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Garpanchkot is about exploring the ruins of a fort that will transport you back in time and leave you awestruck?

Located in the foothills of the Panchet Hills, Garpanchkot boasts of utter peace and tranquility, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers, wanderers, and photography enthusiasts alike. The fort itself is a marvel of ancient engineering, built using both natural and man-made resources. And let’s not forget the temple at the top of the hill, which is another major tourist attraction.

But what’s a fort without a little drama? Garpanchkot has a chilling history, dating back to the 1700s when the Nawab of Bengal challenged Alivardi Khan to a battle. Due to some bad luck and inefficiency, the Nawab started losing the battle and sought help from the Maratha rulers of Nagpur. Unfortunately, the Maratha cavalry started looting and plundering the small town, which continued for around 10 years. During this time, the fort was attacked and destroyed, and 17 wives of the king jumped in the nearby well to escape the attack.

The temples in Garpanchkot are also a sight to behold, constructed in different styles depending on the God or Goddess enshrining them. The ones made in Bishnupuri style using stone blocks are dedicated to Lord Krishna, while the ones made with stones are dedicated to Goddess Kali. And the most popular one, located right in the center, is dedicated to Lord Rama.

Guard’s Quarters, which are perched on a slightly higher region and look like a miniature fort. Inside, you’ll find long narrow spaces with vents that flank the entrance, which were used to guard the plains outside.

And who can forget the moat, originally used to protect the fort, but now transformed into a beautiful pond that’s cut by a road. In the olden days, the moat was the only entrance to the fort that could be crossed in a boat. Talk about a grand entrance!

If you’re planning to visit Garpanchkot, the best time to go is during the monsoons when the rains make the greenery glow brighter and fill up the pond. But beware of the hot and humid months between April and July.

To reach Garpanchkot, take a left from Asansol towards the road leading to Raghunathpur after you reach Satbari station. And if you’re coming from further away, the nearest railway station is Kumardubi before Howrah, and the nearest airport line is in Kolkata.

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