In contrast to rest of India, which had been under British colonial rule, Chandannagar a small trading post on the banks of Hugli river was a French enclave. In the year 1673 A.D, French sailors landed here for the first time and turned this dusty village into a French colony.
Located just 30 km away from the hustle and bustle of Kolkatta city, Chandannagar is a small but commercial hub of West Bengal. Like Kolkatta, the history of this town is also dominated by foreign rule. Till 1950, Chandannagar remains as an object of tug-of-war between French and Britishers. But, after 1950 it was liberated and incorporated as a part of Indian territory.
From tourist point of view, Chandannagar is an excellent place to visit. Its for sure that with the very first step in Chandannagar, you will feel that you are in a French town. The remains of French buildings that are dotted in every corner of this town are an incredible example of architectural brilliance.
