"The last capital of independent Bengal, named after Nawab Murshid Quli Khan, Murshidabad still shows ample traces of its former grandeur. Situated on the banks of the Hooghly, Murshidabad became the capital of Bengal in 1717 and remained so until 1773, when the British shifted the capital to Calcutta. Roughly 230 km from Kolkata by road, Murshidabad is a treasure trove of Bengal’s history and heritage, and about 40 km from the famed village of Plassey, where a battle between Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah and the British changed the course of Indian history forever. Among other attractions is Hazarduari (literally, thousand doors) Palace, a 114-room mansion built in 1837 which is now a museum. Also visit Kathgola Palace, ancestral home of the Jagat Seths, once known as ‘bankers to the world’. Not to be missed are Moti Jheel palace, Nasipur Palace, and Khosh Bagh (housing the graves of Siraj and members of his family). Murshidabad offers good government and private accommodation. Check with the Tourism Department before planning your trip. "