It is difficult to find places to visit near Kolkata for short vacations, especially when you have a really short holiday duration, let’s say where to go for a day or two? If you are willing to go out of Kolkata for a day or two or if you want to see something interesting near Kolkata, there are some amazing places close to Kolkata. Located near Kolkata, these places attract tourists with their natural beauty, history, art, and culture. These small places are Shantiniketan, quiet beaches, national parks, rock towns etc. Here we know more about the 7 places here:
1. Sundarbans: Weekend Destination Near Kolkata
Sundarbans, located about 110 km from Kolkata, is the largest mangrove forest in the world. It is famous for the Royal Bengal Tiger, winding waterways and aquatic animals.
How to go to Sundarbans:
- Traveling by rail is most convenient. The nearest railway station is Canning, about 48 km from Sundarbans. There are many local trains from Sealdah to Canning throughout the day. One can also take a bus to Namkhana, Raidighi, Sonakhali and Najat from where motorboat services are available for Sundarbans.
- The entrance to the national park, Sajnekhali, is open, accessible only by boat.
- Coming from Sealdah to Canning by train, your hotel or camp people will pick you up from Canning.
What to see in Sundarbans:
- Wildlife Safari: Spot Royal Bengal Tigers, Deer, Monkeys, Crocodiles and various species of birds by taking part in a Wildlife Boat Safari.
- Wildlife Museum: See the collection of different species of animals.
- Watchtower: Enjoy the scenic view of the forest from the watchtower.
- Crocodile and Turtle Farm: See different species of crocodiles and turtles.
- Beautiful trees: See the famous beautiful trees of the forest.
- Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary: See different species of native and visiting birds.
Some important points:
- The best time to visit Sundarbans is during winter (October to March).
- Book well in advance, especially during the holiday season.
- Use insect repellent.
- Take care of the environment and don’t litter.
Sundarbans is a wonderful destination for nature lovers, wildlife lovers and adventure travelers.
2. Bishnupur: Historical place to visit near Kolkata
Bishnupur, located in the Bankura district of West Bengal, is a popular tourist destination about 135 km from Kolkata. Famous for its rich history, architecture and handicrafts, Bishnupur is particularly known for its terracotta temples and pottery.
Attractions of Bishnupur:
- Terracotta Temples: Built in the 17th and 18th centuries, these temples are decorated with carvings depicting the life of Lord Krishna and Hindu epics.
- Jorbangla Temple: Built in 1655, this temple looks like two parnakutis connected by a single pillar.
- Rasmancha Temple: Built in 1600, it is the oldest brick temple.
- Shyamrai Temple: It has elongated pyramid-like minarets surrounded by cottage-shaped pinnacles.
- Pancharatna Temple: It has an octagonal central peak and carved art on the walls depicting the life of Lord Krishna.
Other attractions of Bishnupur:
- Pottery: Bishnupur is famous for its pottery, especially terracotta figurines and pots.
- Handloom Industry: The handloom industry of Bishnupur is also quite popular, especially for sarees and cloths.
- Markets: Visit the local markets and buy terracotta figurines, pottery and handlooms.
How to reach Bishnupur:
- Buses, trains are easily available from Kolkata to Bishnupur. You can also rent a car.
- Bus: You can easily reach Bishnupur by bus from Kolkata. Direct government and private buses from Dharmatala will take you to Bishnupur.
- Train: You can easily reach Bishnupur by train from Howrah to Purulia Express, Shiromani Express, you can also get Aranyak Express or Rupsi Bangla Express from Santragachi which will easily reach you to Bishnupur city.
Where to stay in Bishnupur:
- There are various types of hotels and resorts in Bishnupur.
- All kinds of options are available from budget hotels to luxury hotels.
Some useful tips:
- The best time to visit Bishnupur is during winter (October to March).
- Follow the dress code while entering the temple.
- Talk to the locals and learn about their culture.
- Take care of the environment and don’t litter.
Bishnupur is an ideal destination for tourists interested in history, culture and art.
Also Read: West Bengal is a Backpacker’s Paradise
3. Siliguri: Nearest Hill Station to Kolkata
Siliguri is the nearest (about 580 km) hill station to Kolkata, situated on the banks of the Mahananda River. It is also known as the gateway to Northeast India.
What to see in Siliguri:
- Spectacular view of snow capped Himalayas: From Siliguri one can enjoy the magnificent view of snow capped Himalayas.
- ISKON Temple: A temple dedicated to the Hindu god Krishna.
- Sepai Dhura Tea Garden: The famous tea garden where tea cultivation and processing can be seen.
- Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary: Opportunity to see leopards, tigers, elephants, and various birds.
- Science City: A variety of science exhibits and interactive experiences.
- Coronation Bridge: Built to commemorate the accession of Queen Elizabeth and King George to the throne.
- Salugara Monastery: Built by Tibetan Buddhist monks, famous for its 100 feet tall stupa.
- Madhuban Parya: A place to enjoy picnics and entertainment in a picturesque setting.
- Adventure:
- Sandakphu: The highest point in West Bengal, ideal for trekking and enjoying the magnificent views of the Himalayas.
- Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: A 200-year-old, UNESCO World Heritage, train journey to Darjeeling.
Reaching Siliguri from Kolkata:
- Air – Nearest airport is Bagdogra – then Siliguri by road.
- Train – There are many trains from Sealdah or Howrah to New-Jalpaiguri. Various types of vehicles or buses will take you to your destination from New-Jalpaiguri.
- Click to view Sealdah to Siliguri Trains
- Click to see Howrah Siliguri Trains
- By Bus – There are day or night bus services directly to Siliguri from Kolkata and various district headquarters cities. If necessary, you can check from RedBus service here.
Where to Stay in Siliguri:
- Hotels: Hotels of various budgets are available.
- Homestay: Stay at a homestay if you want to experience the local culture and cuisine.
What to eat in Siliguri?
- Momo: Tibetan food.
- Thukpa: Noodle curry.
- Potato Dum: Potato curry.
- Tea: Darjeeling tea is famous.
Best time to visit Siliguri:
Winter (October – March) is the best time to visit Siliguri.
Some useful tips:
- Take light winter clothes.
- Take precautions to avoid altitude sickness.
- Bargain and buy items.
- Be knowledgeable about local culture and customs.
Siliguri is a picturesque city where nature lovers, adventurers and families alike can enjoy together.
4. Bakkhali: Beach near Kolkata
Bakkhali, located about 125 km south of Kolkata, is a popular beach town in West Bengal. It is one of the best tourist centers located near Kolkata.
Attractions of Bakkhali:
- Beaches: The wide sandy beach of Bakkhali is one of the most beautiful beaches in India.
- Sunrise and Sunset: Bakkhali is famous for its spectacular sunrise and sunset.
- Crocodile Breeding Centre: The country’s largest estuarine crocodile farm is located here.
- Henry Island: Located half an hour away from Bakkhali, is a picturesque island.
- Jumbudwip: This sanctuary is home to various aquatic birds.
- Windmills of Fraserganj: The towering windmills are a must-see attraction of this village.
Other attractions:
- Boat Trip: Enjoy the natural beauty by taking a boat trip on the sea.
- Fishing: Experience sea fishing.
- Local Food: Try the delicious seafood.
- Handicrafts: Buy local handicrafts.
How to go to Bakkhali:
- It is approximately 125 km from Kolkata, the road is quite good, you can come directly by small car by road.
- Train service is available till Namkhana, then take bus or small car till Bakkhali.
Where to stay in Bakkhali:
Bakkhali has a variety of hotels, resorts and guest houses.
Some useful tips:
- The best time to visit Bakkhali is during winter (October to March).
- Be careful when swimming at the beach.
- Take care of the environment and don’t litter.
Bakkhali is an ideal destination to enjoy the tranquil environment, beautiful beaches and picturesque scenery.
5. Santiniketan: Places to Visit Near Kolkata
Santiniketan, located about 164 km from Kolkata, is famous for the Visva Bharati University founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Once a small village, Santiniketan has today become a popular tourist destination near Kolkata.
Attractions of Santiniketan:
- Visva Bharati University: Famous for a unique open-air learning environment.
- Kala Bhavan: One of the best art schools in the world, where works of famous artists are displayed.
- Uttarayan Complex: Historic building where Rabindranath Tagore lived. There is also a museum and art gallery.
- Upasana Griha: A beautiful place of prayer decorated with picturesque stained glass windows.
- Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary: Located 3 km from the university, an ideal place for wildlife viewing.
Shantiniketan Festivals:
- Spring Festival (March): Celebrates the arrival of spring.
- Jayadeva Mela (January): Held in memory of the poet Jayadeva.
- Paush Mela (December): A grand fair of arts, handicrafts and cultural events.
Other attractions:
- Traditional Handicrafts: Famous for batik, pottery, weaving and embroidery.
- Local Culture: Enjoy Baul songs and dances.
How to reach Santiniketan:
Santiniketan is easily accessible by train, bus and car from Kolkata.
Where to Stay in Santiniketan:
Santiniketan has a variety of hotels, resorts and guest houses.
Some useful tips:
- The best time to visit Santiniketan is during winter (October to March).
- Follow the rules of the university.
- Talk to the locals and learn about their culture. Take care of the environment and don’t litter.
Santiniketan is a wonderful destination for art, culture and nature lovers.
6. Barrackpore: Day trip near Kolkata
Barrackpore, located just 30 km from Kolkata, was an important center of the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857.
Historical Places of Barrackpore:
- Shivashakti Annapurna Temple: This 700-year-old Kali temple was a rallying point for freedom fighters.
- Shaheed Mangal Pandey Park: Named after freedom fighter Mangal Pandey, this park offers various recreational activities.
- Vijayant Memorial: A landmark of British architecture.
- Bartholomew Church: A church famous for its beautiful Gothic architecture.
Other attractions of Barrackpore:
- Gandhi Memorial Museum: Learn about the life and work of Mahatma Gandhi.
- Jaharkunj Gardens: A beautiful garden full of scenic beauty.
- Charuivati: An elevated place on the banks of river Ganga from where one can enjoy the scenic view.
- Boat Trip: Enjoy the beauty of nature by taking a boat trip on the river Ganges.
How to reach Barrackpore:
Trains, buses and cars are easily available from Kolkata to Barrackpore.
Where to Stay in Barrackpore:
Barrackpore has a variety of hotels and guest houses.
Some useful tips:
- The best time to visit Barrackpore is during winter (October to March).
- Follow the dress code when you visit religious places.
- Take care of the environment and don’t litter.
Barrackpore is a wonderful blend of history, culture and natural beauty.
7. Chandannagar: A bit of French history near Calcutta
Chandannagar, located 35 km north of Kolkata, is a historic city that was a former French colony.
Attractions in Chandannagar:
- Chandannagar Strand: Located on the banks of the river Ganga, this is a popular pedestrian walkway lined with plants and lights.
- Chandannagar Museum: Exhibits a vast collection of archaeological artifacts and historical artifacts ranging from the Gupta era to the pre-independence era.
- Sacred Heart Church: This 200-year-old French-built cathedral is an architectural landmark of Chandannagar.
- French Cemetery: A fine example of French architecture.
- Nanddulal Temple and Vishalakshmi Temple: Pilgrimage places for Hindus.
- Patal Bari: A unique building built underground.
Other attractions of Chandannagar:
- French Cuisine: Enjoy traditional French cuisine.
- Local Market: Buy local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- River Trip: Take a boat trip on the river Ganges.
How to reach Chandannagar:
Best way to reach Chandannagar from Calcutta is Howrah to Local Train (via Burdwan or Bandel Local – Main).
Where to Stay in Chandannagar:
There are various types of hotels and guest houses in Chandannagar.
Some useful tips:
- The best time to visit Chandannagar is during winter (October to March).
- Follow the dress code when you visit religious places.
- Take care of the environment and don’t litter.
Chandannagar is an attractive destination for lovers of history, culture and architecture.