Kolkata, West Bengal
Fort William is a historic fort located in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, constructed between 1758 and 1781 and named after King William III of England. The fort is an irregular octagon, covering approximately 177 acres, with five sides facing landward and three towards the Hooghly River. Currently serving as the headquarters of the Indian Army's Eastern Command, Fort William stands as a significant historical and military landmark, reflecting Kolkata's colonial past and its evolution into a modern city. The fort is surrounded by the Maidan, the largest park in Kolkata, often referred to as the "Lungs of Kolkata," providing a buffer zone around the fort and serving as a recreational area for the city's residents.
Fort William was constructed between 1758 and 1781 by the British East India Company, named after King William III of England. The fort was built to replace an earlier fortification and served as a key defensive structure during the colonial period. The construction of the fort was a significant undertaking, reflecting the strategic importance of Kolkata (then Calcutta) as a British trading and administrative center. Over the centuries, Fort William has witnessed numerous historical events and has played a crucial role in the military history of the region. Following India's independence, the fort became the headquarters of the Indian Army's Eastern Command, accommodating around 10,000 military personnel. The fort continues to serve as an active military installation while preserving its historical significance. In recent times, there have been discussions about renaming the fort, reflecting changing perspectives on colonial-era names, but it remains widely known as Fort William. The fort's location and design, with its strategic positioning along the Hooghly River, demonstrate the military planning and architectural considerations of the colonial era.
Irregular Octagon Design: The fort is designed as an irregular octagon, covering approximately 177 acres
Strategic Positioning: Five sides face landward and three sides face the Hooghly River, providing strategic defensive advantages
Dry Moat: The fort is surrounded by a dry moat that is 9 meters deep and 15 meters wide, serving as a defensive feature
Six Gates: The structure includes six gates: Chowringhee, Plassey, Calcutta, Water Gate, St. George's, and the Treasury Gate
Military Facilities: The fort houses various facilities including a swimming pool, cinema hall, restaurant, telephone office, recreation club, and canteen
Museum: A museum within the fort displays arms, weapons, and photographs related to historical events such as the Burma campaign and the Bangladesh Liberation War
Eastern Command Headquarters: Currently serves as the headquarters of the Indian Army's Eastern Command
Surrounded by Maidan: The fort is surrounded by the Maidan, the largest park in Kolkata, providing a buffer zone
Viewing the historic fort architecture and defensive structures from the exterior
Exploring the Maidan park area surrounding the fort
Learning about the fort's colonial history and military significance
Visiting the museum (with prior permission) to view historical artifacts and photographs
Appreciating the strategic design and architectural features of the fort
Understanding the fort's role in Kolkata's history and development
Exploring the surrounding Maidan area for recreational activities
Civilian Access: Civilian access to the fort is restricted as it is an active military installation
Prior Permission Required: Visitors must obtain prior permission from the Commanding Officer for visits to the fort
Exterior Viewing: The exterior of the fort can be viewed from the surrounding Maidan area
Museum Visits: Museum visits require prior permission and approval from military authorities
Best Time to Visit: The surrounding Maidan area can be visited at any time, while fort access requires proper authorization
Photography: Photography restrictions may apply; check with authorities before taking photographs
Location: Maidan area, Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 19 km
Major Railway Stations:
Sealdah Railway Station – approx. 4 km
Howrah Railway Station – approx. 6 km
Kolkata Railway Station – approx. 5 km
Metro Station: Maidan Metro Station or Park Street Metro Station – accessible via connecting transport
The fort is strategically located in the Maidan area, one of Kolkata's prominent open spaces, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city and well-connected to major transportation hubs.
Fort William is well connected by road, metro, and rail. The fort is located in the Maidan area, which provides excellent connectivity to Kolkata city center and surrounding areas. The area is served by metro stations including Maidan Metro Station and Park Street Metro Station, offering convenient access via the Kolkata Metro network. Public bus services operated by the West Bengal Transport Corporation and other operators provide regular connectivity to the area. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly in the area, offering convenient access for visitors. The fort is easily accessible from major railway stations including Sealdah, Howrah, and Kolkata stations, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local visitors and tourists. The fort's location in the Maidan area, surrounded by the largest park in Kolkata, makes it easily accessible, though entry to the fort itself requires prior military authorization. The surrounding Maidan area provides ample space for visitors to view the fort's exterior and enjoy recreational activities in the park.