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Murshidabad is perched near the banks of the Bhagirathi River in West Bengal. It used to be Bengal’s capital during the Mughal reign and thus, it takes us through the historic pages of India’s fine palaces, historical boras, and tombs. Murshidabad is known for the Nawabs and traveller’s hub for silk and muslin trade. Things to do in Murshidabad offer vestiges of silks and architectural masterpieces synonymous with the Bengal region. This city has a lot in store for visitors, right from the famous and magnificent Hazarduari Palace to the calmness of the Katra Mosque.
10 Things To Do In Murshidabad
Here’s a curated top-picked list of ten things to do in Murshidabad and make your trip to West Bengal memorable.
1. Explore Hazarduari Palace
Photo: Banibrata Mandal / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you ever visit Murshidabad, you must visit Hazarduari Palace. Built in the 19th century by the Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah, this heritage palace is famous for its 1000 doors of which only 900 are functional while the rest 100 are false designed to mislead the intruders. The structure is approximately three stories high and consists of a beautiful Italian sculptured design, large corridors, and a captivating museum that displays several pictures, weapons, and modern chandeliers, as well as a collection of historical relics.
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
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2. Join A Heritage Walk
Photo: Ranjithsiji / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Participating in a heritage walk in Murshidabad is the best way to explore the historical and vibrant culture. As these tours are guided, visitors can walk along the narrow lanes and explore the historical sites of Lalbagh infused with tales about the Nawabs, the British, the trade, politics, and more of Bengal. The tourists can also come across several other key places such as old mosques, crowded bazaars, and magnificently historic homes, all of which have their share of gossip about emperors and their courtesans.
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
3. Boat Ride On Bhagirathi River
Photo: Asish Das75 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Taking a boat ride across the Bhagirathi River is one of the best and easiest ways to appreciate the historical splendour of Murshidabad. The visitors slowly float along the river to have stunning views of places like Hazarduari Palace and Katra Mosque from an intriguing angle. The river used to be a trade route during the Nawabi regime, where one can envision the active economy of Murshidabad. These elements combined not only make Murshidabad a sight for sore eyes but also a trip that goes back in history.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
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4. Katra Masjid
Photo: Rangan Datta Wiki / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Katra Masjid is a significant tourist attraction for history and architectural buffs touring the city of Murshidabad. The mosque, built in 1723 by Nawab Murshid Quli Khan features several Islamic architectural elements represented by tall minarets, beautiful archways, and a fifteen-dome structure. Katra Mosque was used as a mosque as well as a tomb by the Nawabs. An intricate staircase lies over the tomb of Katra Mosque’s Nawab. The strapping Katra Mosque, alone does justice to its history, offering visitors a glance at the rich history of Murshidabad, including sights and sounds.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
5. Taste Local Bengali Cuisine
Photo: Zerin Khandaker / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The experience of eating in Murshidabad and tasting local authentic Bengali dishes is unforgettable. This city is widely recognized for its spicy and rich food and offers Nawabi and Bengali-style dishes. The visitors can enjoy legendary dishes such as Murshidabad Biryani, which is filled with spiced rice and juicy meat, and Shorshe Ilish hilsa fish cooked with a lot of mustard, a staple in this region. Don’t miss out on Murgir Jhol and Luchi which are the two favourite dishes of residents.
Timings: 12 PM – 3 PM and 7 PM – 10 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
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6. Lalbagh Bazaar
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Lalbagh Bazaar is a bustling market showcasing the entire culture of Murshidabad. This vivid market is popularly recognized for the exquisite Murshidabad silk sarees which are famous among textile lovers. The market also offers various kinds of traditional handicrafts, ornaments and antiques imbibed with art. The handloom clothing and accessories sold by the native vendors enhance the experience.
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
7. Stroll Through Motijheel Park
Photo: Mike Benna / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Motijheel Park provides relief to visitors in the urban setting of Murshidabad. Also known as ‘Pearl Lake’, Motijheel used to be a leisure centre for the Nawabs and British officers offering landscape beauty. There is a walkway around the lake where the visitors can have a pleasant view of greenery, colourful flowers and calm blue waters. The Park also features some remains of the Nawabi era of Murshidabad making the park historically important.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
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8. Nizamat Imambara
Photo: Subrata Ghose / Wikimedia Commons
Visiting Nizamat Imambara is an enthralling experience that takes one through the rich religious and architectural history of Murshidabad. Constructed in 1847 by Nawab Nazim Mansur Ali Khan, it ranks among the largest Imambaras in India and also serves as one of the most important places of worship for Shia Muslims during the month of Muharram. The building of the Imambara is grand and has some beautiful Islamic calligraphy, large arches, and an enchanting collection of old chandeliers and lanterns.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
9. See Siraj-ud-Daulah’s Tomb
Photo: Polayon / Wikimedia Commons
Siraj-ud-Daulah was the last Nawab of Bengal to rule independently in West Bengal. The Tomb located in the quiet Khushbagh cemetery along the Bhagirathi River is surrounded by a beautiful garden with other members of the Nawabi family. Siraj-ud-Daulah has a significant role in the historical narratives of Murshidabad and thus his mausoleum embodies the glory of his reign. The tomb is constructed in a very simple and elegant manner which is quite in contrast with the luxurious palaces in Murshidabad.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
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10. Capture Murshidabad’s Charm
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Photography is an enjoyable way to appreciate and immerse oneself in the cultural wealth of Murshidabad. There are innumerable locations fit for a picture in Murshidabad from the beautiful Hazarduari Palace to the calm Bhagirathi River. The beautiful patterns made up of Katra Masjid, the old world charm of the Nizamat Imambara, and the bustling atmosphere at Lalbagh Bazaar, everything is photo perfect. Every corner of the city is a picturesque paradise, whether you are a professional photographer or an amateur.
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 3 hours
Visiting Murshidabad for a serene vacation is an amazing experience. Plan your visit to West Bengal today and try out various things to do in Murshidabad. If you are a history lover, a keen observer, a nature enthusiast or just looking for a calm holiday, various activities in Murshidabad have something for everyone. Each place promises a unique experience and a peaceful time. Plan a trip with TripXL for a memorable experience.
Cover Photo: Subrata Ghose / Wikimedia Commons
