Sashati – A picturesque village just 70km from Kolkata

Sashati, in Howrah district, is a picturesque village just 70km from Kolkata. It is located on the bank of the Rupnarayan river. On the other side of the river is Midnapore district.

The buses are available from Esplanade that will take you to Sashati bus stop. The bus stop is a beehive of activity. You can have tea from the bus stand shops. Van rickshaws can be hired from there that will take you to the riverfront.

Your tired city eyes will be relieved as you trundle towards the village interiors. The roads seem to be bordered with green paddy fields and ponds on both sides.

The waterfront is just 20 minutes form the bus stop. The rippling expanse of water is thrilling. The air is fresh and tall trees act as a blockage to the view of the riverbank.

While the right side of the river goes to Kolaghat, the left goes to Gadiara via Bakshi. There is a long riverbank road that leads to Gadiara and Kolaghat. Strolling along that road is an enchanting experience. A blue-breasted bird flitting in and out of the water’s edge added to the beauty of the place.

At night, a full moon makes the river look almost ethereal.

Sashati was once an important village town with a bustling haat (local market). The river was used for navigational purposes and cargo transported in steamers would reach Kolaghat and then Calcutta. Navigation was extended to Midnapore also. Regular boat and steamer services were available and passengers in thousands would travel on the river.

Surrounded by Ganeshpur, Barigama, Chillera and other small villages, Sashati now bears the testimony of heritage. The steamer service was closed down around 70 years back. The Sashati Dak Bungalow, built by the British, is now used by officials of the public works department. Tourists can stay there as well.

In winter a huge 15-day fair is organised by the local people near the river. Then the riverbank is illuminated and makes for a beautiful experience.

How to go ?

Take a train to Bagnan; then any bus heading towards Gadiara. Buses for Sashati also leave from Esplanade and Howrah. At Sashati bus stop, hire a van rickshaw to reach the riverbank. Eateries are available at Sashati More.

Where to stay ?

Bookings for the Sashati Dak Bungalow can be made at Howrah Irrigation, 11A Free School Street, 5th floor, or at the Howrah Zilla Parishad’s office opposite Howrah District Hospital.