Are you looking for the best places for weekend getaways from Kolkata? You will be delighted to know that there are many places around the city of joy that can generate joy in your heart! Whether you wish to witness the impeccable sights of nature or simply spend some leisurely time with your close ones, the city has plenty to offer!
So let’s say book a flight to Kolkata and say hello to the artistic grandeur, literary legacy and dazzling culture through a fun weekend getaway near the city. Below are some popular tourist places as well as some offbeat weekend getaways from Kolkata, (because sometimes a little time away from the crowd is much appreciated!)
Hey there nature-lovers, welcome to Sunderbans! It is indeed a splendid option for getaways near Kolkata. There is a lot to do here! You can start with a river cruise. In fact, you can stay on a river cruise and float around your entire trip! In between the river cruise rides, go and see wildlife at Sajnekhali or opt for boating amidst Matla River, the choice is yours! And if lucky, you might as well get to witness the Royal Bengal tiger during your trip here!
If you seek a tranquil island for a weekend trip near Kolkata, we will suggest Henry’s Island! The mangrove forestation is its main highlight. But that’s not all! The Henry’s Island Watchtower and the Henry’s Island Beach are also captivating aspects. Adding more to the list! This place is a stunning location for bird watching and bonfire nights. With so much to explore, no wonder, Henry’s Island is escalating on the list of the best getaways from Kolkata!
Short road trips from Kolkata are incomplete without Bakkhali. Bakkhali offers an extraordinary tropical combination of white beaches and green forests. You can visit the Crocodile Propagation Center, the windmill of Frasergun and stroll by the beach. And the best way to enjoy your time here is by sipping hot tea or some fresh coconut water as you cherish the beauty of this place.
For Bengalis, Shantiniketan is not a mere place, it’s an emotion. Here, you are bound to have a unique experience. The credit goes to the historical and cultural significance of this site. Rabindranath Tagore began his school here with just 5 students. And that school has now become a well-renowned university. So, now you know why this place is on every traveler's radar. When you are here, pay a visit to its art galleries and the Tagore museum. And consider yourself lucky if you get to attend the Basanta Utsav and the Poush Mela.
Growing as the new tourist destination around Kolkata, Mandarmani is a place popularly known for its spectacular views and its pristine beaches. The highlights here are the unspoiled beauty and the stretches of paddy fields. If you want a relaxing getaway, without a second thought, head on to Mandarmani. The views from Mandarmoni are to die for. It would be unfair if we don’t tell you the amazing things that you can do here. Paragliding and watersports will surely top the list. And if adventure is not your cup of tea, stroll by the beach on a full-moon night. We bet the experience will be soul-stirring.
The list of weekend getaways near Kolkata is incomplete without mentioning Digha. If you don’t believe us, ask any local! Or just head to Digha and the liveliness of the crowd will answer all your queries. This is one of the most popular beaches in West Bengal that wears a joyous look of a famous fairground throughout the year. There are many things that you can do! Take part in watersports and stroll by the beach to excite your getaway. Relish their lip-smacking range of seafood! But, the highlight has to be the view of sunrise from Digha!
If you have not added this destination to your bucket list, then do it right away! Because it is a perfect blend of visual treats and spiritual charm! Home to Jagannath temple, this place was once home to the Sabaras and pre-Dravidian tribes. And now it is one of the most frequently visited destinations near Kolkata. On your Puri trip, don’t forget to visit the Konark Temple, Nandan Kanan (Zoo), Udaygiri, Dolphin point and Chilka Lake and we assure you won’t regret it!
Imagine sitting by the beach and enjoying the scenic view in isolation, away from the hustle and bustle of city life! Now, turn this imagination into reality at Tajpur. An offbeat spot, Tajpur is slowly making its presence known on the best weekend destinations from Kolkata list. Besides, it gives us immense pride to say that even after the recent entry of Tajpur into the holiday circuit from Kolkata, it has maintained its serenity and charm. Now to the activities! There are fun water activities to engage in. Not in a mood for water activities? Go paragliding. Whatever you choose, the experience will be worthwhile for sure!
For the ardent devotees, Mayapur is the place to be! You simply cannot afford to miss the verdant greenery and peaceful environment here. With the reputation of being the top religious site in Kolkata, this place will surely destress you from all your worries. When you are here at Mayapur, visit the ISKCON temple and the tomb of Chand Kazi. Or go explore the Ballal Mound. Whatever you choose, you will have an amazingly blissful time. So, without any further delay, evoke the spiritual side in you and pay a visit here!
Calling out all the artists! Plan a trip to Bishnupur and you will understand what the craze around the place is all about! Celebrate the artistic vibe during the weekends as you make memories for a lifetime here! While at Bishnupur, take some time to appreciate the beauty of the terracotta temples, religious buildings and traditional sarees. Take our advice and visit as many temples as possible because all of them are beautiful! Lalji Temple and Jor Bangla Temple should be mandatory ones on your list.
Basically, there is no scarcity of weekend getaways from Kolkata. Select one from this list and get rolling!
