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Chandraketugarh: Echoes of Ancient Bengal

Unearth ancient mysteries at Chandraketugarh, West Bengal: a historical site with links to the Mauryan Empire and Greco-Roman world.

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Explore Chandraketugarh, an archaeological site near Kolkata, West Bengal, revealing over two millennia of history. Once a bustling urban and port center connected to ancient trade routes, it offers insights into ancient Indian culture and possible links to the Gangaridai kingdom mentioned in Greco-Roman texts. Discover relics from the Mauryan to Pala-Sena periods.

A brief summary to Chandraketugarh

  • MMXQ+28Q, Prithiba Rd, Berachampa, West Bengal, 743424, IN
  • +918250101199
  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven terrain while exploring the archaeological site.
  • Carry water and snacks, as there may not be many options available near the site.
  • Visit the Chandraketugarh Museum to see the artifacts excavated from the site.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the history and significance of the site.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kolkata, take a bus from Esplanade or Ultadanga to Barachampa. From Barachampa, hire a local auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Chandraketugarh, approximately 1 km away. Bus fare from Kolkata to Barachampa typically ranges from ₹70-₹110. Auto-rickshaw fare from Barachampa to Chandraketugarh is around ₹20-₹50.

  • Taxi

    Hire a taxi directly from Kolkata to Chandraketugarh. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Expect to pay around ₹2,000-₹3,000 for a round trip.

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Discover more about Chandraketugarh

Chandraketugarh, located approximately 35 kilometers northeast of Kolkata in the Ganges Delta, is an archaeological site that unveils layers of history spanning over two millennia. This cluster of villages in the 24 Parganas district of West Bengal whispers stories of a vibrant urban center and port that thrived as early as the 4th century BCE. This ancient settlement's significance lies in its strategic location along the Bidyadhari River, which once connected it to the Ganga, making it a crucial hub for maritime trade. This connection facilitated interactions with distant lands, including the Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and Persia, transforming Chandraketugarh into a melting pot of cultures and commerce. Some scholars identify Chandraketugarh as part of the ancient Gangaridai kingdom, mentioned in Greco-Roman accounts. Excavations at Chandraketugarh have revealed a continuous sequence of cultural remains from the pre-Mauryan era to the Pala-Sena period, showcasing its enduring significance throughout various dynasties. The city's prosperity is evident in archaeological finds, including coins, pottery, terracotta figurines, seals, and jewelry, providing invaluable insights into the lives and culture of its ancient inhabitants. The site features the ruins of a fort and a temple complex known as Khanamihirer Dhipi. While much of the site remains unexcavated, the visible mounds and recovered artifacts offer a glimpse into a rich historical past. The Chandraketugarh Museum houses many of the artifacts excavated from the site.

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