The town where the dream of Tagore is there; Visva Bharati University. The place where you can see his work everywhere and almost feel his presence in everything. Shantiniketan is situated near Bolpur in Birbhum in West Bengal.
We had taken a train from Kolkata to Bolpur. It was around 2.5 hours journey. We had booked a resort near Khoai called Maharshi Niwas. It had decent cottages with greens around. Service was good and we enjoyed our stay. Khoai is famous for the weekly bazaar that has local artisans selling their goods. The place was very close to our resort and we got the chance to see the beautiful local art.
The visit to the University, Uttarayan Complex and the Museum was worth remembering. There was also the famous Kaach Mandir or Upasana Griha, which is a prayer hall.
The University offers various courses and students from all over the world come to study here. Visitors can have a tour of the University during fixed timings. You can take a walk inside the premises and can spot many of the classes being conducted in open area, close to nature. The place is decorated with many of the sculptures and creation of the students.
Just opposite the University gate is the entrance to the various houses of Tagore inside Uttarayan Complex and the Museum. The properties are well maintained and photography is not allowed inside the museum for security reasons. We were a little heartbroken to see the replica of the Nobel prize kept there as the original was stolen. It is really sad that some individuals would go to such extent just to make few bucks.
Uttarayan has five houses of Tagore that he had build. He had created poetry and written novels in these houses and he chose each one at different period of his life to portray his varied mood and thinking.
We also happened to visit Kankalitala which is a Kali temple, which is not too far from University.
There are couple of local markets from where you can shop. The quality of art work is amazing. Amar Kutir is a famous place where you can find many artwork. It is also well known for leather bags and accessories.
Places to Visit
- University
- Museum
- Uttarayan Complex
- Khoai Mela
- Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary
- Amar Kutir
Big Events
- Poush Mela - held every year during winter which is a grand event where artists and musicians come together to celebrate the event.
- Dol jatra - Holi, festival of colors is played here with abir (colored powder), song and dance.
How to Visit
- Trains from Howrah Station and Sealdah Station in Kolkata to Bolpur Station. Cabs, autos available from station to resorts.
- Bus from Kolkata to Bolpur.
- You can hire private cars, Outstation Ola
Author: Jayanti
www.travelling-souls.com
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