Santiniketan’s Ashram Area Reopens for Tourists: A New Chapter Under Visva-Bharati’s Vice-Chancellor

Posted on March 24, 2025 by Paul Santosh | Categories: ,
Santiniketan’s Ashram Area Reopens for Tourists: A New Chapter Under Visva-Bharati’s Vice-Chancellor

Great news for travelers and culture enthusiasts! Santiniketan’s iconic Ashram area, part of Visva-Bharati University, has finally reopened to tourists after a long closure. This exciting update comes just days after the appointment of the university’s new Vice-Chancellor, Prabir Kumar Ghosh, who has wasted no time in making impactful decisions for the UNESCO World Heritage site.

A Long-Awaited Reopening

The Ashram area, a historic and cultural gem in Santiniketan, had been closed to visitors since 2020 during the tenure of the former Vice-Chancellor, Bidyut Chakrabarty, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For nearly five years, tourists could only access limited parts of the university, like the Visva-Bharati museum, leaving many eager to explore the serene Ashram grounds disappointed. But that wait is now over! On March 21, 2025, just three days after taking charge, Vice-Chancellor Prabir Kumar Ghosh announced the reopening of the Ashram area to the public, marking a significant moment for Santiniketan’s tourism.

A Thoughtful Approach to Access

The decision to reopen was made during a meeting at Visva-Bharati’s central office on Friday, where Ghosh and other stakeholders discussed Santiniketan’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. While the Ashram area is now accessible, the university is taking a cautious approach to ensure the site’s heritage value and the safety of its students are protected. Visitors will be allowed entry under specific guidelines, balancing the need to preserve this “living heritage” with the growing interest from tourists worldwide. This thoughtful strategy reflects Visva-Bharati’s commitment to maintaining Santiniketan’s sanctity while sharing its beauty with visitors.

What This Means for Tourists

For those planning a trip to Santiniketan, this is the perfect time to explore the Ashram area, which includes historic spots like the Upasana Mandir, Shantiniketan Bari, and the open-air classrooms of Patha Bhavana. These spaces, steeped in the legacy of Rabindranath Tagore, offer a glimpse into the unique blend of nature, education, and culture that defines Santiniketan. With the campus now open, you can immerse yourself in its serene environment, stroll through its tree-lined paths, and experience the artistic charm that has inspired generations.

Boosting Local Tourism

The reopening is expected to give a significant boost to local tourism in Bolpur and Santiniketan, areas that have long relied on visitors drawn to Tagore’s legacy and the university’s cultural significance. After years of restricted access, this move is a welcome step for local businesses, guides, and the community, who are eager to welcome tourists back to this West Bengal gem.

Plan Your Visit

Ready to explore Santiniketan’s Ashram area? Keep an eye on Visva-Bharati’s official website (www.visvabharati.ac.in) for any specific guidelines or updates on visiting hours. While the campus is now open, it’s always a good idea to plan your trip with respect for the university’s rules, ensuring a harmonious experience for both visitors and students.

Santiniketan is calling! Come experience the magic of this UNESCO World Heritage site, brought to life once again by Visva-Bharati’s new leadership. Stay tuned to bolpur-santiniketan.com for more travel updates and tips to make your visit unforgettable.

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Paul Santosh

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