Fort William in Kolkata
· Summer: March-May(26°C - 38°C)
· Winter: November-February (16°C - 28°C)
· Monsoon: June-September
Best time to visit:
October-March
Opening Time: 10:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 05:30 p.m.
Weekly Holiday:
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras: N/A
Video Camera: N/A
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras:
N/A
Video Camera:
N/A
The new Fort William was constructed by the British in 1758 when their old fort was annexed by Siraj Ud Daulah (Bengal’s Nawab) in 1756. A stunningly grand structure occupying the area of about 5 km. sq., the fort honours King William III and is situated on the bank of River Hooghly with an irregular octagonal shape. It is a brick and mortar structure with 6 gates and claims the distinction of being the world’s only fort from which no shot was ever fired.
The fort is surrounded by Maidan, a huge ground, better known as the Lungs of Kolkata. The fort is currently in the possessions of Indian Army and offers amenities like swimming pool, restaurants and recreational clubs to about 10,000 military personnel residing inside. To visit the fort’s impressive arsenal and museum 9housing good collections of arms and old photographs), one needs permission from the Commanding Officer.
Connectivites
Road:
The fort is accessible from Khidirpur Road which is connected to several major roads within the city of Kolkata. Local buses and taxis can help you reach the place. Other convenient road transport modes include auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws and horse carts (tongas).
Railway:
Two nearby railway stations are Prinsep Ghat and Eden gardens, each about 1.5 km. from the fort. The closest metro stations are Mother Teresa Sarani and Maidan, each about 2 km. away. Walking from each of these points offers easy access to the fort.
Airway:
Kolkata International Airport is about 18 km. away from Fort William. Taxis are available for easy transit, though you may also prefer local buses or auto-rickshaws.