Fort William

Fort William is a military fortress along the Hooghly River bank in Kolkata. The octagonal compound features six entry gates including Chowringhee, Plassey and Water Gate, covering roughly 71 hectares within the city landscape.

British traders began constructing the fort in 1696 to secure their trading position in Bengal. After Indian independence in 1947, the Indian Army took control and established the Eastern Command there.

The complex retains its British layout and barrack buildings now used by Indian soldiers. Architectural heritage shows through the brick walls and stone archways that active troops pass through every day.

The grounds remain a military restricted area and are normally closed to the public. Visitors can gain entry only during official events or special ceremonies that require prior clearance.

Nine golf courses sit within the fort walls and serve military personnel. This combination of defense infrastructure and leisure facilities is unusual for an active military site.

Location: Kolkata

Inception: 1696

GPS coordinates: 22.55778,88.33806

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:01