About Katra Masjid
Katra Masjid, an architectural marvel of Murshidabad, West Bengal, stands as a significant historical and religious site. Built between 1723 and 1724 by Nawab Murshid Quli Khan, the first Nawab of Bengal, this mosque once served as both a place of worship and an Islamic school (madrasa). Despite the wear of time and natural calamities, Katra Masjid remains one of the most important heritage structures in Bengal, attracting history enthusiasts, scholars, and tourists alike.
Description:
The Katra Masjid is an impressive architectural structure featuring a large courtyard surrounded by two-storied domed cells that were historically used as a madrasah, a center for Islamic learning. The mosque itself is rectangular with multiple domes and towering octagonal minarets, although some parts were damaged in the 1897 earthquake. Nawab Murshid Quli Khan is buried beneath the entrance staircase of the mosque. The architecture showcases a blend of Mughal and regional styles.
Specialty:The specialty of Katra Masjid lies in its dual role as a major religious institution and a historical complex encompassing a mosque, caravanserai, and a mausoleum. Its grandeur and scale highlight its importance during the Nawab's rule. It was a prominent center for Islamic studies, capable of accommodating a large number of students. The unique feature of the founder's tomb being located beneath the mosque's stairs is also a notable aspect. Today, it stands as a key historical landmark and a popular tourist attraction in Murshidabad, reflecting the rich heritage of the region.
Address & Location :
Address: Katra Masjid, Murshidabad, West Bengal, India.
Coordinates: Latitude: 24.1875° N, Longitude: 88.2717° E.
Visiting Information :
Timings: Open from sunrise to sunset.
Entry Fee: A nominal maintenance charge may apply.
Guided Tours: Available for detailed historical insights.
Facilities :
Traveling Facilities
Rail: Murshidabad Railway Station (3 km away) is the nearest railway hub.
Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), Kolkata (195 km away) is the closest airport.
Bus: Regular buses operate from Kolkata, Berhampore, and nearby towns.
Local Transport :
Auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis are available for easy commuting.
Food Facilities :
Murshidabad is famous for:
Murshidabadi Biryani
Shutki Machh (Dried Fish) Curry
Macher Jhol (Fish Curry)
Poppy Seed (Posto) Based Dishes
Traditional Bengali Sweets like Sarpuria, Chhanar Jilipi, and Rosogolla.
Stay Facilities :
Budget Hotels: Available near Hazarduari Palace and the railway station.
Mid-Range Hotels: Available in Berhampore with good facilities.
Luxury Stays: Heritage hotels with Rajbari-style accommodations.
How to Reach Katra Masjid
By Bus :
From Kolkata: Several WBSTC & private buses operate between Kolkata and Murshidabad (6-7 hours).
From Berhampore: Frequent local buses and auto-rickshaws are available.
By Train :
Nearest Railway Station: Murshidabad Railway Station (3 km away)
Major Trains:
Bhagirathi Express (13103/13104) – Kolkata to Lalgola
Hazarduari Express (13113/13114) – Kolkata to Lalgola
Lalgola Passenger Trains – Frequent local trains from Sealdah
Kolkata – New Jalpaiguri Express – For travelers from North Bengal
By Air :
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (195 km)
From the airport, take a train from Sealdah or bus to Murshidabad.
Nearby Cities :
Berhampore (Baharampur) – 10 km
Krishnanagar – 100 km
Malda – 112 km
Kolkata – 195 km
Siliguri – 400 km
Nearby Attractions :
Mosques & Historical Sites
Hazarduari Palace: A grand palace with a thousand doors, now a museum.
Nizamat Imambara: One of India’s largest Shia imambaras.
Khoshbagh: The garden tomb of Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah.
Footi Mosque: An unfinished mosque by Nawab Sarfaraz Khan.
Temples :
Kiriteswari Temple: One of 51 Shakti Peethas (Kiritkona village).
Char Bangla Temple: A terracotta temple in Azimganj.
Nashipur Rajbari (Shiva Temple): An old Shiva temple in a historic palace.
Other Attractions :
Motijhil (Pearl Lake): A horseshoe-shaped lake with historical importance.
Jahankosha Cannon: A 17th-century massive cannon.
Kathgola Palace: A Jain heritage site.
Best Time to Visit :
October to March (Winter & Spring): Pleasant weather for sightseeing.
April to June (Summer): Avoid extreme heat.
July to September (Monsoon): Lush greenery, but heavy rains may disrupt travel.
Shopping Malls :
Murshidabad Silk Sarees – Famous across India.
Ivory & Wood Handicrafts – Artisanal crafts from Murshidabad.
Brass and Bell Metal Wares – Traditional Bengali decor items.
Handmade Terracotta Items – A local specialty.
Local Sweets – Sarpuria, Chhanar Jilipi, and more.
Katra Masjid is not just a historic monument but a reflection of Bengal’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. With its impressive design, deep-rooted history, and religious significance, it continues to be a major attraction for visitors exploring Murshidabad. Whether for its historical grandeur, nearby attractions, or local delicacies, a trip to Katra Masjid offers an immersive experience into the region’s past and present.
