Balakhana in Maheshganj: A Heritage Weekend Destination

You may have a great time spending weekends nearby forests, seasides, riverbanks, mountains, hills, etc., but how about spending this weekend in a nearby heritage site? Of course, it would complete be a different experience, altogether. Therefore, this week Life Breezy suggests you about a unique weekend heritage site – Balakhana.

Balakhana means huge tall building. It relates the history and culture of centuries. Built in the French architecture, it stands as a witness of several historical turnarounds or ups and downs. The region also known for the historic indigo plantations of the eighteenth century.

In 1875, Nafar Chandra brought this historic structure for Biprodas Palchowdhury. This zamindari family still living in this vast estate. You would find the ancient billboard still lying in the billboard room. Of course, you may try your hands-on it too! Besides, the table tennis board would also draw your attention. Probably, you must be thinking by now what else could you do? Well, after the afternoon lunch, you may rest yourself in an armchair and read books, Oops! Your spines may give you a shiver while you sit alone in the vast 2000 square feet verandah, since it is an old house. However, there is nothing to fear, as this is not a haunted edifice.

Besides, the indoor activities you may step out in the green carpet of grasses in the lawn. Once there, make sure to visit the various groves of the mango, pineapple, guavas, etc. Moreover, headway 300 metres to the banks of the Jalangi River and sit, walk or relax on the benches. You may also cruise on the river waters on a boat and view the surrounding region with a pair of binoculars. The view of the sunset from the riverbank is one activity visitors don't miss here. You may head towards the Purbasthali Lake. The journey would take 30 minutes by road and 50 minutes in a boat. Here, you would notice several migratory birds and river dolphin.

Krishnanagar lies in the east, Nabadweep in the west and Mayapur in the north of the Balakhana. Since all these tourist destination spots lies close by, you may plan your visit accordingly provided you have enough time in hand to spend for the same.

Board a local train from the Sealdah Station, Kolkata and get down at Krishnanagar. Balakhana lies 12 Kilometres from the station. However, if you are planning to visit in your car, take the following route:

Kona Express to Nabadweep, From Gouranga Setu turn left to Markandapur – a narrow path leads to the Fakirtala – turn right towards Maheshgang to reach Balakhana.

Home stay available with suitable lodging and food. Lodging and food charges from Friday to Sunday for a couple and a child below 10 years RS 6000. For two children extra charges of RS 1000. For the aged extra charges of RS 2500. The lodging and food charges from Monday to Thursday for two people is RS 5000 every day.