BEST WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN KOLKATA

Best Weekend Getaways in Kolkata

Best Weekend Getaways in Kolkata

Blog Article

Kolkata — the City of Joy — is a melting pot of cultures, an art centre, a culinary heaven, and a colonial relic. But even in so exciting a city, the craziness of city life can overwhelm you. The good news? A welcome break is just a few hours away. Whether it's riverfront serenity, hills, heritage, or seaside peace, there are plenty of weekend getaways near Kolkata that offer the perfect break.

Here's a selection of expertly picked short, sweet weekend getaways from Kolkata that are perfect for couples, families, friends, or solo explorers.

1. Shantiniketan – Tagore's Peaceful Town


  • Distance: ~165 km

  • Travel Time: 3-4 hours


Set up by the iconic Rabindranath Tagore, Shantiniketan is a cultural retreat where nature, art, and imagination converge in perfect harmony. Ideal for a relaxed weekend immersed in Bengal's rich history.

Highlights:

  • Visva-Bharati University campus

  • Tagore's Ashram and museums

  • Baul music, handicrafts, and Poush Mela (in winter)


2. Digha – The Beach Town Favorite of Bengal

  • Distance: ~185 km

  • Travel Time: 4-5 hours


Digha is the favorite beach destination of the people of Kolkata, with affordable stay, fish, and sun-scorched beaches.

Highlights:

  • New Digha and Udaipur beaches

  • Marine Aquarium and Science Centre

  • Beach shopping and fried fish stalls


3. Mandarmani – A Peaceful Coastal Retreat

  • Distance: ~170 km

  • Travel Time: 3.5-4.5 hours


If long beach drives are your weakness, then Mandarmani is your perfect weekend destination. It's less touristy compared to Digha, with a peaceful environment and resorts on the beach.

Highlights:

  • Hard sand beach drive

  • Water sports such as ATV and banana boat rides

  • Sunset views from beach resorts


4. Sundarbans – Into the Mangrove Wild

  • Distance: ~100-120 km (via Godkhali Ferry Point)

  • Travel Time: 3-4 hours + boat ride


For nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Sundarbans is a memory-making experience. It boasts the Royal Bengal Tiger and the largest mangrove forest in the world, along with the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights:

Boat tours through creeks that twist and turn Watchtowers like Sajnekhali and Dobanki

Eco-tourism camps and village walks

5. Bishnupur – Terracotta and Temple Trails

  • Distance: ~140 km

  • Travel Time: 3-4 hours


Elegantly sculptured temples made of terracotta and classical music traditions are Bishnupur's claims to fame. History and art lovers take delight in it.

Highlights:

  • Rasmancha, Jor Bangla, and other temples

  • Weaving centers for Baluchari sarees

  • Bishnupur Mela (December cultural fair)


6. Henry's Island – Hidden Beach Experience

  • Distance: ~140 km

  • Travel Time: 4-5 hours


Tired of populated beaches? Head to Henry's Island, a peaceful and unconventional location around Bakkhali. Surrounded by mangroves and tranquil waves, it's perfect for the different crowd.

Highlights:

  • Empty, clean beaches

  • Forest bungalow stay and birdwatching

  • Panoramic views from the watchtower


7. Raichak – Riverside Luxury

  • Distance: ~50 km

  • Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours


Just a short drive away from Kolkata, Raichak offers a peaceful riverside retreat with luxurious resorts and colonial-era buildings.

Highlights:

  • Ganges riverside walks and sunset watching

  • Stay at The Ffort Raichak

  • Boat cruises and spa treatment


8. Jhargram – Forests, Palaces, and Tribal Culture

  • Distance: ~170 km

  • Travel Time: 4 hours


Jhargram is a non-touristy gem, perfect for nature and culture lovers. The landscape shifts from sal forests to tribal villages and ancient temples.

Highlights:

  • Jhargram Palace stay

  • Deer park, Kanak Durga Temple

  • Tribal handicrafts and folk music


Tips for Your Weekend Trip from Kolkata
Plan in advance: Especially for Sundarbans or Shantiniketan in the festival or winter months.

Travel smart: Trains and buses are possible, but a car offers more freedom.

Pack light: But don't leave out sunscreen, a good book, and your camera!

Try local: Whether Digha's sea food or Bishnupur's sweets — Bengal's local fare is all part of the plan.

Final Thoughts
Kolkata is surrounded by spots brimming with soul, stories, and beauty. Whether it is the magnetism of the sea, the tranquility of a forest, or the charm of old cities that beckons to you, there is a weekend getaway waiting that will suit your mood to the core. The next time you get bitten by the travel bug, pick a spot, take off, and indulge in the happiness of short getaways.

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