About Diamond Harbor :
Near the suburbs of Kolkata, there are several beautiful excursions that are worth a leisure trip. One of them is the famous Diamond Harbor. Located near the delta region of the city, the harbor is an attractive place, very different from the crowded city that is full of multiplexes and malls. It is the best place for those who love naturally mesmerizing beauty and pristine charm of the serene atmosphere. Earlier known as Hajipur, this place is actually situated at the junction where River Ganges takes a south turn to meet with the sea. Diamond Harbor, now famous for its attractive tourism avenues, was earlier prone to Portuguese pirates. This is because its strategic location made it an entry gate for the foreigners. The remains of the fort of Chingrikhali, associated with these pirates, still stand as the live evidence of the link-ups of pirates with this area. This fort is, however, also linked with the efforts of British to gain foothold in India. Whatever be the fact, what becomes evident from these facts is that Diamond Harbor has served as the prominent sea entry gate to India. Located approximately 50 km from Kolkata, Diamond Harbor is the best option if you are looking for picnic trip or a single day outing away from the city. Its tranquil atmosphere, along with enchanting beaches, is certainly rejuvenating. The place is also well connected to beautiful sites like Gangasagar, Bakkhali and Kakdwip. The Sarisha Ramkrishna Ashram is also one major highlight of the place. However, the best that Diamond Harbor offers you is its exquisite River cruises. A journey through these river cruises will help you wind yourself and let you relax and enjoy the water in your own way.
General Information about Diamond Harbor :
Location: Kolkata
State: West Bengal
Capital: Kolkata
Language: Bengali, Hindi, English
Temperature: Max 42˚C, Min 27˚C (summer), Max 26˚C, Min 14˚C (winter)
Best Season: September to March
How to Reach Diamond Harbor :
By Air:
Kolkata is well connected by airways, to all the major countries in the world as well as to the key Indian cities. There are regular flights from all the major cities of India, like Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi and Mumbai, to the place. Even international destinations, in France, Britain, Holland, Bangladesh, Japan, Singapore, Nepal, Jordan and Thailand, are connected to the Netaji Subash Chandra Bose International Airport of Kolkata. This airport is located at Dumdum, about 15 km away from the main township.
By Rail:
The rail connectivity of Calcutta is also very good. Trains connect the city with all the major cities of India. Super fast trains like Rajdhani and Shatabdi Express ply between Kolkata and Delhi and other nearby places. Kolkata has two major railway stations; one is located in Howrah and the other is at Sealdah, with the former being the stop for majority of the interstate trains.
By Road:
The road connectivity of Kolkata to adjoining areas is also wisely planned. The Esplanade Terminus is the main bus terminal that lies in the heart of the city. From here, you can easily get a bus as well as taxi for travelling to the cities within West Bengal as well as in the neighbouring states. Even road connectivity to Bangladesh is smooth and comfortable, with frequent Bus service.
How to Travel in Kolkata:
For the international tourists, it is always advisable to carry their Indian visa, as it is cumbersome to get one after arriving Carry all your important documents and money If you are travelling alone, don’t publicize it. Incase you happen to lose your passport, immediately lodge a complaint at the police station and also inform your country’s embassy. It is advisable to carry adequate photocopies of your passport, traveller’s checks and insurance. Beware of touts and agents. Make sure that your hotel reservation is done and it is confirmed. To secure your belongings, use a combination lock.