Murshidabad is home to various races and religions. It is located on River Bhagirathi banks. The history of the city dates back to pre-historic times. The city was at its height of glory in the past and it was Bengal’s capital in before the British rulers shifted the capital to Kolkata. Given below are the important tourist places in Murshidabad.
Bengal shares to a very large extent in the historical traditions of the northern parts of India. The movements of population which settled the ethnological characteristics of those areas largely affected the province, and it was conspicuously associated with the great religious developments which so profoundly influenced the life history of the people. Generally speaking, the population of Bengal is of Dravidian and Aryan origin, though on the eastern side there are marked Mongoloid elements, pointing to a close association of those tracts with the stream of immigration which settled the character of Burma and the other parts of further India. The Aryan immigration is that which has left its deepest mark upon the life and literature of Bengal.
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.
West Bengal Tourism offers a colorful variety of experiences to the tourist. Its capital, Kolkata, is as cosmopolitan a city as any. In close proximity lie the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger. Coastal areas like Digha and Mandarmani are popular tourism places in this state which attract their fair share of beach lovers. A different travel experience awaits you in places like Bishnupur, Bankura and Shantiniketan, which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the state. Hill stations like Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Labha are exciting getaways from the plains and are known for their distinct culture and lifestyle. Wildlife sanctuaries like Jaldapara and Gorumara draw your attention to its rich wildlife. In pilgrimage destinations like Dakshineswar and Kalighat, you undergo a profound spiritual experience.