Name: Malda
Rating: 4.1

Gour, Malda Overview

If you wish to explore the rich and diverse history of Bengal, Gour is the place for you. Located along the banks of the holy river Ganges, this is one of the oldest residential colonies existing in the state. Although the place is now in ruins, its unique history and magnificent architecture are more than enough to attract tourism from places far and wide. This settlement was the capital of ancient Bengal and was also a center of political and state affairs relating to the realm.

Believed to have been discovered by Lord Lakshman, this town was earlier called Lakshmanavati. When Muslims conquered the state, its name changed to Lakhnauti. The records relating to the life and times of Gour can be traced back to 1198, which was around the time when Muslims had taken over the state.

This destination has quite a number of ancient monuments and their ruins within its perimeter. The most popular ones include Bada Darwaza, Eunuchs' Mosque, Tantipar Mosque, Dakhil Darwaza, Kadam Rasut Mosque and Firoz Minar. Tucked away in the lap of lush greenery, this is the perfect place to discover and rediscover history!

History Of Gour

Believed to have been discovered by Lord Lakshman, this city had been mention in Puranic texts as old as 500 BC. During that time, Gour was under the Mauryan empire. From the 8th century to the 11th century, Bengal was under the rule of the Pala dynasty which led to a massive boom in the following of the Buddhist way of life in the city.

The rule of the Palas was followed by the rule of the Sen Dynasty, which was overthrown by the Mughals and the Afghans in 1204 AD. The Muslims retained Gour as their seat of power for three centuries straight. Around the year 1350, the Sultans of Bengal established their independence and transferred their power over to Pandua.

Monuments of Gour

Gour is a feast for history lovers, for it houses a number monuments within proximity. The Bada Darwaza is an imposing structure which is marvelous and humbling at the same time. Revel in the magnificence of God at the famous mosques of Gour- Eunuch's Mosque, Tantipar Mosque and Kadam Rasut Mosque. Dakhil Darwaza is a regal gateway which opens into the ruins of a 15th-century castle.

The southeast corner of the fort encloses the ruins of the old palace and is a must visit. The Firoz Minar is a three storey construction which has twelve adjacent faces, and the top two storeys are circular in their construction. You can capture a bird's eye view of the city from atop this tower as well.

How To Reach Gour

Buses from Esplanade terminus in Kolkata go to Malda via NH 34. For a comfortable journey, you can also avail package tour to Gour and surrounding places.