20 Most Popular Weekend Getaways from Kolkata

The very sobriquet ‘City of Joy’ describes Kolkata so well that even the international travellers do wish to be here out of curiosity. And you know it well that Kolkata really does have elements to please its fans. But the people who have been living here for extended years might find all exciting elements to be pale and charmless for the simple reason that they have seen enough of it. For them, the city has nothing but to offer noise, pollution and crowds (as this is the case with almost every city dweller). So, it is obvious that if you are in Kolkata for years or maybe decades, you would seek a break from mundane city life. So, here comes the popular term called ‘weekend getaways.’

Weekend getaway is a short trip taken by people for leisure or to escape the daily routines of life or to gain new experiences, to a place from one’s regular place. It has become an important demand in our life nowadays, especially for the city dwellers. Similar to every other city, people in Kolkata also love to explore places on weekends for the same reasons. The state, West Bengal has an excellent way of communication in terms of transportation, and to visit the weekend getaways by public transport is not that difficult for travellers. Otherwise, these places are also ideal for people who love long drives and want to explore roadside hidden gems.

Moreover, it is worth mentioning that there is no dearth of places to visit on weekends from Kolkata. The more you dig up, you will know about more places. So, here are some top weekend getaways from Kolkata from where you can start your weekend family trip or group trip if you’re new in the city!

List of The Places You Can Visit on Weekends from Kolkata:

Also Check Out: Popular West Bengal Holiday Tour Packages

Bishnupur

Known across the country for famous terracotta temples and Baluchari sari, Bishnupur is an artistically flourishing town, set up by Malla Kings in the 17th century. It is one unquestionably one of the best weekend getaways from Kolkata since a long time. The reminiscences of this quaint town are worth capturing in digital lens and perfectly satiate the hunger of every art and craft lovers’ soul. Portrayed in various historical writings as the face of rural Bengal, the temple town is dotted with some of the widely discussed religious buildings such as Pancha Ratna Temple (Shyam Rai temple), Jor Bangla temple, Radheshyam temple, Dolmadol Kaman, etc. The Madanmohan temple of Bishnupur is designed in ektarana style and has a square flat roof with carved cornices.

Places to Visit

• Jorebangla Temple
• Rasmancha
• Pancha Ratna Temple
• Radha Govinda Temple
• Gate of Old Fort
• Keibul Lamjao National Park
• Loukoipat Ecological Park
• Sarbamangala Temple

Distance from Kolkata: 151 km

Chandipur

A less crowded seaside retreat for the tourists in Kolkata, Chandipur is located in the Baleshwar or Balasore District of Odisha. The beach is the main attraction of this tourist spot and turns extremely gorgeous during the time of the ebb tide. This natural phenomenon takes place twice a day and leaves a wide stretch of silvery sand beach where people can have a long walk towards the sea. Chandipur is one of the must-visit places in the list of weekend tours from Kolkata or West Bengal as this place becomes a hotspot only during the holidays. Balaramgadi is the magnificent site near Chandipur where you can witness the confluence of river Budhabalanga or Buribalam with the sea. Apart from it there are lots of offbeat destinations to visit from Chandipur which will make you remember the trip for a long time.

Places to Visit

• Chandipur Beach
• Simlipal Forest Reserve
• Panchalingeswar
• Devkund Shakti Peeth
• Nilgiri
• Sajanagarh

Distance from Kolkata: 265 km

Digha

Literally the most sought after beach holiday retreat near Kolkata, Digha is located in the East Midnapur district at the border of Odisha. Lined with swaying chains of Casuarina trees, the beaches of Digha offer a beautiful canvas to be witnessed by the lovers of nature and serenity. Digha is mainly divided into Old Digha and New Digha. While Old Digha is found today with less crowd and visited in the evening by people who love peace, New Digha is comparatively fresh in looks and attracts tourists for its Casuarina lined sea shore. The beach town is now developed as a tourist-friendly zone in West Bengal by the state government and as a result you will see a number of opportunities to have fun with your kids, family members and friends. Also, there are lots of sightseeing places around where you can easily have a day trip by hiring a cab or an auto.

Places to Visit:

• New Digha Beach
• Dheusagar Beach
• Shankarpur Beach
• Talsari Beach
• Udaipur
• Marine Station/Aquarium of Zoological Survey of India
• Temple at Chandaneswar

Distance from Kolkata: 185km

Bakkhali

An ideal getaway for the tourists who would want to avoid crowds and commercialisation, Bakkhali is nature’s hidden treasure in the southernmost part of West Bengal. The windmill of Frasergunj and crocodile propagation centre are the major attractions in Bakkhali. Enjoy the solitude of walking past the beach of Bakkhali or explore the temple of Banbibi found at a close distance from the beach surrounded by dense Casuarina trees. Moreover, you can also visit Henry Island, which is one of the top sightseeing places in South Bengal nowadays and can easily be explored on the same weekend trip to Bakkhali.

Places to Visit:

• Bakkhali Beach
• Henry Island
• Jambu Dwip
• Fraserganj Wind Park
• Crocodile Breeding Centre
• Bishalakshmi Temple

Distance from Kolkata: 132 km

Rasikbil

Rasikbil is an ideal place to plan for a 2 nights 3 days tour from Kolkata. As it is located in North Bengal, you will get plenty of options to travel, such as railways and buses. Located in Coochbehar district of West Bengal, this peaceful travel destination with immense natural beauty embraces distinctive varieties of wild flowers and exotic species of fauna. A paradise for birders, Rasikbil is surrounded by three dense forests – Atasmochar, Nagurhaat and Bochamari. Storks, ibises, cormorants, parrots and spoonbills are commonly found birds in Rasikbil. The lake in the heart of the forest is home to an abundant variety of sweet water fishes. The deer park, crocodile rehabilitation centre, leopard house, python house and tortoise house are a couple of ideal places to roam around in Rasikbil.

Places to Visit:

• Rasikbil Bird Sanctuary
• Hanging Bridge
• Rasikbil or Lake
• Deer Park
• Crocodile Rehabilitation Centre
• Buxa Tiger Reserve
• Coochbehar Rajbari
• Madan Mohan Temple

Distance from Kolkata: 468 km

Shankarpur

Only 14 km away from Digha, the most popular sea beach in West Bengal, lies the utter serene and comparatively less trodden travel destination of Shankarpur. Preferred by people who love to listen to the sheer tranquil voice of the sea without getting bothered by the cacophony of bustling crowds, Shankarpur has spectacular sights to offer to its lovers as a weekend destination around Kolkata. People can engage in activities such as sunbathing, swimming, fishing, and boating. There are also several nearby temples and historical sites that can be visited. If you are in need of a break from monotony, head to Shankarpur and rejuvenate your real self spending some time in blissful seclusion of Shankarpur.

Places to Visit:

• Shankarpur Beach
• Tajpur Beach
• Mandarmani
• Tamluk
• Mohana or Delta

Distance from Kolkata: 185 km

Duarsini

The wild beauty of Duarsini in Purulia knows the magic of impressing its patrons and that is why it is one of the best places to visit near Kolkata. Habitat of various tribal communities like Santhal, Munda, Shabaradh, and Kheriya, this tranquil hill station has hardly been touched by the encroachment of multi-storeyed buildings or non-stop honks of fastest running vehicles. Spend your time walking around the greenery enriched households of the tribal people or forests with the help of a local guide. Walk along the river Satgudum or sit next to it and try to listen to the rhythmic music that every river loves to sing. As the sun sets and it starts getting darker, listen to the sound of drums coming out of the nearby villages.

Places to Visit:

• Duarsini Forest
• Dharagiri Fall
• Burudi Lake
• Bhuvaneshwari Temple

Distance from Kolkata: 393 km

Mukutmanipur

Get lost in the utter serene beauty of Mukutmanipur and find yourself in ecstasy while spending a vacation in Mukutmanipur. The azure waterbody of this enchanting getaway is surrounded by hills and forests. Nestled at the confluence of two lively rivers, Kumari and Kangsabati, this quaint weekend destination around Kolkata seeks attention for its necklace-like dam. Mukutmanipur is located in Bankura district of West Bengal. You can go boating to the middle of the huge waterbody and get the feel of floating at the heart of the ocean. Bankupuria Deer Park is a famous pick of Mukutmanipur.

Places to Visit:

• Parasnath Hill
• Kangsabati Dam
• Deer Park
• Ambikanagar

Distance from Kolkata: 250 km

Sajnekhali

Want to gain a thrilling experience on the next weekend by roaming around the impenetrable forest of Sundarbans? Head to Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary, located amidst splash greenery of Sundarbans, one of the thrilling weekend getaways from Kolkata. Paradise for birdwatchers and avid wildlife enthusiasts, this wildlife getaway is known for Royal Bengal Tiger. There is a nature interpretation centre at Sajnekhali which is surrounded by wire fencing. Close to it there is a crocodile breeding centre, a turtle farm and a pond that houses sharks which you will love to explore.

Places to Visit:

• Sajnekhali Tiger Reserve
• Dobanki Watch Tower
• Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower
• Mangrove Interpretation Centre

Distance from Kolkata: 108 km

Mayapur

Do you love to take solace at the feet of the supreme power? Travel to Mayapur, the ‘Kirtan Capital of the World,’ to spend the weekend amidst serene natural beauty and utter religious ambiance. Mayapur is located between the river Bhagirathi and Jalangi and constitutes one of the nine islands of Mahaprabhu Sri Chaitanya’s Nabadwip. The main attraction of Mayapur is the ISKCON temple where you can spend your weekend without much hassle. For sightseeing in Mayapur, the must-visit places are Ballal Mound or Ballal Dhipi and the tomb of Chand Kazi.

Places to Visit:

• ISKCON Temple
• Yoga Peeth
• Shri Chaitanya Math
• Sri Devananda Gaudiya Math
• Goshala
• Jagannath Mandir
• Navadwip Mandal
• Ballal Dhipi
• Chand Kazi Samadhi

Distance from Kolkata: 132 km

Krishnagar

If you have sufficient time after exploring Mayapur, head to Krishnanagar around 19 km away from the former. Located at the southern banks of Jalangi River in Nadia district of West Bengal, this historical town was ruled by Raja Krishna Chandra. An ardent lover of art and culture, this famous zamindar of Bengal nourished this town aesthetically as well as culturally. The main attraction of this town is the Krishnanagar Rajbari (palace). Krishnanagar is known in West Bengal for clay idols. The Roman Catholic Church of Krishnanagar is also popular.

Places to Visit:

• Krishnagar Rajbari
• Ghurni
• Hijuli Forest
• Jalangi River

Distance from Kolkata: 111 km

Bolpur

Hardly touched by the clutter and cacophony of city life, Bolpur echoes the enchanting harmony of mystical Baul songs and chirping of birds. Nestled on the cradle of gorgeous Nature Goddess, this exotic travel destination of rural Bengal is the place where you will find the world famous Visva Bharati University, Shantiniketan. The university, which tops the list of UNESCO’s living heritage universities. Shantiniketan is the main attraction of this municipal town. The campus which you must visit will surprise you with the mesmerising artwork by Rabindranath Tagore, Nandalal Bose, Binodbehari Mukhopadhaya and Ramkinkar. If you would like to see the most colourful phase of Shantiniketan, travel during Dol Utsav or Poush Mela. Buying artefacts and a variety of accessories from the local shops in Sonajhuri Haat or Market is one of the top things to do here.

Places to Visit:

• Sonajhuri Forest
• Sonajhuri Market (Sonajhuri Hat)
• Rabindra Bhawan
• Visva Bharati Campus
• Srijani Shilpagram
• Chhatimtala
• Kala Bhawan
• Upasana Ghar or Prayer Hall
• Ballavpur Deer Park
• Kankalitala
• Kopai River

Distance from Kolkata: 163 km

Mandarmani

Another much celebrated beach destination near Kolkata, Mandarmani has been attracting tourists for the last couple of years for its clean and wide sea shore. An ideal getaway to take refuge in the lap of nature, this golden sea beach is lined with lush green vegetation and exclusive beach resorts. The cleanliness of the beach would let the willing travellers to take a dip in its water. One of the best things to do in West Bengal is to visit Mandarmani Beach in January as the famous Digha-Mandarmani Festival is held here every year. The festival showcases several water sports activities along with musical performances in the evening.

Places to Visit:

• Mandarmani Beach
• The Delta or Mohana
• Tajpur Beach
• Nearby Markets

Distance from Kolkata: 163 km

Junput

Does your soul lust for solitude and heavenly tranquillity? Then plan for a weekend trip to Junput. Located in the Purba Medinipur District, there is nothing much to do in Junput than to become laid-back. So you will have enough time to relax and enjoy the rhythmic sounds of the sea waves, gentle sea breeze and the presence of Casuarina groves across the seashore, which indeed make Junput an ideal romantic getaway for couples. People who love spending time by fishing, this place is a paradise for them. Moreover, one can go exploring the Kapalkundala temple and the museum of the fishery department.

Places to Visit:

• Junput Beach
• Marine Biology Museum
• Kapal Kundala Mandir
• Dariapur Lighthouse
• Jagannath Dev Temple

Distance from Kolkata: 160 km

Talasari

Shrouded in an envelope of tranquillity, Talsari or Talasari Beach stands as a perfect getaway for city-escapists. It is one of the sightseeing places to visit from Digha which is an ideal place to have a 2 nights 3 days weekend trip from Kolkata. Located at the border of Odisha and West Bengal, this tranquil destination rejuvenates travellers offering fresh air, eye-soothing vistas and a non-chaotic environment. It is in Talasari, the River Subarnarekha meets the Bay of Bengal. The Chandaneswar Temple and Udaipur Beach are very close to Talasari Beach. A walk across the confluence in the evening to feel the cool breeze is ideal.

Places to Visit:

• Udaipur Beach
• Chandaneswar Temple
• Digha Beaches
• Mohana

Distance from Kolkata: 191 km

Samsing

Blessed with breathtaking landscapes, lush tea gardens and densely covered forest, Samsing is a popular long weekend getaway from Kolkata in the Darjeeling District of West Bengal. If you want to savour the natural surroundings of an untouched rural destination, Samsing will meet your needs perfectly. The emerald green Murti River adds life to the panoramic vistas of this natural landscape. The sleepy village is full of orange orchards and looks vibrant in winter when oranges ripen. One of the most popular treks in the area is the Samsing-Suntaleykhola trek, which covers a distance of approximately 20 km. The trek takes you through the forests, tea gardens, and small villages, providing an insight into the lives of the local people. Along the way, you will come across several waterfalls and streams, making it a perfect place for a picnic.

Places to Visit:

• Bhutanghat
• Bindu
• Chamurchi
• Fagu Tea Estate
• Jaldhaka
• Jhalong
• Jhandi
• Latpanchar
• Khuttimari Forest
• Kathambari

Distance from Kolkata: 638 km

Kamarpukur and Jairambati

One of the best places to visit from Kolkata on weekends, Kamarpukur and Jairambati are two small villages located in the Hooghly district of West Bengal, India. These villages hold great significance in the history of India and are well-known for their association with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, one of the most revered spiritual leaders in India. Kamarpukur is the birthplace of Sri Ramakrishna and is a small, peaceful village surrounded by lush green fields. This village has a rich cultural heritage and is considered to be one of the holiest places in India. Jairambati is another small village located in the same district and is famous for being the birthplace of Sri Sarada Devi, the wife of Sri Ramakrishna. This village is also a place of great spiritual significance and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. The temple dedicated to Sri Sarada Devi is a major tourist attraction and is considered to be one of the most sacred places in West Bengal.

Places to Visit:

• Kamarpukur Ramakrishna Math
• Talpukur Tank
• Punya Pukur
• Haldarpukur Tank
• Simhavahini Temple
• Jairambati Math
• Mukundapur Temple
• Yogi Shiva Temple
• Gopeshwar Temple
• Matri Mandir

Distance from Kolkata: 95.8 km

Bankura

The Rarh area of Bengal, Bankura is one of the best budget weekend getaways for people of Kolkata. The district is located in the western part of the state and showcases a unique blend of ancient and modern heritage. Bankura is famous for its terracotta temples, which are known for their intricate carvings and elegant designs. These temples, most notably the Mukutmanipur Temple and the Bishnupur Temple, are an excellent example of the traditional Bengal style of architecture. These temples are a must-visit for those who appreciate art and culture. The place is also known for its traditional weaving techniques, which have been passed down from generation to generation. The most famous weaving style from Bankura is the Baluchari Sari, which is known for its intricate designs and elegant patterns.

Places to Visit:

• Biharinath Hill
• Susunia Hills
• Mukutmanipur Dam
• Rasmancha
• Garh Darwaja
• Krishna-Balaram Temple
• Ganesh and Nandi Statue

Distance from Kolkata: 215.6 km

Murshidabad

Murshidabad is a popular weekend getaway from Kolkata because of its rich history, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty. Located on the eastern banks of the river Bhagirathi, Murshidabad was once the capital of Bengal during the reign of Nawabs of Bengal. It has several historical monuments and palaces, including Hazarduari Palace, which houses a museum of antiques, the Katra Mosque, the Nizamat Imambara, and the Motijheel Mosque. Additionally, Murshidabad is surrounded by picturesque villages, lush green fields, and meandering rivers, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The town is also known for its traditional handicrafts, including silk weaving and silver filigree work, which attract many tourists.

Places to Visit:

• Hazarduari Palace Museum
• Imambara
• Wasef Manzil
• Jalangi River
• Nasipur Palace
• Katra MosqueJahankosha Cannon
• Kathgola
• Khosh Bagh

Distance from Kolkata: 227.9 km

Purulia

Purulia is a lesser-known yet charming district in the state of West Bengal, India. It is a great weekend destination for those who are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and want to explore the rural and cultural side of the state. Purulia is known for its scenic beauty, and its rolling hills, lush green forests, and sparkling waterfalls are a treat for nature lovers. The district is also home to several tribal communities, who have their own unique culture, traditions, and rituals. The district is also famous for its traditional dances, such as Chhau, Ghoomar, and Jhumur, which are performed during festivals and celebrations.

Places to Visit:

• Baranti Reservoir or Murardi Lake
• Ajodhya
• Gajaburu Hills
• Surulia
• Doldanga
• Garpanchkot

Distance from Kolkata: 292.4 km

Jhargram

Jhargram is one of the recently developed districts of Kolkata. It can be referred to as a small town though the rural landscape of the district spans a huge area. The place is surrounded by the rolling hills of Belpahari and Kankrajhor. In the south, you will find the river Subarnarekha flowing quietly along the villages which are the abodes of nature filled with forests of mahul, sal, pea sal and teak. The forests are home to wild animals such as deer, birds and elephants and that’s why Jhargram can be considered as one of the popular wildlife weekend getaways from Kolkata in recent times. In addition to its natural beauty, Jhargram also has a rich cultural heritage, with many temples and monuments that reflect the region’s long and colourful history. There are also several local festivals and fairs that are celebrated throughout the year, giving visitors a glimpse into the local way of life.

Places to Visit:

• Jhargram Royal Palace or Jhargram Raj Bari
• Chilkigarh Palace
• Barasuli Dam
• Kanak Durga Temple
• Jhilli Pakhiralay
• Kendua
• Deer Park or Jhargram Mini Zoo
• Chilkigarh
• Kankrajhor
• Belpahari
• Hatibari

Distance from Kolkata: 181.7 km

These are some of the places in West Bengal which can be considered as weekend getaways for people living in Kolkata. However, there is no dearth of holiday destinations in West Bengal and the list can go on and on. If you know about some places we can add here to the list, please mention the names in the comment section. Otherwise, if you want to go to any of these above-mentioned places and need to book hotels and other necessary things, contact us any day anytime.

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