Malda: The Historical Heart of Bengal

Nestled between the mighty Mahananda and Kalindi rivers, Malda is a fascinating blend of history, culture, and nature. Located 365 km north of Kolkata and 260 km south of Siliguri, this town has seen the rise and fall of powerful dynasties, leaving behind a treasure trove of architectural wonders. Once known as English Bazaar (thanks to an English factory set up in 1771), Malda is today a gateway to two of Bengal’s most significant historical sites—Gaur and Pandua.

If you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who loves wandering through old ruins, Malda should be on your travel bucket list. Let’s dive into what makes this place so special.

Malda: A Journey Through Time

A Town with a Glorious Past

Malda has been at the crossroads of history for centuries. It was once a thriving river port of the ancient Hindu capital of Pandua and later became the seat of power for several dynasties.

• Gaur was the capital of three major ruling powers—the Buddhist Pala Dynasty, the Hindu Sena Dynasty, and the Muslim Nawabs.

• Pandua once rivaled Gaur as an alternate seat of power and boasts the third-largest concentration of Muslim monuments in Bengal.

• The town became famous in the 18th century for its booming cotton and silk industries, which flourished under the Mughals and the British.

Even today, Malda is known for its mango orchards, mulberry plantations, and silk trade, making it an essential part of Bengal’s cultural and economic landscape.

Top Places to Visit in Malda

Gaur: The Lost City of Bengal (12 km from Malda)

Perched on the Indo-Bangladesh border, Gaur is an archaeologist’s paradise. This once-glorious city of 14th and 15th-century Bengal is now a stunning collection of ruins, each telling a tale of grandeur and conquest.

Must-visit landmarks:

• Bara Sona Mosque – A masterpiece of medieval Islamic architecture.

• Dakhil Darwaza (1425 AD) – A majestic gateway to the ancient city.

• Qadam Rasul Mosque – A sacred site housing the Prophet’s footprints.

• Lattan Mosque – Adorned with vibrant enamelled tiles.

• Firoz Minar – Bengal’s answer to the Qutub Minar!

• Gomti Gate – Featuring colorful tilework that still captivates visitors.

Pandua: The Architectural Treasure Trove (18 km from Malda)

While Gaur steals the limelight, Pandua is no less historically significant. Once a thriving capital, today it stands as a testimony to Bengal’s glorious past.

Must-see attractions:

• Adina Mosque (1369 AD) – The largest mosque in India, built by Sikander Shah over a Hindu temple, featuring 378 domes.

• Eklakhi Mausoleum – A beautifully preserved 15th-century tomb.

• Several small but exquisite mosques showcase a mix of Persian and local architectural styles.

Malda Museum

If you want to see the best artifacts from Gaur and Pandua without stepping into the ruins, Malda Museum is the place to be. The museum houses priceless archaeological finds, ancient sculptures, and manuscripts that offer a peek into Bengal’s rich history.

Getting to Malda

By Train: Malda is well-connected by rail, with regular trains from Kolkata, Siliguri, and New Jalpaiguri (NJP).

By Road: Buses and private cars ply frequently from Kolkata (410 km) and Siliguri (260 km).

By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra, around 230 km away. From there, a taxi or bus will take you to Malda.

Where to Stay in Malda

Malda offers a range of accommodations, from budget hotels to government-run lodges.

Tourist Lodge (West Bengal Tourism) – A convenient and affordable stay option. 

Private Hotels – A variety of budget and mid-range hotels are available in Malda.

A Walk Through Malda’s History

From Ancient Empires to Mughal Glory

• 500 BC: Mentioned in Hindu Puranic texts; part of the Mauryan Empire.

• 4th–5th Century AD: Under the Gupta Empire, there was major trade and cultural growth.

• 8th–11th Century AD: The Pala Dynasty rules, making Buddhism flourish.

• 11th–12th Century AD: The Sena Dynasty takes over; Ballal Sen unites Bengal in 1168 AD.

• 1204 AD: Bengal falls to the Mughals and Afghans.

• 1453 AD: Pandua is abandoned, and Gaur becomes the dominant city.

• 1539 AD: Sher Shah Suri captures Gaur.

• 1575 AD: Akbar’s army invades Gaur, but a plague forces its abandonment.

• 18th Century: Malda becomes a center of silk and cotton industries.

• British Era (1771): The English Bazaar is set up, which later becomes modern Malda.

Why Visit Malda?

Rich historical significance – A city where the past meets the present.
Architectural marvels – Stunning mosques, gateways, and minarets from the Bengal Sultanate.
Cultural hub – Experience authentic Bengali heritage, from mango orchards to silk weaving.
Offbeat charm – Lesser crowds, more charm, and plenty of hidden gems waiting to be explored.

Plan Your Trip with NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd.

Don’t just read about history—experience it! Whether you need a customized itinerary, guided tours, or hassle-free bookings, we’re here to make your Malda trip unforgettable.

Call us at 9733000592 / 593 / 594 for expert travel planning.
Step into the past, explore the ruins, and let Malda’s history captivate you. Pack your bags—it’s time for an adventure through Bengal’s golden past!