Kolkata is the one the lively city of India. But sometimes you get tired with the hustling bustling of the city. If you want to spend some quality time with peace. Then take a break from the chaotic city life and head out to the countless small towns peppered around Kolkata for a real breather. Let’s explore some peaceful place around Kolkatta.
Chandan Nagar
Churches, a governor’s palace and a host of other historic structures representing the grandeur of French architecture welcome you to Chandannagar, West Bengal’s French Colony. Established as a French settlement in 1673, the town of Chandannagar is situated by the River Hooghly and has turned into a popular tourist attraction today. Barely 54 kilometers from Kolkata, Chandannagar can turn out to be an excellent getaway from the city, especially for history buffs.
Visit the Chandannagore Museum and Institute (Institut de Chandernagore), one of the oldest museums in the region, and marvel at the French antiques housed there. Admire the marvelous architecture of Sacred Heart Church. A single kilometer in length, the Strand is a superbly decorated roadway studded with lights and surrounded by lush green trees. Take a stroll along the Strand and watch small boats sail by in the river. Other attractions include the Underground House (Patal Bari), the Nandadulal Temple and the residence of the Indian revolutionary Rash Behari Bose.
Bandel
Located barely 8 km away from Chandannagar, the town of Bandel is another destination to head towards. An erstwhile Portuguese colony, Bandel is a popular weekend destination from Kolkata owing to its convenient distance from the city (around 54 kilometers). What sets this town apart from others is the old era feel. Admire the Portuguese architecture of the Bandel Basilica (founded in 1599 and dedicated to Nossa Senhora do Rosario) and marvel at the Hooghly Imambara—one of the oldest structures in the region. The history of Bandel will leave you intrigued and enchanted.
Gadiara
If your idea of relaxation is staring at the vast expanse of a river or admiring the hues of the setting sun as the wind sluices through your hair—then Gadiara is the place to be. A picturesque sleepy hamlet lying on the cusp of three main rivers of Bengal—Roopnarayan, Damodar and Hooghly, Gadiara is a popular getaway for the crowd of Kolkata.
This small town has an interesting history. During the mid 18th century when the British had already gained a stronghold over Kolkata, Gadiara was notorious for river pirates who often plundered the surrounding areas. So in order to combat this menace, the British General, Lord Robert Clive, built a fort that came to be known as Fort Mornington. However, today one can only spot its ruins during a low tide as the entire structure gets submerged during high tide.
Opt for a country boat ride on the river and gorge on some exquisite delicacies like freshwater fish. You could drive down to Gadiara or take a bus that regularly from Esplanade. Local trains are also available from Howrah station.
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VISIT THESE CHEAP AND BREATHTAKING PLACES IN 2018
