The Baneswar Siva Temple is a revered religious site in Cooch Behar, West Bengal, attracting numerous pilgrims and tourists throughout the year. The best time to visit the temple is during the winter months, which span from November to February. During this period, the weather in Cooch Behar is pleasant, with cooler temperatures that range from 10°C to 20°C, making it ideal for exploration and temple visits. This is a significant factor to consider given the outdoor nature of temple exploration, which involves walking and possibly waiting in lines for darshan (the viewing of the deity).
Additionally, the temple is lively and vibrant during the Hindu festival of Maha Shivaratri, which usually takes place in February or March, depending on the lunar calendar. It's a time when the temple is beautifully decorated, and special rituals and festivities take place, offering an authentic and deeply cultural experience. This is a particularly auspicious time to visit for worshippers of Lord Shiva. However, visitors should be prepared for larger crowds during this festival. For those interested in a quieter experience, visiting just before or after the festival might be preferable when the weather is still comfortable, but the crowds have thinned out.