Do you love soaking in the splendour of nature when on vacation? Then Taki is the perfect trip recommendation for you. It is a beautiful getaway in West Bengal, suited for both weekend getaways and long vacations.
Located on the banks of the river Ichamati and bordering the two neighbouring nations of India and Bangladesh, it's a delight to visit the placeI had the privilege to take a tour of the lovely town, float down 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 a hotbed for the zamindars, or 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 reminded me of the ancient cultural and traditional heritage of Bengal. You can come and see the immersions during Durga Puja, Bengal's most famous event. Many idols of Goddess Durga arrive at the banks, making for a beautiful spectacle!
Boat ride along the border of India and Bangladesh
Separating the borders of India and Bangladesh, the river is a beauty in itself. The huge river, with lush greenery along its banks, is very captivating and the fishermen's boats from both nations add to the river's breathtaking grandeur.
The tranquil environment around you will transport your mind to a divine state. The ripples on the water with the sun rays glinting on them are a beautiful sight to behold.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 public and private operators manage the boats.
Temples as old as 300 years
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 of these buildings is the "Adi Bari" of General Shankar Roychowdhury. Even though it is in ruins, it still 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 the devotees.
"Kingfisher" or the "Maachranga" island
Few kilometers away from the main land 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. 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.
What is "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 traditional local food
You must not miss out 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 to the people. In some places you can see heaps of dried rice stalks or rice straw, being cut for animal feed or fertilisers. 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 winter and spring season. The weather is pleasant for a comfortable boat ride and strolling along 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 its an ideal destination.
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