Murshidabad Tourism- Historical Town of Bengal

Enclosed by River Bhagirathi and River Hooghly in West Bengal is a city named Murshidabad. It is a culturally rich city. During the Mughal Era Murshidabad was the capital of Bengal at present time it is the centre for agriculture, handicraft and sericulture. Murshidabad is located at a distance of 177km from Malda and 237km from Kolkata. Visitors can easily reach Murshidabad by boarding a train or a plane from Kolkata. In 1704 Murshidabad was named after Murshid Quil Khan, the Diwan of Bengal.

Murshidabad with its ancient monuments and silk sarees has captivated the mind of many travelers. In 1757 the British defeated Siraj-ud-Daula in the Battle of Plassey and brought Murshidabad under their reign. There are many historically significant places like Hazarduari were the visitors can see the glory of those past era. The fine blend of Colonial architecture terracotta work has made Murshidabad the Paradise of Historian. There are many places to visit in Murshidabad which showcases its rich culture and heritage.

Places to visit in Murshidabad

Hazarduari Palace

Hazarduari is a one of the most visited destination of Murshidabad. It is situated in the campus of Kila Nizamat in Murshidabad. Formerly known as Bara Kothi, Hazarduari palace was built in 19th century under the commandment of Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah. Hazarduari Palace is now turned into the biggest site museum by Archeological Survey of India. There are in total 1000 doors in the palace out of which 900 doors are real. Housing the 2nd largest chandelier in the world after Buckingham Palace, visitor can observe more the 3000 historic artifacts while visiting Hazarduari Palace.

Katra Masjid

Katra Masjid, built in 17th century is one of the most popular mosques of East India. It is located in the north eastern side of Murshidabad. Katra Masjid is also the tomb of Nawab Murshid Quil Khan. It is also a great centre of Islamic learning. Listed under the Archeological Survey of India, the most striking feature of Katra Masjid is the loopholes for musketry.

Nashipur Rajbari

Nashipur Rajbari also known as Nashipur Rajbari is a regal palace in Murshidabad District. It was built in 18th century under the reign of Raja Kirti Chandra Singha Bahadur. This palace is often referred as the miniature Hazarduari. The Nashipur Rajbari is known for housing one of the largest temples of Murshidabad called Ramachandra Temple. During the month of August people from far and wide, travel to Nashipur to witness the Jhulan Yatra.

Nizamat Imambara

Nizamat Imambara of Murshidabad is the largest imambara in India. It is a Shia Muslim congregation hall in Murshidabad. Nizamat Imambara was built in 1847 AD by Nawab Nazim Mansur Ali Khan after the old imambara was destroyed by the fire. The rich Islamic architecturing style of Nizamat Imambara has captivated the mind of many travelers.

Jahan Kosha Cannon

Murshidabad is known for its rich cultural heritage and Jahan Kosha Cannon is one of the most prominent sites. Jahan Kosha Cannon also known as the Great Gun is placed in the Topekhana of Murshidabad. Topekhana used to be the Nawab's Artillery Park. Jahan Kosha Cannon was built in 1637 AD by a craftsman of Dhaka under the instructions of Daroga Shree Mohammad. The name Jahan Kosha in native language means the Destroyer of the World. Maintained by the Archeological Survey of India, Jahan Kosha Cannon till date is the symbol of power in Murshidabad.

Jalangi River

The river bank of Jalangi has become a perfect picnicking spot in Murshidabad. Jalangi River is a stem of sacred river Ganga. The serene ambiance and pictorial view has made Jalangi River a must visit destination of Murshidabad.

Best time to visit Murshidabad

The best time to explore the ancient destinations of Murshidabad is from October to December and February to March.