Murshidabad is one of the historical cities of the Indian state of West Bengal; it is also famous for its abundant legacy and expressive role in Indian history. It was the capital of Bengal in the period of Mughal kings and, after that, was the capital of Bengal Subha under the British East Company. Murshidabad is famous for its special structure and architecture involving the Hazarduari Palace, Katra masjid, and Nizamat Imambara glimpses of its splendid past. The Bhagirathi River, which is a tributary of the Ganges River, also flows through the Murshidabad. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the 7 Murshidabad places to visit and add to your itinerary for your Murshidabad trip.
Brief History
A Mughal emperor, Akbar, kept the base of Murshidabad in the 16th century. The historical name of this city was known as Makhsudabad. Later on, when Murshid Quli Khan came into rule, he renamed this city after his name as Murshidabad. A brief history related to numerous communities shows that the city has diverse cultures and religions in which one can easily find the effects of Buddhism, Christianity, Jainism, and Islam.
With the arrival of Europeans in the form of the East India Company, the British and French also included in the constructions and lives of people.
What is Murshidabad famous for?
Murshidabad City is famous for different reasons, such as its historical importance, its architectural view, its cultural inheritance, and the most important reason, the silk industry of Murshidabad.
Murshidabad has a historical history in the Indian state because it was the capital of Bengal, and later on, it had the power to make decisions about Bengal in the British era. There are many palaces, mosques, and other architectural buildings that increase its fame. These famous buildings and landmarks include Hazarduari Palace, Katra mosque, Nizamat Imambara and several others.
The cuisine of Murshidabad is also a factor of fame as some foods are only enjoyed in Murshidabad. Still, many other foods reflect the history and taste of India. So there are many reasons that Murshidabad is a famous city in India.
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Top 7 Murshidabad Places to Visit
One unique fact about Murshidabad is that it served as the backdrop for the infamous Battle of Plassey in 1757, a pivotal moment in Indian history. This battle marked the beginning of British dominance in India and ultimately led to the establishment of British colonial rule. Today, remnants of this significant event can still be explored in Murshidabad, adding layers of historical intrigue to the city’s rich tapestry. Get ready to immerse yourself in the grandeur of bygone eras as we delve into the timeless charm and allure of Murshidabad’s most iconic landmarks.
1. Hazarduari Palace
Hazarduari Palace keeps a special place in the history and cultural heritage of Murshidabad. It is also known as the “Palace of Thousand Doors” because it was made in the 19th century during the period of Nawab Nazim Humayun. A British constructor, Duncan Macleod, designed the Spanish in a mixture of European and Indo-Islamic styles. There is also a museum in Hazarduari Palace that includes different paintings, furniture, holograms and beautiful ornaments.
The gardens around Hazarduari Palace increase its beauty. These gardens present a green location, beautifully organized lawns, and decorated plants that attract visitors. Hazarduari Palace holds vast cultural and historical importance as the seat of the Nawabs of Bengal in the 19th century. It was the palace for the stay of Nawab Nazim and was a decision-maker headquarters for British rulers.
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2. Katra Masjid
There is another place that is worth seeing and important in the history of India, and that is Katra masjid. Muhammad Quli Khan built this architecture in the 18th century. Later on, the tomb of its founder was also designed on its premises. It has a special architecture that includes large courtyards, towering Minars, and three domes. It is also a mixture of Mughal and Bengali styles.
It is situated in the middle of Murshidabad near other historical places; its location in the middle of the city makes it easily accessible for visitors. It is a huge place for the worship of local Muslims, and people also perform their Friday prayers in the mosque. Furthermore, its connection with Nawab Murshid Quli Khan increased its importance in history.
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3. Motijheel Park
There are beautiful scenes around this Motijheel Park that increase its beauty. The building was constructed in the 17th century by Nawab Shaista Khan and accommodated as a private jheel for nawabs of Bengal, especially Nawab Siraj ud-daula.
It has a special historical significance because it was the living area for Nawab Siraj-ud-daula and his wife, Lutf-un-nisa. Their living place was surrounded by greenery and a beautiful garden. The place also presents a mixture of Mughal and Bangal architectural styles. This Motijheel offers a good view for visitors who want to see Murshidabad. Entry Fee Rs. 20/-Per Person.
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4. Jahan Kosha Cannon
Jahan kosha Cannon is also a historical Cannon that is present in the city of India, Murshidabad. That is acknowledged as the “destroyer of the word.” It was assigned to the Nawab Alivardikhan, the ruler of Bengal in the 18th century.
This Cannon is well known for its size and power, which is 17.5 feet in length and 7 tons in weight. This Cannon has a historical place in the Indian military and also in the world because it was the only one in the world by its size at the time. Today, this Cannon presents the military position and power of the Indian military and also shows the historical view.
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5. Kathgola Palace
Kathgola Palace is situated in India and presents the history of Mughal and Bengali architecture. The palace is the tale of the richness and power of the Jagat Seth family, who had a special place in society during the Mughal period.
In the 18th century, it was constructed and was famous for its mixture of European and Mughal styles. The gardens around the palace captured the eyes of tourists and increased the attraction of visitors to this palace.
This palace is well known due to its association with the Jagat Seth family. He was a wealthy person and financially supported the East India Company. Kathgola Palace presented the rich position of the Jagat Seth family and its contribution to the Battle of Plassey.
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6. Khushbagh
Khushbagh is also a historical garden that is located in Murshidabad. This garden is important due to its historical and natural significance in India. The area is also known as the “Garden of Happiness” in India because its beautiful scenery and surroundings give happiness to visitors.
Khushbagh is a place for the burial of different nawabs, including Nawab Alvardi Khan, Nawab siraj-ud-daula and their families also. From this historical significance and natural beauty, this Khushbag attracts visitors.
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7. Nasipur Palace
Nasipur Palace is also an important place in Murshidabad, and it also attracts visitors. This palace is important due to its historical significance.
Primarily, it was built for the nawabs of Bengal, and this presents a mixture of European, Bengali, and Mughal architectural styles. There are also museums in this palace that take the visitors to glimpses of art and history.
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Is Murshidabad worth visiting?
Yes, there is no doubt that Murshidabad is a beautiful and historical city that is worth seeing. So, this guide can make the visit to Murshidabad easy for visitors. Visitors can explore the beauty and history of India by visiting Murshidabad.
Whether you just want to explore the natural beauty or you want to explore the historic rulers’ backside stories like their living places, the way they live, their hobbies, and many more, the city furnishes you with amazing information and views.
How many days to visit Murshidabad?
It’s up to the visitor how many days they can stay to visit Murshidabad, but at least 2-3 days are needed to visit and explore the history of Murshidabad. These days are enough to explore the most popular tourist spots and to explore the history of the region.
Again, check your preferences for what you exactly want to explore and do some research before planning a visit. It will save you time and money as well. Choose the best accommodation option according to your budget, and if you don’t know anything about the city, you can hire a paid guide as well to be safe from any inconvenience.
What to buy in Murshidabad?
There are some important items of Murshidabad that we must buy if we visit the city: silk sarees, Ivory crafts, books of literature and history, local handicrafts, and mangoes. Silk sarees are famous and well-known for their unique designs and brilliant colors, and their prices are also very high in India.
You can also enjoy local cuisines and can also pack some of them for your family and friends. Along with that, you can buy some local dresses for your loved ones as gifts for a memorable trip, as they look pretty and elegant.
Final Analysis
This is all about 7 Murshidabad places to visit this summer. Visitors should follow some tips and guidelines during their visit to Murshidabad. They must choose the winter season to visit Murshidabad from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Visitors can easily take any transportation from the city to move away from one place to another because this city has a good transportation system.
The local foods such as mutton chaap bapa bitha and Murshidabad biryani are must try because it has some delicious tastes that take away from the historical significance. When tourists visit Murshidabad, they must take precautions to avoid going to isolated places and keep in contact with their relatives. This guide will help the tourists during their visit to Murshidabad. For more useful insights about tourist attractions, join Salam Travellers today.
