Things to Do in Fort William

Fort William might not be a household name, but this historic military cantonment in Kolkata holds fascinating stories within its walls. Built by the British East India Company in the 18th century after the original fort fell to Siraj-ud-Daula, the current Fort William stands as one of the largest military installations in Eastern India. The star-shaped fortress sits along the Hooghly River, its imposing walls and strategic position offering glimpses into colonial military architecture and the complex history of British rule in Bengal. While much of the fort remains an active military area with restricted access, the surrounding areas and limited public sections provide enough intrigue for history enthusiasts and those curious about Kolkata's colonial past.

The Fort William area benefits from its central Kolkata location, putting you within walking distance of the city's famous food scene. Park Street offers everything from colonial-era restaurants like Flury's to modern cafes and bars. Street food vendors around New Market serve authentic Bengali snacks like phuchka and kathi rolls. The nearby Esplanade area has traditional Bengali restaurants where you can try fish curry and rice preparations that locals actually eat, not just tourist versions.

October through March provides the most comfortable weather for exploring Fort William and walking around the Maidan grounds. Kolkata's winter months offer pleasant temperatures (15-25°C) and minimal rainfall, perfect for outdoor historical exploration. Monsoon season (June-September) brings heavy rains that can disrupt outdoor activities, while summer months (April-June) feature intense heat and humidity that makes walking tours quite challenging.