Things To Do
in Murshidābād
Murshidābād sits along the Bhagirathi river in West Bengal and stands as a living museum of Bengal’s Nawabi era. The district preserves grand palaces, mosques, and colonial-era architecture that recall a cosmopolitan past. Its markets bustle with silk crafts, local sweets, and riverfront life that run to the rhythms of the river.
Visitors can explore a rich blend of history, religion, and artisanal heritage that continues to shape everyday life here.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Hazarduari Palace, where you can admire its stunning architecture and expansive gardens. The morning light beautifully illuminates the intricate details of the palace, making it a perfect time for photography. As you wander through the palace, be sure to visit the museum housing a collection of artifacts from the Nawabi era.
After lunch at a local eatery, head to the nearby Katra Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the region. The serene ambiance and impressive structure provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Spend time appreciating the intricate carvings and the beautiful courtyard while learning about its historical significance.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Bhagirathi River, where the views are particularly stunning. Enjoy the cool breeze and watch local fishermen as they prepare for the evening catch. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring traditional Bengali cuisine.
Begin your morning with a refreshing walk around Motijheel, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush gardens and historical structures. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. As you walk, be sure to stop by the old clock tower, an iconic landmark that tells stories of the past.
After a relaxing morning, visit the historic tomb of Siraj-ud-Daula, located near the lake. This site holds deep historical significance, and the architecture reflects the grandeur of the era. Explore the surrounding area, where you can learn more about the local legends and history.
In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance at a local venue, where folk music and dance bring the essence of Bengal to life. Engage with the performers and learn about the stories behind the art forms. Afterward, dine at a nearby restaurant, sampling local delicacies like shorshe ilish and mishti doi.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-7 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚖Local transport for a day | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Nawabi-era architecture and riverine ambience
- Vibrant markets and silk crafts
- Accessible rail connection to Kolkata and other cities
- Seasonal humidity and heat
- Infrastructure gaps in some rural areas
- Language barrier outside Bengali-speaking areas
- "Nomoshkar" - Hello
- "Dhonnobad" - Thank you
- "Eta koto?" - How much is this?
- "Shauchalay kothay?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Daya kore" - Please
Places to Visit in Murshidābād
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand 19th-century palace with a dramatic façade and museum interiors; the surrounding gardens and riverbank provide atmospheric light for photography.
An elegant mosque with domes and arches set within tranquil courtyards; great for architectural detail shots and symmetry.
Lush garden interiors and the sprawling palace complex offer color, texture, and reflective water scenes.
A historic mosque with intricate brickwork and prayer halls; ideal for studying light in shaded interiors.
Wide river views at dusk; captures of boats, working ferries, and the changing colors on the water.
Food in Murshidābād
Murshidābād Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hilsa fish cooked in a pungent mustard gravy; a signature Bengali preparation widely enjoyed in coastal districts and inland towns alike.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked spicy mutton curry with rich tomato-onion gravy; a hearty Nawabi-style dish that's popular in many Murshidābād eateries.
Hilsa wrapped in banana leaf with a mustard-chili paste, then lightly steamed or grilled; a fragrant, festive preparation.
Prawn preparations ranging from crisp fried prawns to creamy coconut-milk curries, often found in seaside-influenced Bengali menus.
Traditional Bengali sweets and dumplings, including rice-powder pastries and coconut-jaggery fillings, enjoyed especially during festivals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling lanes near the riverfront with stalls offering fish, sweets, local snacks, and fresh produce; great for tasting everyday Bengali street fare.
Casual stalls along the Bhagirathi serving fried items, pithas, bhajis, and tea; ideal for a quick, flavorful meal while exploring the sights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, especially at religious sites; remove shoes where required and ask before taking photos of people. In markets, queue politely and avoid loud, intrusive behavior.
Respect prayer times and local customs at mosques and temples; avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas.
Safety
Tipping in Murshidābād
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a small tip (around 5-10%) is appreciated if service charges are not included. For street vendors and small stalls, tipping is discretionary and modest.
Cash is widely accepted; some hotels, higher-end restaurants, and shops accept cards or mobile wallets (UPI, Paytm, Google Pay, PhonePe). Always carry small denomination notes for local purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temperatures often in the 90s F (above 30 C); stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor time for early morning or late afternoon.
July–September brings heavy rains and humidity; occasional flooding in low-lying areas; carry rain gear and waterproof bags for electronics; plan indoor alternatives if deluges occur.
Cool and pleasant with mild to cool mornings; daytime temperatures are comfortable, perfect for riverfront strolling and outdoor sightseeing.
Murshidābād at Night
Hiking in Murshidābād
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy riverside strolls along the Bhagirathi offering sunsets and scenic reflections; suitable for casual hikers and photographers.
Low-to-moderate difficulty loop through rural fields and orchards; typically 2–5 hours, best in cooler months.
Airports
How to reach Murshidābād by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; roughly 200+ km away by rail/road; frequent connections to major Indian cities.
Nearest major airport serving North Bengal and the foothills; about 300+ km away; useful if combining a trip with Darjeeling or Siliguri.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language and culture in Murshidābād; mix of Hindu and Muslim communities.
Many residents rely on farming, fishing, crafts, and small-scale trade.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in towns and schools; local clubs and informal matches are common.
Popular in urban and rural areas; local leagues and school tournaments occur seasonally.
Traditional regional sport enjoyed in villages and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Murshidābād.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are meat or fish-based; look for dal, paneer curries, aloo-shag, chana dishes, and vegetable gravies. Request no fish or meat and inquire about mustard or dairy ingredients when needed.