8 Places To Visit At Taki: The Epicenter Of Bengal-Bangladesh Border

62 Interested |
289  Views

If you're looking to explore the India-Bangladesh border, then Taki is the place to be! Just a two-hour drive from Kolkata, Taki is perfect for a weekend escape. Nestled at the confluence of major and minor rivers, Khulna, Bangladesh on the opposite bank, Taki boasts stunning natural beauty and a rich heritage dating back 400 years. Explore the crumbling mansions and Durga dalans built by zamindars, witness annual Goddess Durga visits during Durga Puja, and admire the massive brick kilns that stand like remnants of ancient eras. Don't miss the beautiful river Ichhamati, with its beached boats and sandy shallows perfect for a relaxing wade across. If you're planning a visit, here are the best places to see in Taki.

Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission

The Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission are twin organizations leading the Ramakrishna Movement worldwide. Based at Belur Math along the Ganges in West Bengal, Ramakrishna Math follows the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna, seen as a modern-age prophet. Founded by Swami Vivekananda, Ramakrishna Mission serves humanity under the motto 'service of God in man'. Travelling from Kolkata to Ramakrishna Mission by taxi takes around 37 minutes, covering a distance of 44 km. Ramakrishna ashrama's religious activities include satsang and arati, which you can be a part of if you visit.

Amrapali Garden

Experience a full day of fun at Amrapali Garden, a mango garden picnic spot perfect for weekends with family and friends. Book the entire 2 Bigha garden with amenities like a cottage, washrooms, free car parking, play area, and food options (veg & non-veg). Amrapalli Garden accommodates day picnics for up to 40 guests, with only one group allowed per day for a private experience. A typical day includes arriving at 9 AM, having breakfast, optional nearby tours, lunch at 1 PM, leisure time in the garden, tea with snacks at 4 PM, and departure by 5 PM. 

Chandraketugarh

Chandraketugarh, an archaeological site near Kolkata, lies alongside the Bidyadhari river in North 24 Parganas district. Located near Berachampa and Haroa Road railhead, it's easily accessible from the Haroa Road and Taki Road crossing. Visit Lal Masjid via cycle van from the Haroa bus stop and enjoy Bidyadhari Bridge's scenic views. Don't miss Chobi Biswas's former home. You can visit the place during all seasons except monsoons.

Golpata Forest

If you're planning a visit, then just about 5 kilometres from Taki Viewpoint, you can explore another exciting destination: Golpata Forest, often dubbed as Mini Sundarban due to its mangrove charm on a smaller scale. In Golpata Forest, a well-designed concrete bridge winds through the area, providing a safe and elevated path to explore nature without trudging through muddy terrain or waterlogged areas. We suggest opting for a toto (e-rickshaw) ride from the paid parking spots at Taki Viewpoint, as the roads are quite narrow. If you drive, there are paid parking options near Golpata Forest. Remember to carry a national ID for the BSF check post en route to ensure a smooth visit.

Puber Bari

Taki Raj Bari, also called Puber Bari, showcases the architectural heritage of zamindars from the British era. History and architecture enthusiasts would enjoy this famous landmark in Taki, which is usually included in local toto sightseeing tours. Ideal for a family visit to experience the old cultural charm, it features a miniature Ma Durga idol, a dalan, and an adjacent pond, offering picturesque views. It's accessible via motor van or toto from Ichhamati River Front and has an entry fee of INR 10 per person.

Jharkhali Sunderbans

Jharkhali is now seen as the new entrance to the Sunderbans, the world's largest mangrove forest. Tourists are flocking to this area for its convenient location to explore the Sunderbans Tiger Reserve. It's becoming a top gateway to the Sunderbans after Canning and Godhkhali due to its Tiger Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, along with attractions like a Watch Tower, Children's Park, and a Butterfly Garden.

Ichhamati River View

The Ichhamati River, serving as a natural boundary between India and Bangladesh, faces challenges due to siltation causing low water levels in dry seasons and floods during the rains. Just a 10-minute boat ride from here lies the political border between the two nations in Taki. From Taki Rajbari Ghat, you can avail a boat ride on the Ichhamati River, providing a close-up view of the Bangladesh Border, an experience you won't forget anytime soon.

Hotel Sonar Bangla Taki

If you're staying overnight in Taki, Sonar Bangla Taki is the ideal choice. With beautifully designed rooms, top-notch amenities, and diverse dining options, it caters to a range of guests, from business travellers to vacationers. The aesthetic cottage-like rooms add to the charm, providing a Maldives-like experience. The property offers ample open space, large rooms, a scenic lawn by the Ichhamati River, a swimming pool, fantastic dining, an indoor gaming area, swings, and much more to make your stay delightful.