Gour Travel Guide (Northern Plains/West Bengal/Eastern India/India/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Gour

Gour is a city located in the northern plains of West Bengal, India. This ancient city is situated on a tributary of the Ganges River, and has a rich history dating back to the 12th century when it was the capital of the Bengal region. Gour was a thriving center of trade, culture, and art during the reign of the Bengal Sultanate. Nowadays, it is a popular tourist destination for visitors to India looking for an offbeat experience.

List of Places to Visit in Gour

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Gour Museum: This museum features a collection of artifacts from the Bengal Sultanate, including sculptures, coins, pottery, and manuscripts.
Firoz Minar: This towering 70-foot minaret was built in 1486 and is a popular site for visitors to climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Chika Mosque: Located on the outskirts of the city, this mosque is believed to have been built in the 14th century and is a remarkable example of early Islamic architecture in Bengal.
Kadam Rasul Mosque: This ancient mosque is believed to house a stone with an imprint of the Prophet Muhammad’s feet, and is therefore considered to be a sacred site by many Muslims.

Natural Attractions of Gour: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Chaiti Saptagram: This is a group of seven islands located on the Ganges River that is known for its scenic beauty and tranquility.
Mangal Kutir: This is a beautiful park that is surrounded by lush vegetation and is perfect for picnics and relaxing walks.
Ganga Sagar: This is the point where the Ganges River meets the Bay of Bengal, and is considered to be a holy site for many Hindus.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gour

Murshidabad Circuit: This is a two-day cycling tour that takes visitors through the historic city of Murshidabad, which was the capital of Bengal during the 18th century. The tour includes a visit to Hazarduari Palace, Katra Mosque and Imambara and many more.
Gour- Malda Trek: This is a two-day trek that takes visitors through the scenic countryside surrounding Gour, and includes stops at historic sites such as the Adina Mosque and the Kala Mosque.

Best Things to Do in Gour: Activities and Tours

Boat trip on the Ganges River: Take a leisurely boat trip on the Ganges River and enjoy the scenic views and local wildlife.
Food tour of Gour: Explore the delicious local cuisine with a food tour of the city, which includes stops at local restaurants and street food stalls.
Visit a local village: Take a tour of a nearby village to learn about the local way of life and experience the traditional crafts and activities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gour

Day	Activities
Day 1	Visit Firoz Minar and Chika Mosque, tour Gour Museum
Day 2	Go on a boat trip on the Ganges River, visit Mangal Kutir
Day 3	Take the Murshidabad Circuit cycling tour
Day 4	Visit the Kadam Rasul Mosque and Adina Mosque
Day 5	Take the Gour-Malda Trek
Day 6	Go on a food tour of Gour, visit local village
Day 7	Visit Ganga Sagar, and depart from Gour

Food and Drink Scene of Gour

Must-Try Dishes

Mishti Doi: This is a sweet yogurt dessert that is a specialty of the Bengal region.
Luchi and Cholar Dal: This is a popular breakfast dish made with deep-fried bread and spiced lentil soup.
Bhetki Paturi: This is a fish dish that is marinated in mustard paste and steamed in banana leaves.

Local Beverages

Chaa: This is a strong, milky tea that is a staple of the Bengali diet.
Piyush: This is a sweetened yogurt drink that is flavored with saffron and cardamom.

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

The New Kenilworth Hotel: This is a luxury hotel that is located in the heart of the city and features spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.
Bimal Guest House: This is a budget-friendly option that is located near the Ganges River and offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop terrace for relaxing.

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

Terracotta Pottery: This is a traditional form of pottery that is made in Bengal, and is available in a variety of shapes and styles.
Silk Sarees: This region is famous for its silk sarees, which are available in a range of colors and designs.
Handmade Crafts: The local village markets offer a range of handmade crafts and textiles, including baskets, mats, and cotton clothes.

Local Culture and Customs of Gour

Gour has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its architecture, art, and cuisine. The local population is a mix of different ethnicities, including Bengalis, Biharis, and Santhals. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, including dress code and religious practices.

Best Time to Visit Gour

The best time to visit Gour is during the winter months between October and February when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gour

Do:

Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites.
Try the local cuisine, including street food and specialty dishes.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

Take photographs of people without their permission.
Disrespect local religious practices or beliefs.
Engage in illegal activities, including drug use.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gour

Gour is a relatively safe city for visitors, but it is always important to take basic safety precautions such as avoiding dark alleys and traveling in groups at night.

Health in Gour

Visitors should take precautions such as staying hydrated, using sunscreen, and avoiding tap water to avoid any health issues.

Getting to Gour: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gour

The nearest airport to Gour is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, which is approximately 236 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Gour

Gour has a well-connected road network, with regular bus services from neighboring cities like Kolkata, Malda, Murshidabad, and Siliguri.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to take a train to Malda or Murshidabad and then take a taxi or bus to Gour.

How to Get Around in Gour

The best way to get around Gour is by taking a taxi or hiring a guide who can help navigate the city’s narrow streets and alleys. Visitors can also rent bicycles to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Gour: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Murshidabad: This historic city is located just 35 kilometers from Gour and is known for its grand palaces and ornate temples.
Siliguri: This is a bustling city located at the foothills of the Himalayas and is a popular base for exploring nearby national parks and hill stations.
Darjeeling: This is a charming hill station located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, known for its tea plantations and stunning views of the Himalayas.

Conclusion

Gour is an offbeat destination that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re exploring the city’s rich heritage, sampling the delicious local cuisine, or relaxing in the surrounding countryside, Gour is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India.