History
Earlier known as Hajipur, this charming place was named Diamond Harbour by the British. It was considered a safe resting spot for ocean going ships and offered a spectacular view of the river. After the Rupnarayan River joins the Hughli, the river bends south and widens out to a form a huge expanse of water. A little further down, the Haldi river joins it.
In earlier days Diamond Harbour used to be a stronghold of Portuguese pirates. The ruins of the fort of Chingrikhali can still be seen. It is believed to be linked with the Portuguese but some opine that the East India Company built it before they could establish themselves in Kolkata. There is an old lighthouse nearby. Diamond Harbour is well connected with Kolkata by road and rail. The tourist lodge, Sagarika, located on the riverbank, has been popular for many years. It also has a number of private hotels. As Diamond Harbour is within easy reach of Kolkata, just around 50 km, it is generally a day out picnic spot for city dwellers.
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