Barrckpore is a city that hosts a lot more than we know. Located in West Bengal, the city has a lot of gravity in terms of history, places to visit, and delicious food. Faultlessly, nature has taken over the place, hence it is staggering to look at and feel.
The name Barrackpore is derived from the word “barracks” in English. Barrackpore is so named because it was the site of the first British East India Company cantonment. Setting a foot at this city gives us a realization of the rice history and the struggle that our people had gone through.
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The city is also habitat to several lovely parks, ghats and temples, churches and so much more.
In this article, you will get to know about the following places to visit in Barrackpore,
- Mangal Pandey Park
- Gandhi Museum
- Annapurna Temple
- Bartholomew Cathedral
- Gandhi Ghat and Jawahar Kunja
- Old Barrackpore Cantonment
- Old Kothi
Let’s see each of these places in detail.
1. Mangal Pandey Park
Located about 15 minutes away from Barrackpore Railway Station is the beautiful spot called Mangal Panday Park. It is just by the River Ganga and, therefore is quite a place to be.
The Park was named after the eminent Indian freedom fighter Mangal Pandy. The name holds quite a bit of importance in Indian history. Hence, inside the park, there is a bust of Mangal Panday together with some writings below it. “Shahid Mangal Pandey Maha Udyan” is the other name for this park.
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The atmosphere is soothing and dotted with nature. It is green everywhere; the river by its side together with the placid environment creates a perfect destination to be at. The Park and garden are well taken care of. Lofty trees surround the area with rich green lawns and well-manicured bushes.
There are a number of exciting factors like a cannon, statues of animals, etc. It also holds fun things for children. Pathways marks the boundary of the park which becomes amazing for strolling. Sitting places are also present by the river, in case you get tired. Enjoy relaxing and lazing around all day, hanging out until the golden hour. The view turns excellent with the dropping sun and the glistening waters of the Ganges.
2. Gandhi Memorial Museum
Gandhi Museum is one of the well-known research facilities in India. It is also known as the Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalay. There are five galleries, a study center, and a huge library at this museum in Barrackpore.
It is regarded as one of the top museums in the nation and contains interesting information about Mahatma Gandhi. There are also other rare collections, books, and articles that belonged to him or were written by him. The exhibits are also available for purchase or issue. Over 800 priceless pictures of the freedom fighter are displayed in the exhibit.
3. Annapurna Temple
Annapurna Temple is a popular temple in Barrackpore with stunning architecture which was influenced by Rani Rashmoni’s Dakshineswar temple. It was inaugurated by Shri Ramakrishna Paramhansa in 1875.
The youngest daughter of Rani Rashmoni, Jagadamba Devi, commissioned the Annapurna temple. It is also referred to locally as the Rani Rashmoni temple.
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Six Shiva temples can be found at the Annapurna Temple, as compared to the Dakshineswar temple which has twelve Shiva temples.
The grand lion statue at the entrance is thought to have been the subject of a legal dispute between the temple administrators and the British government.
The temple is next to Rani Rashmoni Ghat. Therefore, you can enjoy the marvelous view of the river, with fishing boats and the breathtaking background of Serampore’s industrial area.
4. Bartholomew Cathedral
Built in the year 1847, the St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral is an Anglican Church located in Barrackpore. The cathedral is the headquarters of Barrackpore Diocese and is a significant structure.
Inside a beautiful complex, stands the beautiful white Cathedral. Nature wraps it flawlessly, giving it a serene environment together with good vibes. It is a well-maintained place ruled by spirituality and tranquillity.
As soon as you enter the structure, you will witness a main altar right at the heart. Just at the left, all the seating arrangements are present for the choir. On the right is a small chapel. Benches are lined in two rows for the visitors.
The entire cathedral comes to life during Christmas and different other Christian celebrations. It is incredible and all-lit when the joyous and auspicious time of the year approaches. Visit during this time to witness, learn, and experience the joy of positivity.
5. Gandhi Ghat and Jawahar Kunja
Gandhi Ghat is a monument constructed on the banks of the River Ganga which is revered as the “father of the nation”.
This ghat is covered with numerous murals that show the work Gandhi undertook throughout his life.
A portion of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes is kept in a memorial at this ghat.
Inside, there is a very detailed mural that showcases his significant contributions.
You can also enjoy a spellbound view of the Ganga River from the ghat.
This ghat is a must-visit since it is brimming with peace and tranquility.
It offers stunning views of the sunrise and sunset and provides immense relaxation and refreshment.
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You can also come here and enjoy a day-long picnic with friends and family in Jawahar Kunj.
You can also stroll along the garden and take amazing pictures of the well-maintained garden & lawns of Jawahar Kunj, and the Ganga river.
There is also a kids’ zone where children can play and have fun.
The tickets for entering the beautiful Gandhi ghat are Rs 20 INR for adults, and Rs 5 for children.
If you are willing to book a picnic spot with all the necessary facilities, you can reserve it for Rs 500 INR.
6. Old Barrackpore Cantonment
The oldest cantonment of the British in India was in Barrackpore.
The cantonment is surrounded by lush green trees and creepers and includes many warehouses.
You can feel closer to nature by taking a leisurely stroll through the cantonment.
You may also take a trip down memory lane by strolling down Riverside Road and Park Road in the cantonment, which is lined with old British bungalows and homes.
Many are in total disrepair, while some have been preserved and are now converted to official buildings.
The coexistence of old and contemporary structures is another intriguing sight in the old cantonment bazaar.
The graves in an old cemetery next to this market date back to British rule as well.
7. Old Kothi
Old Kothi is one of the creepiest historical landmarks in Bengal.
This is an old bungalow owned by the East India Company which is completely in ruins today.
This Kothi is believed to be haunted.
Locals prefer not to pass by this dilapidated building after sunset as strange sounds have been heard here very often.
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These are some of the best places to visit in Barrackpore. Way more is there that awaits your visit.
Place out a trip to Barrackpore or if you are already there, drop by these places and enjoy the day. Drag your friends or family along with you to make the most out of the trip. It can be a nice outing, together with loved ones, food, and great scenes.
The place is indeed filled with footprints of serenity and peacefulness as well as touches of history in every corner.
Cover Pic Credits: Biswarup Ganguly, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Other places to visit in West Bengal
- Ramdhura (Kalimpong) – 5 Points You Must Know About
- Daragaon, Burmaik (Kalimpong) – 5 Points You Must Know About
- Ghurni – Exploring Krishnanagar’s Hidden Gem And Its Clay Dolls
- Mim Tea Garden (Darjeeling) – 5 Points You Must Know About
- Bandel Church (Hooghly) | The Basilica of the Holy Rosary
- Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary (West Bengal) – 5 Things To Know
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