Best Places to Visit in Purba Bardhaman – History, Nature & Culture

1.  Lord Curzon Gate

Rising at the junction of GT road and BC road, in Bardhaman Lord Curzon Gate, also known as Bijoy Toron stands as a majestic monument of Bardhaman’s royal past and colonial encounters. This famous gate, which has more than a century of history written on its arches was not just an architectural masterpiece, it was the symbol of royalty of Bardhaman.

A Gate with two names and a great history

The gate was ordered in 1903 by Maharaja Bijoy Chand Mahatab, the reigning ruler of Bardhaman Raj, to be used in celebrating his coronation. Being intended to impress and inspire, this grand building was not overlooked for a long time by colonial powers.

In 1904, as Lord Curzon, Viceroy of India visited, the gate got its popular name: Curzon Gate.

After India’s independence, the gate deserves a name of “Bijoy Toron”, which marks a proper homage to Maharaja Bijoy Chand and the restoration of indigenous status.

2.  Sarbamangala Temple

Nestled in D.N. Sarkar Road in Burdwan, the Sarbamangala Temple is a darling for divine grace, richness in history, and architectural brilliance. Loved by devotees and appreciated by historians, this ancient temple is one of the spiritual honors of Bengal combining sacred spirit with royal support.

The Sarbamangala Temple was ordered by Maharaja Kirtichand in 1702 – a famous ruler of the Bardhaman Raj. What makes this temple different is not only its regal past – but the idol of Mata Sarbamangala housed in this temple said to be more than 1000 years old.

This shrine has for generations been a center of faith and worship of the people of Bengal.

Why Visit Sarbamangala Temple?

Historical Legacy: Commissioned by a Maharaja and relating to ancient traditions dessen.

Architectural Significance: For the first time Nabaratna based in Bengal.

Spiritual Powerhouse: Community of revered thousand years old idol of Goddess Sarbamangala.

Cultural Importance: A living example of the devotional cloth of Bengal

3.Tomb of Sher Afghan

There is a place surrounded by history and mystery, located in the centre of Burdwan, next to the Pir Beharam, not far from the Rajbati (Royal Palace) that can be found – the Tomb of Sher Afghan. This calm resting place tells a dramatic tale of betrayal, rivalry, and valor, from the Mughal period in silence.

A gallant Mughal noble, and the first husband of Mehr-un-Nissa, who became Empress Nur Jahan, Sher Afghan Khan had a tragic end in the year 1610. He was caught in a deadly fight with Kutubuddin Khan, the then Mughal Governor of Bengal, at the location, which is now near the Burdwan Railway Station.

From historical records, this did not seem to be a political cause, but a result of courtly jealousy and ambition. The duel was concluded with both Sher Afghan and Kutubuddin Khan dying, and with their story came a drama of Mughal power games and individual feuds.

Why Sher Afghan’s Tomb?

Historical Significance: Watch the burial place of one of the most significant people associated with the Mughal court and the life story of Empress Nur Jahan.

Architectural Simplicity: Reminder of low key Mughal tomb designs

Cultural Connection: An obscure but essential historical location connecting local and imperial stories.

Peaceful Retreat: A tranquil, less populated heritage area for meditation.

4.  Kankaleshwari Kali Temple

Surrounded by the calm area of Kanchannagar in Bardhaman town, the Kankaleshwari Kali Temple is an ancient representative of devotion, myth, and architectural grace. Honored both by locals and foreigners alike this sacred site is an essential part of the cultural and spiritual fabric of the area.

The history of the temple goes back to early 1700s- a divine idol of Goddess Kali was miraculously found in the adjacent Damodar River. As rumor has it, villagers were attracted to an unusual shine or feeling in the river. Up on investigation, they recovered the idol – (supposedly self manifested) and then opted to enthrone it at current site.

This mystical origin not only makes the object spiritual but rather makes Kankaleshwari Kali a venerated Goddess in Bardhaman and far outside.

5. 108 Shib Temple Nawabhat

Sneaking amid the quiet peripheries of Bardhaman close to the Nawabhat Bus Terminus on Suri Road, there lies a magnificent piece of architecture, admirably beautiful and spritually captivating – the 108 Shiv Temple Complex. This grand place is the evidence of Bengal’s rich spiritual heritage, complex craftsmanship, and profound respect to Lord Shiva.

A holy temple complex was built in the year 1788 by the devout wife of the Maharaja Tilakchand of Bardhaman, namely Maharani Bishan Kumari. While both devotion and design summed-up her vision, she ordered the construction of 108 identical Shiva temples, a number deeply significant in Hinduism, for wholeness and cosmic order.

It is this unusual architecture of this temple complex that makes it stand out. The 108 temples are symmetrically lined up in a rectangular, which forms a garland when viewed at an aerial view. A collection of Shiva Linga is held in each small temple, and viewing them end to end provides a harmonious visual and spiritual journey as you pass through the street of Shiva Linga shrines.

Together with green surroundings and open skies, the place breathes the love of natural tranquility, so suitable for meditation, prayer or just contemplating in peace.

6.  Chandni Park

Nestled amid the tranquility of the village of Dignagar, just outside Bardhaman town, one of West Bengal’s best kept historical secrets — the Chandni Park and its stunning centerpiece Jaltungi — lies. A place stays amidst a serene lake, and surrounded around by lush green surroundings, this destination gives you the perfect concoction of nature, heritage and a hint of royal class.

A delightful historical pavilion Jaltungi is located in the very center of a small lake within Chandni Park. It was constructed in the year about 1710 AD by Maharaja Kirtichand, one of the brilliant rulers of Bardhaman royal class. The building probably served as a recreational or refuge area for the royals when they came to Dignagar.

Literally, the name Jaltungi means a “floating place”, and indeed, it is so: it looks like a placid floating palace from some past days.

7.  Bhalki Machan

If you’re a nature enthusiast or someone who strives to find offbeat destinations, the ones to add to your list is the Bhalki Machan. Tucked away in the tranquil wilderness of burdwan, this secret gem has all ingredients of nature, history and adventure put in the right proportion. Famous for the wonderful views and time travel experience, just 2 km away from Bhalki Village, it is a place situated on the Pratap-pur forest route.

Bhalki Machan is not an ordinary forest retreat; it is custodian of one piece of royal history. The site has the ruins of an ancient watch tower, which is believed to have been used in bear hunting by the erstwhile Rajas of Burdwan. Chances are it was one of their favourite hunting grounds. While standing between the giant trees in the jungles, looking at the watchtower ruins, you can just feel the royal huntsmen here who are gazing in the forest for a glimpse on the past days of the bengal royalty.

The forest around and the pristine greenery render the whole atmosphere peaceful, where people who want to relax and enjoy the nature can really do it. Trees that are green, birds that are chirping and leaves that rustle in the air, make it an excellent location for those who prefer peace and serenity. If photography, bird watching, or mere sight and sound of nature interests you, coming to Bhalki Machan still provides you with the escape from the frenzy of your life.

Location: Bhalki Village, Pratap-pur Forest Route, Burdwan in West Bengal.

Historical Significance: Old royal hunting ground, and an old watchtower.

8.  Attahas Sati Pith Temple

Now tucked afar in the peaceful forests of Ketugram, under Katwa subdivision, lies a place of high spiritual significance and natural serenity, the Attahas Sati Pith temple. Famous not only as a respected religious object, but also as summering ground for certain number of migratory birds, this temple becomes a spot for tranquil pleasure from hurly burly of daily life. Visitors of this temple are allowed to embrace both devotion and nature.

The Attahas Sati Pith Temple is shrouded in religious importance being one of the Sati Pithas in Bengal. It is said to be where Sati, divine consort to Lord Shiva, performed her sacrifice. This temple is revered by thousands of devotees coming due to spiritual ambiance and the feeling of quiet it uses across the mind and heart.

This temple is situated on the thick green vegetation in a forest, with numerous tree species. The site of the temple is in beautiful natural environment making it a serene place for one that wants to take some quiet time for solitude and reflection. If you are one for nature, or a seeker of spirituality, the peaceful ambiance of the temple strikes the right balance of both.

Location: Burdwan, West Bengal – Ketugram, Katwa Subdivision

Significance: One of the Sati piths is a sacred spiritual site

9.  Purbasthali Ox-bow Lake, Chupi Char

This quiet and beautiful spot is located near Purbasthali, in Kalna region of West Bengal state in India. It is known as Purbasthali Ox-bow Lake (or Chupi Char) in Indian Culture. It is such a beautiful spot which is liked by bird watchers, Nature lovers as well as seeking people who love to enjoy in the lap of nature This pristine destination presents an interesting blend of crystal clear waters, lush fruit orchards and an overwhelming number of local and migratory birds making a rare resort for bird lovers of West Bengal.

The Purbasthali Ox-bow Lake is a 9 km long channel that acts as caretaker to an ox-bow lake, which serves perfectly as a habitat for life in water and a great variety of birds. Besieged by rich orchards and agricultural area, the region is calm and untamed, perfect for nurturing wildlife. Clear waters and serene environment make for an idealistic atmosphere which calls all the visitors to relax and re-experience nature.

What really makes Chupi Char distinctive is its reputation as a birding hot-spot. The lake and the surrounding region provides home for over 70 species of local and migratory birds. It is a dream spot for birdwatchers and photographers. From beautiful waterfowl to feisty waders, the area provides amazing opportunities to see a huge variety of species of birds, particularly in migratory seasons.

The surrounding fruit orchards and the peaceful lake is where a number of bird species nest and feed offering anyone a view of these birds in a natural setting.

Location: Near Purbasthali, Kalna, West Bengal

Best Time to Visit: Winter, and early spring (for migratory birds)

10. Kalna Rajbari Temple Complex

Ambika Kalna is a town on the west bank of the River Bhagirathi and it is associated with a great history, temples and terracotta art. A prosperous port town during the time of ancient Bengal, Kalna is currently a tranquil place for those interested in discovering Bengal’s cultural and architectural heritage. On the lists of places that should not be missed during a visit to Kolkata, be it for purposes of tourism, or simply for architecture lovers or history buffs then, the Kalna Rajbari temple complex is one of the finest examples of this region’s architectural brilliance.

Historical Significance

Kalna (or Ambika Kalna) prospered as a successful trading centre in the ancient Bengal. Throughout the centuries, the town developed into a major religious center, and was best known for its magnificent temple complex. The temples found here were largely the work of the Bardhaman’s Maharajas in the 18th century and they played a dominant role in the cultural-architectural tour of this region.

The Kalna Rajbari Temple complex is an example of the beautiful Bengal Terracotta build where it finds decorative carvings, magnificent structures and elaborate relief work on the walls. The whole of the temple town is a testimony of the creative caliber of the workers of the era.

Quick Info:

Location: Kalna West Bengal (West bank of the Bhagirathi River)

Best For: History buffs, architecture appreciators and spiritual searchers

Notable Features: Terracotta arch in Bengal Rath Mandir Ambika Mandir

Best Time to Visit: October to March (Winter season)

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