Fort William: A Citadel of Colonial History
Explore Kolkata's Fort William: A colonial-era fortress, now a military hub, steeped in history and architectural grandeur on the Hooghly River's edge.
Fort William, located in Kolkata, West Bengal, is more than just a fort; it's a journey through time, reflecting the shifting tides of power during the British Raj. Named after King William III of England, the fort has two distinct iterations, the first built in 1696 and the second, more formidable structure completed in 1781. The original Fort William was constructed by the British East India Company to protect their trading interests. However, in 1756, the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah, attacked and captured the fort, an event known as the "Black Hole of Calcutta". This prompted the British to build a new, stronger fort. Robert Clive laid the foundation for the new Fort William after the Battle of Plassey in 1757, and construction concluded in 1781. The current Fort William is an irregular octagon-shaped structure spread over 70.9 acres. Encircled by a wide moat, its high walls and six gates—Plassey, Chowringhee, Water, St. Georges, and Treasury Gates—speak of its military design. The vast green expanse surrounding the fort, known as the Maidan, serves as a reminder of the strategic importance of keeping the area clear for defense. Today, Fort William is the property of the Indian Army, serving as the headquarters of the Eastern Command. While access to the interiors is restricted, the fort remains a powerful symbol of Kolkata's colonial past. Though the general public has limited access, the exterior architecture can still be viewed.
Local tips
- Obtain necessary permissions in advance, as Fort William is a military area with restricted access.
- Carry a valid photo ID for security checks at the entrance.
- Photography may be restricted in certain areas; inquire about guidelines beforehand.
- The best time to visit the area around Fort William is during the cooler months between November and February.
A brief summary to Fort William, India
- Kolkata, Maidan, Fort William, Hastings, West Bengal, 700021, IN
Getting There
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Public Transport
From central Kolkata, the most economical way to reach Fort William is by bus. Several bus routes connect various parts of the city to the Fort William area. From Taltola, take a bus towards Telephone Bhavan, then transfer to another bus heading to Fort William. The total journey takes approximately 19 minutes. Bus tickets typically range from ₹10 to ₹25, depending on the type of bus (non-AC or AC). A monthly bus pass costs approximately ₹1350.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Kolkata. A taxi ride from central Kolkata to Fort William typically takes 4 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The base fare for a taxi is around ₹30, with an additional ₹10.30 per kilometer. A 5km trip would cost around ₹101. Keep in mind that there may be extra charges for luggage (₹5 per piece).
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Walking
For those nearby, walking to Fort William is a viable option. From the Victoria Memorial, it's approximately a 30-minute walk. Enjoy a stroll through the Maidan, the large park surrounding the fort. There are no costs associated with walking, making it a free way to approach the destination.
