ASANSOL - THE CITY OF BROTHERHOOD

 Travel blogging has it's own perks, you get to see how life is around you and how far it's spread. It's filled with mysteries and excitement of what you would discover next. With that zeal to discover the world, why don't we begin from the start. My roots are in the city of Asansol, the place where I was born and brought up, the place where I began all my stages of learning, the place which I truly love and that is the place which I would want my readers to experience next. 

Recently when I got back home from college, I realized that how much I missed this place and how relaxing it is to live in. Big cities are full of life, constant racing, no time to sit, relax and breathe. But when you visit a small city like mine, you get the time to sit back and feel the beauty of life. Maybe that's why people prefer rural or semi-urban destinations for their relaxation holidays. 

Let us begin with the simplicity of the city of brotherhood - Asansol,  the second largest city of West Bengal and the hub of steel and coal industries. While being one of India’s fastest-growing cities, the burst of progress is not clouding Asansol’s wonderful culture. This city is sophisticated yet vibrant.

                                        

The city lies on the banks of Damodar River and it is the main attraction of the city. Two dams built across the river, Maithon and Panchet are a beautiful sight with greenery and hills around. The best time to visit this place is from October to January to witness the winter season. These places are filled with people during this time for the infamous picnic buzz. The bright sunshine amidst the chilly weather amplifies the beauty of Asansol. 

                                                 

 The religious spirit will strike every traveler’s chord instantly in this City Of Brotherhood. The multicultural urban lifestyle is tinged with the fundamental Bengali culture. There are some amazing heritage shrines that add a touch to the color and beauty of this city.

The famous temples in Asansol, with their rich spiritual history and wonderful structures, attract a lot of devotees and religious tourists. They are also visited by all those who like to explore beautiful sights. In Asansol, temples are constructed in the distinctive architectural styles of West Bengal. The temples are a symbol of spirituality, culture, and art.

                                                     


1. Kalyaneshwari Temple

One of the most popular tourist locations in Asansol is the Kalyaneshwari Temple. The ancient temple is devoted to Maa Kalyaneshwari and is thought to be over 500 years old.  Maa Kalyaneshwari, who is also the presiding goddess at the temple is none other than Hindu Goddess Shakti or Kali. By her blessings, many women who have difficulty conceiving find solace. The ‘Lady of Fulfilment’ is another name of Maa Kalyaneshwari.

2. Ghagar Buri Chandi Temple
On the banks of a small river called Nunia exists the famous Ghagar Buri Chandi Temple. The temple is situated in Asansol on the peak of Kali Pahadi. The temple doors are open after sunrise.

3. Begunia Temple
All four Begunia Temples are situated in one complex, secured by a wide border wall. The temples are sacred and heavenly. The walls ensure no invasion and a lot of peace and calmness.

4. Bari Maidan Kali Mandir 
5. Ramkrishna Mission Ashram - Belur Math 
6. Maa Chinnamasta Kali Mandir Dishergarh
7. Biharinath Temple
8. Sacred Heart Cathedral Church 
9. Dargah Hazrat Baba Mastan Shah 
10. Sripur Dada Peer Mazar Sharif

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Another main attraction of the city is Nehru Park, spread over a huge area with plenty trees, children's park and on the banks of Damodar River, the park is a must-go place for picnics during winters. 
The park was planned by F. W. A. Lahmeyer, general manager of the IISCO Steel Plant. Although officially named Riverside Park, it was nicknamed Lahmeyer Park. In 1989, the 100-year anniversary of the birth of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, the park was renamed Nehru Park. A cast iron statue of Nehru, cast at Kulti Works, then part of IISCO, was installed in the park.

Durga Puja is also one of the best times to visit Asansol to witness the Bengali Culture and the colors of joy. Pandal hopping all night long and eating from roadside eateries with friends and family is all Bengalis look up to all year long. Galaxy and Sentrum are the two malls in the city and also the center of attraction during special occasion. All school and college friends gather together at one place to enjoy their time.
The city also has many famous multicuisine restaurants which also represents the taste of Bengal. 
1. Sudhamrit Restaurant 2. Kamal Restaurant 3. Jadu Kadhai  4. Royal Biryani 5. Durga Foods 
6. Ganga Hotel  7. Copper Hundi  8. Madhuban Restaurant  9. The Grand   10. The Saffron 
to name a few. 

                                                      

With this I come to an end to my blog about my very own city - Asansol and I've mentioned all the places that you need to visit. I hope that you liked reading it. I'll come up with my next blog very soon, till then bye bye. 😉
                                       

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