Murshidabad: A Forgotten Capital of Nawabs and Glory



# ???? Murshidabad: A Forgotten Capital of Nawabs and Glory


Situated on the banks of the **Bhagirathi River**, **Murshidabad** is a city filled with **royal splendor, colonial mystery**, and **architectural beauty**. The former capital of **Bengal under the Nawabs**, this historic town is a repository of palaces, mosques, tombs, and tales of a time when Murshidabad was among India's richest cities.


If you’re a lover of **history, heritage, and culture**, Murshidabad promises a journey through time — into the heart of Bengal’s rich and complex past.


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## ???? Where Is Murshidabad?


Murshidabad is located in the **central part of West Bengal**, about **200 km north of Kolkata**. It’s easily accessible by train and road, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a heritage circuit trip.


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## ????️ A Glimpse into the Glorious Past


Established in the early 18th century, Murshidabad was the **capital of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa** under the reign of the **Nawabs of Bengal**. It was a hotbed of commerce, politics, and culture—until the **Battle of Plassey in 1757**, when the British took the reins in India.


Nowadays, the town still has reminiscences of its royal history in its grand monuments and riverfront palaces.


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## ???? Top Attractions in Murshidabad


### ???? 1. **Hazarduari Palace**


The pièce de résistance, **Hazarduari** (lit. "Palace of a Thousand Doors"), is a formidable 19th-century building constructed in **Greek-Doric style**. It has a museum featuring **antique weapons, paintings, manuscripts, and Nawabi artifacts**. Don't miss the majestic Durbar Hall with crystal chandeliers and a marble throne.


### ???? 2. **Nizamat Imambara**


Priced right across from the Hazarduari Palace, this is one of **India's largest Shia imambaras**. Constructed by Nawab Nazim Mansur Ali Khan in 1847, it is an architectural marvel and a place of great religious importance.


### ???? 3. **Katra Mosque**


Constructed by Nawab Murshid Quli Khan, this mosque is one of the **oldest Islamic buildings** in Bengal. It was used for religious and defense purposes and provides a panoramic view of the area from its high minarets.


### ⚔️ 4. **Motijheel ("Pearl Lake")**


Formerly the pleasure garden of Nawabs, Motijheel was the venue of grand celebrations. It's encircled by remains of ancient palaces and provides a serene ambiance for picnics and photography.


### ???? 5. **Kathgola Palace and Gardens**


An exclusive palace constructed by a successful Jain merchant, this combination of **European and Bengali architecture** is famous for its ornate interiors, art gallery, and stunning garden with a temple.


### ???? 6. **Nashipur Rajbari**


The palace of the Nashipur zamindar family, this palace displays the extravagance and authority of zamindars under British Raj. The **Nashipur Akhara** nearby still conducts traditional wrestling bouts and fairs in Jhulan Yatra.


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## ???? What to Do in Murshidabad


* **Heritage Walks**: Walk down narrow streets lined with centuries-old mansions and traditional markets.

* **Boat Ride on the Bhagirathi**: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride to see the city's palaces from the river.

* **Tour Plassey Battlefield**: Approximately 40 km, this historic site is where the British defeated Siraj-ud-Daulah in 1757.

* **Buy Murshidabad Silk**: For its fine texture, Murshidabad silk sarees are great souvenirs.


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## ???? What to Eat


The food here is a reflection of a combination of **Mughlai, Bengali, and Persian** influences:


* **Murshidabadi Biryani** – A lighter and fragrant form of the classic biryani.

* **Kebabs and Rezala** – Rich Mughlai meat dishes.

* **Chhanar Jilipi & Mihidana** – Classical Bengali sweets.

* **Murshidabadi Murabba** – Fruit preserve and pickle specialties, wonderful souvenirs to take back home.


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## ???? Where to Stay


Murshidabad provides a blend of:


* **Heritage hotels** within the restored palaces and mansions.

* **Government guest houses** such as the **Hazarduari Tourism Lodge**.

* **Budget hotels** in Lalbagh and Berhampore (the contemporary twin town).


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## ???? How to Reach Murshidabad


* **By Train**: Frequent trains from **Sealdah or Howrah stations in Kolkata** to **Berhampore Court** or **Murshidabad Station**.

* **By Road**: Approximately 5–6 hours' drive from Kolkata via NH34.

* **By Air**: Nearest airport is **Kolkata (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport)**.


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## ???? Best Time to Visit


* **October to March**: Dry, cool weather ideal for sightseeing.

* Avoid the **monsoon season** (July–September) as there may be flooding and travel inconvenience.


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## ???? Final Thoughts


Murshidabad is a **living museum**—a town where **palatial ruins whisper tales of Nawabi refinement**, of treachery and British victory, of art, worship, and royal splendor. It may no longer be the capital of Bengal, but it is still a **jewel of Bengal's heritage**, waiting to be discovered by those who adore **history, architecture, and eternal charm**.


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