Explore the amazing Weekend Getaways From Kolkata. Soak in quick relaxation and feel serenity all around with these must-visit places near Kolkata!
Every time, “City of Joy” Kolkata casts a spell on its residents with vibrant streets and cultural richness impacting normal individuals.
If the residents of this joyful city think of getting away quickly for recharging, it is not hard because Kolkata is surrounded by weekend getaways with majestic hills, cultural retreats, and wildlife escapes that cater a breathtaking experience to the travellers along with idyllic beaches.
Are you also hunting to spend a weekend quietly with family, or a lone journey just to clear your mind? These are the perfect sites for short breaks. The artistic charm of Shantiniketan coupled with untouched beaches at Mandarmani spells out everything from the best guide to unwinding and relaxing city life. Let’s dive into the charming Weekend Getaways From Kolkata!
Places to Explore while on Weekend Getaways From Kolkata
1. Mandarmani – A Heavenly Beach Retreat
About 180 km from Kolkata, Mandarmani has always been known as a beach town where one can relax over a weekend. A long stretch of golden sands, gentle waves, and a tranquil atmosphere make this a perfect place to unwind. Mandarmani, unlike the crowded Digha and other beaches, is quieter, making it the choice of solitude seekers.
- Activities: Walk leisurely on the beach without worrying about the prying sun as you indulge in water sports such as jet skiing and banana boat rides. Or just sit at the shore and enjoy the sunset.
- Food: Indulge in fresh seafood, from prawns and crabs to fish available at local shacks.
- Travel Time: About four hours by road.
- Tip: Sunrise is unforgettable across the Bay of Bengal. Also, the best time to visit the beach is early in the morning.
2. Shantiniketan – Where Art Meets Nature
Located just about 160 km away, Shantiniketan is in the vicinity where cultural heritage comes closer to an art form that leads towards tranquillity. Founded by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, this tiny town in Bolpur is rooted in Bengali traditions with all its rural charms. This is a mini tourist spot for art enthusiasts and people who like to travel a bit slowly but surely.
- Highlights: Explore Visva-Bharati University, Tagore’s Ashram, and the vibrant Sonajhuri Haat (weekend market). Attend soulful Baul music performances or explore rural landscapes.
- Travel Time: Around 3-4 hours by train or car.
- Tip: Visit during the Poush Mela in December for literally an immersive cultural experience filled with folk music, art, and local handicrafts.
3. Sundarbans – Haven For Nature Lovers
Literally, An appropriate getaway from the hustle and bustle for adventure seekers is Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and actually the largest mangrove forest in the world. Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, this area truly offers an exceptional closeness with nature.
- Activities: Indulge in boat rides and safaris through thick mangroves; spot exotic birds, and visit serene islands within the delta.
- Wildlife: Besides tigers, one can spot crocodiles, deer and many species of birds.
- Travel Time: Lies around 5 hours of journey by car before going via ferry.
- Tip: Always go for eco-resorts for the real feel and plan the safari during winter as it has beautiful weather conditions.
4. Bishnupur – History and a lot more
The small but beautiful town of Bishnupur is tucked about 150 km away from Kolkata, well recognized for its terracotta temples, superb Baluchari sarees, and rich interesting history. This town forms a perfect combination of heritage and art, which goes very well with people wanting to blow some time off while relishing Bengal’s glorious past.
- Highlights: Visit Rasmancha, Jor Bangla Temple, and Madan Mohan Temple architecture that comprises terracotta carvings, rich in detail. Purchase Baluchari sarees and traditional handicrafts.
- Travel Time: Approx 5 hours on a train or by car.
- Tip: Hire a local guide to get informed about the interesting history and architecture of the town itself.
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5. Puri – Beach and Spiritual Escape
Puri, in close neighbouring Odisha, has religion, beaches, and a calm ambience in the folds of its city life. Well known for its Jagannath temple and long stretches of white gold beaches, Puri, in all possibilities, turns into a weekend destination.
- Activities: A plunge into the sea, visit the holy Jagannath Temple or sail into Chilika Lake with its flock of migratory birds.
- Travel Time: About 7 hours by car and overnight train.
- Tip: Visit during the Ratha Yatra festival for an unforgettable spiritual experience, but book accommodations early.
6. Bakkhali – Offbeat and Serene
For travellers literally looking to escape the crowds, Bakkhali is an offbeat beach destination just 130 km from Kolkata. It’s a quiet retreat surrounded by natural beauty and offers ample opportunities to relax.
- Activities: Visit Henry’s Island, walk along the peaceful beaches, and enjoy fresh seafood.
- Travel Time: Around 5 hours by car.
- Tip: Pack light and bring essentials as amenities are limited in this remote area.
7. Kurseong – A Relaxing Hill Escape
If you truly feel like breathing pure mountain air, you can find it in Kurseong, which is a small hill station in the Darjeeling district. It is lush indoors with gardens, scenic beauties, and quiet flavour, making it an ideal destination for a refreshing weekend.
- Attractions: Visit Makaibari Tea Estate, a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and panoramic views at Eagle’s Crag.
- Travel Time: Overnight train to NJP, 2-3 hours drive.
- Tip: Best visited during spring or autumn for wonderful clear skies and enjoyable weather.
8. Mayapur – For A Spiritual Hideaway
The last place to visit on the list of Weekend Getaways Near Kolkata is this. Mayapur is actually around 130 km from Kolkata and serves as the spiritual capital for the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). This is a place for retreat for those who want peace because it is spiritual rejuvenation worldwide.
- Activities: Enjoy the melodious kirtans in ISKCON Temple, visit some of the surrounding villages, and then take a rest on the banks of the Ganges.
- Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours by road.
- Tip: Do not miss the mouthwatering vegetarian dishes served in the temple.
Why Does Weekend Getaways Matter
Weekend getaways are more than a trip; it is a vital break in a fast-paced life. Escaping the city once in a while brings some charge and refreshment to the mind and soul for a better tomorrow. Furthermore, Kolkata’s location has literally made it perfect as the base to explore different landscapes, from truly serene beaches to lush hills, multicultural towns, and dense forests, all just a stone’s throw away. Whether you actually want to travel solo, with family, or with friends, these places literally cater to all moods and tastes.
So pack those bags and hit the road to unwind in nature, culture, and adventure. After all, the weekend is like hitting the reset button for the week ahead!
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