Introduction
On the banks of the River Hooghly stands the magnificent Prinsep Ghat, known for its Greek and Gothic inlays. Princep Ghat’s beauty attracted a lot of architecture and history enthusiasts, but even locals go there to experience the place’s regal atmosphere.
Some of the most popular recreational activities here include watching the dawn or sunset with the spectacular Howrah Bridge in the background and walking in the crisp air along the riverbanks.
The British Royals’ crew utilized it as a jetty during the British Empire to load and unload passengers and necessities. Tourists who are visiting these attractions frequently stop at the ghat, which is situated between Fort William and the Water Gate. One of the rare places that have been renovated to preserve the atmosphere from before independence is Prinsep Ghat.
As a result, it is a favorite location for photographers, particularly for pre-wedding photos. If one feels like getting a snack in between exploring the attraction, there are a number of food booths to pick from that sell delectable regional treats. An individual’s visit to Kolkata’s Prinsep Ghat is certain to be its high point.
This white historical monument, which stands here and serves as the symbol of Princep Ghat, was built in James Prinsep’s honor roughly 180 years ago. The natural beauty of Kolkata should be experienced at least once by every visitor to Kolkata or resident who doesn’t have time to see it.
James Prinsep’s life:
Many historical artifacts had been recovered in India by the 17th century, and some uneducated people at the time were associating them with made-up stories. You would know that the British had taken control of India by the 17th century. At that time, both the Mughals and the British made an effort to learn what was left of it. However, it was impossible.
Many works were also written during the period with the idea of fiction. The Ashoka pillar known as Bhima’s mace and Budha Cave, for instance, was the subject of rumors that it was a Pandava cave.
And on August 20, 1799, in England, a magnificent man was born who put an end to all of these tales. James Prinsep is credited with being the first to decipher the old Indian scriptures and resurrect the history of the Buddhist era. And as a result of them, India is acknowledged as one of the oldest Buddhist countries in the world.
James Prinsep, the seventh child of Joan Princess and Sofia Elizabeth, is who Joan Prinsep is. In about 1771, Joan Prinsep traveled to India nearly penniless. Once there, he eventually built a prosperous indigo plantation before returning to England in 1787 with 40,000 pounds and establishing himself as an East India Company merchant. Later, James Prinsep was elected to the British Parliament.
James Prinsep’s journey to India:
Joan Prinsep moves to India with his entire family and wife due to his solid relationships there. The brightest of his children, James Prinsep had a stronger interest in architecture from an early age. His eyes were a little weak, so he decided against choosing architecture as a profession.
The Prinsep and her brother Henry traveled to Calcutta on September 15, 1819, where the Prinsep obtained employment as an assay master. A year later, Henry relocated to Banaras. and in 1831, after serving for 12 years, he returned to Kolkata as a deputy governor.
James Prinsep’s contribution:
Prinsep’s initial interest was in antique coins. Princep classified the coins in three stages after translating them from ancient coins from the Indian Kushan period (including panch-marked coins of secret series).
Short punch-marked bent bars mixed with CNG coins
Numerous academics from all over the world attempted to decipher the old Indian language before James Prinsep, but nobody was successful.
The mystery of the inscriptions left by Emperor Ashoka was also proposed by James Prinsep. Emperor Ashoka would have been forgotten in his native country and we would all still be in the dark about him if James had not saved this Silla writing. Additionally, James Prinsep noticed the language in ancient writing, and in 1837, India received its first ancient emperor—Ashoka, as we are all familiar with.
Prinsep contributed significantly to Afghanistan’s early history as well. We Indians will never forget his contribution. Later, due to a reoccurring headache, he discontinued his studies and left for England in 1838. On April 22, 1840, he passed away at his sister Sophia’s home.
When the Indians learned of James Prinsep’s passing, numerous memorials were erected in his memory, and he was given the status of an icon in Asian culture. The Princep Ghat was also constructed by the residents of Calcutta in his honor.
Let’s take a look at the things you can do in Princep Ghat
- Ride a boat at Princep Ghat
One of the most popular pastimes at the Prinsep Ghat is boating. Tourists can pick between traditional wooden boats and speedboats for these river tours, ranging from a few minutes to an hour.
Boating in the tranquil river is best done in the early mornings (6:00 AM to 9:00 AM) and late evenings (5:00 PM to 7:00 PM). Some boatmen may, upon request, add an additional hour or so to the nighttime riverboat cruise for a fee.
- Activities at Princep Ghat Food
How is it possible to miss the food in Kolkata? Delicious regional foods are sold at food stands close to the ghat. One of the centers has been serving the community for more than 50 years, and it continues to sell ice cream and fast food.
Explore Prinsep Ghat has undergone numerous upgrades and improvements. The ghat is now an ideal getaway for nature lovers because of its lovely grass, gardens, big trees, and flowerbeds.
Favorable Season to Visit Prinsep Ghat 
Princep Ghat is best visited around dusk for an evening boat ride or a leisurely stroll through the gardens along the banks of the River Hooghly.
Directions to Prinsep Ghat
Only 6 kilometers separate Prinsep Ghat from the city’s center. The best public transportation for tourists is local buses, rickshaws, and taxis. By using College Street, BB Ganguly Street, Marx Engels Beethi Road, Goshto Paul Sarani, and Strand Road, you can go to the attraction.
Alternate routes include Chowringhee North, Strand Road, Radha Nath Mullick Lane, BB Ganguly Street, Nirmal Chandra Street, Ganesh Chandra Avenue, and Fort William’s Radha Nath Mullick Lane.
How to Reach?
From anywhere in Kolkata, a bus can take you to Princep Ghat. Take a bus from Sealdah to Esplanade, and then you can simply walk or, if you’d rather, take a car to Princep Ghat.
Train Station at Princep Ghat
If you believe you can go by rail from Dumdum to Princep Ghat, you will have a completely different experience. The stunning view of the Ganga from the train will captivate your imagination. Using Kolkata’s circular railway is an additional straightforward method of reaching a Princep Ghat.
From Dumdum to Princep Ghat, the railway fare is only 5 rupees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Princep Ghat well-known?
Princep Ghat was constructed in 1841 as a tribute to James Prinsep, and because of the white monument’s age and beauty, it has come to be known as the Princep Ghat.
Does Princep Ghat permit boating?
Boating is a popular tourist activity at Princep Ghat. Many visitors come to this location to try out board riding.
How can I reach Princep Ghat?
Princep Ghat is accessible by both train and bus; from Dumdum, a circular railway will take you directly to the station, and from Sealdah, a direct bus will take you to Princep Ghat.
