Bansberia Travel Guide

Discover the rich cultural and natural attractions, food and drink scene, hiking/biking routes, and transportation options for Bansberia in West Bengal.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Bansberia, West Bengal

Located in Hooghly and Howrah, in West Bengal, Eastern India, Bansberia is a small town with a rich cultural and historical heritage. From its magnificent temples and museums to its scenic views and outdoor adventures, Bansberia offers a unique travel experience that you won’t forget. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take a closer look at all the attractions, activities, and logistics that you need to consider when planning a trip to this amazing destination.

List of Places to Visit in Bansberia

Bansberia is home to several culturally important attractions as well as natural wonders. For a complete travel experience, add the following places to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Hanseswari Temple: A beautiful temple built by Raja Nrisinhadeb Roy in 1814, dedicated to goddess Hanseswari.
  2. Ananta Basudeba Temple: A notable temple showcasing a unique blend of Oriya and Bengali architecture, built in 1679 by Raja Bhajahari Manikya.
  3. Zafar Khan Ghazi Masjid: A stunning mosque built by Raja Nrisinhadeb Roy in 1298 in honor of Sufi saint Zafar Khan Ghazi.
  4. Bansberia Heritage Plaza: A museum showcasing the rich history and culture of Bansberia and its surrounding regions.

Natural Attractions of Bansberia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Hangseshwari temple complex: scenic views and river-side beauty
  2. Chinsurah: A nearby town with a picturesque riverfront and a bustling market.
  3. Chandannagar: Once the French colony and trading post well known for durga puja celebration, a developed city with lovely architecture built on the banks of river Ganges.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bansberia

Bansberia offers amazing biking trails and hiking routes for adventure enthusiasts. Here are some routes to consider:

  1. Hooghly Riverfront Road: A scenic road perfect for biking and hiking, offering views of the Ganges River.
  2. Dhanyakuria: A rural town known for its old mansions, walking trails, and lush green fields.
  3. Gadiara: A quaint village located at the confluence of Hooghly and Rupnarayan rivers, offering picturesque views and peaceful surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Bansberia: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Bansberia, ranging from cultural tours to adventure rides. Here are some must-try activities:

  1. Boat Ride: Explore the scenic beauty of the Ganges River with a boat ride.
  2. Explore the Temples: Visit the historically significant temples in Bansberia and watch the religious rituals.
  3. Heritage Walking Tour: Take a heritage walking tour in the charming lanes of the town and experience the rich culture and history of Bansberia.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bansberia

For an ideal week-long itinerary, consider the following:

Day Activity
1 Visit Ananta Basudeba Temple and Zafar Khan Ghazi Masjid
2 Explore Hanseswari Temple and Bansberia Heritage Plaza
3 Discover the scenic beauty of the Hooghly Riverfront Road
4 Take a heritage walking tour in the charming lanes of Bansberia
5 Visit the nearby town of Chinsurah and enjoy the bustling market
6 Enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges River
7 Head to Gadiara for picturesque views and peaceful surroundings

Food and Drink Scene of Bansberia

Bansberia offers a diverse range of mouth-watering dishes, influenced by a unique blend of Bengali and Oriya cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Macher Jhol: A spicy fish curry made from different varieties of fish.
  2. Rosogolla: A spongy and syrupy sweet dish that originated in Kolkata, and often touted as Bengali.
  3. Dalma: A vegetarian dish made with lentils, vegetables, and spices, popular in the nearby region of Odisha.

Local Beverages

  1. Cha/chai/tea: The most popular beverage in India, popular in both Bansberia and the rest of India.
  2. Tender Coconut Water: A refreshing drink made from young coconuts, is perfect for summers in India.
  3. Aam Panna: A refreshing drink made from mango pulp, spices, and fresh mint leaves.

Where to Stay in Bansberia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bansberia has a wide range of options for accommodation that cater to diverse budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top choices:

  1. OYO 71218 New Shree Krishna Resort: A budget-friendly hotel located close to the riverfront, offering basic amenities.
  2. Hindusthan Guest House: A mid-range guest house located close to the temples, offering clean and comfortable rooms.
  3. OYO 72072 Mainak Lodge: A budget-friendly lodge located close to the railway station and the town center, offering basic amenities.

What to Buy in Bansberia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

From beautiful handicrafts to locally grown produce, Bansberia offers a diverse range of souvenir options. Here are some top picks:

  1. Sholapith Handicrafts: Sholapith is a spongy and lightweight material native to Bengal, which is often used to create beautiful handicrafts, such as masks and decorative items.
  2. Tant sarees: Tant sarees are hand-woven cotton sarees that are native to Bengal, and often characterized by their vibrant colors and intricate designs.
  3. Mangoes: India is known for its delicious mangoes, and Bansberia is no different. You can find many juicy and sweet mangoes in the local market in summer.

Local Culture and Customs of Bansberia

Bansberia has a unique mix of Bengali and Oriya cultures, which reflects in its architecture, cuisine, and customs. Visitors are expected to respect the local culture, follow local traditions, and dress appropriately when visiting temples and religious places.

Best Time to Visit Bansberia

The best time to visit Bansberia is during the winter months, from October to February. The temperature during this time ranges from 10°C to 20°C, making it perfect weather for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bansberia

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.
  2. Carry appropriate clothing as required when visiting religious sites.
  3. Try the local cuisine and enjoy the unique blend of Bengali and Oriya flavors.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter, respect the environment.
  2. Don’t disrespect the local culture and traditions.
  3. Don’t carry valuables and keep your belongings safe.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bansberia

Bansberia is a safe destination for travelers, although it is always better to take precautions when traveling to a new place. It is suggested to avoid walking alone at night and to keep your belongings safe.

Health in Bansberia

It is always recommended to carry a first-aid kit, use bottled water for drinking, and avoid raw or uncooked street food to avoid any illness.

Getting to Bansberia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bansberia

The nearest airport to Bansberia is the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata that is 50 km away.

Bus Stations Near Bansberia

Bansberia has a well-connected bus station with regular buses to Kolkata, Howrah, and other nearby cities.

Other Options

One can also consider taking a train, hiring a taxi or taking a private car to get to Bansberia, depending on one’s convenience and budget.

How to Get Around in Bansberia

The best way to get around Bansberia is by taxi, hired private car or by walking. One can also consider renting a bike or scooter for a more adventurous tour.

Where to Go Next from Bansberia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bansberia is well-connected to several other popular destinations in West Bengal.

  1. Kolkata: Kolkata is a popular destination known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and delicious street food.
  2. Darjeeling: A stunning hill station located amidst the Himalayas, perfect for tea lovers and trekking enthusiasts.
  3. Sundarbans National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a unique opportunity to spot the elusive Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat.

Conclusion

Bansberia is a charming little town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. With its beautiful temples, scenic riverfront, and outdoor adventures, Bansberia promises a memorable travel experience. This comprehensive travel guide aims to provide you with all the information you need to make your Bansberia trip a safe and enjoyable one. Happy travels!

Hangseshwari Temple Hangseshwari Temple Ananta Basudeba Temple in Bansberia Ananta Basudeba Temple in Bansberia