26 Weekend Getaways From Kolkata

Kolkata, the city of joy is popular for its sweets and the lavish Durga Puja celebrations across the country. Travelers from all over the country visit Kolkata and the nearby destinations to enjoy this colourful city. There are a number of places to visit around Kolkata that can be conveniently explored over the weekend with family and friends. The places vary from lush green national parks to soothing beach locations offering the visitors a great variation while making a pick. The weekend is fast approaching. Why not plan a mini break with your folks or friends or even your solo self!

Time to go through the information ahead in order to pick the ideal most location for your next weekend getaway from Kolkata. We have compiled a list of the best weekend getaways from Kolkata so you have a relaxed mind and an envy-inducing Instagram on Monday.

Top 26 Weekend Getaways from Kolkata

1. Bishnupur
2. Digha
3. Sunderbans
4. Mandarmani, Shankarpur Beach
5. Mayapur
6. Navadipa
7. Santiniketan
8. Bakkhali
9. Talasari Beach
10. ChandanNagar, West Bengal
11. Bardhaman, West Bengal
12. Ganga Sagar (SagarDweep), West Bengal
13. Bhubaneshwar, Orissa
14. Konark, Orissa
15. Purulia, West Bengal
16. Bodh Gaya, Bihar
17. Puri, Orissa
18. Cuttack, Orissa
19. Haldia, West Bengal
20. Dhauli, Orissa
21. Nalanda, Bihar
22. Raichak, West Bengal
23. Tajpur
24. Kurseong
25. Rinchenpong
26. Henry’s Island

1. Bishnupur (140 km away)

Boasting Boasting of a rich cultural heritage and ancient monuments, Bishnupur is a popular getaway from Kolkata and a haven for architecture aficionados and those religiously inclined.

Created by the Malla kings during the 17th century, the remnants of the era are still visible to this day, especially in the town’s monuments. Visit the terracotta temples- Jorbangla, Rasmacha temple and more to peek into the historical past of the town and marvel at the architectural brilliance of their makers. Watch the Malla dynasty relics on your visit to the Jogesh Chandra Archaeological Centre. Visit the Baluchari and Tussar silk mills to witness the making of these fabrics.

If you have spare time, drive to Susunia Hills to admire its rich flora, fossils, rock structures and gushing spring. Adventure lovers can enjoy sports like rock climbing and trekking. For those with a keen interest in archeology, stone inscriptions dating back to the 4th century have been discovered here.

Pick some pottery goods like terracotta Bankura horse or the mascot of Bankura handicraft as a souvenir for your friends back home.

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2. Digha (180 km away)

Flanked by the Bay of Bengal, this famous beach town is a popular weekend getaway from Kolkata. From historical places in Kolkata to cultural attractions, Digha has something in store for all age groups.

Enjoy a walk along the sandy shores of New Digha Beach while exotic birds scape the sky. Watch the sunset in the horizon above the sea as the sea waves gently lull you.  If you want to do more than just relaxing on the shores, awaken the adventurer in you to indulge in sports like scuba diving or surfing.

It is ideal to plan a visit during the months between July and March.

Love beaches but long for some quiet ‘me time’? Talasari Beach is the place to be. This palm-fringed beach is less frequented by tourists and is abundant in beauty with stretches of green peeking through the mountains.

Pay a visit to the Marine Aquarium and Research Centre, Asia’s largest aquarium if you are mesmerized by the aquatic life. Nature lovers can head to the picturesque Amarabati Park to enjoy a quiet time amid lush lawns.

Pick up seashell jewellery and hand-woven mats from the streets of Digha as souvenirs from your memorable trip.

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3. Sundarbans (100 km away)

Sunderbans, the World Heritage Site of the largest mangrove forest, housing the endangered Royal Bengal Tigers is a famous getaway attracting visitors from across the world and is every nature lover’s delight. The forests have a wide number of Sundari trees from which the region derives its name.

This area reflects a unique charm of simplicity in its intricate ecological web. The sheer scenic beauty of the mangroves will leave you spellbound. A stunning aquatic treasure of exotic flora and fauna rests in the meandering rivers and estuaries flowing through the thick mangroves.

Explore this nature’s wonderland on your visit. Spot tigers at the Sunderbans National Park. This core region of the reserve consists of several islands and creeks. Take a mesmerizing boat cruise through the roaring waters for sightseeing. Bird lovers and watchers can head to Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary in the heart of Sunderbans. Catch sight of over 200 exotic bird species such as sandpipers, kingfishers and herons.

Want to watch turtles? Visit the island of Kanak. This nesting site of the Olive Ridley turtles is flocked by a large number of turtles in the months between December and May.

To enjoy a splendid view of the ruins of a 400-year old Shiva Temple nestled in the verdant forests, go to the watchtower at Netidhopani. Also, visit the Nilkamalor Hiron Point and Katka viewpoints to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Sunderbans wildlife.

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4. Shankarpur (175 km away)

Mandarmani Beach is the longest motorable beach in the country. You can experience ultimate thrill by taking a speedy bike ride on the Mandarmani Beach. It is a destination that is an upcoming beach resort location that features the potential to be one of the top-notch places for a vacation close to Kolkata. This ideal beach town offers beautiful sandy beaches, great scenery and the utmost combination of peace and fun. It is a great place to spend a vacation away from the hustle and bustle of day to day lifestyle of a metropolitan. The stretch of this motorable beach is almost thirteen kilometres where you can experience a thrill like never before.

Known for its scenic beauty, this beach town is far less known and less frequented than the other beach towns in its neighbourhood, making it ideal for that quiet day trip from Kolkata to relax and unwind.

Experience the thrill of this solitary beach with its calming winds and a typical old-school charm. Indulge in daring water sports or let the sun warm your soul as you lie relaxing on the sandy beach. Don’t forget to try the scrumptious local fish.

End your amazing trip with a bonfire at night with your folks or friends.

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5. Mayapur (167Km away)

Conveniently nestled at the junction of two rivers named Jalangi and Ganga, Mayapur is one of the laidback places close to Kolkata that features lovely views, an ample number of temples and a peaceful ambiance that makes it ideal for big groups of travellers. It is also visited by many pilgrims each year.

The best time to visit this place is between July and March.

While in Mayapur, you can also visit other attractions such as ISKCON Chandrodaya Temple, Chand Kazi’s Samadhi, Sri Chaitanya Math, Yoga Peeth, and Sri Devananda Gaudiya Math.

6. Navadipa (148Km away)

This place is a rural setting where there are two hundred temples nestled on the peaceful banks of River Ganga. Hence, Navadvipa is often referred to as God’s own land. October to March are the best months to rejuvenate in the tranquil locales of this beautiful hamlet.

They are also popular among tourists for other attractions such as ISKCON Temple, Sri Devananda Gaudiya Math, Purbasthali Bird Sanctuary, Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Math, Shiv Mandir, Radha Rani Temple, Sri Mahaprabhu Mandir, and Pushpa Samadhi Mandir.

7. Santiniketan (164Km away)

It is a well-known tourist destination popular as the home of Rabindranath Tagore, which now has been turned into a renowned university. It is a small and peaceful town situated in a district of West Bengal named Birbhum.

Tagore’s peaceful abode is well known for Tagore’s ashrama, Rabindra Bhaban Museum, Kala Bhavan, Amar Kutir, Nippon Bhavan, Poush Mela, Chattimtala, Uttrayan Complex, Khoai Mela, Upasana Ghar (Prayer Hall), Deer Park, China Bhavan, Sangeet Bhavan, and Kankalitala.

Travellers from all over the world frequent this place to soak in the cultural and historic values of West Bengal in the months between August to March.

8. Bakkhali (139Km away)

It is a place best meant for tourists who are looking forward to peaceful getaways. It is an ideal beach location for those seeking a quiet and relaxing time beside the seashore. It makes for a calm and peaceful vacation.

One can make the top up their trip to this place by adding other destinations such as Bakkhali Beach, Crocodile Breeding Center, Jambu Dweep, Henry’s Island, Bishhalakshmi Temple, and Fraserganj Wind Park.

October to March are the best time of the year to plan a Bakkhali trip.

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9. Talasari Beach (170Km away)

Situated in the Odisha’s Baleshwar district, it is at a mere distance of ten kilometres from Digha. Therefore, you can explore both the places at the same time. The Talasari Beach is a serene and pristine beach where one can easily unwind.

February, October to March are the best months to visit this beach.

10. ChandanNagar, West Bengal (45km away)

It is a small town nestled in the heart of West Bengal.  It is a town of much significance in the district of Hooghly. It came into being in the colonial times but no conclusive evidences found its name in the medieval Bengali texts. It would have taken the place of the present-day Kolkata in case history would have been as planned.

One can visit the Chandan Nagar Museum, KMDA Park, The Chandan Nagar Strand, Nandadula Temple, The Patal Bari, and Sacred Heart Church while touring this city.

Tourists prefer to visit it between October to March.

11. Bardhaman, West Bengal (102 Km away)

It is an ideal weekend getaway location with a convergence of nature, old worldly charms, religion, man-made wonders etc. People of West Bengal visit it often for the very renowned 108 Shiv Mandir.

You will enjoy a pleasant stay in Bardhaman between October to March.

It is also well known for 108 Shiv Mandir, Golap Bagh, Kalyaneshwari Temple, Rajbati, Christ Church, The Deer Park, Science Center, Damodar Riverside, Curzon Gate, Tomb of Sher Afghan, Sarbamangala Temple, and Meghna Saha Planetarium.

12. Ganga Sagar (SagarDweep), West Bengal (86Km away)

Ganga Sagar is a small sized island, which is a section of the Sunderbans group of islands. It lies at the confluence of two water bodies namely Bay of Bengal and the holy river Ganges. It is one of the most religious pilgrimage places located in close vicinity of the city of Kolkata.

In addition to the beach, people also frequent Onkarnah Temple, Kamil Muni Temple, The Sagar Lighthouse, Ganga Sagar Pilgrimage, Ganga Sagar Fair, Kamil Muni Temple, and Bharat Seva Ashram.

13. Bhubaneshwar, Orissa (441Km away)

Bhubaneshwar is also popularly known as the temple city of India. It is much renowned for its grand temples and amazing old age architecture. It is also a thriving centre for business and commerce. A quick getaway can be planned with friends and family to rejuvenate your tired bones.

There are several attractions in this city that includes Lingaraj Temple, Orissa State Museum, Rajarani Temple, Bindu Sarovara, Tikarpara Wildlife Sanctuary, Hirakud Dam, ISKCON Temple, Parasurameshwara Temple, Bhubaneshwara Temple, Ram Mandir, Museum of Tribal Arts and Artifacts, Mukteshwara Temple, Gandhi Park, Nandankanan Zoological Park, Ekamra Kanan, Kedar Gauri Temple, Regional Museum of National History, Deras Dam, Nicco Park, Bhaskareswara Temple, Ananta Vasudev Temple, Khandagiri Caves, Ramachandi Beach, Esplanade One, Ocean World Water Park and IMFA Park.

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14. Konark, Orissa (493Km away)

Konark is the host to the renowned Sun Temple and the famous Konark Dance Festival. It is a well-known beach town that has immense cultural importance. Both the sun temple and the Konark Dance Festival are of much importance amidst the various tourists traveling to the location.

You can also visit Chandrabagha Beach, ASI Museum, Chandrabagha Beach, Astaranga Beach, and ASI Museum.

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15. Purulia, West Bengal (247Km away)

Purulia is the westernmost destination of West Bengal. It is a beautiful destination, which is blessed with nature’s blessings including lush greenery, hills, lakes etc. It is for every traveller who loves peaceful and calm environments.

It is also popular for other destinations such as Ajodhya, Baranti Reservoir or Murardi Lake, Surulia, Rakab Forest, Doldanga, and Gajaburu Hills.

16. Bodh Gaya, Bihar (470km away)

Bodh Gaya is referred to as the most sacred pilgrimage centre for Buddhists. It is believed to be the sacred place where Gautama Buddha had achieved enlightenment. It is popular for Mahabodhi Temple, Thai Monastery, Chinese Temple, Tibetan Refugee Market, Muchalinda Lake, Great Buddha Statue, Root Institute for Wisdom Culture, Vietnamese Temple, The Royal Bhutan Monastery, Archaeological Society of India Museum, Jama Masjid, Sujatha Temple, Bodhgaya Multimedia Museum, Bodhi Tree, Cankamana, Kundan Bazaar, Sujata Kuti, Dungeshwari Hills, Burmese Vihara Monastery, Ajapala Nigrodha Tree, Animesh Lochan Chaitya Shrine, and Daijokyo Buddhist Temple.

October to March are the best months to visit Bodh Gaya.

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17. Puri, Orissa (494 km away)

Puri is one of the most visited and popular tourist destinations situated close to Kolkata. It is one of the must visit pilgrimage centres out of the four pilgrimage sites for the Hindus. Puri is a beautiful beach city where an ample number of tourists pay a visit each year.

Once in Puri, you can plan a visit to Sri Jagannath Puri Temple, Markandeswara temple, Chilika Lake, Ganesh temple, Puri Beach, Alarnatha Temple, Ratha Yatra, Baliharachandi Beach, Sakshigopal temple, Daya River, Narendra Tank, Gundicha Temple, Lokanath Temple, Baleshwar Beach, Raghurajpur village, Sonar Gouranga Mandir, Swargadwar Beach, Balighai beach, Pipili, Vimala Temple, The Mausima Temple, The Sudarshan Crafts Museum, Golden Beach, and Pratyush Ocean World Water Park.

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18. Cuttack, Orissa (417Km away)

Popularly known as the cultural capital city of Orissa, it is one of the commercial cities located close to Kolkata that features a number of tourist attractions for visitors.

Plan a trip to Stone Revetment, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Paradeep Beach, Barabati Fort, and Dhabaleshwar while in Cuttack.

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19. Haldia, West Bengal (115km away)

Haldia is an essential river port of Kolkata. It also offers a few tourist destinations for visitors. If you happen to travel to the location you must take time to explore the many cultural and historical attractions here. It is also famous for Sataku, Goplajew Temple, Marine Drive, Ramjew Temple, Muktidham Temple, Mahishadal Rajbari, Haldia Dock and Port, Maynagarh, Tamluk Palace, and Bhalughata Riverside Sunset Point.

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20. Dhauli, Orissa (447Km away)

Situated at a distance of merely eight kilometres south of Bhubaneshwar, Dhauli is a small-sized town. It is nestled on the peaceful bank of river Gaya. It features great significance for the Lord Buddha followers. Other attractions include Dhauli Shanti Stupa, Dhabaleswar and Bahirangeswar temple, and Ashoka Rock Edicts.

21. Nalanda, Bihar (493Km away)

Nalanda is a place that features a number of religious temples as well as an ample number of monasteries that also incorporate the Great Stupa.

It is popular for other sites such as Nalanda University, Pawapuri, Nalanda Archaeological Museum, The Great Stupa, Nav Nalanda Mahavihara, Hiuen Tsang Memorial Hall, Kundalpur, Surya Mandir.

22. Raichak, West Bengal (53km away)

Raichak is a lavish and peaceful place located in extreme close vicinity of Kolkata where one can travel to unwind and relax to the core. It features a commercialized and urbanized surrounding for the visitors to enjoy to the fullest.

Make sure you visit The F fort, Lighthouse at Diamond Harbour, Diamond Harbour when in Raichak.

23. Tajpur (170km away)

Tajpur is a virgin sea-beach which is void of the maddening crowd like Digha, Mandarmoni and Shankarpur. Tajpur is one of Bengal’s latest happening destinations and is gradually becoming famous as a weekend getaway from Kolkata. You can even visit other near-by beaches like Mandarmoni, Shankarpur and Junput, and also the famous Digha. There are various resorts serving fresh food and they also have their private beaches.

Note:
It lies on the Kolkata-Digha route, and is 5 km from Chaulkhola. It is 170 km south-west of Kolkata (22 km from Contai). It is a 4 hours journey via road.
The best time to visit Tajpur from September to March
You can try Water sports & Paragliding here.

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24. Kurseong

Kurseong is known as the land of white orchid that is situated in the hills that are spread along a forested ridge. Kurseong’s scenic beauty and tranquillity are stunning and Kurseong is a perfect weekend getaway from Kolkata. It is also one of the most romantic weekend trip destinations from Kolkata. You can experience Nature Walks, Watching Bird or take a ride in the famous Toy Train which plies from Siliguri to Darjeeling via Kurseong. 

Note:
10 hours + 1-1/2 hours via road from Kolkata. By air it takes 45 minutes + 1-1/2 hours by road.
You can visit Kurseong at any time of the year. But is better to avoid the rainy season as landslides take place frequently.
You must visit places like Castle Tea Estate, Eagle’s Crag and Sitong.

25. Rinchenpong (679.6 km away)

The spectacular views of mountains at Rinchenpong are as stunning as of Darjeeling, Gangtok or Pelling. So if you are bored of viewing Kanchenjunga above a congested cityscape then pack and head out towards Rinchenpong for the weekend getaway from Kolkata.

Note:
It is 679.6 km from Kolkata. You can reach New Jalpaiguri by train and then hire a car.
Do visit Nigdoh, Rinchenpong Monastery and the Rhododendron sanctuary When in Rinchenpong try Nature Walks, Bird Watching and Trekking.

26. Henry’s Island (130 km away)

It is named after the British statesman who lived there about the century ago, Henry’s Island is located on the western edge of the Sunderbans. This island also has a beach with a mangrove forestation and so the beauty of this beach is enhanced. It is peaceful and beautiful of a place. This destination is perfect for a weekend getaway from Kolkata.

Note:
It is 130 km from Kolkata
The best time to visit is between October to March
Ehen here, try Bonfire nights, nature strolls and bird watching.

So, what are you waiting for? With a recommended list as comprehensive as the above, all you need to do is to pack your bags, call your friends and head for a nice getaway from the city. Gather amazing stories to share with your friends over lunch on Monday. Happy Weekend!

P.s. You might like these related resources:

• Best time to visit Kolkata-The City of Joy
• Historical Places in Kolkata that Will Impress You
• 13 famous tourist attractions in Kolkata that you can’t afford to miss