Taki, A Pristine Retreat in West Bengal

For all my fellow bloggers and readers who love to soak into nature's splendid beauty along the banks of a river, I bring in a travel recommendation for you. I am referring to Taki, a pristine retreat for a weekend getaway or vacation in West Bengal, India. Located at the banks of the river Ichamati and bordering the two neighboring nations India and Bangladesh, it's a delight to visit the place. I had the privilege to tour the beautiful town, float along the river, and mingle with the locals. And believe me, the memory is still afresh.

Interesting Facts about Taki

Popularly known as the “Land of Zamindars”, Taki was once phenomenal for the zamindars or the wealthy landlords. Even today you can find the palatial buildings and ruins of their residences inside the town. Most of them are in a dilapidated state, but once belonged to affluent landlords. Touring around the town and observing the remains of the building reminds us of the ancient cultural and traditional heritage of Bengal. During Durga Puja, the most popular festival of Bengal, you can come and watch the immersions. Many idols of Goddess Durga arrive at the banks, a grand event to watch.

The exotic flora and its rich cultural reserves are exclusive and noteworthy. A perfect place to spend time in solace amid nature, away from the hustles and bustles of city life. Watching the sunrise and the sunset, entertaining the ears with the gushing sound of the river, learning about the ancient heritage of Taki, acquainting with the lifestyle of the villagers; experiencing all in one place is blissful.

Boat ride along the Ichamati river

The best part of my visit was the boat ride along the Ichamati River. Separating the borders of India and Bangladesh, the river is a beauty in itself. The vast river with greenery alongside its banks is truly enticing. The boats of the fishermen from both nations add to the stunning beauty of the river. The tranquil environment around will transport your minds to a divine state. The ripple on the water with the sun's rays sparkling on them is a vivid sight to watch. The best part is to watch the sunset with the golden hue of the sun rays spreading across its shimmering effect on the water. There are boats and steamers available from the banks of the river near the town. You can directly purchase the ticket and avail the ride. Both government and private operators manage the boats.

Ancient Temples and Buildings inside the village

You can either walk down the village or ride on a “Toto” (e-rickshaw) to visit the ancient buildings and the temples. The most famous among the buildings is the “Adi Bari” of General Shankar Roychowdhury. Though it is in ruins, still it portrays the grandeur of the royal family. There are quite a few old temples in the village. The 300-year-old twin (Jora) Shiv Mandir and the Kuleshwari Kali temple are popular among devotees. The locals visit the temples every day to offer their prayers and seek the blessings of the Lord.

You can find a few more old buildings here and there, like a 250-year-old Government high school. On the way, the locals or the Toto driver will show you an old well; still preserved in ruins.

“Kingfisher” or the “Maachranga” island

A few distance away from the mainland of Taki is the Kingfisher island or “Machranga Dweep”. You can reach there via ferry ghat or launch. It is a remote island, spread across an area of 129 acres of land. The place is offbeat and remote, filled with exotic flora and fauna. You can walk across the green fields amid nature and feel the freshness in the air. The lush greenery around creates a stunning effect with the river waters splashing along the shores of the island. If you are an avid birdwatcher then you will love to be in this place. A lot of migratory and local birds flock to the island.

Visit the “Golpata” forest

The Golpata forest is another spectacular place to visit in Taki. The forest has earned its name from the Golpata tree, present in huge numbers inside the jungle. The place is quite famous for its canopy path walk. You will love the line of trees on both sides of the walk, creating a serene environment. The best way to enjoy the forest is to go for a leisure walk.

The Traditional local foods

You must not miss out on the local foods and delicacies of the town. Try out the river water fish, the fresh catch from the fishermen. Do not miss out on the prawns or “Chingri“. Two sweet dishes are very famous to taste and relish, jaggery or “Patali Gur” and sweet pancake or “Chanar Malpua“.

Meeting the villagers

Mingling with the villagers to know about their daily life is something I did not want to miss. It is always recommended to walk along the village roads and talk tp the people. In some places, you can see heaps of dried rice stalks or rice straw, being cut for animal feed or fertilizers. Women chatting in groups and performing their household work are also a common sight in the village. The best part is to watch the fishermen with their best catch of the day.

How to reach?

If you want to travel by rail, then board a local train from Sealdah Railway Station and reach Taki Road Station. Vans are available from the station for a ride to the town. You can rent a car from kolkata or avail the bus services to reach Taki.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the town is during the winter. The weather is pleasant for a comfortable boat ride and strolling across the village. Summers are good to avoid as the weather is too hot and humid.

Taki may not be wrapped with immense luxury and grandness, but the simplicity dwelling in its core is heavenly. So if you are planning for a weekend getaway, then it is an ideal destination.