Mandarmani Beach - It Is A Popular Honeymoon Destination For Luxury Resorts

MANDARMANI BEACH

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KOLKATTA

Source: kolkatta

Mandarmani is a beach resort in Purba Medinipur district of South Bengal , one of the southern districts of West Bengal . It is almost 180km from Kolkata Airport on the Kolkata - Digha route and just 14km from Chaulkhola .Mandarmani is one of Bengal’s recently developed tourist destination that lies close to ever-popular Digha and Shankarpur. With sun and surf, pristine sea beach and untrammeled silt coloured sand, this beach is slowly becoming popular among the tourists.

Mandarmani Beach is a home to luxury resorts and villas that offer privacy to the lovers. Being recently commercialized the beach is famous for water sports. With the clear blue water of the Bay of Bengal and the dazzling sunsets, the beach makes you fall in love all over again.

Mandarmani boasts of a 13 km long motorable beach, probably the longest motorable beach road in India. On the beach you will undoubtedly get the chance to feel the divinity and tranquility. If that is not enough to please your senses, then try to loll on the sand and listen to the waves crashing upon the shore, which will surely drive away your bustling pressure.Relax, swim and enjoy the beach. You are not likely to have many visitors around and that's the beauty of this beach. Activities include table tennis, carrom, beach cricket, beach volleyball, and boat cruises.

Pack your bag with light cotton clothes to avoid the summer heat; 

Don’t miss out to carry sunscreen lotion, as it will help you to minimise the risks of excessive tanning; Before you set out for a drive on the motorable beach, gather information on high tides, because during high tides the water might reach up to the beach level, which can be dangerous.

Mandarmani is best reached by road. The nearest train station is at Contai and the nearest airport is at Kolkata. The road route from Kolkata is: Esplanade - 63km - Kolaghat - 3km - Mecheda - 80km - Contai - 12.3km - Chawalkhola - 4km - Kalindi - 4km - Dadan Patra Bar - 6km -Mandarmoni -Total 163km

From Kolkata, catch a bus at Esplanade or at Howrah headed for Chawalkhola. You can avail any bus service headed towards Digha. State Transport Buses are available , fare is as cheap as 76 INR per head. A number of Deluxe coaches run daily having fares between 100 to 110 INR. Whiteliners in Kolkata - Digha route (Rs 160/- per head) from Esplanade starts at 7.30 am

As you travel from Kolkata, after crossing the VidyaSagar Setu take the Kona Express Way. After driving a while turn left to get the Mumbai Road. Drive till you reach Kolaghat. From here take left for the Digha Route. 2km before reaching Contai Town you get Contai By-Pass road. This road is around 3km long and would give you relief from the crowded city drive. It is a short-cut and again falls onto the Kolkata-Digha road. You drive another 10 km to reach Chawalkhola. If you come by bus get down at Chawalkhola and you can hire private vehicles from here to take you to your destination.

Katra Mosque - It Is Famous For Film Shooting Of Bengali Cinemas

KATRA MOSQUE

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MURSHIDABAD

Katra Mosque is located 3km to the east of Murshidabad; a historical city located some 200 kms from the capital city of Kolkata. The mosque was built by Nawab Murshid Quli Khan between the years 1723 and 1724 and was an important centre for Islamic learning. The mosque was almost completely destroyed in the earthquake of 1897. 

The word ‘Katra’ means a market and the name was given to the mosque owing to the fact that the place had a large market around the mosque during that time. It is believed that the Katra Mosque was built as a copy of Kartalab Khan's mosque located in Dhaka, built in 1700-1704 AD. The mosque is also the final resting place of Nawab Murshid Quli Khan who lies buried in a tomb under the 14 flight of steps leading to the courtyard. 

The main gate leads to a giant courtyard which was used for reading the Namaz and could hold up to 2000 Namaz readers. Beyond the courtyard is the main mosque. The mosque had a big central dome surrounded by two domes on each side. The central dome and its adjacent ones fell during the earthquake leaving the place in ruins but even then the space under the fallen domes was used as Madarsas (Islamic centres for learning). Each of the domes had three Mihrabs that are semi-circular niches in the wall pointing towards the Kabba in Mecca. 

The Mosque was built on a square plinth and is surrounded by a row of double storied domed cells which could accommodate 700 Quran readers at any given time. The Mosque when built had 4 octagonal minarets 70 feet in height with winding steps leading to the top but two were destroyed in the earthquake. The minarets have small loopholes which were used for musketry against any approaching danger. Even though destroyed, they still have glimpses of magnificence that were once associated with them. 

The mosque has two Persian inscriptions; one above the central mihrab and another over the central entrance in the eastern façade with the former praising Prophet Muhammad and the latter revealing the date of construction as 1137 AH (1724-25 AD).

Rishop Hill Station - It Has A Great View Of Snow Capped Himalayan Mountain Rage

RISHOP HILL STATION

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DARZELLING

Rishop is a tourist village in the Lava – Lolegaon Circuit in Kalimpong sub-division. This used to be an inaccessible village with few households and step farming dependent on monsoon rain till tourists discovered this hidden treasure of Eastern Himalaya.

The main attraction of staying at Rishop is the serene environment and great views of snow capped Himalayan mountain range from here. The surrounding destinations of Lava, Lolegaon, Pedong, Rishi, Aritar are all within close distance and can be visited as part of a day sightseeing tour.

During the initial days, one had to trek about 5 kms from Lava to reach here. Today you can drive to Rishop (9 kms) through a motorable road from Lava. The village is full of small resorts that offer basic rooms and amenities.

Tiffindara View point – Less than 2 kms from your hotel is the hilltop of Tiffindara. The sunrise view from the hill top is a major attraction. Parts of Nathula and Jelepla that connects India with Tibet are visible from here. On a clear day you can see Kanchenjunga range of snow capped mountains in its full glory from here.

Lava – The famous tourist destination of Lava is just 9 kms away. There is a trek route through which the distance is just 5 kms. You can visit the Lava Jamgyong Kongtrul Monastery.

Kolakham – A relatively new destination, this is the hill station just across the hill from Rishop. The aerial distance could hardly be 3 kms but the road from Rishop to Kolakham travel through Lava and the total distance is about 21 kms. The village is adjacent to Neora Valley National Park and the famous Changey falls is about 5 kms further from Kolakham.

Lolegaon – About 34 kms from Rishop, Lolegaon is a picturesque village that can be visited on a day tour from here. You can visit the forest guest house or take a walk amongst the heritage forest with its Canopy walk. There is another sunrise point in Lolegaon known as Jhandidara.

Pedong – 23 Kms from Rishop, Pedong can be part of your day tour itinerary. Here you can take part in adventure activity such as rock climbing, mountain biking and archery. You may drive further downhill to the Bengal Sikkim boarder at Rishi and spend some time besides Rishikhola, a small stream that acts as a boundary between Bengal and Sikkim.

By Air

Nearest airport is Bagdogra. It is a domestic airport under Indian Army. All major air services are available from all over India. Distance between Bagdogra and Siliguri is 13 km. You can find out various vehicles from Siliguri to Rishyap.

By Train

Nearest railway station to Rishyap / Rishop is New Jalpaiguri. After you arrive at New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri, you should follow the road journey to reach at Rishyap / Rishop. New Mal Jn. Station is the nearest, though availability of vehicle is not that proper like NJP or Siliguri.

By Bus

National Highway No.31 between Siliguri and Guwahati passes over Chalsa. From Chalsa to Rishyap / Rishop via Lava have district road. Journey time from Siliguri to Rishyap / Rishop is about 3 hours.

Belur Math - It Is The Hub Of A Worldwide Spiritual Movement

BELUR  MATH

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HOWRAH

Belur Math, sprawling over forty acres of land on the western bank of the Hooghly (Ganga), in Howrah district, an hour’s drive from Kolkata, is a place of pilgrimage for people from all over the world professing different religious faiths.  Even people not interested in religion come here for the peace it exudes

It was at Belur Math that Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902), the foremost disciple of Sri Ramakrishna (1836-1886), lived the last years of his brief life.He consecrated the grounds in 1898 by worshipping the urn containing the sacred relics of Sri Ramakrishna, which he himself carried on his shoulders to the place of worship.  

On that occasion he uttered these prophetic words about Belur Math: “The blazing light of universal harmony that will emanate from here will flood the whole world.”  On another occasion he said that “the power that will have its rise from here [Belur Math] will flood the whole world and turn the course of men's lives into different channels; from this place will spring forth ideals which will be the harmony of Knowledge, Devotion, Yoga, and Work ... all true seekers of spirituality will in course of time assemble here.”  True to that prophecy, Belur Math has become the hub of a worldwide spiritual movement known as the Ramakrishna Movement.

The serene campus of Belur Math on the Ganga includes temples dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda, in which their relics are enshrined, and the main monastery of the Ramakrishna Order.  The place has been sanctified by the stay of Swami Vivekananda and most of the monastic disciples of Sri Ramakrishna who spent several years here.  Holy Mother Sri Sarada Devi also visited this place on several occasions.  

The room in which Swamiji attained Mahasamadhi has been preserved here.  The headquarters of the worldwide twin organizations known as Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission are also situated here.  An added attraction is the Museum which contains articles connected with the history of Ramakrishna Math and Mission.  

The green lawns and lush growth of trees and bushes everywhere add to the serenity and beauty of the place.  All this has contributed to an elevating spiritual ambience that has made Belur Math an important place of pilgrimage for people all over the world.  A degree college, a polytechnic, and several other educational institutions of the Ramakrishna Mission are situated in the vast campus adjacent to Belur Math.

VISITING  HOURS OF BELUR MATH
April to September	6.00 to 11.30 a.m.1
	4.00 to 7.00 p.m.2
October to March	6.30 to 11.30 a.m.1
	3.30 to 6.00 p.m.2

HOW TO REACH BELUR MATH

Source:belurmath.org

Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary - Elephant Safari Is The Highlight Of Day-Tripper

JALDAPARA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 

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WEST BENGAL

Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary is located at the Eastern Himalayan foothills in Alipurduar sub-division of Jalpaiguri district in the state of West Bengal.  It covers an extensive area of 216 square kilometers and is a maze of grasslands, perennial streams, woods, extensive belts of tall grass and sandy river banks.

Jaldapara received the “wildlife sanctuary” status in the British Era in 1941 when its area was 141 sq. km. Situated beside Hollong River, Jaldapara is now spread over in an area of 216.51 sq. km and with a Rhino population of more than 160.  Other important species includes Bisons, Deers, Leopards and numerous birds including the famous Great Hornbill.

The beauty of the forest lies in the fact that it is home to an amazingly wide variety of flora and fauna with some endangered species. The one horned rhinoceros in particular is the most famed one inhabiting the forest. Jaldapara was declared to be a wildlife sanctuary in 1914 to preserve the diverse flora and fauna of this land. Rivers Torsha, Malangi, Kalijhora, Sissmara and Chirakhawa have created banks along which the wildlife sustains itself.

aldapara Wildlife Sanctuary is most famous for Asiatic one horned rhinos and you will spot many while you explore the forest on elephant back. Other animals found here include barking deer, tigers, elephants, sambhar, wild boars, bisons and hog deer. This place is a bird watcher’s paradise since it offers the greatest variety of birds in Bengal. Birds like Hornbill, Racket-Tailed Drongo and Asian Paradise Fycatcher, Green Pigeons, Doves, Bee-eaters, Rollers, Hoopoe, Shrikes, Bengal Florican, Black partridge, Shaheen Falcon, Great Pied Hornbills, Forest Eagle Owl, Large Green billed Malkoha and White Rumped Vulture are spotted here.

Jaldapara is known for its Rhino population. There are only a few areas where this elusive beauty can be found. Apart from Kaziranga and Pobitara in Assam, Jaldapara in West Bengal is being the safe home for this wonderful species since long. The grass wetland, ideal for Rhino's provides them natural habitat for their strong survival.More than 240 species of birds are found in variety of habitat- Grassland, water bodies, woodland.

Very close from the Jaldapara National Park- The Holiday Home is situated a distance of around 2.5 km from the Main gate of the National Park. Centrally located at Natonal Highway 31 with dual approach from Hasimara and Madarihat. Hasimara Station is just 7 kms and it takes 15 minutes by bus to reach the Holiday Home. Madarihat is around 4 km from the Holiday Home. The hotel is located just beside National Highway 31, so no carrying of your baggages.

By Air

Bagdogra 145kms from Jaldapara is the nearest airport from where tourist can reach Jaldapara by road-route via Siliguri.Bagdogra to Siliguri is 13 km.

By Train

The most important railway station in the North East India is NJP.  The nearest railway station is Madarihat which is only 7 km from the sanctuary. All the mail and express trains stop at Birpara/Hasimara railway stations, both are 20 km. away from the sanctuary.

By Road

Jaldapara is connected by National Highway with Siliguri and can be reached by car within 3hrs.Madarihat is the entry point for the sanctuary. It is located on the NH 31 (Siliguri-Hasimara), 140 km east from Siliguri, 80 km north from Cooch Behar and 50 km west from Alipurduar. North Bengal State Transport Corporation buses, Bhutan Government buses, minibuses are available from Siliguri to Alipurduar via Madarihat. Cars can also be hired at Siliguri.

Nizamat Imambara - It Is Shaped Into Three Large Quadrangles

NIZAMAT IMAMBARA

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MURSHIDABAD

The Nizamat Imambara is a Shia Muslim congregation hall in Murshidabad, India. The present Nizamat Imambara was built in 1847 AD by Nawab Nazim Mansur Ali Khan,. It was built after the old Imambara built by Nawab Siraj ud-Daulah was destroyed by the fires of 1842 and 1846. 

This Imambara is the largest one in India and Bengal.ConstructionOld Nizamat ImambaraThe old Nizamat Imambara was built by Nawab Siraj ud-Daulah in the Nizamat Fort Area. He bought bricks and mortar, and laid the foundation of the building with his own hands. However, the old Imambara was primarily made up of wood. 

The plot where this Imambara had been built was dug to a depth of 6 feet. It was refilled with soil which was brought from Mecca so that the poor members of the Muslim community could have an experience of Hajj.DestructionThe old Imambara which caught fire for the first time in 1842 and was partly destroyed. But it was completely destroyed by a fire on 23 December 1846. 

That day the Nawabs along with the Europeans threw a party to celebrate the weaning ceremony of five-year-old Hassan Ali Mirza. The Imambara caught fire at midnight due to the fireworks left off and was completely burnt down. Nothing survived except the old Madina Mosque.

The original Imambara was wooden and went up in flames initially in 1842 and was ruined in part. Subsequently, it was devastated again once an inferno gutted it entirely on December 23, 1846. On that day, the Nawabs together with the Europeans were rejoicing the weaning rituals of Hassan Ali Mirza who was just five years old at that time by a gathering. During the middle of the night, the Imambara was conflagrated as a result of the firecrackers left over and was fully destroyed. Not a single object could be protected other than the Madina Mosque.

The erstwhile Madina Mosque was left in its position where it remained in the previous Imambara. In addition, a new masjid was built inside the newly built Imambara. You can still view the previous Madina Masjid, situated amid the Hazarduari Palace and the Imambara, close to the Clock Tower and the Bacchawali Tope (cannon- 18 foot in length and 16880 pound. In Bengali “Baccha” means baby.

It was believed that the cannon produced such a deafening sound that pregnant ladies gave birth to their babies when the sound reached their ears—hence the name “Bacchawali Tope—tope is hindi for cannon). The place is popularly called as Madina, its previous name. As a result of this, visitors get puzzled between the new and old one. Check out the Nawabs’ pleasure ground Roshni Bagh as well in Dahapara.

Sadeq Ali Khan was the overseer of the new Imambara which was constructed in 1847 AD. The principal gateway is south facing and lies just opposite to the northern side of the Hazarduari Palace. The craftsmen just required eleven months for completing the building since over and above their remuneration, they got food as well which enabled them to labor round-the-clock.

The length of the current Imambara is 680 feet. Nonetheless, the widths differ. The middle portion which houses the Madina has a length of 300 feet. The section was constructed marginally few feet away from the location of the earlier edifice to the north. The Imambara lies on the riverbanks of the Bhagirathi. The difference between the coasts of the river and the western fence of the shrine is just 2-3 feet.

By Air

The nearest airport is NSC Bose Airport, Kolkata. Murshidabad is around 182 km from Kolkata.

By Train

Berhampur Court is the nearest station and is well connected to Kolkata. It takes around 6 hours from Kolkata to Berhampur via rail route.

By Bus

Berhampur and Kolkata are very well-connected to the rest of India via the country’s road network. Buses ply frequently from Kolkata to Murshidabad and Berhampur.

Sundarbans Mangroove - It Lies At The Mouth Of The Ganga

SUNDARBANS MANGROOVE

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WEST BENGAL

Sundarbans means "beautiful forests," but the region may also have been named after the large number of Sundari trees that grow there in the salty coastal waters.The Sunderbans are a part of the world's largest delta, formed by the mighty rivers Ganga, Brahmaputra and Meghna. Situated on the lower end of Gangetic West Bengal, the Sunderbans is criss-crossed by hundreds of creeks and tributaries.

 It is one of the most attractive and alluring places remaining on earth, a truly undiscovered paradise. The Sunderbans is the largest single block of tidal, halophytic mangrove forests in the world. The name can be literally translated as beautiful jungle. The name may have been derived from the Sundari trees that are found in the Sunderbans. The Sunderbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is spans a vast area covering 4.264 sq. km in India alone. It is the largest Tiger Reserve and National Park in India.

The Sunderbans forest is home to more than 250 tigers. The Royal Bengal Tigers have adapted themselves very well to the saline and aqua environs and are extremely good swimmers.  As you enter the adventurous wild land of the Sunderbans, you will be thrilled to see the chital deer and rhesus monkey. 

The aqua fauna of Sunderbans include a variety of fish, red fiddler crabs, and hermit crabs. There are crocodiles, which can be often seen along the mud banks.  Sunderbans National Park is also noted for its conservation of the Ridley Sea Turtle. An incredible variety of reptiles is also found in Sunderbans – these include king cobra, the rock python and the water monitor. The endangered river terrapin, Batagur baska, is found on the Mechua Beach, while barking deer are found only on  Haliday Island in the Sunderbans.

Tiger (Panthera tigris), Saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus), Water monitors (Varanus salvator), Rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta), and Jackal (Canis aureus) are among the many wingless inhabitants found in this ecoregion.Bird species include little Cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger), Open-bill stork (Anastomus oscitans), Common pochard (Aythya ferina), White stork (Ciconia ciconia), and Common redshank (Tringa totanus).

Giant honeybee (Apis dorsata) is another native to this area. Although they once roamed here, today the Javan rhinoceros (Rhinoceros sondaicus) and the Wild buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) have been extirpated.

The Sunderbans is only accessible by waterways. The nearest railhead is Port Canning, from where organized group trips start. There are several other entry points, but Port Canning is most popular.

The other route is through Basanti that is connected by bus service to Kolkata. From here, one can take boats to Sajnekhali. One can also come via Port Canning and Gosaba or from Sonakhali to Sajnekhali. From Kolkata, there are Sunderban trains to Canning and buses to Namkhana, Raidighi, Sonakhali, and Najat, from where motor launch services are available for Sunderbans.

Mirik Hill Station - It Has Rejuvenating Effect

MIRIK

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DARJEELING

Mirik, the hill resort lies in the West Bengal state of India. It is situated fifty-two km away from Siliguri and 55 kms from the nearest Airfield of Bagdogra. It stands at an altitude of 1,768m in the Eastern Himalayas. Mirik is wrapped in the forested hills of the Himalayas. Mirik is surrounded by tea estates, orange orchards and cardamom plantations.

The natural beauty of this beautiful hill resort has a rejuvenating effect on the tired urban soul. All the wild flowers, enchanting lakes and flourishing forests of Cryptomaria Japanica trees make Mirik a paradise on earth, and the Kachunjanga as a backdrop adds immense beauty to the whole scenery.

The most prominent of tourist spots in Mirik is the Sumendu Lake. It is a man made lake enveloped in a forested ridge, and surrounding it is a flower garden and there is also a floating fountain in its center. Though not for swimming, Sumendu is considered ideal for boating and Fishing.

The temple of Singha Devi or the Devi Sthan is on the west bank of the river and you have to take the bridge over the lake to get there, not only is it frequented by the pious but also the nature lovers. Other temples dedicated to Hanuman, Shiva and Kali Mata can also be visited there. Bokar Gompa is another place of religious importance.

A holiday package usually also includes a tour to the Rameetay Dara, which is ideal for watching the spectacular sunset and the sunrise. Deosi Dara is yet another vantage point in Mirik. One can also take a tour to Rai Dhap, which has a small lake that is the source of potable water in Mirik and is also an ideal picnic spot.

The hill station of Mirik is also quite famous for its oranges, you can move through orange orchards either on foot or hired ponies. One can also take a tour to the cardamom and tea plantations, which add even more to the beauty of the hill resort. The tea plantations can also be visited and many conducted tours to the factories are organized from time to time.

A viewpoint from where one can get a sweeping view of the plains and the mountains. Sunrise and sunset seen from this point are memorble sights.

Sumendu Lake at Mirik is a man made lake which attracts tourists in Mirik. The Sumendu Lake is wrapped in forested ridge and a flower garden and has a floating fountain in its center. The Sumendu Lake is ideal for activities like boating and fishing.

There are eight tea gardens in Mirik area. Thurbo T.E., one of the best tea-estates, is only 2 kms from the lake. The factory may be visited with the permission.

 It is a era point in Mirik that must be visited to catch some vistas of the plains, hills and peaks in and around Mirik. 

By Air

The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, 55 km from Mirik. 

By Rail 

Nearest major stations are New Jalpaiguri .

By Road

Excellent road network links Mirik with places like Bagdogra, Siliguri, Darjeeling and Kurseong.

Nalban Boating Complex - Escape From Mechanical Life

Nalban Boating Complex - Escape From Mechanical Life

Nalban Boating Compled Kolkatta often find mention in the wish list of tourists and visitors looking for more fun and adventure in the city. It is one of the  finest spot to spend some quality time with your near and dear ones. Located in the heart of Salt Lake City, it is only twelev kilometers away from central kolkata. Taxi is a must preferred mode of transportation to this place. you can also take a bus or auto ricksaw from the Salt Lake Entrance to reach the destination.

Among plentiful tourist destinations in the city, Nalban Boating Complex is a must visit place. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life,The unique thing about this boating complex is the lake that measures nearly 400 acres in surface area. Emerald green waters, surrounding plantations, calmness and the seclusion coalesce to make this place utterly romantic! 

Plan a picinic with your friends and family to this beautiful site and try out different types of boating experience with assortment of boats like: Paddle boats, Deluxe Sikara, Rowing boats, Hovercraft, etc.

If you are exploring Nalban Boating Complex, dont miss to dine at Nalban Food Park, where  you can find exclusive variety of genuine Bengal food prepared using natural ingredient. Today for the admirers of Bengal foods the eatery has emerged as perfect venue.From Fast Foods to Chinese, Mughlai everything is available to satiate your hunger. Beverages include long list of soft drinks. you can ask people or can check your local directory or can search online to enjoy a lovely dining experience. you can also expect a lot of fish and chicken dishes.

Both locals and tourists from places near and far visit this place to enjoy picnics. Although there are many things to do here, the most popular of all activities is boating. Paddle boats, shikaras, hovercrafts or rowing boats – choose what you like most among these and set off for a joyful ride across the waters. Feel the cool breeze of the lake kissing your skin and get mesmerised! 

At Nalban Boating Complex, there is a well-decorated food joint where you can step in to relish mouth-watering Indian and international delicacies, in addition to a wide variety of refreshing beverages. The complex also serves as an ideal place for events like private parties, marriages and anniversaries.

Opening Closing Time

09:00 am – 08:30 pm on weekdays

09:00 am – 09:00 pm on weekends

Photo Opp

The expansive water body and the surrounding greenery serve as an ideal backdrop for amazing photographs. Whether you are clicking while boating or simply posing on the lakeside – every photo clicked here is bound to be perfect.

For Kids

Nalban Boating Complex is no doubt, an enthralling place for kids. Here, they can indulge in boating, savouring mouth-watering delicacies at the on-site food joint and picnicking.

Rabindranath Tagore Place - A Visit To This Place Is A Must

Rabindranath Tagore Place - A Visit To This Place Is A Must

The birthplace of Rabindranath Tagore - the renowned Indian poet and first non-European Nobel laureate, Tagore House is quite an interesting place to visit. Sprawling in an area of 35,000 sq-m, this house today serves as a museum where many items related to the life and works of Rabindranath Tagore are well-preserved. Maharishi Bhavan and Rabindra Bharati University are other buildings located within the premises of the complex. Also known as Jorasanko Thakur Bari, Tagore House was built in 1785 by Prince Dwarkanath Tagore, the grandfather of Rabindranath Tagore. 

Named 'Rabindra Bharati Museum', the museum is the highlight of Tagore House. It features three large galleries that are dedicated to Tagore, his family members and the Bengal Renaissance. From intimate family photographs to life sized portraits, old musical records and Tagore's evolution as a philosopher and poet, the objects on display are unique and legendary. A collection of 2071 books, 3297 photographs, 770 journals, 208 personalia, 53 pieces of furniture, 16 paintings, and 27 crafts and sculptures are the proud possessions of the museum.

On your visit, do not miss to attend the delightful light and sound show that is organised in the museum. The show depicts the story of Tagore family's in Jorasanko Thakur Bari, followed by their significant role in the Bengal renaissance and the inspiring life of the Great Bard. The birthday of Rabindranath Tagore (25th Baishakh), the date of his demise (22nd Sravana) and Poila Baishakh are the dates when ceremonies are held at the museum.

Opening Closing Time
10:00 am – 05:00 pm

For Kids
To learn about the inspirational story of Rabindranath Tagore, a visit to this place is a must. The collection of books, paintings, journals and sculptures will deeply enlighten children about the glorious life of the poet.

Entrance Fee
Rs. 10 per Person
Rs. 5 for Students

Parshwanath Jain Temple – A Unique Feature Of This Temple Is That A Lamp Burns With Ghee For Ever

PARSHWANATH JAIN TEMPLE

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KOLKATTA

Parshwanath Temple is one of the major places of religious importance in Kolkata and it is popularly called as Calcutta Jain Temple. Featuring four temples within the complex, this place of worship is dedicated to the 23rd Jain Tirthankar- Pareshwanath.

The four temples found here are Shitalnath Ji Temple (Main Deity- Shitalnath), Chandraprabhu Ji Temple (Main Deity- Chandraprabhuswami), Mahavir Swami Temple (Main Deity- Sri Mahavir Swami) and Dadawadi (Footprints of Jain Acharya Jin Dutt Kushal Suri).

In Shitalnath Ji Temple, the diamond-studded forehead of Lord Shitalnath and the lamp, which has been continually burning ever since the establishment of the temple in 1867, are stupefying sights.

The temple shows off truly impressive architecture features. The exteriors, which are characterised by mirror-inlaid pillars and stained glass windows, are bound to amaze you.

The presence of intricately designed fountains, a small clearwater stream, a well-maintained reservoir with colourful fish dwelling in it and an incredible variety of flower plants in the surroundings greatly accentuates the beauty of the temple.

Inside the premises of the Pareshnath Jain Temple, there is a small brook covering the entire area surrounded by flowerbeds. There is also a garden inside the temple that is designed with glass mosaic blocks and exquisite statues.

To reach the veranda of this temple, one has to only climb 13 marble stairs. A museum and a comfortable greeting room welcome the visitors in this temple. The entire structure consists of pillars that are decked with mirrors and stained glass windows.

An interesting feature of this temple is that it houses a lamp that burns with ghee and has never been extinguished. What may come, this lamp continues to burn.Paintings of renowned painter Ganesh Muskare grace the walls and large chandeliers make the interiors dazzle.

Opening Closing Time

06:00 am – 11:00 am

03:00 pm – 07:00 pm

Jiban Krishna Ghosh Rd, Saktinagar, Tala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700037

Kalighat Kali Temple - Originally It Was A Small Hut Beyond Era

KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE

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KOLKATTA

Located in one of Kolkata’s oldest neighborhoods, Kalighat is a renowned center of goddess worship and place of pilgrimage, where devotees have come for centuries to surrender themselves at the feet (literally) of the Divine Mother. 

Local folklore relates that Kalighat, once a jungle region, was inhabited by head-hunting tribal people and Kapaliks (“skull-bearers”) who worshipped the dark goddess with human sacrifice.

Mythologically, such references to “tribal people” and outcasts are often employed to assert Kali’s position as a marginal goddess who exists outside of the societal fold. 

Although the origins of this shakti pith are obscured in myth, allusions to an important Kali temple in this area date from the middle of the 12th century and it cannot be argued that this place has a direct association with Kali from ancient times (Roy 16).

The original temple was a small hut. A small temple was constructed by King Manasingha in the early Sixteenth century. The present temple was erected under the patronage of the Sabarna Roy Chowdhury family of Banisha. It was completed in 1809. 

The Haldar family claims to be the original owners of the temple property. But this was disputed by the Chowdhrys of Banisha. In the nineteen sixties a committee was formed for the administrative management of the temple with representation from the Government and the Haldar family.

The Government of West Bengal has taken a lot of interest in improving the temple which is also one of the biggest tourist attractions. They have sanctioned funds for improving the temple. 

An office cum guest accommodation was constructed at a huge cost some years back. The building is now being run by the Tourism Development corporation as a guest house. Accommodation is available for pilgrims here

The temple is crowded on Tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays. It is less crowded early in the morning before 8.A.M. If you can, plan your trip for a Wednesday early morning. Make your visit to the temple a worthwhile and pleasant experience.

A Jolly Outing With Kids By Toy Train In Darjeeling

Toy Train Joyride -

 Darjeeling to Ghum & Back

Toy train joy rides operate from Darjeeling Railway Station. It's a 2-hour round trip from Darjeeling up to Ghum and back covering a total distance of 14kms. There are four such round trips in a day, two in the morning half and two in the afternoon. The train stops for 10 minutes at the Batasia Loop. At Batasia the train makes a loop around a wonderful manicured garden. The view of Darjeeling town and the snow peaks of Kanchenjunga from here are unparalleled. The War Memorial built in honor of the Gorkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives is located at the center of the Garden.

Ghum is the highest altitude station on the Darjeeling Himalayan Rail track. Altitude of Ghum is 2225.7 meters (7407 ft). Here the toy train stops for 30 minutes for a visit to Darjeeling Himalayan Railway museum. The DHR Museum is located at the station premises. The highlight here is the oldest toy train engine - The Baby Sivok. The entree fee to the museum is included in the ticket price. DHR sends by post a certificate validating your ride on the toy train so that you can cherish the memories of your ride.

Toy Train Joyride Schedule

Train No.: 52546, Departs: 8am, Returns: 10am, Diesel Engine

Train No.: 52548, Departs: 10:40am, Returns: 12:40pm, Steam Engine

Train No.: 52549, Departs: 13:20pm, Returns: 15:20pm, Steam Engine

Train No.: 52547, Departs: 16:05pm, Returns: 18:05pm, Steam Engine

Update September 2016: Effective 10th September 2016, 3 additional steam engine hauled toy trains are being introduced for joy rides (mostly targeting the high season of Puja). The timings are 8:00 (diesel), 10:30 (steam), 10:40 (steam), 11:00 (diesel), 13:10 (steam), 13:20 (steam), 13:30 (diesel), 16:05 (steam), 16:10 (steam). 

There are usually two first class coaches provided in a steam engine train, while three first class coaches in diesel engine joyride toy train.

TIP: Note that during high season, there is a lot of rush for this ride and you should try to book well in advance. Don't plan to buy the joyride tickets after you reach Darjeeling because you may not get them. Just in case you don't get the joyride tickets, an alternative plan is to buy a ticket on the regular morning toy train operating between Darjeeling and Kurseong, which too goes via Batasia and Ghum. Get off at Ghum and take a shared jeep back to Darjeeling... almost similar experience as the joy ride. However this is a diesel engine hauled train and not steam engine. You can buy tickets online through Indian railway site irctc.co.in.

Toy Train Joyride Fare (Updated September 2016: Fares effective 18th February, 2015)

Diesel Engine Rides: Rs. 630/-. All first class seats.

Steam Engine Rides: Rs. 1,415/-. All first class seats.

NOTE: 

1) Above are round trip fares Darjeeling-Ghum-Darjeeling. 

2) No concession in Darjeeling Toy Train Joy Rides to Children of age 5 or above, neither to senior citizens. No tickets required for children below 5 years. 

3) The first train in the morning at 8am is the diesel engine hauled train while the rest are steam engine trains. The fares of Steam Engine puled trains are higher because they represent the original heritage trains and their maintenance cost is also higher. Fares include admission to the DHR Ghum Museum.

Source: Darjeeling tourism

Hazarduari Palace - It Is Placed On The East Reservoir Of Bhagirathi River

HAZARDUARI PALACE

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MURSHIDABAD

Hazarduari Palace is situated in the Murshidabad district of west Bengal State of India,and the palace with a thousand doors, is the chief tourist attraction of Murshidabad. Built in 1837 by Duncan McLeod for the Nawab Najim Humaun Jah, a descendant of Mir Zafar, it has a thousand doors (Only 900 are real) and 114 rooms and 8 galleries.

It is now a museum and has an exquisite collection of armour, aplendid paintings, exhaustive portraits of the Nawabs, works of art that include beautiful works of ivory from China and many other valuables.

The enclosure where the palace is situated is known as Kila Nizamat or Nizamat Kila. The campus except this palace, has in addition the Nizamat Imambara, Wasif Manzil, the Bachhawali Tope, Murshidabad Clock Tower, three mosques out of which one is the Madina Mosque, and the Nawab Bahadur's Institution. Other buildings include residential quarters.

It is situated on the east bank of the Bhagirathi River, which flows just beside it. The palace is rectangular in plan (130 meters long and 61 meters broad) and is a good example of Indo-European architecture. The front facade of the palace, which has the grand staircase, faces north. This staircase is perhaps the biggest one in India.

The Indo-European architecture of the palace and the royal staircase add to the grandeur of the palace. River Bhagirathi flows besides the palace and the view looks stunning in the evening when the palace is beautifully illuminated.

The main palace along with other structures including Nizamat Imambara, Murshidabad Clock Tower, Madina Mosque, Chawk Masjid, Zarud Mosques are enclosed in the Kila Nizamat.

It includes portraits of nawabs, pieces of ivory, Swords used by Shiraj-ud-Daulla and his grandfather, Nawab Alivardi Khan and even some vintage cars used by various nawabs and their families.

If you plan to go to Murshidabad, then allotting an entire day to visit the palace will save you much time as the vicinity has much more to offer, in addition to the palace

By Air

The nearest airport is NSC Bose Airport, Kolkata. Murshidabad is around 182 km from Kolkata.

By Train

Berhampur Court is the nearest station and is well connected to Kolkata. It takes around 6 hours from Kolkata to Berhampur via rail route.

By Bus

Berhampur and Kolkata are very well-connected to the rest of India via the country’s road network. Buses ply frequently from Kolkata to Murshidabad and Berhampur.

Fort William - It Is Now Owned By Indian Army With Ten Thousand Army Personnel Accommodation

FORT WILLIAM

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KOLKATTA

Fort William is a must visit tourist attraction place of Calcutta. Situated at the banks of river Hooghly, it was named after King William III of England. Fort William of Kolkata, India, was established during the tenure of British Raj in 1696. 

It was the guardroom of this two-storied building, where the black hole tragedy took place. During the Plassey war in 1757, Siraj Ud Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal attacked on the fort and defeated the Britishers. This paved way for the construction of a new fort by British. 

The new fort was initiated by Robert Clive, which got completed by 1780. The basic purpose of setting up Calcutta Fort William was to prevent attacks from Muslim invaders. The area that was cleared around the fort became maidan, where several exhibitions and fairs take place. The foundation of the old fort is still intact. Till date, it is a military area and the Arsenal inside it is worth watching, but for that prior permission of the commanding officer is required.

In 1928, St. Peter Church was constructed inside the fort. Today fort, which has been taken over by the Indian Army is well equipped with swimming pool, boxing stadium, firing range and other necessities. 

The Fort also has a provision to accommodate ten thousand interns and has a huge archway, popularly known as “Plassey Gate”. There are six gates which are entry points inside the fort namely Chowringhee, Plassey Calcutta, Water Gate St Georges and the Treasury Gate.Visit Fort William and take a peak into the history of India when it was ruled by the British Empire.

At present, this fort is owned by the Indian Army and has a capacity of accommodating up to 10,000 army personnel. It also serves as the headquarters of the Eastern Command. For the convenience of military personnel who reside at Fort William, many facilities have been provided. These include a swimming pool, shopping mall, cinema hall, laundry, restaurants, outdoor playground and a post office. There is also a 9-hole golf course within the complex.

Today the fort is the property of Indian Army and headquarters of eastern command is based inside the Fort St. William and has a formidable Arsenal inside. Of course to visit the Arsenal, prior permission of the Commanding Officer is required.

Address : Khidirpur Road, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700021, India