Getting There: Train Is Your Best Bet
The most budget-friendly and convenient way to travel from Kolkata to Murshidabad is by train. Several trains run daily from Sealdah (SDAH) and Kolkata (KOAA) stations. The Hazarduari Express (13113) is a popular choice, taking about three to four hours
to reach Murshidabad station (MBB). Ticket prices for a second-class seat are incredibly economical, often starting around ₹100-₹150. For a more comfortable journey, you can opt for the CC (AC Chair Car) coach. Buses are also available from Esplanade in Kolkata, but the train journey is generally faster and more comfortable. The main cluster of historical sites is in Lalbagh, which is a short e-rickshaw ride from the Murshidabad railway station.
Affordable Stays Near the Action
To maximise your time and minimise travel costs within Murshidabad, look for accommodation in the Lalbagh area, near the Hazarduari Palace complex. You'll find a range of budget-friendly guesthouses and small hotels that offer basic but clean lodging. Options like government-run tourist lodges and other budget hotels can be booked for well under ₹1000-₹1500 per night. Staying in Berhampore, a larger nearby town, is also an option with more hotel choices, but it requires a short commute to the main sights. For a truly immersive experience, some heritage properties like the Cossimbazar Palace of the Roys have been converted into hotels, offering a different but less budget-focused experience.
A One-Day Sightseeing Itinerary
Murshidabad's treasures can be comfortably explored in a single, well-planned day. Start your morning at the magnificent Hazarduari Palace Museum, the district's crown jewel. The museum opens at 9:00 AM, and it's best to go early to avoid crowds. The entry fee for Indian citizens is very nominal, around ₹20-₹25. Directly opposite the palace is the massive Nizamat Imambara, and the area also includes the historic Clock Tower and Madina Mosque. From there, hire a 'toto' (e-rickshaw) for the day to cover the remaining key sites. A typical route includes Katra Masjid, the tomb of Murshid Quli Khan; the impressive Jahan Kosha Cannon; and the serene Kathgola Gardens and Palace. Negotiate a fixed price with the toto driver for your entire itinerary to avoid confusion later.
Exploring Like a Local
Getting around Murshidabad is part of the experience. Totos are the primary mode of transport for tourists and are readily available. You can hire one for a full-day tour for a reasonable price, which is the most efficient way to see scattered monuments. Don't hesitate to bargain respectfully for a fair rate. For a touch of nostalgia, horse-drawn carriages or 'tangas' are also available, though they are generally more expensive. Another unique local experience is crossing the Bhagirathi river by boat, which locals do to save time. This is necessary to visit Khosh Bagh, the final resting place of Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah, located on the opposite bank of the river.
Smart Tips for a Budget Trip
To keep your trip economical, embrace local eateries for authentic and affordable Bengali and Mughlai cuisine. Carry a water bottle and some snacks, as facilities can be sparse around some monuments. The best time to visit is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing. Summers can be intensely hot and are best avoided. Remember that Hazarduari Palace Museum is closed on Fridays, so plan your trip accordingly. Most sightseeing can be done in one to two days, making it an ideal weekend getaway from Kolkata without stretching your budget.
