West Bengal (Excluding Calcutta)

1. Guptipara ~ Chariots & Temples:

Guptipara, a non descriptive village on the Bandel – Katwa line has the distinction of hosting the first community Durga Puja. It also the birth place of Bengal’s branded sweet meat, Gupo Sandesh. Today famous for its terracotta temples, the Baishnav centre of Guptipara is famous fro its Rathyatra (Chariot festival). The nine pinacled towering chariot is pulled in a wild rampage. Read more…

2. Achipur ~ Birth Place of Calcutta Chinatown:

In the late 18^th century a Chinese tea trader by the name of Tong Achew landed on the banks of Hooghly, somewhere near present day Budge – Budge, never to return again. He acquired land and set up a sugar – cane plantation along with a sugar mill. He brought in a band of Chinese workers to work in his plantation and factory and thus forming the first Chinese settlement in India. The place came to be known as Achipur after Tong Achew. Read more…

3. Aatpur ~ A poem in terracotta:

Aatpur was named after the jamindar Atar Khan while other believe the Aatpur is a combination of eight villages of Bhuri Shreshtha kingdom and hence the name Aatpur (or Antpur). The towering Radha Gobindo Temple, with its intricate terracotta is the prime attraction of Aatpur. Apart from traditional panels it also houses a vast number of panels showing European lifestyles. European soldiers with bayonet mounted guns and hunting scenes with dogs are abundant on the walls of the temple. Read more…

4. Jatar Deul and the illusive horse race:

The towering Jatar Deul is located on the edge of Sundarban and is considered as one of the oldest standing structes in the whole of West Bengal. Nothing much is known about the temple and historians are still in the dark. Today a protected monument, and looked after by the ASI, the Jatar Deul can be reached in 5 hrs from Kolkata by a combination of train, bus and motor van. Read more…

5. Frazerganj, Bakkhali & Henry’s Island:

Exactly 100 years ago, Lt-Gov. of Bengal Andrew Frazer fell in love with a beach at one end of the Sunderbans. He was so drawn to that stretch of sand that he built a bungalow at Narayanitala, the nearest village. Frazer, however, could not fulfill his dream of converting Narayanitala, later rechristened Frazerganj, into a health and beach resort. But today Frazerganj along with Bakkhali & Henry’s Island have developed into beautiful beach resorts. Read more…

6. Dasghara ~ Terracotta & Clock Tower:

A non – descriptive village near Tarekeshwar, Dasghara probably has the distinction of housing the Gopinath Temple, considered by the experts to be the most preserved terracotta temple in the whole of West Bengal. Dasghara also has the distinction of housing huge colonial mansions complete with towering clock towers, surrounded by landscaped gardens with marble statues and approached by decorative Victorian gateways. Read more…

7. Rajbalhat ~ Temples & Textiles:

The non – descriptive in Hooghly houses the strange Idol of Devi Rajballavi and hence the name Rajbalhat. During the British period Rajbalhat was an important centre of silk industry and in 1789 East India Company set up a Commercial Residency in Rajbalhat. The textile industry survives to this day and the sound of the hand loams can still be heard in Rajbalhat. Bobbins of thread left to dry are a regular sight. Read more…

8. Bali Dewanganj ~ Terracotta at its best:

Located in the Arambagh sub – division of Hooghly district Bali – Dewanganj probably houses a number of beautiful terracotta temples. The star attraction of Bali – Dewangaj is the Durga temple, which follows a strange combination of Bengal Chala & Ratna architecture. There are several other religious structure and mansions but all in ruins. Read more …

9. Ghutiari Sharif ~ Melting pot of all faiths:

During the medieval period Islam started spreading roots into South Bengal. During that time South Bengal was an extension of the Sundarban and was infested with tigers, crocodiles and snakes making it one of the most inhospitable regions of the world. Several Pirs took up the initiative of spreading Islam in this inhospitable region. Pir Mobarak Gaji (or Gaji Baba) was one such Pir and his Majar at Ghutiari Sharif is visited by thousands of people of all faith. Read more…

10. Bowali ~ Temples & Mansions:

Bowali, a non – descriptive village just off the Diamond Harbour Road (DH rd) from Amtala, is home to towering temples and palatial mansions. The village contains several ruined temples but the star attraction is the towering naba – ratna (nine pinnacled) temple of Gopinath. Bowali also has a huge Victorian styled mansion. There are several structure but the most interesting is the Jal Tungi, a water folly located at the middle of a pond. Read more…

11. Sripur ~ Temples & Boats:

Sripur, a village in Hooghly district is approached from Balagarh, a station on the Bandel – Katwa line. Once a prime centre of Boat building Sripur one supplied anything from river boats to giant ocean going ships. With the river silting up the boat industry is now restricted only to small boats. Sripur also has a large number of temples and religious structures. Read more…

12. Joypur ~ Terracotta beyond Bishnupur:

Bishnupur is famous for its terracotta. Scattered round Bishnupur are numerous temples with intricate terracotta works. But villages beyond Bishnupur also contains a number of temples, smaller in size but with more intricate and detailed terracotta works. Joypur happens to be one such village. Read more…

13. Ballal Dhipi ~ Mound of Ballal Sen:

For centuries, a 30-ft mound spread over 1,300 sq ft, has stood at Bamunpukur, a village near Mayapur. The locals call it Ballal Dhipi, named after Ballal Sen, of the Sen dynasty, who ruled Bengal in the late 12th Century AD. The ASI started digging the area in the early 1980s. The work was carried out in two phases — in 1982-83 and 1988-99. The excavation revealed a gigantic brick structure in an extensive yard surrounded by walls. Read more…

14. Chandannagar ~ A slice of France:

A erstwhile French colony Chandnanagar (or Chandnagore) remained under French control till 1951. Located on the banks of the Hooghly the french colony still houses a number of french mansions and church. Duplex museum is a must vist in Chandnanagar. The strand of Chandannagar is considered as the finest strech of the entire Hooghly River. Read more…

15. Kulpi ~ Abandoned Lighthouses & Mysterious Grave:

Recently the West Bengal Government is taken of the initiative of turning Kulpi into a port, but the history of Kulpi and the Hooghly River trade dates back several centuries. Abandoned light houses and forgotten graves reminds one of the glourious days of the Hooghly river trade. Kulpi is located about 10 km south of the popular tourist spot of Diamond Harbour. Diamond Harbour is well connected from Calcutta (Kolkata) by rail & road. Kulpi can also be reached directly by bus heading for Namkhana or Kakdip. Read more…

16. Mitra Mustafi Family Trilogy:

In 1704 Rameswar Mitra received official Mustaufi title from Emperor Aurangzeb in Delhi. Rameswar Mitra made a huge fortune and constructed several mansions and temples in ULa, which later came on to be known as Ula Birnagar.  His two sons migrated to Sripur and Sukharia and continued with the temple construction. Read more…

17. Mahesh Ratha Yatra:

When it comes to Rathayartra the first name that comes to mind is Puri. But closer home Mahesh, a small town near Srerampore in Hooghly district, hosts a magnificent Rath Yatra festival complete with a towering rath. Today this gigantic nine pinnacled rath is pulled in a wild rampage, through crowded streets under strict police supervision. Read more…

18. West Bengal Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival):

When it comes to Rath (or Ratha) Yatra (Chariot Festival) the first thing that comes into mind is Puri, Orissa (Odissa). The towering raths (chariots) of Puri have almost become synonymous wit Ratha Yatra. But West Bengal, the neighbouring state of Orissa, also houses several Rath Yatra festivals, complete with towering raths.  Some of this rath yatras dates back a couple of centuries and attracts devotees from far and wide. Read more…

19. Ambika Kalna ~ 108 Shiva Temples:

Ambika Kalna (or simply Kalna) is located 82 km from Kolkata (Howrah) on the Bandel – Katwa line. Located on the west bank of the Bhagirathi, Ambika Kalna (popularly known as Kalna) once flourished as a prosperous port town. The prime attraction of Ambika Kalna is the 108 Shiva Temple complex. Built in 1809 by the Bardhaman Maharaja Tej Chandra Bahadur the complex contains 108 aat – chala (eight sloped roofed) temples arranged in two concentric circles separated by a well-maintained lawn with beautiful flowerbeds. Read more…

20. Palpara Brick Temple:

The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) website describes it as the Palpara Brick Temple, while the locals call it the Moth Mandir, Kali Mandir or even Shiv Mandir. The seventeenth century temple has long been abundant. It is recently been restored by the ASI and declared as a Monument of National Importance. The brick built south facing char – chala temple (four sloped roofs meeting at a pinnacle) stands on a raised plinth and is believed to be built by Gandharba Roy in seventeenth century, Read more…

21. Beyond Bishnupur ~ Brick and Stone Temples:

Bishnupur one of the prime tourist attraction of the state of West Bengal houses some extra odinary terracotta temples. But the tourist attraction of Bishnupur are not restricted to Bishnupur alone. Several non – descriptive towns and villages, located within 50 km radius of Bishnupur, have the distinction of housing some of the spectacular terracotta and stone temples of the state. So next time in Bishnupur don’t give this places a miss. Read more …

22. Gokulchand Temple, Gokulnagar ~ Fortified Stone Temple:

Although numerous brick terracotta temples dot the entire Gangatic West Bengal but they are not the only form of temple architecture. Stone temples do exists in West Bengal and are mainly concentrated in the western region of the state and adds a new dimension to Bengal Temple Architecture. Probably the grandest of these few Bengal stone temples is the Gakulchand Temple of Gokulnagar. Located only a few kilometer from the spectacular terracotta temples of Bishnupur this laterite stone temple is considered as the largest stone temple of Bankura District. Read more…

23. Mahisasurmardini on Bengal Terracotta:

The most popular form of Durga appearing on on Bengal Terracotta Temple is the episode of slaying the buffalo demon (Mahishasur). Durga riding her vehicle, lion is mostly accompanied by her daughters and sons, namely Lakshmi, Saraswati, Kartik and Ganesh. The Mahishasurmardini motif is common on many of the late medieval brick temples of Bengal, irrespective of the worshiped deity to which the temple belongs. Read more …

24. Rajbalhat Ratha Yatra:

Rajbalhat, the abode of Devi Rajballavi also has the distinction of having a great Ratha Yatra (Chariot Festival). The Radhakanta Temple of Ghatakpara is famous for its Ratha Yatra. Although not considered as one of the leading Ratha Yatras of West Bengal Rajbalhat features a unique rath yatra. Rajbalhat has a unique rath yatra. The rath does not carry the idols of Jagannath, Balaram & Subhadra but instead carries the idols of Radha – Krishna. Also the rath is not pulled by ropes but by iron chains. Read more…

25. Sachin Mukherjee’s Fanush ~ Bhadreshwar, Hooghly:

For Sachin Mukherjee of Bhadreshwar the childhood fantasy of fanush (paper made hot air balloons) making has turned out to be a life long obsession. Fanush making and flying has been a Sachin Mukherjees passion for the last 60 years. Today nicknamed the “Fanush Manush” (Fanush man) Sachin Mukherjee is quiet a celebrity in Bhadreshwar and nearby areas and has even displayed his art in Delhi and Mumbai. Read more…

26. Asad uj Jaman’s collection of Chandraketugarh Artifacts:

Located about 50 km north of Calcutta (Kolkata) Chandraketugarh is a treasure trove of history and archeology. The region was first surveyed by Rakhaldas Bandyopadhyay, of Mohenjo Daro fame, and the Archeology Department of Calcutta University carried out an extensive dig at the Khona – Mihir er Dhipi (mound) during the 1950s, but the huge Chandraketugarh Mound still remains almost untouched. Over the last two decades local residence Asad uj Jaman have made up is formidable collection of more than 1500 piece of Chndraketugarh Artifacts. Read more…

27. Komagata Maru Memorial, Budge Budge:

Just next to the docks of Budge Budge, about 30 km south of Calcutta (Kolkata), lies a strange memorial. Popularly known as the “Punjabi Monument” it is modelled as the Sikh kirpan (dagger), the white and green cement structure rises in a magnificent arch to touch the sky. The memorial is dedicated to victims of the notorious Komagata Maru Incident that happened almost a century ago. Read more…

28. Mahabharata on Bengal Terracotta:

For over two thousand years the Ramayana and Mahabharata has been influencing deeply the religious and moral thoughts as well as literacy and artistic production in India. The exotic terracotta Temple of Bengal (West Bengal and Bangladesh) are no exceptions. The walls of the Bengal terracotta temple are dotted with stories from the two great epics but strangely Ramayana panels far out number the panels from Mahabharata. Read more…

29. Bawali Rajbari, Budge Budge, 24 Parganas (South):

Recently the magnificent but the crumbling Bawali Mansion of the Mondal have been taken over by Calcutta (Kolkata) based businessman Ajay Rawla, who has taken up the initiative of turning the ruined mansion into a heritage hotel.Presently four rooms have been renovated and are opening to public. The open area consisting of a dinning hall and two drawing rooms have also been renovated but keeping the old rustic look alive. Read more…

30. Rajrajeshwar Temple, Kotalpur, Hooghly:

The Parsis leave their dead bodies for the vulture to eat but for the Hindus vultures have always been considered as a symbol of misfortune and bad luck. So the image of vultures is the last thing you expect to see on the walls of a Hindu temple but the Rajrajeshwar Temple, in the remote village of Kotalpur, have a distinction of housing several images of vultures. One of the terracotta panels on the temple walls shows two vultures feasting on a human corpse and several other panels show vultures in different postures. Read more…

31. Terracotta Temples of Sribati:

Located near Katwa in the Burdwan District of West Bengal the small non – descriptive village of Sribati houses three spectacular terracotta temples. Te three temple dedicated to Lord Shiva were constructed by the Chanda family, who made their fortune by trading with the British. Sadly today the temples lies in utter neglect and are in urgent need of conservation. Read more…

32. Dihar, Ruined Twin Temples:

Located 8 km from Bishnupur, on the Bishnupur – Sonamukhi highway, the village of Dihar houses two ruined but majestic temples. Both the temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and are known as Sareswar and Saileswar. Located atop a small mound the Sareswar and Saileswar Temples are built of laterite stones. Built in 1346 by the Malla King Pritvi Malla, the temples follow the typical Oriya Deul style architecture. The towering spires of both Sareswar and Saileswar have long collapsed, but they still commands majestic presence. Read more…

33. Armenian Churches of West Bengal:

The Armenians have been connected with India as traders from the days of antiquity. However, the Armenian community prospered and developed during the 16th right up to the 18th century. In India, wherever they build settlements, they constructed churches. Today, all over India, one can find many beautiful Armenian churches, chapels and historical monuments standing as mute witnesses or silent sentinels of a once-flourishing Armenian settlement. Presently West Bengal alone houses five Armenian Churches in Calcutta (Kolkata) and surrounding areas. Read more…

34. Bishnupur, Temple Town:

Stone has always been in short supply in the vast flood plains of Bengal. Hence the architects had to restore to other substitute. As clay was easily available the burnt clay bricks soon became a good substitute of stone. This gave rise to a new form of temple architecture and lead to the construction of elaborately decorated terracotta temples. The terracotta art reached its pinnacle under the patronage of the Malla Kings of Bishnupur during the seventeenth century.The temples are still there turning Bishnupur, in Bankura District, into one of the most favored tourist spot in not only in West Bengal  but in the whole of India. Read more…

35. Halisahar and Kancharapara, Temples and Pilgrimage:

Halisahar is a non – descriptive town on the northern fringes of the North 24 Parganas district. Today it is a busy unplanned and overcrowded industrial town but the history of Halisahar dates back to the pre – Mughal days. The name Halisahar is probably of Islamic origin and is derived from “Haveli Sahar” meaning “City of Palaces.” (Haveli = Palace, Sahar = City). Sadly the “Havelis” of Halisahar didn’t survive the test of time and have long crumbled into dust. Strangely a small terracotta temple complex have survived the centuries of human neglect and can still be seen today. The nearby town of Kanchapara also houses a gigantic temple. Read more…

36. Independence Day Celebration (18 August), Shivnibas, Nadia, WB, India:

On Aug. 15 1947 it was freedom for India but the Independence came with the horrors of partition. A cartographic error by Sir Radcliff awarded most of the Hindu majority district of Nadia to Pakistan. Protest followed forcing Lord Mountbatten to revise the boarder. On the evening of 17 Aug. All India Radio (AIR) declared Nadia as part of India. Jubilations were held all over Nadia and the Pakistani flag was replaced by the Indian Triclour in the Krishnangar Public Library. Ever since 1998, 18 August is being celebrated as the independence day of Nadia by the 18 August Committee in the small non – descriptive boarder town of Shivnibas. Read more…

37. Bandel ~ Church and Imambara:

Almost a century after Vasco da Gama reached the West Coast of India the Portuguese started making their inroads into Bengal. Soon settlement started growing up along the rivers and the area around present day Hooghly became the Portuguese stronghold. By 1599 a church was constructed on the banks of the Hooghly, making it the oldest Christian Church of West Bengal.But the heritage of Bandel is not restricted to Church alone. Bandel Imambara is one such attraction. Imambara literally means the residence of the Imam, but In the Indian subcontinent, the word stands for a house or an assembly hall built by the Shiites for observing Muharram. Read more…

38. Chandraketugarh and Khana Mihir er Dhipi:

According to archaeologists Chandraketugarh was a prosperous urban settlement that flourished during the 4th century BC to the 12 century AD. The period ranged from the yearly Mauryan to the late Pala rule. Located just about 50 km from Calcutta (Kolkata) the twin mounds of Khana Mihir and Chandraketugarh are located at Barchampa, near Barasat and can be comfortably covered in a day trip from Kolkata (Calcutta). Read more…

39. Ula Birnagar, Forgotten Mansions and Temples:

The history of Birnagar, previously known as Ula, dates back to the late eighteenth. During this time the local zamindar Rameswar Mitra rose to eminence, as a revenue collector and accountant, in the court of Nawab of Bengal Shaista Khan and Murshid Kuli Khan. This finally led to Rameswar Mitra receiving the Mustaphi, which later anglicized into Mustafi, title from the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. Read more…

40. Mahisadal Rath Yatra:

The 75 feet high rath of Mahisdal is said to be highest wooden rath (chariot) in the world. Mahishadal Rath Yatra was started by Rani Janaki Devi in 1776 the chariot has undergone several changes but its main structure have remained the same for the last 240 years. The five storied wooden chariot towers to a height of 75 feet and measures 28 feet X 28 feet at the base. The walls of the chariot are brightly painted and decorated with statues. The gigantic chariot runs on 36 wheels. Read more…

41. Pundooah (Hooghly), Minar (Tower) and Masjid (Mosque):

Pundooah, the name normally refers to the twin city of Gour, now in Malda, which was once the capital of Bengal. Much closer to Calcutta, in the district of Hooghly lie another Pundooah. Both these places contain interesting historical relics. The smaller version, at Hooghly, contains a five-storied minar (tower) and the ruins of an ancient mosque. It is just 61 km from Howrah and can be reached by the Burdwan Local via main line in one and half hour. Read more…

42. Hadal Narayanpur, Amazing Terracotta Beyond Bishnupur:

Located about 48 km north East of Bishnupur and 5 km from the nearest railhead Dhagaria the twin villages of Hadal and Narayanpur are situated on the banks of Bodai River. The temples of Hadal Narayanpur belong to the Mondal family and are classified in three clusters, namely Bara Taraf, Mejoo Taraf and Choto Taraf. Apart from the temples the Mondel mansion is a must see when you are in Hadal Narayanpur. Read more…

43. Sukharia, Restoration of Harasundari and Nistarini Kali Mandir:

The Sukharia Temples were built by the descendent’s of Rameswar Mitra Mustafi, who was awarded the Mustafi title by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1704. Many of these temples and mansions of Sukharia still stands in spite of years of human neglect. For over several decades the temples of Harasundari and Nistarini have been subject of utter neglect and were on the verge of collapsing, until Shyamal Mitra a descended of Rameswar Mitra Mustafi took up the initiative of restoring them. Read more…

44. Kolkata Armenian’s Pilgrimage to St. John, the Baptist, Armenian Church, Chinsurah:

Every year on the Sunday after the Armenian Christmas, which is celebrated on 6 Jan, the handful of Calcutta (Kolkata) Armenians along with the students of the Armenian College make an annual pilgrimage to the St. John, the Baptist, Armenian Church in the erstwhile Dutch settlement of Chinsurah (Chuchura). The St. John, the baptist, Armenian Church in Chinsurah (Chuchura) was founded in 1695 and happens to be second oldest Christian Church. Read more…

45. Its all Dutch with Bauke Van Der Pol:

From sunken ship to lost cannons and from dilapidated mansions to ruined forts, it was a out of the world experience accompanying Dutch anthropologist and writer Bauke Van Der Pol on his explorations along the banks of the Hooghly. I had the pleasure of accompanying Van Der Pol on three ocassion covering the places of Falta (for the Dutch Fort and a sunken Dutch Ship), Aatpur (Antpur) (for terracotta panels of European Soldiers) and Chinsurah (Chuchura) (for the remains of the Dutch Fort and the cemetery). Read more…

46. Terracotta Temples of Surul, Shantiniketan, Birbhum:

Shantiniketan has always been in the top of the list for the travel loving Bengalis. But apart from the the Rabindranath Thakur (Tagore) related heritage, Shantinekatan also acts as a base for several short excursions showcasing some unknown and neglected heritage of Bengal. Surul, located 5 km from the Bolpur Station in Shantiniketan, is probably the nearest heritage excursion spot from Shantinekatan. Surual, in the vicinity of Shantinekatan, houses some of the best terracotta temples of Birbhum. Read more…

47. Chinsurah (Chuchura), Remains of a Dutch Legacy:

Chinsurah or Chuchura has a interesting etymology, according to some sources the word derived from a special cane called chinchira while others opine the word was derived from the Bengali word Chura (Spire). The former Dutch colony (1615 – 1825) was once considered the most beautiful town of Bengal. Today Chinsurah or Chuchura is just like any small town of West Bengal, crowded, unplanned and accompanied with chaotic traffic. Today Chinsurah (Chuchura) still contains traces of its Dutch, English and Armenian heritage. Read more…

48. Cochrane Place, Kurseong:

Located on the outskirts of the town of Kurseong (near Darjeeling) is Cochrane Place, the restored and recreated residence of Percy John Cochrane, MBE (1866 – 1944), Honorable Magistrate and Barrister of Kurseong Town. Cochrane Place is a heritage resort with an unique blend of tea, trains and tranquility. Restored in stone, log and cast iron splendor, Cocharne Place  is a botique hotel for guests looking for warm and friendly ambiance. Perched high up on the ridge, Cochrane Place offers breathtaking views of the mighty Kanchenjunga and also of the rolling tea gardens. Read more…

49. Blended Tea from Chai Country, Cochrane Place, Kurseong:

Tea may be blended with other teas from the same area of cultivation or with teas from several different areas. The aim of blending is to obtain a better taste. Tea can be served as a hot and cold beverage and can be blended with seasonal fruits & flowers along with exotic ayurvedic herbs and honey. Chai Country, the exclusive tea salon of Chochrane Place, Kurseong offers a wide variety of hot and cold belended tea, blended by the master tea blender Laltu Purkait. Read more…

50. Kurseong, the land of white orchid:

Kurseong, has always lived in the shadows of his more illustrious sister Darjeeling, considered as the queen of the hills. Kurseong, literally meaning the land of the white orchid, has always been a quick stop for a bite of momo and a gulp of tea, for tourists heading for Darjeeling. From the rolling tea gardens to the towering Kanchanjunga and from the magnificent churches to the quiet little monasteries, Kurseong is a interesting mix of nature and heritage and can be an ideal weekend destination for tourists from Kolkata. Read more…

51. Chasing the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) Toy Tarin:

A ride in the Darjeelig Himalayan Railway (DHR) Toy Train is a memorable experience, even if its pulled by a diesel engine, but chasing and photographing the running train is no less an experience. I preffered to chase the south bound train from Kurseong. During my stay in Kurseong (June 2014), the train was only operating till Mahanadi, due to a huge landslide in Tindharia. Read more…

52. Baranti (Boronti), an amazing weekend destination:

Imagine a lake, and a conical  hill covered with thick vegetation. If this is your idea of a retreat, then Baranti, also called Boronti, in Purulia District, is the place to be. And it is close enough to stop by for the weekend for some much-needed rest. Baranti (Boronti) Reservoir is a made made lake formed by an embankment. Drive along the curved embankment to reach the village of Baranti (Boronti). Boronti also serves as a lunching pad for excursions to Panchet Dam, Garpanchkot and Jaichandi Hill. Read more…

53. Kalna Rajbari Complex, Ambika Kalna:

Ambika Kalna (or simply Kalna) is located 82 km from Kolkata (Howrah) on the Bandel – Katwa line. Located on the west bank of the Bhagirathi, Ambika Kalna once flourished as a prosperous port town. It reached it’s pinnacle of glory during the late 18th century under the patronage of the Maharajas of Bardhaman, who built several magnificent temples with intricate terracotta ornamentation. The prime attraction of Kalna is the Rajbari Complex (or Palace Complex) consisting of a series of temples and other structures built over a period of more than a hundred years. Read more…

54: The Rajbari Bawali, Inspired Heritage:

The crumbling Mondal Mansion of Bawali (near Budge Budge) has been converted into a heritage hotel, thanks to the initiative of Ajay Rawala. Today the heritage hotel, a true example of inspired heritage, operates with 30 rooms. Other felicities include swimming pool, pool side bar, spa and a pavilion for open air meals. The verandha comes in with a mini bar and provides grand view of the courtyard and thakurdalan and is ideal for musical performance. Behind the thakurdalan lies the rustic yet beautiful dinning room. Read more…

55. Lakshmi Janardhan Temple, Debipur:

The nondescript village of Debipur, located on the Howrah – Bardhman main line has a distinction of housing a towering temple. The 1844 built Lakshmi Janardhan Temple towers to a height of 60 feet and is remarkable well maintained. Built in Rekh Deul Style the frontage of the temple is decorated with intricate terracotta ornamentation. There are terracotta panels depicting the life of lord krishna along with war scenes and scenes from day to day life. Mear the Lakshmi Janardhan Temple is another unique structure consisting of two aat – chala temples along with a small dol mancha. Read more…

56. Bansberia, Hanseswari Temple and Ananta Basudev Temple:

The history of Bansberia dates back to the days of Shah Jahan. In 1656, the Mughal emperor appointed Raghab Dattaroy of Patuli as the zamindar of an area that includes the present-day Bansberia. Legend has it that Raghab’s son Rameshwar cleared a bamboo grove to build a fort, inspiring the name Bansberia. Hanseswari  stands out among Bengal temples. The 21-metre high, five-storeyed Hanseshwari temple has 13 domes shaped like lotus buds. Next to the Hanseswari Temple is the Ananta Basudev Temple, it was constructed by Rameshwar Datta in 1679. Read more… 

57. Tribeni, Mosque and Dargha of Jafar Khan Gazi:

Tribeni is located about 70 km north of Kolkata on the Bendel – Katwa rail line and is approachable both from Howrah and Sealdah by train. The prime attraction of Tribeni is the Dargah of Zafar Khan Gazi. The dargah is located on a small mound over looking the Hooghly river. It is housed inside a walled complex which also contains a mosque and several other scattered tomb. It remains an active religious site.The mosque is not only the oldest Mosque in West Bengal but also happens to be the oldest Islamic structure in the whole of undivided Bengal. Read more…

58. Tea Tasting, Margaret’s Deck, Goodricke Teapot, Kurseong:

Margaret’s Deck is an exclusive tea lounge under Goodricke’s Teapot project. Loacted just north of Kurseong Margaret’s Deck is platform projecting out of the cliff and provide 270 degrees views of the lush green rolling hills of the famed Margaret Hope tea estate. Margaret’s Deck serves its signature tea paired with snacks. There is also an exclusive tea outleft selling the world best teas. Tea testing session are also conducted at Margaret’s Deck on request. Read also…

59. A date with Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) Toy Train, Kurseong:

From vintage steam engines to car sheds and from quiet little museums to palatial colonial styled headquarters, Kurseong offers an amazing experience of the Darjeeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) Toy Train, which also happens to be an UNESCO Heritage site. From the morning trains leaving the stations to the vintage steam engines in the car shed Kurseong provides an unique toy train experience. The experience is never complete without a visit to the small DHR archive at the station. Also the details signage narrating the story of the living UNESCO heritage site needs to be mentioned. Read more…

60. Amadpur, a royal homestay in terracotta country:

Villages dotted with terracotta temples is nothing uncommon in the Gangatic Bengal region, but Amadpur, near Memari, in Bardhaman District, offers a unique combination of terracotta temples along with a heritage home stay in a renovated zamindar mansion. One of the Chaudhuri Mansions in Amadpur is converted into a heritage homestay and is christened Baithkkhana Amadpur. Amadpur is best explored on foot and local guides takes visitors along the winding roads. They narrate an amazing tale with an interesting mix of history and folklore. The tour also includes some amazing terracotta temples and ruined mansions. Read more…

61. Margaret’s deck, tea and much more:

Margaret’s Deck is a exclusive tea lounge in Kurseong. It is an initiative of Goodricke Tea Pot and is located at the Margaret’s Hope Tea Garden.  Margaret’s Deck is shaped like a ship deck, which offers a 270 degree view of the rolling hills of the Margaret Hope tea garden. The small tea lounge has a sitting capacity of about 30. The menu is snakish and the exotic teas are complemented with an assortment of cakes and cookies. Read more…

62. Tea Processing at Margaret’s Hope, Kurseong:

The most common legend related to the discovery of tea dates back to 2737 BC in Yunnan province in China. It happened during the reign of the Emperor Shen Nong. The story narrates that while the emperor was drinking from a bowl, a few leaves from the nearby tea plant fell in it. He liked the resulting beverage, which lead to the world wide phenomenon of tea drinking. The evolution of tea is definitely an interesting story, but the story of transforming the two leaves and a bud of the tea plant into a cup of tea is no less interesting  Read more…

63. Rail Museum Howrah:

The Rail Museum, Howrah is one of the Regional Rail Museums of India and is managed by the Eastern Railways. The museum exhibits a unique collection of vintage locomotives, coaches and wagons. Also on display are railway cranes and a steam road roller. The museum also exhibits railway accessories like locomotive wheels, signals, signal levers, guard lanterns, etc. The Rail Museum, Howrah is housed in a large compound with landscaped garden and includes a toy train. Read more… 

64. Ganga Aarti, Howrah and Kolkata Skyline:

Howrah, the twin city of Kolkata, has always lived in the shadows of of its more famed counterpart Kolkata. History of the city of Howrah dates back two centuries before the arrival of Job Charnock, on 24 August 1690, in present day Kolkata. The Howrah river front have excellent walkways and is best explored on foot. It provides great views of Kolkata skyline and the twin bridges. Every evening the Ramkrishnapur ghat is the site of Benaras styled Ganga Aarti. Read more…

65. Silk River a journey down Hooghly River:

On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of Indian independence the ambitious project of Silk River explored the unique relationship between London and Kolkata through artistic exchange between communities along England’s Thames Estuary and India’s Hooghly River. The Silk River project focused on 20 locations along the Thames starting from Kew Gardens to South End and along the Hooghly River it covered similar locations along the Murshidabad to Bata Nagar stress. Each of the 20 places along the two rivers were represented by giant scrolls made of Murshidabad Silk and drawn in Patachitra art form. Apart from that there were two similar separate scrolls representing the two rivers. The Tames event happened between 15 – 24 September 2017 while the Hooghly counterpart was held between 6 – 16 December 2017. Read more…

66. Bawali and Achipur, much awaited family trip:

It has been almost two years since our last vacation in Boronti, a weekend destination in Purulia, and my wife and eight year old daughter were desperate for a holiday. We decided to visit Bawali in South 24 Parganas and my wife took the initiative of booking the Bawali Farmhouse. We decided to make the trip in our car. It was the first highway experience for our two year old Alto 800, with Moloy as our driver. Also include in the tour was a visit to Achipur, the first official Chinese settlement of the country and a visit to the Bawali Rajbari. Read more…

67. Balakhana Heritage Home Stay, Maheshganj Estate:

Balakhana, Maheshganj Estate, an indigo planter’s bungalow, converted into a heritage home stay  is one of the prime heritage properties of West Bengal. The Balakhana Heritage Home Stay, Maheshganj is Italian in origin, French in style and has a rich Bengali legacy. lOcated about 135 lm from Kolkata The Balakhan Heritage Home Stay is spread over an area of 17 acres and the Nil Kuthi (Indigo Planters Bungalow) covers 12,000 sq, ft. of living space. Presently Balakhana a total of 5 guest rooms. 3 of the rooms have AC, but the high ceiling and thick walls provide an natural cooling mechanism. Read more…

68. Achipur Barood Ghar, a powder magazine en route Kolkata Port:

Today Achipur is a quiet little village on the banks of the Hooghly River near Budge Budge about 33 km south of Kolkata. The place has an interesting history and is named after Tong Achew, the first official Chinese settler in the country. Although known as the the first official Chinese settlement of India, Achipur also shares an interesting history connected to the Kolkata Port. The Achipur Barood Ghar or Barood Khana, officially known as the Achipur Powder Magazine. Ships navigating towards Kolkata from Bay of Bengal carrying gunpowder had to deposit their stock in these storehouses or Barood Ghar located beside River Hooghly. During their return journey, the ships would collect their deposits from this Barood Ghar. Read more…

69. Banda Deul, Most Preserved Stone Temple of Purulia District:

Historical records suggest that during the 10th – 13th century a flourishing Jain settlement flourished in the western part of West Bengal covering the present districts of Purulia, Bankura and Jhargram. During this period they have built numerous brick and stone temples, following the Oriya Duel style architecture. Purulia had the largest concentration of these Jain Temples although many of them have crumbled to dust but a hand full have survived the test of time and still towers above the rural landscape of Purulia district. Banda Village of Raghunathpur II Block and is 35 km from Purulia town houses one such towering stone temple. Known as Banda Deul, it is probably the most preserved stone temple of the district.. Read more…

70. Deuli, Harup & Suisa, crumbling temples, scattered statues and Museum, Purulia:

Historical records suggest that during the 10th – 13th century a flourishing Jain settlement flourished in the western part of West Bengal covering the present districts of Purulia, Bankuraand Jhargram. During this period they have built numerous brick and stone temples, following the Oriya Duel style architecture. Purulia had the largest concentration of these Jain Temples although many of them have crumbled to dust but a hand full have survived the test of time and still towers above the rural landscape of Purulia district. Also scattered in the Purulia landscape are several Jain statues many of them being worshiped as Hindu deities. Deuli contains remains of three crumbling deul styled teples, harup contains a stone statue of a female warrior and Suisa has a one room museum housing statues from the locality. Read more…

71. Temples of Para, Purulia:

Para is a small village in Purulia District located about 30 km north east of the district head quarters Purulia Town. Para lies on the route to Banda Deul, one of the most preserved ancient temple of Purulia District. According to historical records Para probably served as the capital of Panchakot kings and probably before that it was the capital of the Manrajas. Today only three dilapidated temples are the only traces of Para’s royal lineage. Among the three temples the, first is made up of stone and the second is of bricks. The third, which is in the most dilapidated state consists of a mixture of stone and brick. Read more…

72. Sayed Jamaluddin Mosque, Adi Saptagram, Hooghly:

Saptagram has a rich history of a flourishing river port. The rise of Saptagram can be probably attributed to the conquest of Tribeni by Zafar Khan Gazi in 13th century AD. The port of Saptagram attracted traders and mariners from far of lands like Arabia, Persia and Turkey. By the late 16th century, Saptagram’s importance as a major trading port had ended and the focus had shifted to Hooghly and from there, eventually to Kolkata. Today Adi Saptagram is a just a ordinary small town in West Bengal and the only surviving witness of it glorious days is the Sayed Jamaluddin’s Mosque. Read more…

73. Jain Temple, Mahadeb Berya, Purulia:

The Digambar Jain Temple in the village of Mahadeb Berya (also called Jambad) houses a small temple with six statues of four Jain Tirthankars. The statues are house within the simple looking temple and are fixed upon an elevated platform. An initiative of the Kharkhari Sarak community from the Dhanbad District of the neighboring state of Jharkhand the temple was established in 1973 and house the statues, which dates back several centuries. Every Sunday Jain devotees from Purulia town visit the temple and perform puja, complete with elaborate rituals. Read more

74. Deulghata, crumbling temples in a village in Purulia: 

Deulghata located about 30 km from Purulia Town houses two of the finest surviving brick temples of Purulia District. Deulghata is located on the banks of the Kosai River and the entire area is littered with stone and bricks structural elements. Today their are only two and both follow the Oriya Rekh Deul style of architecture, with elaborate brick work. The temples probably date back to the 11th century. Top portions of both the temples have long collapsed so the exact can no longer be determined. Read more…

75. Pakkbirra, remains of a temple town in Purulia District:

Probably the largest concentration of these temples, built between 9 th – 13 th century AD, were in Telkupi and Pakbirra regions. According to Joseph David Beglar, an Armenian-Indian engineer reported the presence of 22 temples in Telkupi and 21 temples in Pakbirra. Out of the 21 temples, 19 of which were of stone, reported by Beglar only 3 stands to this day. More over large portions of the three surviving temples have been reconstructed in recent times. Sadly the newly constructed upper portion lacks the grace and beauty of its older lower part. Read more…

76. Krosjhuri, Purulia District, amalgamation of old and new:

Sadly many of the ancient temples of Purulia District have been reconstructed using a combination of ancient and modern materials and serve as active Hindu temples. Siddheshwar Shiva Temple, Krosjhuri is one such example and happens to be a protected monument under the West Bengal State Archaeology. Krosjhuri is located about 42 km from Purulia Town and lies in the Kasipur Thana, Kasipur is just 13 km away. The nearest station is Indrabil. The newly built temple contains a small part from its ancient days, also there are several ancient statues displayed in the temple complex.  Read more…

77. Rasbari Garden House, Belur, a unique combination of homestay and pilgrimage:

Rasbari Garden House in Belur, Howrah is the latest addition in the list of evergrowing heritage homestays near Kolkata. But it is different it is not just a heritagehomestay but a entire temple complex overlooking the might Hooghly River. It also doubles up as a picnic spot and a day out gateway for Kolkatans. The temple complex, centred around the Radharaman Jew Temple, dates back to the late 19th century and was built by Purnachandra Daw of Jorasanko Daw family. The century old Daw Rasbari has been converted into Rasbari Garden House providing homestay, picnic and day out facilities not only for Kolkatans but also for tourist visiting Kolkata. Read more…

78. Dhanyakuria, Palaces and a Cinderella styled castle:

If you are travelling on the Barasat – Basirat road about 7 km after the Berachampa crossing you will come across a magnificent gate way, which seems to come straight out of the pages of the fairy tales of Cinderella. Sadly the gates generally remains closed but a peep inside revels a Cinderella styled castle, complete with tower, turrets, battlements and oriel windows. The castle is surrounded by a huge open space, which was once a manicured lawn intercepted by tree line pathways. The compound was once complete with decorative fountains and huge ponds.The place is called Dhanyakuria, which is best described as a village of palaces. Read more…

79. Chhau Dance Mask, Charida, Purulia:

Chhau Dance is a semi classical dance from Eastern India combining martial, tribal and folk tradition. Masks form an integral part of Chhau dance in both the Purulia and Seraikella styles of Chhau Dance. The mask has feathers and other ornaments that surround the face, which can be extended 2 feet from the mask itself. More than 500 families in the village of Charida are involved in the art of mask making and one is likely to get angry glances from the demon mask that hangs on the outer walls of the shop cum workshop. Read more…

80. Sat Deul, towering brick temple, Memari, Burdwan:

Sat Deul, literally meaning seven temples, is a towering brick structure with a curvilinear tower. Built is Odiya Rekh Deul style the temple follows the pancharath style and acording to experts the temple is datable to the 10 – 11 ^th century AD. Presently Sat Deul is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and is within a large walled complex. The complex is complete with manicured lawns, flower beds and paved pathways. The entire complex along with the temple is very well maintained. Read more…

81. Jora Deul, Baidyapur:

The Jora Deul or two adjacent temples in Baidyapur in the Kalna sub division of Purba Bardhaman District consists of two Deuls joined together and hence the name Jora Deul. It is an unique style found no where else in West Bengal and can well be considered as one of the most unique brick built temples of the country. The Jora Deul temple, presently under ASI protection, is datable to 1550 and each of the structures stands on a square base and probably had domed top in their original shape. Exterior walls of the temple are richly ornamented with decorative bricks. The ornamentation is predominantly floral and geometric patterns but figurative designs are also there. Read more…

82. Jodu Ghosh er Rath:

Jadu Ghosh  er rath is named after Jadavendu Ghosh popularly known as Jadu Ghosh was a flourishing rice merchant from Chnadannagar. Legends says that during a pilgrimage to Puri in 1763 he fell ill on the way and was forced to return. On his return he established a temple of Jagannath, Balaram and Subhadra in Lakshmigunj area of Chandannagar. Later the idols were immersed in the Ganga (Hoogly) and were replaced with wooden idols. In 1774 (some sources say 1798) Jadu Ghosh  a rath out of neem wood, marking a journey that continues to this day. Sadly the neem wood rath of Jadu Ghosh didn’t survive the test of time and was replaced in 1962, and still operates. Read more…

83. Temple of Dakshin Rai, Dhapdhapi:

Dakshin Rai or Dakshin Ray, literally meaning the King of the South, is the local deity of Sundarban and rules over beast and daemons. He is worshiped by all those who enter the Sunderban forest, for subsistence, irrespective of their caste, creed or religion. The temple with the gigantic Dakshin Rai statue is located at  at Dhahdhapi, near Baruipur. Dhapdhapi ia a railway station, on the Sealdah South rail line leading Lakshmikantapur / Namkhana. The seven feet tall idol of Dakshin Rai carries a gun and is dressed in dhoti, jacket and pair of boots. Read more…

84. Bari Kothi, boutique heritage hotel at Azimgunj:

Bari Kothi, Azimganj, a boutique heritage hotel. It offers a royal stay with a dash of Sherwali Cuisine. It serves as an ideal day tour destinations for the former Bengal capital of Murshidabad. The 250 year family mansion of the Dudhoria family, has recently been restored and renovated into a boutique heritage hotel. Today the Bari Kothi consist of Sheesh Mahal, Library, Music Room, Durbar Hall, Janana Chowk, Gaddi Ghar, Halwai Khana, Gulabi Chawara amongst other parts of the house. Read more…

85. Exploring Murshidabad from Bari Kothi, Azimganj:

Murshidabad, the former capital of the undivided Bengal, once contributed about 20% of the Indian economy and a staggering 5% of the world GDP. Sadly Murshidabad has long lost its former glory and only traces of its glorious past survives to this day. Bari Kothi, a botique heritage hotel located in nearby Azimganj offers an unique tour of Murshidabad. Apart from the exploring the heritage and history of Murshidabad the trip offers an open air elaborate lunch spread served atop a country boat. Read more…

86. Chhath Puja, Azimganj from Bari Kothi:

The Chhath Puja is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya and his sister Shashti Devi mother of Kartikeya (Chhathi Maiya) in order to thank them for bestowing the bounties of life on earth and to request the granting of certain wishes. It is the only Vedic Festival dedicated to the Hindu Sun God. In 2019 Chatt was clebrated from 31 October – 3 November and I was in Azimganj as part of Bari Kothi FAM Trip and had the oppertuinity of witnessing the Chhath celebration in Azimganj. It was an amzingly colourful festival and provided great photography oppertunities. Read more…

87. Rasbari Garden House in Belur, revisited:

Rasbari Garden House in Belur, Howrah is the latest addition to the heritage hotels or homestays of West Bengal. Butitis not just a heritage homestay itis a functional temple complex and can double up as a pilgrimage. Moreover there are options for picnic and ady out. Presently the Rasbari Garden House hosts two four bed rooms and four two beds rooms. Food served is generally veg, however fish is served on request.  Read more…

88. Sheherwali Cusine and much more at Bari Kothi, Azimganj:

Sheherwali Cusineis a veg cuisine of Jain Marawaris settled in Bengal. The Sheherwali Cusine originated from Rajastan, a land of dry and extreme climate. As the Marawari community settled in Bengal, they slowly adjusted and adopted to the local ingredients giving birth to a new food habits developing into the Sheherwali Cuisine. It is a fusion cuisine combining ingredients from east and west of India. Bari Kothi in Azimganj, near Murshidabad, is a heritage botique hotel serving vegeterian food with a Sheherwali touch. Read more…

89. Ambika Kalna, Terracotta Temple Town of West Bengal:

Located on the west bank of the Bhagirathi River, Ambika Kalna (popularly known as Kalna) once flourished as a prosperous port town. It reached it’s pinnacle of glory during the late 18th century under the patronage of the Maharajas of Bardhaman, who built several magnificent temples with intricate terracotta ornamentation. The maritime trade has long stopped and Kalna has lost the status of a flourishing port city, but many of the temples have survived the test of time and stands to this day. The temples still reminds one of Kalna’s glorious past.. Read more…

90. Kurumbera, Moghalmari, Gangani and Pathra, West Midnapore:

A weekend family tour of West Midnapore district covering some semi known spots like Kurumbera, Moghalmari, Gangani and Pathra. The two day tour was based on Salboni and combined an interesting mix of nature and history. The tour included a fortified temple complex, an excavated Buddhist Vihar, a canyon not as grand as the Grand Canyon and finally a village of brick built temples and all this in a single weekend tour from Kolkata . Read more…

91. Gangani, a scaled down version of the Grand Canyon:

The wind and water have carved and chiselled the landscape for millions of years creating a unique landscape. The layers of colourful mud and rocks exposes a records of millions of years. It is not the Grand Canyon but a scale down version of it is located just four hours drive from Kolkata. Gangani or Gongoni, located in the outskirts of the Garhbeta town in West Medinipur district of West Bengal, houses a canyon loving known as the Grand Canyon of West Bengal. Read more…

92. Kurumbera, a fortified temple complex:

Kurumbera means stone wall (kurum = stone, bera = fence) and refers to the 12 feet high wall enclosing the complex. The wall complex measured 253 feet by 173 feet and has a gateway on the northern side. The  fortified temple complex of Kurumbera lies in the village of Gaganeshwar, which is 4 km from Keshiari and 30 km from Kharagpur. The structure resembles the medieval architecture of Odisha, while also incorporating elements of later Mughal architecture. Although a protected site under the the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) nothing much is known about its history. Read more…

93. Pathra, rebirth of a temple town:

Pathra, a temple village in WestBengal has 34 temples. For centuries they were in utter neglect, until a local Muslim man took up the initiative of protecting them. Today the temples are maintained by ASI and have been conserved and maintained under the guidence of the architecture department of nearby IIT, Kharagpur. Sadly in spite of all efforts Pathra have failed to be a popular tourist spot. There are no proper approach roads and there are no place to eat. There is no proper toilet facilities. Read more…

94. Moghalmati, Buddhist Archaeological Site, West Midnapore:

Moghalmari is located on the left bank of Subarnarekha River in the district of West Medinipur, 3.2 miles north of Dantan. Since the tern of the millennium an extensive excavation have reveled the remains of an ancient Budhhist Monastery. The name Moghalmari probably originated from a pitch battle of 16th century between the Mughal and the local king. Although the Mughal army emerged victorious but a large number of Mughal soldiers were killed and hence the name. Read more…

94. Historical Sites of Purulia DIstrict:

Puruila District, lying on the western end of West Bengal is known fro its breathtaking natural beauty, consisting of lush green rolling hills along with rock outcrops and majestic water falls and lakes. Historical records suggest that during the 10th – 13th century a Jain settlement flourished in the western part of West Bengal covering the present district of Purulia. Many of them have crumbled to dust but a hand full have survived the test of time and still towers above the rural landscape of Purulia district. Read more…

94. Great Trigonometrical Survey (GTS) Towers of West Bengal:

The Great Trigonometrical Survey (GTS), which surveyed the Indian sub continent from 1800 -1854, is often hailed as one of the most stupendous work in the history of science. The half a century long project involved equations more complex than any in the pre – computer age. It was also the most perilous project of its time, killing more men than any contemporary wars. Malaria wiped out whole survey parties, tiger and scorpions took their toll. Read more…

95. A wwekend family trip to Bhalki Machan:

Bhalki Machan, according to local folklore the elevated platform or manchan was used to hunting bears. Today Bhalki Machan does have a tower like structure but it was not a bear hunting platform but a Great Trigonometrical Survey (GTS) Tower, which was used to map India almost two centuries ago. Bhalki Machan also serves as a base fr several other trips including a trip to the towering temple of Ichai Ghosher Deul. Excursions can also lead you to dokra, theatre and baul villages. Read more…

96. Icahi Ghosher Deul, Towering temple:

Ichai Ghoser Deul or Ichai Ghoser Mondir is a towering temple located on the banks of Ajay River . It is located near Durgapur, in Paschim Bardhaman District. The temple follows the Odiya style of architecture with a towering spire. Presently the Ichai Ghoser Deul is a Monument of National Importance protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). According to ASI the temple dates back to mid-18th century and was constructed by Ichai Ghosh and was dedicated to Goddess Bhagabati. Read more…

97. Bananbgram, baul village:

Bauls are a group of mystic nomads of mixed elements Bhaktism and Sufisim from Bengal. Bauls are a very heterogeneous group, with many sects, but they can easily be identified by their distinctive clothes and musical instruments. Started on 25 December 2020 Bannabagram, baul ashram provids a permanent platform for baul singer and their audience for 365 day a year. It not only provides live baul music but also a experience of Baul lifestyle as the visitiors can spend the night in the four cottages located at the far end of the compound. Read more…

98. Dariyapur, dokra village:

Dokra (or Dhokra) is an an ancient art of non-ferous metal casting. The technology dates back to over 4000 years and has been in practice with hardly any changes. It is still popular all over eastern India and is practised in the village of Dariyapur, near Bardhaman. Here everyday the dokhra artist set up stalls and sell their art directly to the customers and in the process getting more value for their art. The customers also can explore the place and lern about the process of dokra making. Read more…

99. Forever Digha, one of Bengalis top three tourist destination:

The travel loving Bengali is always been mocked as DiPu Da (Di for Digha, Pu for Puri and Da fro Darjeeling) after their three favourite tourist destination. From Kolkata, Digha is the nearest of the three. Probably it is the most visited tourist spot for Kolkatanas. Today hundreds, if not thousands, visit Digha every week end to enjoy the sea, sand and food. A trip to Digha can also be coupled with short day trips to nearby beaches like Talsari. Tourists can even make a trip to the nearby ancient temple of Chandaneshwar. Sadly the temple has been greatly modified losing all its antiquity. Read more…

100. Curzon Gate, Bardhaman:

Curzon Gate is the most prominent land mark of Bardhaman (Burdwan) Town and is located at the meeting point of Bijoy Chand Road (BC Road) and Grand Trunk Road (GT Road). The gigantic gate towering at the busy intersection marks the entry to the Bardhaman town from GT Road. The gate was inaugurated in 1904 by the then viceroy Lord Curzon and hence the name Curzon Gate. Later after independence the gate was renamed as Bijoy Torn (বিজয় তোরন), literally meaning gate of victory, but the old name stuck. Read more…

101. Mazar of Pir Baharam, Bardhaman:

Every one has heard of Nur Jahan, the Mughal empress and wife of the great Mughal Jahangir but unknown to many Jahangir was Nur Jahan’s second husband. Her first husband was Sher Afghan, who lies buried in a small mazar in the town of Bardhaman in West Bengal. The Mazar also contains the grave of Qutubuddin Koka. Sher Afghan and Qutubuddin Koka both died in a deadly ambush. Also buried in the complex is the sufi saint Pir Baharam, after whome the mazar is named. Read more…

102. Taki, a day outing during Covid 19 Pandemic:

Taki a small town of the banks of Ichmati River hasalways been a weekend gateway and a favourite picnic spot from Kolkata. The river, which also happens to be the international border between India and Bangladesh is the prime attraction. The border town also has its share of history with several spectacular masions, sadly most of them are very badly maintained. Read more…

103. Mausoleum of Khwaja Anwar (Nawab Bari), Bardhaman:

Bardhaman town has its share of history and the most spectacular historical structure of Bardhman is Mausoleum Complex of Khwaja Anwar (popularly known as Nawab Bari). Khwaja Anwar was the Amir of the Governor of Bengal Azim-us-Shan, the grand son of the last great Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb . He was killed in an ambush in 1698.Later in 1718 the then Mughal emperor Farrukhsiyar built a magnificent tomb in his honour. The mousoleum still stands but lies in utter neglect and is overgrown with vegetation. Read more…

104. Historical sites of Bardhaman Town:

Located just 100 km north of Kolkata the town of Bardhaman predates Kolkata by a couple of centuries and has its share of interesting history. Fro colocal colonial styled gateways to maganificeint Mughal styled tombs and from huge elegant temple complexes to the resting place of the first husban of Mughal empress Noor Jahan. Thus Bardham can well be an interesting historic weekend or day trip gateway from Kolkata. Read more…

105. Experiene Ganges, a road cum ferry trip of Hooghly River:

Calcutta (now Kolkata), the first capital of British India and the second city of the empire was also established on the Bank of the River Hooghly. It was not only British but other European power also had there presence along the river. This included Bandel (Portuguese), Chinsurah (Dutch), Chandannagar (French) and Serampore (Danish). These former colonial settlements along with the local culture forms an interesting mix and can be an ideal weekend tour destination from Kolkata. A combination of bus and ferry tour is the best way of exploring these shared heritage.Read more…

106. Nimasarai Minar, Malda:

Nimasarai Minar was a route marker for travellers travelling between the two medieval citadels of Gour and Pandua. Nima in Persian means middle and Sarai is an inn, so this was an inn midway between Gour and Pandua. It is believed that the tower was once studded with projecting elephant tusks but they have long been replaced with wodden spikes. The top portion of the tower has collapsed and today it lies in utter neglect and seldom visited by tourist. Read more…

107. Murshidabad Heritage Festival 2022:

The Murshidabad Heritage Festival is an initiative of Murshidabad Heritage Development Society (MHDS). The objective of the festival is to revive the tangible and intangible heritage in Azimganj and Jiaganj in particular, and Murshidabad in general. MDHS plans to bring back Murshidabad in the tourism, cultural and heritage map of India. This lead to the formation of Murshidabad Heritage Festival an annual festival held every year winter since 2017. Read more…

108. Nandadirghi Vihar, Buddhist Vihar in Jagjibanpur, Malda:

A chance finding of a copper plate in Jagjibanpur, a village near Bangladesh border in Malda district lead to the discovery of a Buddhist Vihar named Nandadirghi. The plaque also mentions of hitherto unknown ruler called Mahendrapal Deva, of the Pala dynasty. Today the ruins of Nandadirghi Vihar are located 40 km east of Malda town and can be a interesting tour for tourist heading for the more famous historical sites of Gour and Pandua. See more…

109. Canning House, the last remains of the failed Canning Port Project:

Canning House is a dilapidated house in the town of Canning in South 24 Pargana district of West Bengal. The house was probably part of the Port Canning Company, a British project which went horribly wrong. The two-storied brick building consists of an arched porch and has 22 rooms. Sadly it is in a very bad stage and is on the verge of collapsing. Presently it is under the protection of the West Bengal Heritage Commission. See more…

110. Bhot Bagan, Howarah Buddhist Monastery with a tumultuous history:

Bhot Bagan, literally meaning the Tibetan Garden, is the first Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in the plains of India. It dates back to 1780s and from the very beginning Bhot Bagan has been a place of mixed religion combing Hinduism and Buddhism along with tantric practices. Today the entire structure is in a bad shape but recently it has been taken over by the West Bengal Heritage Commission and hope things would improve. See more…

111. Cossimbazar – Colonial mansions, cemeteries and churches: 

The non-descript settlement of Cossimbazar is sandwiched between Murshidabad and Berhampore. Once a busy river port and a flourishing trading center it presently lives in the shadows of its more famous historic counterpart Murshidabad. Only a handful of tourist who visits Murshidabad makes it to Cossimbazar, which have all elements of an independent tourist destination. See more…

111. Amkhoi Wood Fossil Park, near Bolpur (Shantiniketan): 

The villagers of Amkhoi village, near Bolpur, while digging a pond in 2006 stumbled upon giant bone-like structures. Unable to figure out what they were, they informed the local administration. These lead to a scientific investigation revealing what look like giant bones were actually fossilized wood. Scientific digging continued at the pond site extracting more such fossilized wood specimen, which was estimated to be 15 to 20 million years old.The specimens are now arranged in a landscaped surrounding and is knaown as Amkhoi Wood Fossil Park. See more…