Mangal Pandey Park & Ghat

Hours: Open dawn to dusk 
Entry: Rs 15-50 per person 
Boat ride: Rs 300/boat/30 min
The emotional heart of Barrackpore, this well-maintained park on the eastern bank of the Hooghly is dedicated to the soldier who struck the first blow of 1857. A bronze statue of Mangal Pandey stands at the centre, musket in hand and jaw set with determination. Adjacent to the statue is the historic ghat from which he launched his defiance. The park itself is pleasant with riverine breezes, manicured lawns, a small children's play area and Shiva and Hanuman temples within the grounds. The ghat affords superb views of the river and is a popular spot for morning walkers and evening strollers. A cannon display near the entrance provides a photogenic reminder of the site’s military history. Boat rides on the Hooghly can be arranged from the ghat. Best visited at either sunrise, when the light on the river is extraordinary, or at dusk.