Roaming around historical places in your own country can be a thrilling experience, especially if you have a thirst for travel and a love for history. Let's embark on a journey to the enchanting district of Hooghly, West Bengal, where history and spirituality intertwine beautifully.
A New Travel Adventure | Best Places to Visit in Hooghly
After months of staying indoors, many of us are eager to explore new destinations. If you're searching for a perfect getaway, look no further. Hooghly offers a serene escape, rich with cultural heritage and spiritual landmarks waiting to be explored.
A Day Trip to Bansberia | Historical Landmarks in Hooghly
Our journey began right after completing the WB Police recruitment test in Kalyani, Nadia. My companion, Subhasish Uncle, and I decided to visit the nearby historical town of Bansberia. This charming town is home to several fascinating attractions that can be covered in a single day, including:
- Bandel Church
- Hooghly Imambara
- Aqua Marina
- Baba Taraknath Temple
- Radha Gobind Jiu Mandir
- Sobuj Deep
- The most notable: Hangseshwari and Ananta Basudeba Temples
The Journey and Arrival | How to Reach Bansberia
Excitement filled the air as we hopped onto a Trecker, a local mode of transport, for our journey. Sitting in the front seat, we enjoyed a panoramic view of the lush Hooghly landscape.
Upon reaching Iswar Gupta Bridge, we began a short walk towards Hangseshwari Temple, arriving around 2:30 PM. Unfortunately, the temple was closed, so we took the opportunity to relax at the nearby Panchanan Tala Park. This beautiful, couple-friendly park offered a peaceful retreat before continuing our exploration.
Discovering Hangseshwari Temple | Unique Architecture in West Bengal
At 4:30 PM, the temple doors finally opened, welcoming us with a soothing spiritual aura. The Hangseshwari Temple, built in 1814, is an architectural marvel standing tall on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River. Its 13 minarets, shaped like a blooming lotus, are a striking representation of the Tantrik Satchakrabhed philosophy.
The temple's unique structure symbolizes the human body, with its five stories representing different spiritual and physical aspects: Bajraksha, Ira, Chitrini, Pingala, and Sushumna.
The Divine Presence of Devi Hangseshwari | Religious Sites in Hooghly
Devi Hangseshwari, a revered form of Goddess Kali, is depicted as a blue, three-eyed deity with four hands, holding a human head and a sword. She is seated on a lotus blooming from the navel of Lord Shiva, symbolizing the union of divine energies. This depiction is deeply rooted in Tantric traditions, where the goddess represents Kulo Kundalini—the primal energy within every being.
The temple’s history is closely linked to the Bansberia Rajbari. Raja Nrisingha Deb Roy Mahasay, a descendant of the royal family, initiated its construction in the late 18th century. After his passing, his wife, Rani Sankari, completed the temple in 1814. Their patronage transformed the temple into a beacon of faith and artistic expression.
The Rich History and Terracotta Art of Bansberia | Bengal's Temple Art
Bansberia, formerly known as Bongshobati, was once part of the ancient Saptagram region. The area flourished under the Pal and Sen dynasties, benefiting from a thriving trade network via large boats known as Budgerows.
One of its greatest artistic treasures is the Ananta Basudeba Temple, founded by King Rameswar in 1679. This temple is renowned for its exquisite terracotta panels that narrate stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the lilas of Lord Krishna.
Bengal’s Terracotta Heritage | Famous Terracotta Temples in West Bengal
Bengal has a long history of terracotta craftsmanship, an art form that peaked during the late medieval period. The intricate designs on the Ananta Basudeba Temple are more than mere decoration—they are storytelling masterpieces. Each panel immortalizes mythology, history, and daily life in stunning clay reliefs. These panels invite visitors to step into the past and explore a world where art and devotion intertwine.
Why Visit Hangseshwari and Ananta Basudeba Temples? | Top Attractions in Hooghly
These temples are more than just historical landmarks; they are cultural and spiritual treasures. Their intricate artwork, peaceful surroundings, and deep-rooted heritage make them must-visit destinations.
- Historical Significance: A blend of Tantric philosophy and terracotta artistry.
- Architectural Marvels: Unique lotus-shaped temple minarets and intricate clay carvings.
- Spiritual Escape: A serene atmosphere ideal for meditation and worship.
- Perfect Getaway: Lush greenery, well-maintained premises, and a peaceful riverside setting.
Best Time to Visit | Travel Tips for Hooghly
- Temple Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM.
- Ideal Season: Winter months (November to February) to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Festival Highlights: Navaratri and Kali Puja bring an added charm with grand celebrations and rituals.
- Evening Aarti: A mesmerizing experience filled with chants and divine energy.
How to Reach | Directions to Hangseshwari Temple
From Kolkata
- By Car: Drive north via Barrackpore-Kalyani Highway, cross Iswar Gupta Bridge, then turn left onto Hangseshwari Road.
- By Train: Take a local train to Naihati, transfer to a Bandel local, then board a train to Bansberia Station.
From Howrah
- By Car: Head north via Delhi Road, then turn right onto Hangseshwari Road.
- By Train: Take a Katwa Local to Bansberia Station.
From Kalyani
- By Car: Travel south via Barrackpore-Kalyani Highway, cross Iswar Gupta Bridge, and turn left onto Hangseshwari Road.
- By Public Transport: Take a Trecker from Kalyani Station to Hangseshwari Temple.
Nearby Food Places | Best Restaurants in Bansberia
Exploring historical sites can be exhausting, and a good meal is always welcome. Here are some popular food spots near Hangseshwari Temple and Ananta Basudeba Temple:
- Bansberia Food Court – A great place for local Bengali dishes and snacks.
- Annapurna Restaurant – Famous for its delicious fish thali and vegetarian meals.
- Apanjan Hotel – Offers a variety of Bengali and North Indian cuisine.
- New Hangseshwari Fast Food – Quick bites, including rolls, chow mein, and momos.
- Chakraborty Mistanna Bhandar – Known for its mouth-watering sweets like rosogolla and sandesh.
Final Thoughts | Must-Visit Temples in Hooghly
Exploring Hooghly’s historical gems was an unforgettable journey. The fusion of history, art, and spirituality makes the Hangseshwari and Ananta Basudeba Temples truly special. If you're looking for a weekend escape steeped in heritage and serenity, this trip should be on your list!
Have you visited these temples before? Share your experiences and let us know where we should travel next!