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Chandannagar is a beautiful town situated on the quiet banks of the Hooghly River in West Bengal. The place is little known for its charming synthesis of French colonial history with Indian culture. With that, there are multiple things to do in Chandannagar which promise fun and excitement. Chandannagar is the ideal destination for those planning to explore a town deeply rooted in culture while providing an opportunity to spend quiet time by the riverside. From beautiful landmarks and spiritual sites, this city has much to offer which will make your visit uniquely different.
10 Things To Do In Chandannagar
1. The Strand
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
The Strand at Chandannagar is a riverside promenade filled with history and beauty. It runs on the banks of the Hooghly River. There are old trees, colonial-era buildings, and benches all around the Strand. It is also recommended to spend a quiet evening at this place while watching the river flow quietly. The Strand depicts the town’s rich French heritage. It was built when the settlement was a French town. Nightfall brings magic as all the lights are turned along the path. The strand has many restaurants too.
Major Attractions: A scenic riverbank walkway, perfect for leisurely walks and sunset views
2. Nandadulal Temple
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
This beautiful temple is devoted to Lord Krishna. Its numerous idols and elaborate carvings highlight the region’s profound spiritual past. This temple’s Ek Bangla-style architecture, which is evocative of traditional Bengali temples, is one of its distinctive features. A portico and a double-sloped flat roof are features of the temple’s design that enhance its allure. There is a black figure of Lord Krishna inside the main shrine. Visitors can discover the stories of Clive’s attack and afterwards looting of the original idol of Nandadulal.
Major Attractions: renowned for its beautiful design and lively festivities of Lord Krishna festivals.
3. KMDA Park
Photo: Jennifer Birdie Shawker / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
KMDA Park, Chandannagar is an absolutely quiet retreat. There are expansive green lawns, trees, and a walking track inside, which provide a sense of peace. It is also a very good place for families as there are play areas for kids and an open space. There is a boating complex too at his park. The children’s park has a separate games section and a restaurant. There are guest houses for families to stay. The lodging facilities are comfortable and budget-friendly.
Major Attractions: Lush gardens, and kid-friendly play areas
4. Sacred Heart Church
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
Sacred Heart Church is one of the exemplary structures that depict Chandannagar’s French colonial heritage. It is basically a Roman Catholic Heritage Church and was completed in 1884. Its stunning French architecture is in itself enough to present an attractive appearance. With tall arches and delicately crafted stained-glass windows that reflect soft, coloured light inside, it presents an extraordinary appearance. The peaceful atmosphere of this church pacifies people and makes it a perfect place for prayers and quiet contemplation.
Major Attractions: Magnificent church
5. Patal Bari
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Patal Bari refers to underground housing. Its lowest floor is immersed in the Ganga River. Rabindranath Tagore, a Nobel winner, visited the site frequently and held high regard for the structure. The structure is another beautiful example of the evolution of engineering education in those days. He mentioned Patal-bari in several of his well-known novels. The structure also accommodated Pandit Iswar Chandra Vidyasagar, a well-known social activist. The place is more than 150 years old.
Major Attractions: Architectural wonder
6. Chandannagar Museum
Photo: 500milesawayfromhome / Wikimedia Commons
Chandannagar Museum, or the Institut de Chandernagore, celebrates the rich past of the town that took place here. It is one of the oldest museums in the entire West Bengal. Being previously part of the bungalow belonging to the French governor, the museum boasts some simply incredible collections including paintings, sculptures, as well as everyday utensils from the colonial epoch. There is wooden furniture dating back to the 18th Century. The museum depicts the artistic connection between India and France. The architecture itself is noteworthy as it stands with the elegance of French design.
Major Attractions: Outstanding antique collection, and representation of French colonial history
7. Ghoshpara Kali Temple
Photo: Sunnybrajesh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Ghoshpara Kali Temple in Chandannagar is a holy site of religious worship to Goddess Kali. The striking entrance opens the sanctum where the idol of Goddess Kali has been decorated with all types of offerings. On days of festivals like Kali Puja, the temple is entirely decorated. There is an extremely striking entrance to the temple. Aarti happens in the morning and evening at this temple. Devotees also visit this temple during the festival of Navratri.
Major Attractions: Goddess Kali’s magnificent idol and colourful celebrations
8. Chuti Park
Photo: Celco85 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chuti Park in Chandannagar is a recreation area. This park is perfect for a family outing as it has extensive lawns, well-groomed gardens, and playgrounds for children to play on. The place is also a famous picnic spot with many seating arrangements. The park regularly holds community events and cultural programs where locals participate often. This park is an inviting place for you to relax and socialize. There are many restaurants near Chuti Park in Chandannagar.
Major Attractions: Lush green places for relaxation and well-maintained playgrounds
9. Susanna Anna Maria Memorial
Photo: Kinjal bose 78 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Susanna Anna Maria Memorial is one of the magnificent monuments to visit in Chandannagar. It was built in 1809. This place is located on the Grand Trunk Road and promises a surreal experience. The place is good for picnics, morning walks and children’s playgrounds. This tomb is known by multiple local names in the region surrounding Chandannagar. The place is over 200 years old and is dedicated to Susanna Anna Maria who was of Dutch Origin.
Major Attractions: French colonial antiques
10. Rani Ghat
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons
Rani Ghat in Chandannagar is a serene and historically important riverside spot on the Hooghly River. The ghat is located on the Strand Road. This ghat is a place with peaceful surroundings and is considered culturally and religiously significant because locals from the place visit for ritual purposes. This place is also a ferry terminal in Chandannagar. The ghats reflect well on the history associated with the rich past of the town and thus provide a glimpse into Chandannagar’s heritage.
Major Attractions: Beautiful riverfront vistas, local rituals, and cultural events
Chandannagar is that town which, at a point of history, culture, and scenery, gives its visitors a unique experience not only memorable but also enriching. From strolling down The Strand with to adventurous forays into the colonial past of the town, the things to do in Chandannagar has so much to offer. Plan a trip with Trip XL and enjoy the rich heritage along with the serene beauty of Chandannagar.
Cover Photo: Subham Hait / Unsplash
