The name Barrackpore is derived from the word “barracks” in English.
Barrackpore is so named because it was the site of the first British East India Company cantonment.
This historic destination is also blessed with beautiful temples that can help you purify your soul and attract good energy.
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A trip to Barrackpore will provide insight into one of the most significant periods in Indian history as well as some peaceful and quiet tourist spots away from the city’s bustle.
Additionally, this region is home to some of the most beautiful parks, which are ideal for relaxing and spending a good time all together.
In this article, you will get to know about the following places to visit in Barrackpore,
- Mangal Pandey Park
- Gandhi Museum
- Annapurna Temple
- Bartholomew Cathedral
- Gandhi Ghat and Jawahar Kunja
- Old Barrackpore Cantonment
- Old Kothi
Let’s see each of these places in detail…
1. Mangal Pandey Park
Mangal Pandey Park is a lovely park that was constructed in honor of Mangal Pandey, the first Nationalist to rebel against British tyranny.
He expressed his ideas and instigated a movement for independence in Barrackpore.
“Shahid Mangal Pandey Maha Udyan” is the other name for this park.
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The park contains a magnificent statue of Mangal Pandey along with lush greenery including trees and blooming flowers.
You can visit here to experience peace and isolation and to know about the historical significance of the location.
2. Gandhi Memorial Museum
Gandhi Museum is one of the well-known research facilities in India.
It is also known as the Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalay.
There are five galleries, a study center, and a huge library at this museum in Barrackpore.
It is regarded as one of the top museums in the nation and contains interesting information about Mahatma Gandhi.
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There are also other rare collections, books, and articles that belonged to him or were written by him.
The exhibits are also available for purchase or issue.
Over 800 priceless pictures of the freedom fighter are displayed in the exhibit.
3. Annapurna Temple
Annapurna Temple is a popular temple in Barrackpore with stunning architecture
which was influenced by Rani Rashmoni’s Dakshineswar temple.
It was inaugurated by Shri Ramkrishna Paramhansa in 1875.
The youngest daughter of Rani Rashmoni, Jagadamba Devi, commissioned the Annapurna temple.
It is also referred to locally as the Rani Rashmoni temple.
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Six Shiva temples can be found at the Annapurna Temple, as compared to the Dakshineswar temple which has twelve Shiva temples.
The grand lion statue at the entrance is thought to have been the subject of a legal dispute between the temple administrators and the British government.
The temple is next to Rani Rashmoni ghat.
Therefore, you can enjoy the marvelous view of the river, with fishing boats and the breathtaking background of Serampore’s industrial area.
4. Bartholomew Cathedral
Bartholomew Cathedral, which is also called Garrison Church, was constructed in 1847.
Beautiful examples of gothic architecture are used in the construction of the cathedral.
This church resembles many churches in Britain because it was constructed by British architects while they were residing in Barrackpore.
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You can feel a serene and relaxing ambiance after entering this church.
Many people come here to worship the magnificent pulpit.
5. Gandhi Ghat and Jawahar Kunja
Gandhi Ghat is a monument constructed on the banks of River Ganga which is revered as the “father of the nation”.
This ghat is covered with numerous murals that show the work Gandhi undertook throughout his life.
A portion of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes is kept in a memorial at this ghat.
Inside, there is a very detailed mural that showcases his significant contributions.
You can also enjoy a spellbound view of the Ganga River from the ghat.
This ghat is a must-visit since it is brimming with peace and tranquility.
It offers stunning views of the sunrise and sunset and provides immense relaxation and refreshment.
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You can also come here and enjoy a day-long picnic with friends and family in Jawahar Kunj.
You can also stroll along the garden and take amazing pictures of the well-maintained garden & lawns of Jawahar Kunj, and the Ganga river.
There is also a kids’ zone where children can play and have fun.
The tickets for entering the beautiful Gandhi ghat are Rs 20 INR for adults, and Rs 5 for children.
If you are willing to book a picnic spot with all the necessary facilities, you can reserve it for Rs 500 INR.
6. Old Barrackpore Cantonment
The oldest cantonment of the British in India was in Barrackpore.
The cantonment is surrounded by lush green trees and creepers and includes many warehouses.
You can feel closer to nature by taking a leisurely stroll through the cantonment.
You may also take a trip down memory lane by strolling down Riverside Road and Park Road in the cantonment, which is lined with old British bungalows and homes.
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Many are in total disrepair, while some have been preserved and are now converted to official buildings.
The coexistence of old and contemporary structures is another intriguing sight in the old cantonment bazaar.
The graves in an old cemetery next to this market date back to British rule as well.
7. Old Kothi
Old Kothi is one of the creepiest historical landmarks in Bengal.
This is an old bungalow owned by the East India Company which is completely in ruins today.
This Kothi is believed to be haunted.
Locals prefer not to pass by this dilapidated building after sunset as strange sounds have been heard here very often.
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These are some of the best places to visit in Barrackpore.
Barrackpore is known for its importance during the Indian independence war as well as the numerous temples and churches that dot the city.
The place is indeed filled with footprints of serenity and peacefulness as well as touches of history in every corner.
Cover Pic Credits: Biswarup Ganguly, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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