Fort William heritage walks in Kolkata – book online
Experience the rich history of Fort William on a captivating heritage walk organized by the Calcutta Heritage Collective. Established on October 9, 2022, this initiative aims to revive and celebrate the cultural significance of one of Kolkata’s most iconic landmarks.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the Fort William Heritage Walk offers a fascinating journey through time, exploring the military history, daily life, and architectural wonders of this historic fort. Delve into tales of wartime heroism, uncover the secrets of life within the fort’s walls, and marvel at the architectural gems that have stood the test of time. Led by the Chief of Staff, Lt Gen. K.K. Repswal, of HQ Eastern Command, the inaugural walk marked the resurgence of heritage appreciation after a hiatus due to the pandemic. Participants are treated to an immersive experience, gaining insights into the fort’s strategic importance, its role in shaping Kolkata’s history, and the stories of the individuals who once called it home. The Fort William Heritage Walk promises an enriching experience for visitors of all ages, offering a deeper understanding of Kolkata’s military legacy and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious traveler, or a descendant tracing your family roots, this guided tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the past and explore the treasures of Fort William.
Join us on this unforgettable journey as we uncover the layers of history, tradition, and resilience that define Fort William and its enduring legacy in the heart of Kolkata.
Fort William Kolkata (Timings, History, Entry Fee, information
Fort William, a renowned historical landmark in Kolkata, stands proudly on the banks of the Hooghly River, a testament to bygone eras of triumphs, struggles, and imperial rule. Constructed in 1696 and named after King William III, also known as William of Orange, this formidable edifice remains an emblem of colonial power. Interestingly, Fort William holds the distinction of being the only fort globally where not a single shot was ever fired. Spanning an impressive 70.9 hectares and boasting an octagonal design, Fort William comprises six imposing gates, including Chowringhee, Plassey, Calcutta, WaterGate, St Georges, and the Treasury Gate. Its strategic layout, resembling an irregular star, contributed to its impregnability against cannon fire during its time, with a protective moat encircling its perimeter.
Initially, there were two iterations of Fort William—the original, erected in 1696 and infamous for the “Black Hole of Calcutta” incident, and the newer version, constructed in 1757 following the destruction of its predecessor. The original fort, located between present-day Fairlie Place and BTM Sarani, housed a guardroom that gained infamy as the site of the tragic Black Hole incident, where 146 prisoners were confined, resulting in the loss of many lives. The history of Fort William is rich and varied, witnessing significant events such as the Battle of Plassey, which led to British control over Bengal. Post the battle, recognizing the shortcomings of the old fort, Sir Robert Clive initiated the construction of the new Fort William in 1758. Completed in 1781, this new fort, situated on Maidan, became the enduring symbol of British authority in the region. Today, Fort William serves as the military headquarters of the Eastern Command, accommodating up to 10,000 personnel. While access to the fort’s interior is restricted to defense personnel and their families, the annual program on ‘Vijay Diwas’ offers civilians a glimpse into its storied past. The fort’s complex houses a museum showcasing a diverse array of war artifacts, including cannons and tanks captured during conflicts like the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. Additionally, modern amenities such as a golf course, swimming pool, and shopping complex enhance its functionality as a vital military installation.
Location of Fort William in Kolkata
Fort William is located in Hastings in Kolkata, on Khidirpur Road.
Timings, Entry Fee and Authorization
The fort is open everyday between 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM
No entry fees are required however; one needs a prior permission to gain access inside the fort premises as entry is restricted for civilians.
How to Reach Fort William
By Train: Nearest Railway Station is Howrah Junction.
By Air: Nearest Airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport.