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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.
12 Best Things To Do In Chandannagar West Bengal
Explore Chandannagar’s rich French heritage, scenic riverfront, historic landmarks, vibrant culture, and colonial charm. Here are the best things to do in Chandannagar:
1. Visit 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.
Location: Barabazar, Chandannagar, West Bengal
Major Attractions: A scenic riverbank walkway, perfect for leisurely walks and sunset views
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near West Bengal
2. Nandadulal Temple
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
One of the beautiful things to see in Chandannagar is Nandadulal Temple, 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 temples in West Bengal, 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.
Location: Nandia Para, Chandannagar
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.
Location: Main Road, near Railway Station, Chandannagar, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Lush gardens, and kid-friendly play areas
Suggested Read: National Parks In West Bengal
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.
Location: Church Rd, Barabazar, Chandannagar, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Magnificent church
5. Patal Bari
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the best places to visit in Chandannagar is 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.
Location: Strand Rd, Barabazar, Chandannagar, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Architectural wonder
Suggested Read: Hills Stations In West Bengal For A Refreshing Retreat
6. Chandannagar Museum
Photo: 500milesawayfromhome / Wikimedia Commons
One of the popular things to do in West Bengal is to explore 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.
Location: Strand Rd, Barabazar, Chandannagar, Chinsurah, West Bengal
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, one of the best places to visit in West Bengal, Chandannagar. 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.
Location: Bablabon via, Chandannagar Road, Chandannagar, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Goddess Kali’s magnificent idol and colourful celebrations
Suggested Read: Kali Temples In Kolkata
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.
Location: Chhuti Park, Chuti Park, Chandannagar, West Bengal, India, Chandannagar, India, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Lush green places for relaxation and well-maintained playgrounds
9. 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.
Location: Strand Rd, Barabazar, Chandannagar, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Beautiful riverfront vistas, local rituals, and cultural events
Suggested Read: Beaches In West Bengal For A Perfect Coastal Getaway
10. Jora Ghat
Photo: DeepanjanGhosh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representations Only
Amongst the offbeat places in West Bengal, Chandannagar is Jora Ghat, one of Chandannagar’s iconic riverfront spots, perfect for unwinding and enjoying peaceful views of the Hooghly River. The twin ghats, often visited by locals and tourists alike, are known for their serenity and photogenic setting, especially during sunrise and sunset. The steps lead directly to the river, making it a great place to sit quietly or watch boats pass by. It’s a quiet escape from city noise, offering a blend of nature and old-world charm that reflects Chandannagar’s colonial past.
Location: Barabazar, Chandannagar, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Colonial-era riverside promenade, scenic views, historical French architecture
11. Boat Ride On The Hooghly River
Taking a boat ride on the Hooghly River is one of the most relaxing ways to explore Chandannagar. The gentle sway of the boat, combined with panoramic views of the riverside and colonial buildings, offers a fresh perspective on the town’s rich history. Whether during the golden hours of sunset or on a cool breezy afternoon, the experience is soothing and scenic. It’s a great way to slow down, observe local life along the banks, and enjoy a short but memorable journey on water.
Location: Available from The Strand and nearby ghats
Major Attractions: Serene boat journeys, sunset views, riverside landmarks
Suggested Read: Adventure Sports In Kolkata
12. Explore Clock Tower
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
The Clock Tower in Chandannagar, also known as the French Tower, stands as a charming reminder of the town’s colonial heritage. Located near the Strand, this historical structure draws attention with its classic French architectural style and functioning clock face. Surrounded by lively streets and old buildings, it serves as both a timekeeper and a landmark. Visitors often stop by to click pictures and take in its vintage beauty. Exploring this tower is a small but delightful step into the town’s French-influenced past.
Location: Barabazar, Chandannagar, West Bengal
Major Attractions: Historic colonial clock tower, Indo-French architectural blend, local landmark
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
