There is a popular saying: “সব তীর্থ বার বার, গঙ্গাসাগর একবার“, which means ‘All pilgrimages may be visited many times, but visiting Ganga Sagar once is enough’. Gangasagar, the sacred confluence of the holy Ganges and the Bay of Bengal, is a land steeped in mythology and spirituality. Nestled within this holy land lies the Kapil Muni Ashram, a pilgrimage site that welcomes devotees seeking blessings and inner peace.
The Story of Kapil Muni
A long time ago, there was a king named Sagar. He wanted to do a yajna, but the horse for the puja went missing. The king’s 60,000 sons searched and found the horse near the place where Kapil Muni was meditating. They thought Kapil Muni stole it and disturbed his meditation. The Muni got angry and burned them all up. The king prayed to Kapil Muni for his mercy, who then told the king to pray to Ganga Mata. The king’s prayer brought down the holy Ganga River from heaven, who then brought the king’s sons back to life. That is why taking a dip at Gangasagar is believed to wash away all sins and help people to get purified.
About Kapil Muni Ashram
Believed to be the site where Kapil Muni meditated, the Kapil Muni Ashram is a beautiful complex with a central temple housing the idol of the sage. Inside, you can offer prayers to Kapil Muni, the Ganga River (Maa Ganga), and King Sagar. This pilgrimage site holds immense significance for Hindus, attracting devotees throughout the year, particularly during the auspicious Makar Sankranti festival.
Where to Stay
There are multiple options to stay near Kapil Muni Ashram to match your budget and choice. The hotels and guesthouses near the sea are great. But after a long journey, a comfortable and serene stay is essential. Nestled conveniently along Diamond Harbour Road, Jagriti Dham serves as your perfect stay during your pilgrimage to Kapil Muni Ashram. After a day of seeking blessings and exploring the rich history of the Ashram, you can return to the serenity of Jagriti Dham for a tranquil and rejuvenating stay.
Reaching Kapil Muni Ashram from Kolkata
For pilgrims travelling from Kolkata, several options are available:
- Train: Trains run from Sealdah South stations to Kakdwip or Namkhana. From there, ferries take you across the Muriganga river to Sagar Island (Gangasagar).
- Bus: Buses operate from Esplanade (Kolkata) to Harwood Point. After crossing the Muriganga by boat, you can reach Kachuberia, from where buses take you to Gangasagar.
- Car from Jagriti Dham: You can book a car from Jagriti Dham to Kakdwip. From there ferries will take you to Sagar Island (Gangasagar).
A visit to Kapil Muni Ashram and Gangasagar is more than just a pilgrimage; it is a journey of self-discovery and spiritual rejuvenation. With its blend of mythology, history, and natural beauty, this sacred land offers a profound experience for all. Highlighting the benefits of short trips for seniors, an elder care expert from Maity’s, a company that offers home eldercare services, says, “these excursions offer a welcome escape from routine, lowering stress and lifting spirits”. The expert adds, “these trips can introduce new experiences and social connections, keeping seniors mentally and physically stimulated”.
