Bangladesh has numerous historical temples reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage. Among the most prominent is the Kantajew Temple in Dinajpur, renowned for its magnificent terracotta architecture. Kantajew Temple is also known as Kantaji Temple or Kantanagar Temple. Constructed in the 18th century, this Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is one of the country’s finest examples of art. Location of Kantajew Temple This temple is situated at Kantanagar village in Kaharole upazila of Dinajpur district, approximately 20 kilometres from the main town in northern Bangladesh. The name derives from "Kantaji," a form of the Hindu god Kanta or Krishna. This 18th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his wife, Rukmini. Maharaja Prannath began the temple's construction in 1704, and it was completed by his son, Maharaja Ramnath, in 1752. Kantajew Temple is especially revered by Krishna devotees in Bengal. Read more: Top 10 Historic Places, Landmarks in Dhaka How to Visit Kantaji Temple from Dhaka From Dhaka to Dinajpur  By Air  Flying is the quickest way to reach Dinajpur. Daily flights operate between Dhaka and Sayedpur, the nearest airport, about 60 kilometres from Dinajpur. You can hire a car from Sayedpur or take a local bus to Dinajpur town, which takes approximately an hour. Airfare typically ranges between 2,800 and 9,500 BDT, depending on the airline and booking time. By Train  If you prefer a more scenic and affordable option, taking a train from Dhaka to Dinajpur is a great choice. Trains are available and the journey times range from 7 to 9 hours. Tickets are available from 575 BDT for a non-AC seat and can go up to 1,978 BDT for AC berths.  By Bus  For budget travellers, buses are the most economical option. Direct buses leave from Dhaka’s bus terminals heading to Dinajpur, with the journey taking around 10 hours. The ticket price ranges between 800 and 1,500 BDT, depending on the bus type.  Read more: Buddha Dhatu Jadi: The sacred tourist spot and its trouble From Dinajpur to Kantajew Temple After reaching Dinajpur town, travelling to Kantajew Temple is straightforward. You can hire a local CNG (auto-rickshaw), a private car, or even a rickshaw to cover the 20-kilometer journey. It will typically take about 30 to 40 minutes. The roads are fairly well-maintained, and the ride gives you a chance to enjoy views of rural Bangladeshi life. Construction and Architecture Kantajew Temple is an iconic example of terracotta architecture in Bangladesh. Originally constructed in the navaratna (nine-spired) style, the spires were destroyed by an earthquake in 1897, leaving the base of the temple intact. The temple’s design features four-centred, wide multi-cusped arches, semi-octagonal mihirabs, and intricate rectangular and square panelling. Its plastered walls are adorned with ornamental turrets and the domes, once bulbous and majestic, sat on octagonal drums with lotus and kalasa finials. The temple's exterior is covered with terracotta panels, depicting mythological and everyday scenes, skillfully crafted by local artisans from Krisnanagar. Read more: Day Trips from Dhaka: 5 Affordable Tourist Spots near Dhaka Notable murals show Krishna plucking coconuts, Radha-Krishna dancing on an elephant, and charming Bengali wedding scenes. These portrayals blend deities with familiar social scenes, offering a glimpse of 18th-century rural Bengal. The Persian-inspired muqarnas work in stucco inside the half-domes over the entrance arches and mihirab niches further highlights the temple’s blend of cultural and architectural elements.