Winter, the ultimate season for wanderlust, beckons with the promise of brief escapades or extended journeys, providing a respite from the mundane. For those yearning for a weekend retreat by the enchanting Ichamati River, look no further than the quaint charm of Taki.
Nestled on the banks of the famed Ichamati, a river weaving the border tapestry between India and Bangladesh, Taki awaits your arrival, promising a refreshing break from the ordinary.
How to Get There:
Embark on your Taki adventure by car, train, or bus, as all avenues are open for exploration. Covering a maximum distance of 70 kilometers, the journey from Kolkata to Taki spans approximately three delightful hours.
For avid road-trippers, the scenic Basanti highway or the Barasat Chapadali route awaits your wheels, offering the joy of long drives.
Backpackers with a taste for the local can hop on the Sealdah-Hasnabad local train, disembarking at Taki Road Station. From there, a Toto or van will whisk you away to your chosen haven.
Alternatively, the adventurous can opt for a bus journey from Esplanade or Syambazar to Hasnabad. However, brace yourself – this might be a somewhat strenuous expedition, according to my humble recommendation.
Must-See Places In Taki:
Explore the wonders of Taki, neatly categorized for your convenience into a three-day itinerary, with a daily sightseeing cost of 300/-. Note that the trusty Toto is the preferred mode for sightseeing due to four-wheelers being off-limits in certain areas.
First Day:
General Shankar Roy Chowdhury’s residence – the dwelling of the first Bengali soldier
The century-old Tubeoil from the British era – a reservoir for rainwater
Shooting location of the Bengali blockbuster “Bisharjan”
Nanda Dulal Temple
Golpata Forest & Mini Sundarban – an absolute must-visit. Pro tip: Take a Toto from Disha Guest House to BSF checkpoint, then switch to another Toto for Golpata Forest. Entry fee: 10/-.
Second Day:
Taki Jora Shiv Mandir, standing tall for 300 years
Durga Dalan, a heritage site aging gracefully at 400 years
Taki Pratik Saikat
Taki Trisakti Kali Mata Temple
Taki Eco Park
Third Day:
Jagat Janani Temple
Taki Rajbari
Director Kaushik Ganguly’s residence
Taki Ramkrishna Mission
Kuleshwari Kalibari, a 400-year-old religious haven
Feel free to customize your exploration or follow the suggested itinerary. Pictures of the covered spots are shared, though some hidden gems eluded me due to time constraints.
Not explicitly mentioned in the itinerary but a non-negotiable highlight is the famous Ichamati riverbank. All hotels line this picturesque stretch, ensuring you won’t miss out. Sit by the bank, relishing sunrise or sunset with your loved ones. For an added thrill, indulge in a boat ride during dusk – a truly delightful experience.
Boat Ride Costs:
Private boat: 1000/- per boat
Shared boat: Price varies based on availability, charging 100/- per head
Where to Stay:
Numerous guesthouses await your arrival in Taki. I always opt for Disha Guest House for its welcoming staff, delectable cuisine, and impeccably clean rooms. The river-facing rooms provide the perfect setting for tea, dusk, and a balcony breeze from the Ichamati. Details of the guesthouse are shared below for your convenience.
Another perk of choosing Disha Guest House is its proximity to the Toto stand. Explore additional lodging options on Makemytrip or Agoda.
Where to Eat at Taki:
Guesthouses offer dining facilities, with fish emerging as Taki’s culinary star. Indulge in a variety of fish options, a delight for us Bengalis. Come evening, stalls are tempted with the famous Phuchka, Jhalmuri, and local snacks.
So, dear reader, heed the call of adventure, pack your bags, and set forth to discover the enchanting town of Taki with your companions. I assure you, regret will find no place in your travel diary.
Interesting Tidbit of Taki:
During Bijoya Dashami, both India and Bangladesh join hands to celebrate the immersion of Durga Mata’s idol. It’s a unique spectacle, as boats are permitted to freely navigate to the middle of the water, where both nations simultaneously perform the immersion. It’s a moment in time worth witnessing.
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