Best Tourism Village of India by the Ministry of Tourism.
This recognition came as a result of the Best Tourism Village Competition in 2023, where Kiriteshwari stood out among 795 entries from 31 states/union territories. The Ministry of Tourism will present the awards on September 27 in New Delhi. Chief Minister Banerjee extended her congratulations to the villagers and celebrated with a resounding “Jai Bangla!”
Out of a pool of 795 participants from across India vying for the title of Best Tourism Village this year, the Union government has declared Kiriteshwari as the victor. This annual competition, supported by the Ministry of Tourism, is designed to enhance and showcase the rural way of life and cultural heritage of promising rural tourist spots in India.
Kiriteshwari village, situated near the banks of the Bhagirathi River in Murshidabad district, is not only known for its local handloom businesses but is also home to the ancient Kiriteshwari temple, which is part of India’s revered 51 Shaktipeethas. These Shaktipeethas are sacred worship sites associated with the goddess Sati, where it is believed that various parts of her body fell. Within this shrine complex, you’ll find both the Kiriteswari temple and the Kiriteswari Gupta temple.
Locals often refer to this temple as Mahishamardini, and the deity is also recognised as Mukuteshwari. The original temple is believed to have been destroyed in 1405, with the current structure being constructed in the 19th century under the patronage of Darpanarayan, the King of Lalgola.
Prior to the announcement, the district tourism administration took steps to enhance the pilgrim and tourist facilities around the temple and gave approval for 19 homestays within the village. Kiriteshwari village witnesses a significant influx of pilgrims, particularly during the months of Poush and Baisakh. Nearby, the Jagatbandhu Dham also attracts a substantial number of visitors. These temples have formed a pilgrimage circuit that includes Charbangla, Raj Rajeswari, Bhaskar Pandit and Bhattabati Shiv temple, making the area a notable spiritual and tourist destination.