Nabadwip,also referred to as the 'Oxford of Bengal', was earlier located on the eastern bank of Bhagirathi, along with the rest of the Nadia district. However, as Bhagirathi River changed its course, the city shifted to its western bank. It comprises of 9 islands: Antardwip (Sri Mayapur), Simantadwip, Rudradwip, Madhyadwip, Godrumdwip, Ritudwip, Jahnudwip, Modadrumdwip, and Koladwip. is visited by thousands of pilgrims belonging to Gaudiya Vaishnavism every year, on the occasion of Sri Navadvipa-mandala Parikrama. It is a famous temple town with about 185 temples in and around.
History
Nabadwip was the capital of Ballal Sen and later Lakshman Sen, the famous rulers of the Sena Empire, who ruled from 1159 to 1206.[2] In 1202, Nabadwip was captured by Bakhtiyar Khilji. This victory paved the way for Muslim rule in Bengal.[3] Nabadwip and Nadia were great centres of learning and intellectual prowess. For five centuries, it was referred to as “Oxford of Bengal”.[4] Chaitanyadeb (1486–1533) who was born at prachin mayapur (which is now under the river bhagarati),?? spent many years at Nabadwip.[5]
The Holy Birth Place of Lord Caitanya Mahaprabhu is known as "Gour Gangar Desh" as well as " Oxford of Bengal". We are proud for Srichaitanyadeb, Krishnanda Agambagish, Basudeb Sarbobhouma etc. The religious atmosphere of Nabadwip is a combination of Baishnaba, Shakta, Buddha, Saiba due to the aforesaid leaders, Pal Monarchy, Sen Monarchy etc. The main festival of Nabadwip is "RASH UTSAV". It is also known as "Pat Purnima" or "Rash Kali Puja" or "Shakta Rash". The varieties of Baishnaba, Shakta, Saiba Pratima (Idols) attracts every one. The Rash Utsav is like national festival of the inhabitants of Nabadwip.
Accessibility
Air: The nearest airport to Navadvipa is Kolkata International airport and is placed at a distance of about 130 km from Navadvipa. Pre-paid taxi services are available from airport to Navadvipa city. Taxi fare is about Rs 1500 to 2000. Kolkata is well connected to all major airports in India and also major cities abroad.
Rail: Navadvipa terminal is well connected to other major railheads through Howrah Junction. The railway station is located well within the city limits. Many local and express trains touch Navadvipa railway station. One can reach Navadvipa from Howrah in Janasatabdi express having a running time of about 2 hours.
Road: Navadvipa is well connected by state owned transport bus services. Regular transport bus services are available from Kolkata and Howrah. Travelers can get luxury buses from Kolkata to Navadvipa regularly.