Chandannagar, whose name means "a crescent-shaped form," sits at the edge of the Hooghly River. Once known as Chandernagore, the city honored the temple of the goddess Chandi that stands within it. Nestled in West Bengal, the city ranks among the seven municipal corporations and preserves remnants of its past as a former French settlement.

History of Chandannagar

In 1673, Ibrahim Khan, the Mughal subadar, granted the French permission to establish Chandannagar as a French colony. This decision became permanent and enforceable only in 1688, with the creation of a trading post along the Hooghly River.

By 1730, the governor initiated Chandannagar's development. Several buildings were constructed during his tenure, alongside the establishment of maritime commerce.

When war erupted between France and Great Britain, British Admiral Watson and Colonel Clive decided to bomb Chandannagar to assert their dominance. On March 23, 1757, numerous houses were demolished and the city descended into chaos.

In 1763, Chandannagar was restored before being seized by the British in 1794 during the Napoleonic Wars. France regained possession in 1816, along with parts of surrounding territories. Their return was completed in March 1817.

By 1900, Chandannagar lost its status as West Bengal's principal commercial hub. It became a simple suburb of Calcutta.

Visiting Chandannagar

The vicissitudes the city endured have left palpable marks throughout Chandannagar. During your stay, prioritize a riverside stroll to journey through the city's past. Take in the crowds while admiring the ballet of boats. Then head to the Gange meditation center, called Vivekananda Mandir, to restore yourself.

Chandannagar preserves rich historical heritage. At the Chandernagore Museum and Institute, you'll find a fine collection of French antiquities. Exhibits include weapons used during the Anglo-French War, 18th-century wooden furniture, and personal objects belonging to Ogendra Nath Sen, a former French combatant who lived in Chandannagar. Two additional museums await you: the Chandernagore Heritage Museum, dedicated to the city's history, and the Radhanath Sikdar Himalayan Museum located in Bagbazar, devoted to mountaineering.

French architecture gleams at the heart of Chandannagar, exemplified by the Sacred Heart Church, meticulously designed by French architect Jacques Duchatz. Also visit the ruins of Saint-Louis Church on the right bank of the Hooghly. Still in the architectural vein, the underground residence Patal-Bari deserves a visit. It exemplifies the meticulous work of the era's celebrated craftsmen in aesthetic design. This residence is cited in several novels, including those by Tagore.

Another attraction in Chandannagar, the Nandadulal Temple dating to 1740, houses ancient Indian sculptures. Other sanctuaries dedicated to Kali and Shiva include the Bishalakshmi Temple located in Boubazar.

For family or group outings, visit the KMDA park or the Mankundu mango gardens.

Practical Information

Climate in Chandannagar

Located in West Bengal, Chandannagar enjoys a tropical climate. For sun-filled travels, plan your visit between October and March. July and August are the wettest months.

By Air:

You'll land at Kolkata Airport, where you can hire a taxi to reach Chandannagar (40 km).

By Boat:

You can take a boat and cross the Hooghly River, passing through Belur, to arrive at Chandannagar.

By Car:

In Calcutta, taxis are available for the journey to Chandannagar.

By Train:

Board the local Howrah train, which stops at Chandannagar. The 33 km journey takes approximately one hour.

What to Do in Chandannagar?

• Enjoy a cruise on the Hooghly River
• Taste local sweets and desserts
• Visit the Nritya Gopal Smriti Mandir
• Discover the Chandannagar Gate with the French Revolution slogan, and more