The tiny and cozy town named Raichak lies on the banks of the Hooghly River. Raichak is only 60 kilometers from Kolkata and 15 kilometers from the infamous Diamond harbor. On hiring a cab from Kolkata, it will take a maximum of 2 hours to reach Raichak.
In the 18th century, the Dutch had built a fort on a river bend of Raichak, which has turned into ruins in recent times. Raichak gained back its lost importance with the development of Haldia, as it serves as the link between Haldia and Kolkata.
One should visit Raichak during the period between October to March, as the weather then becomes pleasant and the temperature drops down to a bearable range. The Raichak Fort is the most popular tourist attraction here. It was one of the most beautiful forts in India and continues to be one after its renovation a few years back. After being left ignored for a long time, it was finally taken over by a group of hotels that named it The F Fort. However, one can still spend time appreciating the Anglo-Indian architecture that predominates the edifice.
Once in Raichak, you can quietly savor the spectacular sunset standing on the ghats of the Hooghly River. Or, can board a ferry from Raichak jetty or Nurpur jetty, heading towards Gadiara. You can even reach Diamond harbor from where you can book a daylong river trip on a cruise over Hooghly.
Only 15 kilometers from Raichak, Daimon Harbour once used to be a port bustling with life. You can still notice large water vessels stranded by the port. You will get to see Chingrikhali fort here, the ancient Portuguese fort which once used to be the refuge of Portuguese pirates. Standing here, you can also spot a lighthouse, belonging to the bygone era. A lot of tourists arrive at Raichak to visit the Ashram of Sarisha Ramkrishna Mission.
You can also take a tour of the nearby Joynagar town, where you would find a collection of ancient manuscripts belonging to Kalidas Dutta, terracotta figurines, and idols of Hindu deities carved out of black stone. Adding to it is the local market selling handicrafts made by the artisans of Joynagar.
You can either plan a one-day trip to Raichak or move towards places like Gangasagar, Kakdwip, Namkhana, and Bakkhali from Diamond Harbour.
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