If you're on the lookout for a unique and historical escape, Kolkata has something in sotre. The city plans to transform the 320-year-old Barood Ghar or Magazine, located just 25 km downstream, into a lavish riverside resort. The best part? They're trying to preserve all the ancient structures.
A Riverside Retreat in a 320-Year-Old Heritage Site
Back in the day, the British established the Magazine in Moyapur, right on the banks of the scenic River Hooghly. It served as a crucial stop for ships sailing to the port of Kolkata, ensuring they didn't carry any gunpowder on board. Ships would anchor at Moyapur, close to Budge Budge, and hand over their gunpowder to the magazine's guardians, with proper documentation to retrieve it on their way out to sea.
Now, this historical site spans 20.49 acres with a river frontage of about 500 meters. It boasts four magazines (where gunpowder was stored) and two pillboxes (guardrooms). Trust me; the heritage here is immense. There's no other place like it in the country. Surrounded by serene landscapes and conveniently connected via the Budge Budge Trunk Road, it's the perfect spot for a luxury resort.
Rathendra Raman, chairman of Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP), Kolkata, shared, "We've opened up an Expression of Interest (EoI) for private agencies interested in leasing the plot and creating necessary infrastructure while preserving these historical structures."
Beyond Barood Ghar:
But that's not all!
SMP, Kolkata, has another ace up its sleeve. They're eyeing a 3.11-acre plot between Diamond Harbour and Falta, known as Noorpur, to set up an upscale hotel in a Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode. This location is a stone's throw from Diamond Harbour, a popular tourist destination. Just 48 kilometers southwest of Kolkata, it's bound to attract domestic and international tourists alike.
What's more, it's on the route to Sagar Island, where thousands of pilgrims gather annually for a holy dip. The Kapil Muni temple on the island and its beautiful beaches make it a year-round attraction.
Raman also sweetened the deal with 5 acres of prime riverfront land at Budge Budge, a mere 15 kilometers from Kolkata. This land is earmarked for a recreational center that will include a hotel, mall, cineplex, restaurants, cafes, convention centers, and banquets. It's designed to cater to the lively townships of Budge Budge and Maheshtala.
So, if you're ready for a getaway that combines history, luxury, and natural beauty, keep an eye on these exciting developments in Kolkata.
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