In Bengal, some places look like a canvas when you see them. Gangani is one such wondrous place. It is also known as the 'Grand Canyon of Bengal'. Located near Garbeta in West Medinipur, the main attraction of this place is the deep gorge of red soil formed along the banks of the Shilabati River. The Geological Survey of India gave this gorge the Geo Heritage tag last year to highlight the importance of this place's geological diversity.
Gangani is also connected to the Mahabharata. The Medinimanagal Kavya states— 'No one can match Bakasura/The second Pandava Bhima with his footsteps/Killed him in the Gangani field'. It is said that during their exile, the five Pandavas came to the deep forests here. At that time, the second Pandava Bhima fought a fierce battle with Bakasura in the plains of Gangani. Bakasura was killed by Bhima. Many claim that if you dig the soil of Gangani, you can still find Bakasura's bones. However, historians and geological experts believe there is no scientific basis for this; it is entirely a fictional tale. Two fossils that look like bones are also kept in Gangani, which tourists crowd to see.
When the Shilabati River swells with monsoon water, the river flowing through the approximately 70-foot deep gorge and the grooves of red soil create a magnificent scene. For those who love nature and solitude, Gangani is undoubtedly a wonderful place. The red colour of the soil is mainly due to laterite soil.
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Various landforms have been created over the years due to erosion by the Shilabati River. Somewhere there are fortresses, and somewhere deep ravines. Standing on both sides of the river is Gangani, the finest landform of erosion. Due to this strange beauty, it is known as Bengal's Grand Canyon.
How to get there?
The distance from Kolkata to Gangani is approximately 136 kilometres. You can go by train. The nearest railway station is Garbeta. From there, you can easily reach Gangani by cycle van or auto.
By car, you can go from Kolkata via the national highway through Garbeta to Gangani. If you plan Garbeta, Gangani, and Bishnupur together, the trip becomes more enjoyable.
Gangani
What to see?
Gangani's red soil gorge, the banks of the Shilabati River, and the ancient temples of Garbeta. The list includes Kameshwar Temple, Radhaballabh Temple, Raghunathji Temple, Raghunath Bari, and Uriyasaiyer Temple.
From here, you can visit Garbeta and the surrounding temples. Short trips can be made to Bishnupur, Gopegarh, and Shalbani.
When the sun sets and plays in the waters of Shilabati, that land becomes even redder. Its beauty remains in memory for many years.
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Where to stay?
There are not many accommodation facilities in Gangani. Staying in hotels and guesthouses in Garbeta or Bishnupur is the best option. Hotels of various budgets are easily available in Bishnupur.
What to eat?
Regular Bengali food is quite good in Garbeta and Bishnupur. Rice, dal, jhol, fish dishes. If you go to Bishnupur, you must try the local sweets and cottage cheese preparations.
If you want to enjoy nature's rugged yet enchanting beauty away from the city's hustle and bustle, Gangani can certainly be your next weekend destination.
