Hey there, travel buddy! If you think Murshidabad is all about palaces and history, wait till you stroll through the lively lanes of Berhampore and Jiaganj. These two towns are the heartbeats of local life — full of culture, flavors, stories, and small surprises that you won’t find in guidebooks.
Let’s start with a little background.
Berhampore is not just the biggest town in Murshidabad district — it’s also a place steeped in history. During British rule, it was one of the first cantonments in Bengal. Today, it blends colonial charm with a buzzing urban vibe.
Just across the Bhagirathi River lies Jiaganj, a town known for its historic merchant families, traditional Bengali culture, and quiet, laid-back charm. It’s the kind of place where time slows down — and honestly, that’s the best part.
These towns may not be on every tourist’s list yet, but for curious travelers? They’re gold.
Let’s talk exploration.
Wandering around Berhampore’s old markets is an experience in itself. You’ll find shops selling Murshidabad silk sarees, handmade trinkets, and the smell of kacha golla (a local sweet) wafting through the air. Every corner tells a story.
If temples are your thing, Jiaganj has a beautiful lineup of small, serene ones — often surrounded by old buildings with vintage wooden balconies. It’s like walking through a movie set from the 1800s.
Don’t miss:
Rani Bhabani’s Rajbari (Palace) in Baranagar (a short ride from Jiaganj)
Kathgola Baganbari – a quieter mansion with French-style gardens
Early morning boat rides across the river (yes, you can cross between Jiaganj and Lalbagh this way!)
And the best part? These areas are totally walkable. No tour guides needed — just your feet, your curiosity, and maybe a sweet in hand.
If you’re visiting Murshidabad, staying in Berhampore is a smart move. It’s the most connected town in the district and has the best food and accommodation options.
Some traveler favorites:
Samrat Hotel – Budget-friendly and centrally located
The Fame Hotel – For a more modern stay
Hotel Sunshine – Clean, local, and close to the action
Hungry? Let’s go food-hunting. Berhampore is where Murshidabad’s famous food scene comes alive.
Must-tries:
Shaktigarh Sweets – For melt-in-the-mouth chhanabora
Street stalls near Khagra – For spicy fish curry, egg rolls, and local thalis
Chowringhee Lane – Great for snacks and evening adda vibes
Jiaganj is quieter but perfect if you want a homestay feel. Look for local guesthouses where you’ll be treated like family — often with home-cooked meals.
Berhampore is super easy to reach:
By Train: Get down at Berhampore Court Station (BPC). It’s well-connected from Kolkata (Sealdah or Howrah).
By Road: Take a bus or hire a cab from Kolkata. The road trip takes around 5-6 hours, and it’s scenic once you cross Nadia district.
By Air: The nearest airport is in Kolkata (Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport).
To reach Jiaganj, just hop across the river! It’s around 20 minutes by road or a short ferry ride from Lalbagh or Berhampore.
Travel tip: Try crossing by boat during sunrise or sunset. The light, the river, the breeze — it’s magical.
Berhampore and Jiaganj may not have giant palaces or tourist buses lining the streets — but maybe that’s why they’re so special. They give you a taste of real Bengal, where people smile easily, food is cooked with soul, and history breathes quietly from the walls.
So next time you plan a trip to Murshidabad, don’t skip these hidden gems. Stay a day or two, wander aimlessly, and let the towns surprise you.
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