Skip to content

Ghurni – Exploring Krishnanagar’s Hidden Gem And Its Clay Dolls

Ghurni is a place that defines art in all different forms. It is a beautiful neighborhood of Krishnanagar, situated in Nadia, West Bengal. Here you will find a variety clay dolls and many other sculptures made of clay.

This place is the one where artistry is a tradition and is passed on from generation to generation. The clay doll industry is incredible here and makes a place worth a visit.

ADVERTISEMENT

The excellent works of art with hand are like looking into the traditions that we do not really get to see often. Visit with your family and friends to witness the remarkable craftsmanship.

In this article, you will get to know the following points about Ghurni,

Let’s see each of these points in detail.

How to reach Ghurni

Ghurni is just 100 kilometers from Kolkata and can easily be reached by bus, train, and car.

To reach Ghurni you need to first reach Krisnanagar.

By Train:

The best way to reach is by taking a local train from Sealdah to Krishnanagar. It will cost you around Rs.25. From the station, take a Toto to Ghurni. It will cost you Rs.20-30.

ADVERTISEMENT

By Bus:

Various AC and non-AC buses are available from Kolkata to Krishnanagar. It will take around 3 hours to reach. From the Krisnanagar Bus Stand, take a Toto to Ghurni.

By Car:

If you are taking your car, one of the best ways to reach Krisnanagar is via NH 12. It will take you around 3 hours.

History of Ghurni

The history of Ghurni goes back to the time when Krishnanagar was known as Rewe.

The Royal Family of Nadia was founded by Bhabananda Majumdar in the 17th century CE.

In the year 1728, Maharaja Krishnachandra, a descendent of the royal family brought the families of potters from Dhaka and Natore and helped them to settle in Ghurni, which was just a simple village then.

ADVERTISEMENT

This initiative laid the foundation for the now globally acclaimed tradition of Ghurni’s handcrafted clay creations.

Why is Ghurni famous?

Clay Dolls at a shop in Ghurni

Ghurni is the heart of the production of exquisite clay dolls. The place where the clay dolls are found is known as Putul Potti. The precise work can only be seen at this place and it is mindboggling to see the creativity of the workers. The range of their work spans from a pea-sized sculpture to the ones in the size of a human being.

The clay model artists of this place have gained fame internationally and have also received various national awards for their excellent work. There is a huge demand for these clay dolls and attracts order from all across the globe.

Each work you see here looks like they have life in them. The array of artistry includes vivid 3D landscapes, fruit replicas, deities, and abstract art. 

ADVERTISEMENT

The best time to visit Ghurni

The perfect time to visit Ghurni will be during the winter season, that is from the month of November to February. At this time, the weather remains cool and soothing. Hence, this will aid you in your venture through the streets and shops and therefore in shopping.

Summers and monsoons are not recommended as the summers are scorching with a temperature ranging between 40 ̊C-43 ̊C. And speaking of the monsoon, the weather remains very humid and rains every now and then.

Other attractions near Ghurni

AttractionsDistance from Ghurni
Krisnangar Rajbari3 kilometers
Ballal Dhipi15 kilometers
Mayapur18 kilometers
Jalangi River2 kilometers

Ghurni will allure you in an entirely different way. If you are interested in these forms of work, then the place is definitely for you. Visit each shop and talk to the owner to know all about the artistry and how they are done so flawlessly.

Also, get to know in depth about the place as well. Make sure to keep a budget, because everything you see, there will be a feeling to take it all.


Other places to visit in West Bengal



Disclaimer: Some of the links provided in the article may contain affiliate links. This means when you book or buy something using these links, you help support the website at no extra cost.