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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.
Top 14 Things To Do In Murshidabad West Bengal
Wondering what 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.
Location: Siraj Ud Daulah Road, Hazarduari, Murshidabad, West Bengal
Major Highlights: A grand palace with 1000 doors, housing a museum with Nawabi artefacts
Suggested Read: Marble Palace Zoo
2. Join A Heritage Walk
Photo: Ranjithsiji / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Participating in a heritage walk is the best way to explore the historical and vibrant culture. You will explore offbeat places in West Bengal Murshidabad. 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.
Major Highlights: Guided walk through historical monuments and stories of the Nawabi era
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.
Location: Bhagirathi River Ghats, Murshidabad
Major Highlights: Scenic boat rides offering views of palaces, mosques, and riverbank villages
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Murshidabad For A Cultural Experience
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.
Location: Murshidabad Station Rd, Kadamsarif, Murshidabad, Sabjikatra, West Bengal
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Major Highlights: An 18th-century mosque built by Murshid Quli Khan with minarets and stone stairways
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.
Major Highlights: Savour dishes like mutton biryani, fish curry, sitabhog, and chhana murki
Suggested Read: Explore The Best Food In Darjeeling
6. Lalbagh Bazaar
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the Offbeat places in Murshidabad is Lalbagh Bazaar, 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.
Location: Near Hazarduari Palace, Murshidabad
Major Highlights: Bustling local market for silk sarees, handicrafts, and Bengali sweets
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.
Location: Motijheel, Murshidabad
Major Highlights: A historic lake with gardens, a palace ruin, and boating options
Suggested Read: Nature Parks In Kolkata
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. 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, making it one of the best things to do in West Bengal, Murshidabad.
Location: Lalbagh – Hazarduari Rd, Hazarduari, Murshidabad, West Bengal
Major Highlights: One of the largest Shia Imambaras in India, known for its white façade and spacious halls
9. See Siraj-ud-Daulah’s Tomb
Photo: Polayon / Wikimedia Commons
One of the best things to see in in Mushidabad is Siraj-ud-Daulah, 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.
Location: Khoshbagh, Murshidabad
Major Highlights: Final resting place of Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah in a peaceful Mughal-style garden setting
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kolkata
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.
Major Highlights: Ideal for photography of grand architecture, cultural scenes, and river landscapes
11. Visit Kathgola Gardens And Palace
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
Kathgola Gardens is a lush retreat on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, one of the best places to visit in West Bengal, Murshidabad. The garden, dotted with century‑old palm trees and vibrant flowers, surrounds the impressive Kathgola Palace – a striking example of colonial‑era architecture. Wander its manicured paths, admire the ornate Durga Temple and serene water features, and soak in the ambience of bygone grandeur. It’s an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, historical reflection, and photography, offering a peaceful escape from the town’s bustle.
Location: Kathgola Bagan Connector Rd, Kathgola, Murshidabad, West Bengal
Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM
Major Highlights: A sprawling garden with a Jain temple and richly decorated palace
Suggested Read: Top Temples In West Bengal That Every Spiritual Traveller Must Visit
12. Discover Jahan Kosha Cannon
Photo: Samudra013 / Wikimedia Commons
The Jahan Kosha Cannon, meaning “World‑eater,” is a colossal historical artifact that once guarded Murshidabad. Weighing around seven tonnes, this massive cannon dates back to the 17th century and was used for the town’s defence. Visitors can marvel at its sheer size and discover the lore behind its creation and use through informative plaques on‑site. Positioned near the northern gateway to the old city, the cannon is not only a testament to the region’s military past but also a popular photo opportunity.
Location: Kadamsarif, Murshidabad, West Bengal
Timings: 24*7
Major Highlights: 17th-century giant cannon weighing around 7 tonnes, showcasing Mughal artillery
13. Visit Madina Mosque
Photo: Avik Ghosh / Wikimedia Commons
Madina Mosque in Murshidabad is an elegant example of early 18th‑century Islamic architecture. Commissioned by Nawab Siraj ud‑Daulah, its graceful domes and slender minarets are richly adorned with intricate stone carvings and calligraphy. Inside, a serene prayer hall provides a contemplative atmosphere, illuminated by gentle natural light. The mosque’s courtyard offers a tranquil space for reflection amid historical surroundings.
Location: Hazarduari, Murshidabad, West Bengal
Timings: 4:30 AM – 10:30 PM
Major Highlights: A small but historically significant mosque with soil from Mecca embedded in its foundation
Suggested Read: Mosques In Kolkata
14. Explore Nashipur Rajbari
Photo: Paramanu Sarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Nashipur Rajbari, the ancestral home of the Nashipur Nawabs, is tucked along the Bhagirathi River and laced with legends of royalty and romance. Though some structures lie in partial ruin, the palace retains its regal charm with arched verandas, antique doorways, and a dignified courtyard. A nearby garden adds to the ambience, and on occasion, culturally themed events bring local traditions to life. Exploring the site allows you to imagine life in the Nawabi period and enjoy quiet riverside views away from the more crowded spots.
Location: Nashipur Rajbari, Kathgola, Murshidabad, West Bengal
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Major Highlights: Ancestral palace with colonial-style pillars and a nearby temple complex
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
