The Perfect Itinerary To Experience Barrackpore's Historical Magic In A Day

Barrackpore is easily accessible through various modes of transportation. The nearest airport, Kolkata Airport, located approximately 30 km away, offers rental cars for a seamless transfer. The town has its own railway station, Barrackpore Railway Station, with connections to major cities across India, providing a convenient option for rail travel. If traveling by road, Barrackpore is about 30 kilometres from Kolkata, and one can opt for either renting a car or taking regular buses that operate at frequent intervals from Kolkata to Barrackpore.

Begin your day with divine grace at this replica of Kolkata's Dakshineswar Mandir, built by Jagdamba Devi, daughter of Rani Rashmoni. Located in Titagarh, Barrackpore, the Annapurna Mandir of Barrackpore temple overlooks the Hooghly River on Rani Rashmoni Ghat. Spend serene moments during morning and evening aartis at 5.30 AM and 7 PM respectively. Maa Annapurna's blessings come in the form of anna bhog, offered with rice, bhaji, vegetables, dal, and sweets. It opens in summer from 5.30 AM to 12.30 PM and 4 PM to 8 PM, and in the winter from 6 AM to 1 PM and 3.30 PM to 8 PM.

Your next must-visit spot is The Gandhi Museum, also referred to as the Gandhi Smarak Sangrahalaya. Nestled in a serene setting on the eastern bank of the Ganga, just three kilometres from Barrackpore Rail Station (Mistri Ghat Stoppage), it boasts a collection of Mahatma Gandhi's articles, photographs related to Gandhi, Netaji, and the Indian Freedom Movement, among others. The museum houses a substantial library and is open daily from 11 AM to 5 PM, except on Wednesdays.

Fee: Admission is free.

To satisfy your hunger, head over to Dada Boudi Biryani on Ghoshpara Rd (opposite Barrackpore Railway Station), a highly acclaimed biryani establishment where a plate of chicken or mutton biryani costs INR 160 to 200. Situated just outside Sukanta Sadan, don't miss trying their specialty, the 'Liver Fry'. Expect a wait in line, as it's a popular spot. The eatery is open every day from 11.30 AM to 11 PM.

All one wants after having a scrumptious biryani meal is to sit by a lake and enjoy the sunset view. Well, the Gandhi Ghat at Barrackpore has got you covered. This ghat has a memorial and is enshrined with a part of Mahatma Gandhi's ashes. There is a mural inside depicting his important work and is very detailed. The sunrise and sunset view at this ghat with the serene river flowing by is magnificent. Best time to visit is early morning or evening.

Now commonly known as St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, it was originally called the Garrison Church due to its proximity to the army barracks. Despite being labeled a cathedral, it's a modest single-story flat-roof church. The interior features a central main altar and a smaller chapel to the right. Choir or congregation seniors are seated to the left of the altar on benches across the church floor. Sunday services are held at 8 AM and 4.30 PM in summer, and 8.30 AM and 4 PM in winter, providing convenient times for mass attendance.

Wrap up your day at Mangal Park, named after the revolutionary martyr Mangal Pandey from the British colonial era. A monument in the park honours him with a statue and inscription. Enjoy free activities like picnics and jogging, or opt for a boat ride on the Ganges River for an extra charge. The park features a playground with life-sized animal sculptures for kids. Open Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM and Saturday to Sunday from 12 AM to 11.59 PM.

After a day of exploration, the ideal spot for a satisfying meal is Punjab Restaurant And Madras Tiffin. Renowned for its North Indian, South Indian, Chinese, and Rolls, this restaurant is situated at S 43, Banerjee Road, Gupta Cinema Complex, Barrackpore, Kolkata. With ample seating, tandoori delights, excellent food quality, prompt delivery, comfortable sitting arrangements, and an exquisite taste, it's the go-to place. Expect to spend around INR 500 for two people (approx.)