9 Historical Places You Must Explore In West Bengal
By: Sandeep Gupta Wed, 25 Dec 2024 06:47:53
West Bengal is an Indian state located between the Himalayas and the Bay of Bengal. Formerly known as Paschim Banga, it ranks fourth in terms of population. The state spans an area of 88,752 square kilometers.
Kolkata, the state capital, is also known as the third-largest metropolis in India. The majority of the population here is Bengali. West Bengal is renowned for its rich history and numerous historical monuments, many of which date back to ancient times.
# Rasmancha
Located in Bishnupur, Rasmancha was built by Malla King Vir Hambir in 1600 CE. This unique brick temple sits on a laterite stone base and has a pyramid shape. Its intricate Terracotta carvings are a significant feature of its design. Bishnupur is famous for its Terracotta, and Rasmancha, located 27 km from the town, attracts numerous visitors due to its stunning architecture.
# Victoria Memorial
The Victoria Memorial in Kolkata is an iconic white palace surrounded by lush gardens, making it a popular tourist attraction. Built in memory of Queen Victoria, it was conceived by Viceroy Lord Curzon and designed by Sir William Emerson. Constructed from White Makrana marble, the memorial houses a museum rich in paintings, coins, maps, and artifacts. The surrounding gardens are a favorite spot for visitors.
# Radhabinode Temple
Known as the Navaratna Temple due to its nine turrets, the Radhabinode Temple is located in Jaydev Kenduli, Bolpur. It is believed to be the birthplace of the poet Jaydev. The temple, renowned for its Terracotta carvings, is an ancient structure. During the Makar Sankranti festival, a popular fair is held here, drawing many visitors.
# Clive’s House
Clive’s House in Dum Dum, Kolkata, is a historical building associated with Robert Clive, a British officer who played a key role in the East India Company’s rise. Though the house is in poor condition today, it is considered a haunted location by some. It is preserved by the West Bengal government as a historical monument and attracts curious tourists.
# Cooch Behar Palace
Also known as the Victor Jubilee Palace, Cooch Behar Palace was constructed by Maharaja Nripendra Narayan in 1887. Inspired by Buckingham Palace, the palace features modern architecture and is a two-story structure made of brick. With a total area of 51,309 square feet, the palace is admired for its simple yet elegant beauty.
# Hazarduari Palace
Located in Murshidabad, Hazarduari Palace was originally called Bara Kothi. Built between 1824-1838 under the orders of Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah, the palace is designed in the Italian architectural style. It is famous for its 1,000 doors, of which only 100 are real, with the remaining 900 being fake. The palace is now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and is a key historical landmark.
# Dakshineshwar Kali Temple
Situated in Kolkata on the banks of the Hooghly River, Dakshineshwar Kali Temple was established in 1855 by Rani Rasmoni. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, the temple complex also houses 12 temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple follows Bengal’s traditional architectural style and attracts a large number of devotees daily.
# Belur Math
Belur Math, located in Howrah, is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. Founded by Swami Vivekananda, a disciple of Ramakrishna Paramhansa, the site features temples and an open-air park with a central water body, offering boat rides in the winter. The temple complex is a peaceful retreat for visitors.
# Jor Bangla Temple
This historical temple in Bishnupur, also known as Char-Chala or Yorubangala, was built by King Raghunath Singha in 1655. The temple's walls are beautifully adorned with Terracotta carvings, making it an exceptional example of architectural artistry from the period.
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