There is no doubt that every working person waits for the weekend to spend some time alone, or with their loved ones. With this in mind, what could be better than planning a weekend getaway? A weekend getaway is, without a doubt, one of the best ways to recharge your exhausted soul. For this reason, in this article, we have enlisted a few destinations near Kolkata that are perfect for a weekend getaway.
The 5 best destinations to visit near Kolkata:
1. Digha
Starting the list with the most famous one, Digha. Situated in East Midnapore, it is one of the most popular destinations among people living in Kolkata. Although the beach is abundant with natural beauty, it is not for those who love serenity. This sandy beach is the ideal place for those who want a party destination.
- Places to visit: Mandarmani, Tajpur, Shankarpur, Talsari, Udaipur Beach, Digha Sea Beach, Digha Mohona Watch Point.
- Best time to visit: October to February.
- How to Reach: You can arrive at Digha Railway Station by train and explore the beaches by car. Also, you can avail a bus from Kolkata that can take you to Digha Bus Stand.
2. Biharinath Hill
Standing in the sub-Himalayan range of West Bengal, Biharinath is the highest hill in Bankura district. If you love trekking and heritage, then this place is ideal for you. Moreover, if you want a peaceful weekend getaway, then this place is the ideal place for you. Most importantly, Biharinath Hill is quite unknown to most.
- Places to visit: Biharinath Shiv Mandir, Korol Pahar, Bishnupur, Jairambati, Susunia, etc are some scenic places near Badrinath Hill.
- Best time to visit: the winter season is quite enjoyable in Biharinath Hill. However, if you visit between February to March then you can enjoy the beauty of Palash Flowers blooming everywhere around the hill.
- How to reach: The Adra Junction Railway Station is the nearest railway station to Badrinath Hill. So you can arrive at that station and book a car to reach Badrinath Hill. also, you can reach Badrinath Hill by road through NH 16 and NH 14 from Kolkata.
3. Jhargram
Do you want to catch the true essence of nature? If so, then do not miss out on visiting Jhargram. This place offers various attractions for travelers. For example, you can experience the natural beauty of boat riding at Chilkigarh. Apart from that, you can witness the charm of ancient architecture in Kanakadurga Temple.
- Places to visit: Jungle Mahal Zoological Park, Jogada Mandir, Krish Garden, Khandarani Lake, Jhargram Palace.
- Best time to visit: The winter and early spring are the best seasons to visit Jhargram.
- How to reach: You can arrive at Jhargram Railways Station by train and it is one of the easiest ways to reach Jhargram. Also, you can reach Jhargram from Kolkata via NH 16.
4. Bakkhali
Bakkhali, resting on the southeastern tip of the mysterious Sundarbans, is a popular beach destination. Unlike Digha, this pristine beach in Bakkhali is quite serene. Henry's Island, Jammu Dwip, and Frasergunj are a few of the tourist attractions in Bakkhali. Moreover, there are various small seafood stalls on the beach.
- Places to visit: Frazergunj Beach, Bakkhali Beach, Henry’s Island, Kargil Beach Sunset Point, Jambu Dwip.
- Best time to visit Bakkhali: October to February.
- How to Reach: You can book your seat on any train headed to Namkhana Junction, then avail local transport options to reach Bakkhali. Also, you can avail a bus or private car to reach Bakkhali from Kolkata through NH12.
5. Shantiniketan
The history of Shantiniketan goes back to the year 1862. This serene town is located in Bolpur, and is now home to one of the most prestigious universities in West Bengal. The first non-European Nobel laureate, Rabindranath Tagore, established the Visva Bharati University in 1921. Moreover, this place is a perfect example of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Sonajhurir haat, Kankalitala, and Tagore museum are some of the popular attractions in Shantiniketan.
- Places to visit: Sonajhuri Forest, Shantiniketan Poush Mela Math, Surul Rajbari, Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Best time to visit Shantiniketan: November to March.
- How to reach: You can arrive at Bolpur Railway Station by train, then book a car to reach Shantiniketan. Also, you can reach Shantiniketan via NH 19 by car or bus from Kolkata.
Some of these destinations are popular and crowded, while others are quite offbeat and tranquil. We have assorted beaches, hills, and small villages on this list. Hence, you can pick destinations according to your preferences.
