~: Bakkhali :~

Bakkhali is a small beach resort about 132 kms. from Calcutta. It is very popular with the citizens of Kolkata. One can walk to the Frasergunj beach from Bakkhali. You may have the fun of wave-riding on a motor launch or make a trip by motor launch, of course, to Jamhudwip.





Driving distance fromKolkata, 130 Km (approx)

Driving time fromKolkata, +5 Hours (approx)

If you are greedy and want a beach to yourself – head to Bakkhali. Chances are that your wish will be granted for Bakkhali is one of India’s most secluded beaches. Bakkhali boasts of a beautiful casuarinas tree lined white sand beachfront. When you are in Bakkhali, sit quietly on the beach with your beloved and enjoy the various moods of the sea. Catch a fantastic sunset in Bakkhali – it will be a special memory for ever.



For couples on their honeymoon, Bakkhali promises oodles of privacy and romance. Watch the fishing boats set out to sea – Bakkhali is a major source for fish, which are packaged and transported from the Benfish auction centre here. If you are a seafood lover, then Bakkhali is your paradise because a variety of sea-fish are available here. When the tide is low, the beach in Bakkhali is turned into a red carpet by millions of red crabs scurrying around. If you are traveling there in winter, you can see hordes of migratory birds in Bakkhali.

Access

A three hour bus journey from Kolkata to Namkhana, a ferry across the river Hatania Doania, and another bus journey for one and half hour to Bakkhali between Kolkata and Namkhana there are CSTC buses a well as private bus. Departure: Esplanade (CSTC) 0700 hrs. Fare Rs. 60 (approx) Arrival: Namkhana 1100 hrs.
There is also a train service from Sealdah station up to Namkhana. Cross the river by boat and then take a bus to Bakkhali.


Activity

In Bakkhali, enjoy long refreshing walks in the surrounding forests. Honeymoon couples will enjoy the solitude in Bakkhali. Spend some time observing the rhythms of daily life in the villages near Bakkhali – that is if you can tear yourself away from the beach. Walk to nearby Fraserganj, established by Andrew Fraser, the Deputy Governor of Bengal nearly a century ago. He built a bungalow by the sea for himself here and had plans to establish it as a health and beach resort. Today, though no signs of his bungalow remain, having long been swallowed up by the sea, Fraserganj and Bakkhali have been recognized as prime destinations on the east coast of India. For the moment, Fraserganj and Bakkhali are still relatively undeveloped which means no troublesome hawkers on the beach, no thronging crowds. In Bakkhali, just enjoy Nature at her best. If you are on your honeymoon, you will have plenty of wonderful memories of your time in Bakkhali.

Accommodation Options
There are a few private hotels and tourist lodges here catering mostly to budget travelers.

Things to Pack
Beachwear, camera, comfortable walking shoes and mosquito repellant.

Getting There
Going to Bakkhali is an adventure in itself – drive or take a bus from Kolkata to Namkhana, and then take the ferry across the river Hatania Doania, and drive or bus it to Bakkhali.


History of Legendary Fraser
Sir Andrew Fraser, Lieutenant Governor of Bengal in the early twentieth century, is credited with “discovery” of the place. He tried his best to popularize it and in recognition of his efforts a part of the town is named Frasergunj. There is a dilapidated house near the beach, which according to the locals was the one in which Fraser used to stay.Local legend has it that he had landed at the place accidentally because of a shipwreck and was helped to survive by a local woman named Narayani. Fraser fell in love with her and visited her regularly. His detractors sent word about his goings on to his wife staying back in England. She came rushing to India and with the assistance of British troops had Narayani shot down. Frasergunj was earlier known as Narayanitala.