Khana Mihirer Dhipi

4.4

Location: MMXQ+28Q, Prithiba Rd, Berachampa, West Bengal 743424, India.

Estimated Visiting Time: 1-2 hours.

Khana Mihirer Dhipi in West Bengal, India, close to Berachampa, lies the archeological site known as Khana-Mihirer Dhipi. Dating from the Gupta era (4th to 6th century CE), it is thought to have been a component of a former Buddhist monastery or complex. The location includes other smaller ruins that showcase the period’s architectural design in addition to the remnants of a huge stupa-like building. According to local history, this area was once home to the great astrologer Khana and her husband, Mihir.

Attraction

The location has the remnants of a huge stupa-like building that was presumably part of a Buddhist monastery. The old vestiges of walls, pillars, and foundations are open for exploration by guests and offer an insight into the Gupta era’s architectural designs. Notable finds from the site include inscriptions, ceramics, and terracotta figures, which provide insight into the period’s artistry. With a variety of artifacts from various eras of ancient Bengal, the area around Chandraketugarh is rich in history. It’s a moody place to explore because of the natural surroundings and the ruins. The visit is transformed into an archeological adventure and a voyage into Bengal’s legendary past by the addition of a layer of cultural mystery from local traditions about Khana and Mihir.

History

The Gupta era, roughly during the fourth and sixth centuries CE, is when Khana-Mihire Dhipi’s rich history began. The location is thought to have been a component of a Buddhist monastery complex, maybe connected to a temple or stupa. This site’s discovery provides information about ancient Indian trade networks, architecture, and craftsmanship. Since it was first excavated in the 1950s, multiple historically significant layers have been found at the site. With their displays of ceramics, sculptures made of terracotta, and other artifacts, the ruins indicate that the area was a bustling Gupta settlement. While the architectural style shows influences from numerous dynasties that ruled over Bengal, the prominence of religious structures indicates the significance of Buddhism at this time. The famous astrologer Khana and her husband Mihir, who were well-known for their expertise in astrology and astronomy, are the subjects of the local tales that give rise to the name Khana-Mihirer Dhipi. The stories provide a cultural element to the significance of the site, even if the historical relationship between them and the location is still uncertain.

Inside/Outside Views

Inside Khana-Mihirer Dhipi, ruins of old buildings may be seen, including what looks to be the base of a sizable stupa or temple. Brick walls, half-columns, and other architectural elements strewn around the area hint at the site of a once-grand ecclesiastical complex. Even though it is mostly in ruins, the interior area offers an idea of the original building’s scale and arrangement, offering a window into the Gupta era’s craftsmanship and design. Open areas characterize the site’s exterior, while low, mound-like ruins are dispersed throughout the terrain. The archeological remnants and the surrounding natural settings combine to create a dramatic setting. The site’s rural environment provides a serene backdrop, and the exposed brickwork, worn with time, adds to the historic ambiance.

Opening Hours

Saturday 6.00 AM- 6.00 PM
Sunday 6.00 AM- 6.00 PM
Monday 6.00 AM- 6.00 PM
Tuesday 6.00 AM- 6.00 PM
Wednesday 6.00 AM- 6.00 PM
Thursday 6.00 AM- 6.00 PM
Friday 6.00 AM- 6.00 PM

Entry & Others Fees

There is no entry fee normally.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, located around 40–45 km from Berachampa. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Khana-Mihirer Dhipi.

By Road: From Kolkata, You can take NH12 (Jessore Road) towards Barasat and then drive along Taki Road to reach Berachampa. The distance is around 40-50 km.

By Rail: The nearest major railway station is Barasat Junction, located around 30 km from Khana-Mihirer Dhipi. Barasat is well-connected to Kolkata and other nearby areas.

Tips for Travellers

Morning is the best time to visit.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes.
Bring a camera to capture the historical sites.
Explore nearby attractions.
Respect the local culture.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe.

Que-02: Is photography allowed here?

Ans: Yes, photography is allowed.

Que-03: What is the significance of Khana and Mihir about the site?

Ans: Khana and Mihir are legendary figures in Bengali folklore. Khana was a renowned astrologer, and Mihir, her husband, was also an astronomer. Though their connection to the site is speculative, local tradition associates the ruins with them.