Things not to Miss in Asansol
Asansol is the second-largest city in the state of West Bengal, after its capital city Kolkata. It has warm, dry summers and long cold winters. So, we recommend that visitors remain prepared for the extremes.
If you visit the city, you are in for a treat for amazing natural wildlife and prime popular locations such as Satabdi Park, Gunjan Ecological Park, Joychandi Pahar, etc.
The city is recognized as the country’s coal center as well. It is an economic capital and one of India’s most busy commercial centers. In the state of West Bengal, it is ranked as the 10th fastest-growing city in the country and also one of the biggest cities.
It is assumed that the area was part of the kingdom of Vishnupur, where the dynasty of Malla ruled for around a thousand years before the British appeared. Asansol’s economy relies primarily on its steel and coal industries, railways, and trade.
Places to visit in Asansol
1. Kalyaneshwari temple
The renowned temple of Kalyaneshwari is located about 20 km away from Asansol City. Maa Kalyaneshwari, a form of goddess shakti or kali, is the reigning deity at this temple. It is believed to be an iconic landmark. The most interesting thing about this temple is that it is up to 500 years old.
2. Maithan
A favorite pick for a relaxing weekend in Asansol is the Maithan Dam. You can pay a visit to Maithan if you love spending time near serene water bodies. It is a beautiful place surrounded by mountains, water, and trees reaching farther than the eyes can see!
The Dam is built on the Barakar River, on the border between both the Jharkhand and West Bengal. Take a nice long stroll along the Dam and admire the huge reservoir’s breathtaking views.
3. Nehru Park
Nehru Park is built on the riverbank of Damodar river and is located in Burnpur. This lovely park is renowned for amenities including boating, musical fountains, and many restaurants serving multi-cuisine.
A nominal fee can be charged for entry to the park. There is a massive cast-iron sculpture of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, upon entering the park. Nehru Park is indeed a great place.
4. Churulia
Churulia, a small village situated 17 km away from the city, is the birthplace of the famous national poet, Kazi Nazrul Islam. Storytelling and poetry are not solely restricted for Kolkata’s scholars, but they make their way into every part of West Bengal. Like Bengalis, immerse yourself in art and literature while you are in Bengal.
Try to arrange a tour in advance for the festival that honors the birth anniversary of Kazi Nazrul Islam. The festival lasts for a week and takes place every year.
Asansol Cuisine
When you are in Asansol, try these local Bengali delicacies and thank us later. For breakfast, begin your day with fluffy luchis (puris) and vegetable curry. Rice, dal, and a surreal variety of bhajas (fried vegetables) such as Aloo Bhaja (potato) and Begun Bhaja (eggplant) are enjoyed here for lunch and dinner.
Non-vegetarians will get the best fish, chicken, and mutton curries to choose from. The most famous are Doi Maach (fish in spicy yogurt gravy), Sorshe Ilish (Hilsa fish in mustard gravy), and Chingri Malaikari (prawns in a coconut-milk gravy).
Among the most popular restaurants in Asansol are New Sudhamrit, Durga Foods, Sagourab Hotel & Restaurant, Hotel Krishna Restaurant Cum Bar, Tuk Tuk Tawa, Bay Leaf Restaurant, Paradise, Lazeez Express, and Avantika Hotel and Restaurant. The restaurants serve a range of cuisines, from Indian, Chinese, vegetarian-friendly, and Thai, to local delicacies.
Places of interest around Asansol
1. Meghnad Saha Planetarium
Visit the Meghnad Saha Planetarium, established on the premises of Burdwan University. The Planetarium was established in collaboration with the Japanese government. The Planetarium is limited in scale but incorporates the latest stargazing technologies and equipment.
It was opened in 1994 to the people and is famous among the natives for the various shows it conducts. The planetarium is situated 104 km away from Asansol.
2. Joychandi Pahar
The mysterious hill called Joychandi Pahar should be explored by all the trekking lovers. Joychandi Pahar is a collection of three or four hilltops. Climb 500 steps to the highest point for some of the most stunning scenery. You can also have a look around the small temple on top of the hill.
The perfect time to visit the hill is in the winter season. Located near Joychandi Pahar, there are many resorts and bungalows. It was here that Satyajit Ray sought motivation for his famous movie named “Hirak Rajar Deshe”. Joychandi Pahar is situated 50 km away from Asansol.
3. Sunaina Hills
Among visitors, the Susunia Hills are famous for their natural hot springs and open green areas. It is also recognized for the ‘Narasingha stone’ believed to be an ancient rock belonging to king Chandravarman.
Conclusion
There are so many things that you should not miss when you are in the City of Brotherhood. It is a place you will never regret going to. The city has a range of sightseeing choices, such as parks, temples, religious sites, historical landmarks, lakes, wildlife sanctuaries, etc.
Mahavira Vardaman, the last Tirthankar of Jains, used to reside here. Thus, the district is also popular as Bardhaman. In addition to being a sightseeing spot, the place is pollution-free and visitors are drawn to the city due to its peaceful atmosphere.
Asansol may not be everyone’s ultimate holiday destination, but if you are someone with a particular interest in photography or are just a food and nature lover, you will certainly be delighted by the flourishing wilderness, diversity, and culture of the region.
