Raichak is a small town in South 24 Parganas District of West Bengal. Raichak has numerous tourist destinations like light house, Chingrikhali fort, eco tourism spots and coastal lands near Burul River and Ganga River.
Location of Raichak
Raichak is located on the bank of the Hooghly River, some 50 km south of Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal. It is about 15 km from Diamond Harbour, the coastal area of West Bengal.
History of Raichak
The Dutch East Indian Company in the later era of medieval times had built a fort at Raichak, which is on a river bend, in the 18th century. Following the withdrawal of the Dutch East India Company from India, the fort was left to ruin. The place became important with the development of Haldia. Raichak acts as a link between Haldia and Kolkata.
Tourism of Raichak
The prime tourist attraction of Raichak is the Raichak Fort, which was built by the British East India Company in the year 1783. However, after the independence of India in the year 1947, the fort was in deplorable condition. The tourists are attracted by the natural beauty of the place. The site also houses the ruins of an ancient Portugese Fort called Chingrihkali Fort or also known as Purano Kella, known as the refuge of the Portuguese pirates. One can also spot a lighthouse at Raichak. Many tourists also visit the Ashram of Sharisha Ramakrishna Mission located here. One can also enjoy a tour to Jatar Deul or visit Gadiara nearby.
Visiting Information
Raichak can be accessible from Kolkata through Diamond Harbour. Raichak lies at a driving distance from Kolkata. One should drive down the Diamond Harbour Road from Behala in southern Kolkata to reach Sarisha in about 30 minutes and take a right turn just before Diamond Harbour. The ideal time of visiting Raichak is during the period between October and March, when the temperature drops down and becomes pleasant and temperate.
