Barrackpore City Guide

Barrackpore is situated in the Northern part of Kolkata. The district was of much relevance during the British Raj, as it formed the administrative and military base then. Legend has it, that the place was initially called Chanak. Later, with the coming of the Britishers, and being the centre of military operations, the place came to be known as Barrackpore. The town came into limelight when Mangal Pandey, a soldier in the Bengal Army’s 34th native infantry rose in rebellion against the British and hurt two army officers. He was later arrested and hanged for his misconduct.

The place particularly rose to importance, with Lord Wellesley, declaring it as the retreat spot for the British administrators working in Calcutta. Barrackpore continues to be the retreat spot of many who seek a break from the monotony of everyday life. The place is frequently visited by historians and enthusiasts who wish to have a peak into the British reign in India.

The Barrackpore subdivision is well connected by road, ferry and railways. With the two National Highways, NH-34 and NH-35, and several major State Highways passing through the area, most towns are well connected with Kolkata, its airport and port, and other important urban and commercial centres of the state.

Barrackpore has been serviced by rail since 1862. It takes about 35-40 minutes by suburban train to reach Barrackpore from Sealdah. As they are located in a suburban region of Kolkata, most municipalities of Barrackpore are connected by local train with Kolkata. There are a number of moderately priced hotels in the town.

The Barrackpore Air Force Station also serves as an Indian Air Force base in Barrackpore. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata is the nearest airport to Barrackpore, it is located at 20 km south east of Barrackpore. To make arrangements for a taxi or bus from Airport to Barrackpore, contact one the taxi operators and travel agents that have counter in the Airport.

Barrackpore Quick Facts

State: West Bengal
Languages: Bengali, English
STD Code: 09133
Weather: Hot in summer and moderately cool in winter
Best Season: Winter, October to March
Famous For: Historic building, Scenic

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