Sundarbans
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, spending a weekend at Sundarbans is one of the best ways to recover from a long work-week. Ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, it is counted among the most popular weekend getaways from Kolkata. Considered to be one of the largest mangrove forests in the world, it is a tiger reserve as well as a Biosphere Reserve. Home to the Royal Bengal Tigers, salt-water crocodiles and an astonishing variety of flora and fauna, one needs at least two to three days to explore this beautiful national park.
Unlike most national parks, Sundarbans has an element of surprise and a raw natural setting that attracts visitors from across the country. If Sundarbans is on your list of weekend getaways from Kolkata, we recommend making your reservations without another thought. There are eco-resorts and small hotels that are set amidst nature and will add charm to your holiday. Among the most popular attractions here, rows of Sundari trees, picturesque creeks and the 64 varieties of Mangroves including Goran, Dhundal and Garjan are what ensure that travellers keep coming back for more. Besides the exhilarating jungle safaris, Sundarbans is one of the best weekend getaways from Kolkata for adventure enthusiasts owing to coastal trekking options in Chargheri Char.
Shantiniketan
The small town gained popularity as one of the most popular weekend getaways from Kolkata owing to its connection to Rabindranath Tagore. Home to one of India’s most celebrated poets, Shantiniketan effortlessly takes one back into the past through its old buildings and mystical vibe.
Today the town is home to a number of monuments and museums where travellers can explore the life of the poet as well as learn more about that era. Travellers should definitely include a visit to Tagore’s ashrama, Rabindra Bhavan Museum, Chattimala and Upasna Ghar.
Digha
Digha is a popular beach destination which puts it on the list of fun weekend getaways from Kolkata. Known as one of the most popular weekend getaways for families, Digha promises great weather and stunning sunsets along with delicious local cuisine.
The town is dotted with small resorts which offer travellers a quiet holiday and also ensure one has a comfortable experience. While spending time on the beach is the most relaxing way to spend your time here, for those who’d like to go sightseeing, there are quite a few places to visit including Udaipur Beach, New Digha Beach, Talsari Beach and Aquarium of Zoological Survey of India.
Belur Math
A highly revered pilgrimage destination in Kolkata, Belur Math is one of the most visited weekend getaways from Kolkata. The headquarters of Ramakrishna Math and Mission, it’s visited by travellers from across the world. One of the most picturesque weekend getaways from Kolkata, Belur Math is enveloped in peace and town is an ideal place to disconnect from the chaos of cities and bask in the beauty of nature.
Travellers can visit the main temple which is a fine example of fusing different cultures together through art and architecture. The temple brings together Christian, Islamic and Hindu elements together in an effort to show unity. Founded by Swami Vivekananda, one can easily spend four to five hours here.
Belur Math also makes it to the list of weekend getaways from Kolkata owing to its slow-paced lifestyle and effortless charm. You can spend evenings admiring the views of the setting sun at the ghat or walk around to take in the vibe of the town.
Bakkhali
For weekend getaways from Kolkata, Bakkali is a popular choice. Lying close to Sunderbans, it’s a great option for those who are planning weekend getaways from Kolkata as it combines two beautiful spots together. Named after the red-beaked seagull, Bakkhali is a quaint beach town which offers mesmerising views of the West Bengal coast. If you are looking for a short holiday where the sound of the waves and the chirping of birds is the only noise you’d like, then head to Bakkhali without another thought.
Adventure enthusiasts can explore the island on a cycle and nature lovers can spend time frolicking from one beach to another. We also suggest including wind farm tours in your itinerary if you are choosing this as one of your weekend getaways from Kolkata.
Bishnupur
A favourite with art lovers, Bishnupur is one of the most visited weekend getaways from Kolkata. Known across the country for stunning terracotta temples, rich heritage and a flourishing artist community, it has held the fancy of travellers for decades.
Shopaholics will especially be happy here since one can take back art and craft in the form of paintings, saris and small knick-knacks. Ideal for two days, one can spend time exploring the many temples including Jorbangla temple, Shyamrai Temple and Rasmancha temple. Considered to be some of the oldest temples in the state, they are dedicated to different deities. Rasmancha Temple, dedicated to Radha and Krishna is the oldest temple here and one of the reasons for the town’s growing popularity as one of the best weekend getaways from Kolkata.
Ganga Sagar
Ganga Sagar offers a beautiful combination of religious sites and surreal natural beauty, The site where River Ganga meets the Bay of Bengal, Ganga Sagar is one of the many gorgeous weekend getaways from Kolkata. Known for its beaches, lush greenery and trekking opportunities, it is ideal for all kinds of travellers.
The town sees tourists throughout the year but is especially crowded during January since pilgrims come to take a dip in the holy Ganga. Among things to do, one can enjoy quiet time at the beach, walk through picture-perfect lanes and take in the local vibe or dig into the delicious local cuisine.
Mandarmani Beach
If your idea of a perfect vacation is relaxing on the beach, then Mandarmani has to be on your list of weekend getaways from Kolkata. Slowly gaining popularity as a stunning beach resort, it is an ideal place for those who’d like to take a break from the city. Owing to the huge number of resorts and hotels here, it also fits perfectly as one of the luxury weekend getaways destinations near Kolkata.
Said to be one of the longest motorable beaches in the country, one can enjoy endless hours watching the sunset, sunbathing or simply enjoying the peace. For those who enjoy seafood, luxurious hotels and a relaxed vibe, Mandarmani has to be one of your top choices for weekend getaways from Kolkata.
Purulia
If your idea of a perfect holiday is surreal natural beauty, warm hospitality, delicious food and luxurious resorts, then Purulia should be on your list of must-see weekend destinations near Kolkata. Slowly becoming popular among travellers as one of the most visited weekend getaways from Kolkata, one can’t get enough of this place.
The westernmost district in the state, it offers travellers a break from the city but most importantly it offers them a chance to connect with nature without any distractions. Promising scenic views, beautiful weather and innumerable places to visit, Purulia has something for all kinds of travellers, one only needs to explore it.
Among the places to visit, we recommend Rakab Forest, Gajaburu Hills and a visit to Baranti Reservoir. Remember to book your hotel in advance since the area is slowly becoming popular especially for those who are looking for weekend getaways from Kolkata.
Henry’s Island
A beautiful island at a distance of 140km from Kolkata, Henry’s Island perhaps is one of the lesser-known weekend getaways from Kolkata. Offering a quick break from the city, it’s typically known for its laid-back charm, pristine beach and almost no tourist rush. City-dwellers often head to this stunning weekend getaway from Kolkata to experience the bliss of nature.
Another reason why this is slowly becoming one of the most popular weekend getaways from Kolkata is because it is home to a number of resorts and guesthouses designed to offer travellers a memorable experience. The resorts are constructed using local and sustainable material but promise guests a comfortable and hassle-free stay. The best way to spend your time here is on the beach gazing at the vibrant hues of the sky or swimming in the sea. If you’d like to capture panoramic views of the azure waters, we suggest visiting the watchtower inside the Sundari Tourist Complex.
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