I recently visited Chandraketugarh, an important archaeological site in India.Chandraketugarh was formed in Bidyadhari basin in Berachampa, which falls under the North 24 Parganas district. The site is only about 35 kilometers northeast of Kolkata, so it’s a relatively short drive of around 60 kilometers from the city. To reach Chandraketugarh, you can take one of two routes: either the Haroa Road from Chinar Park or NH34 via Badu to Berachampa. Just be aware that the approach road can be narrow and crowded with local transport. Overall, it was a fascinating visit, and I learned a lot about the area’s rich history.
Important historical information about ChandraketuGarh the ancient archaeological site in India
History of Chandraketugarh
Let me give an introduction to ancient Indian history, this place is very prominent for its historical importance. After several excavations much more evidences are unearthed which is from Maurya, Kushana, Gupta period and late Gupta period (400 BC – 100 BC) “KhanaMihirerdhibi” and ChandraketuGarh seems the evidence of urban civilization under the rule of legendary king Chandraketu (4th century BC – 12th century BC). As per Archaeological Servey of India this civilization endured from the pre – Mauryan to Pala period.
The excavations are segregated into 7 different eras
1st phase assumed as Pre-Mauryan era
2nd phase assumed as Maurya-Sunga era
3rd phase is Post-Sunga
4th phase assumed as Kushan era
5th Gupta era
6th Post – Gupta era
7th Pala- Chandra- Sen era
History of Chandraketugarh Museum among Oldest Archaeological Site in India
Mr. dilip Kr. Moite a school teacher later turned an armature archaeologist personally collected artifacts from ChandraketuGarh site and maintained the private museum over there. He was the permanent resident of Berachampa. I was Interested visitors can visit his “Chandraketu GarhPratnya Sangraha Shala”(Archaeological Museum) to gather much important historical information.
He had written some books and later published on ChandraketuGarh. Now Government of west Bengal setup chandraketugarh museum where his son donated some artifacts from his personal collections to govt. of West Bengal for this museum. Now visitors are allowed to visit this museum. You can visit Chandraketugarh museum during a day tour near Kolkata.
Khana-Mihirer Dhipi Chandraketugarh’s Excavation Project
I recently had the opportunity to visit an excavation site that left me feeling quite thrilled. The site was truly remarkable, with various structures on display that each told their own unique story. It was fascinating to learn that the temple remains found on the mound were likely rebuilt multiple times, resulting in traits from various periods in history. During my visit, I also had the chance to observe pottery that fit into the Kushan Sunga period, as well as other objects like terracotta figures, utensils, coins, beads, and jars.
To reach the site, visitors had to travel along a narrow road and park their vehicles near the market before walking to the excavation site. There was no entry fee, but visitors did need to register their details before entering. The paths were clearly marked and easy to navigate. Visitors were not allowed to climb on top of the excavated structures and were required to stay on the designated pathways. Although the excavated area only contained terracotta bricks and no figures were present, the experience was incredibly enlightening and enthralling.
How Far Did Chandraketugarh The Oldest Archaeological Site Extend?
The Gangahridi civilization spread from this region to present-day DumDum. Some artifacts were excavated adjacent to Clive House in DumDum. I have written about this on another blog of mine. You may like
Clive House: Among Top 10 Best Oldest Diamond Heritage Building Of Kolkata
Conclusion
Encore audio visual
FAQ
Chandraketugarh is famous for
An important archaeological sites in India
What is the total size of the ancient settlement of chandraketugarh
Ancient ChandraketuGarh covers a large territory of land, approx. 10 villages fall within its radius.
How far did the oldest archaeological site extend?
The Gangahridi civilization spread from this region to present-day DumDum. Some artifacts were excavated adjacent to Clive House in DumDum.