The city of joy Kolkata in West Bengal is on the list of every traveller for obvious reasons. The food, the culture, the festivals, everything makes it a favourite destination for every traveller. But as with any place, if you stay in a city for far too long, it tends to get monotonous at a point.
How about taking a break, especially on weekends, to break away from the hustle bustle of the city, once in a while? Go on to read about stunning weekend getaways from Kolkata that you can easily plan.
Take your pick from adventure, leisure, wildlife, heritage and more destinations from Kolkata and plan that perfect weekend getaway. From the enchanting forests and mangroves of Sundarbans to the surreal beaches of Mandarmani, Digha & more to the heritage towns of Bishnupur and Bolpur - there's so much to explore!
Here's a list of 34 stunning weekend getaways from Kolkata for your next travel.
1. Sundarbans
PC: Himanshu Gupta
Distance from Kolkata: 100 km
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the world's largest delta, Sundarbans are home to one of the largest mangrove forests in the world. Spread across India & Bangladesh, the word Sundarban literally means "beautiful forest". Located at about 100 km from Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, Sundarban National Park is a must-visit place for every nature-lover and wildlife enthusiast. The Sundarbans are also famous for being home to the endangered royal Bengal tigers.
2. Bardhaman
PC: iavik
Distance from Kolkata: 102 km
Also known as Burdwan or Vardhaman, Bardhaman is a historical city in West Bengal. This multi-cultural heritage city of West Bengal boasts of some of the most beautiful and ancient temples from what remains of the centuries-old Bengali Hindu architecture. You cannot miss the beautifully designed and constructed 108 Shiva Temple, Sarbamangala Temple, Curzon Gate, Burdwan Palace among the rest.
3. Sagar Island
PC: Souradipta
Distance from Kolkata: 106 km
The Sagar Island also known as Ganga Sagar or Sagardweep is a famous place of pilgrimage for the Hindu population in the country. Located about 106 km from Kolkata, the Sagar Island lies in the Ganges Delta, with its pristine location making it a perfect destination for your weekend break from the hustle bustle of Kolkata.
4. Krishnanagar
PC: Susantab
Distance from Kolkata: 112 km
Located on the banks of the Jalangi River, Krishnanagar in West Bengal is an important city known for its cultural heritage and literature. Krishnanagar is also famous for Ghurni - a colony of talented clay artists. One can see impressive work of art in the form of clay idols of various gods and goddesses, and clay dolls depicting important elements of our society including the farmers, national leaders and more.
5. Haldia
PC: Shiv S Tripathi
Distance from Kolkata: 117 km
The industrious city of Haldia is one of the major trade ports for the state of West Bengal. Also called the Port City, Haldia is located near the mouth of Hooghly River, about 117 km from the capital city of Kolkata. Amongst the many tourist attractions, do not miss Marine Drive, Gopaljew Temple, Tamluk Palace ruins, mini Japan at Sataku and Ramjew Temple when in Haldia.
6. Nabadwip
PC: Biswarup Ganguly
Distance from Kolkata: 124 km
Located on the banks of the Bhagirathi River in West Bengal, Nabadwip is an important place of pilgrimage, especially amongst the devotees of Krishna. It is also a culturally rich place and one of the places that has managed to keep the ancient Sanskrit culture alive. For centuries the region is known as the ‘Oxford of the East' due to the presence of its numerous learning centres and intellectual prowess.
7. Bakkhali
PC: Dwip Sutradhar
Distance from Kolkata: 126 km
The seaside hamlet of Bakkhali in West Bengal is located on one of the many deltaic islands fringed along the vast expanse of the Bay Of Bengal. The highlight is the pristine, crescent-shaped Bakkhali Beach that is almost always uncrowded, except during a few holidays. The most interesting part is that given its south-facing position, the beach offers beautiful views of the sunset as well as the sunrise.
8. Henry's Island
PC: wikimedia.org
Distance from Kolkata: 130 km
Located near the seaside village of Bakkhali, Henry's Island is a charming destination for nature lovers. Picturesque and tranquil, the island is located about 130 km from the capital city of Kolkata. A trip to the island will offer you beautiful views, a clear sky, placid waters, and delicious food. Interestingly, the island is also home to millions of red crabs that brighten up the place with their bright red colour.
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9. Mayapur
PC: Biswarup Ganguly
Distance from Kolkata: 129 km
Mayapur village, located at the confluence of river Ganga & Jalangi, is another major place of pilgrimage in West Bengal, especially amongst the devotees of Lord Krishna. The famous ISKCON Temple has its headquarters in Mayapur drawing devotees from all over the world. Situated by the rivers Jalangi, Ganga & Hooghly, this spiritual centre is set in a picturesque location, and is sure to provide tranquillity to its visitors.
10. Midnapore
PC: Biswarup Ganguly
Distance from Kolkata: 131 km
Located on the banks of river Kangsabati, Midnapore in West Bengal is a place of great cultural and historical significance. It is believed that the place was named Medinipur in the past, after the deity Medinimata - an incarnation of Goddess Shakti. With numerous archaeological and prehistoric sites spread around the region, Midnapore is a hotspot for historians and archaeologists. One can visit the beautiful forest ranges, beaches, wildlife, temples, churches and more, when in Midnapore.
11. Bishnupur
PC: Arup
Distance from Kolkata: 140 km
The tiny town of Bishnupur in the Bankura district of West Bengal is famous for its impressive terracotta temples. The design and architecture of these structures are examples of fine artistry. The temple town of Bishnupur is also famous for the Baluchari sarees made of a certain type of silk which is produced from silkworms that breed on wild forest trees and not the mulberry trees. Rasmancha, Jorbangla, Hawa Mahal, and Stone Chariot are some of the must-visit attractions in Bishnupur.
12. Bolpur
Distance from Kolkata: 161 km
Located not too far from Kolkata, Bolpur can be called the cultural centre West Bengal. It is home to the Visva Bharati University, famously known as Santiniketan Univeristy that was founded by Rabindranath Tagore. To get a glimpse into the Bengali culture, visit the quaint town of Bolpur during the famous festivals Poush Mela or the Basant Utsab. If you are seeking for a quiet place to get away from the hustle-bustle of the city, Bolpur is the place to be.
13. Durgapur
PC: Topu Saha
Distance from Kolkata: 172 km
Though a typical industrial city of West Bengal, Durgapur can be a place one can consider. Apart from the long drives one could take through quaint villages and towns, there are some interesting places one can visit while in Durgapur. Visit the Durgapur Steel Factory to gain some interesting insight about steel manufacturing, or visit an amazing network of tunnels at Bhabani Pathak's Tilla. You could also visit some of the ancient temples in the region, or spend a day relaxing by the banks of the Ajoy River in Deul.
14. Tajpur
PC: sarangi
Distance from Kolkata: 172 km
Located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, between two well-known towns of Mandarmani and Shankarpur, Tajpur in West Bengal is a less-travelled and upcoming tourist destination. Home to pristine beaches, peaceful sandy shores, placid waters, casuarina forests and red crabs, Tajpur is an ideal destination for those looking for a quiet weekend getaway. Spend a relaxed day eating delicious seafood, or taking long walks on the less-crowded beach or engage in the number of water sports and fun water activities that take place here.
15. Shankarpur
PC: Anirban Biswas
Distance from Kolkata: 175 km
If you are a beach person, then the beach town of Shankarpur is an ideal weekend escape from Kolkata. The sprawling stretch of a pristine sandy shore, merging into the placid waters of the Bay of Bengal will surely bring upon the feeling of absolute bliss. The reflections of sky colours in the seawater, during sunrise and sunset, are the most magical ones. The landscape, the fisher folks along with their fishing nets and the arbitrarily arranged boats offer excellent frames for the shutterbugs.
16. Digha
PC: Atudu
Distance from Kolkata: 183 km
Digha is the most-popular and one of the most famous beach getaways, especially for Kolkata residents. Known for its glittering shoreline skirted with lush casuarina forests, placid waters, beautiful sunrise and sunset, Digha is a perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate. This popular vacation destination is located close to the West Bengal-Odisha border attracting a large number of visitors from both the states.
17. Bankura
PC: Hirannyad
Distance from Kolkata: 212 km
The town of Bankura in West Bengal has recently emerged as a tourist destination. It is most popular for it cultural, heritage and traditional wealth which can be seen in the form of Bengali paintings, music and other forms of art. Biharinath - the tallest hill in the region and Susunia Hills are the most popular attractions one must visit when in Bankura. The Susunia Hills are famous for their natural spring, and rocky trails that attract adventure enthusiasts from all over the state.
18. Tarapith
PC: Pinakpani
Distance from Kolkata: 219 km
The temple town of Tarapith in the Birbhum district of West Bengal is famous for its tantric Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Tara. The temple is made in red bricks and beautiful arches and minimally coloured designs and patterns adorn it. Those who are into serious photography, can get some brilliant shots here. Tarapith is a perfect place to visit for those who are interested in learning about various cultural beliefs and practises.
19. Baripada
PC: Toni Wohrl
Distance from Kolkata: 222 km
Located in the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, the Baripada town is known for its natural beauty. Located at the foothills of the ancient Simlipal mountain ranges, the place is a real feast to the eyes. It is home to Simlipal National Park, one of the most important wildlife parks in India. The national park is known for its lush forests, hills and valleys, waterfalls and a rich wildlife. Apart from the scenic beauty, there are numerous beautiful temples that can be visited.
20. Murshidabad
Distance from Kolkata: 237 km
The heritage city of Murshidabad in West Bengal is located on the banks of Bhagirathi River. It is a perfect place for historians, and those interested in art and architecture from the past. The city was the erstwhile capital of Bangla, Bihar and Odisha, and a residence of the Nawab. Remnants of the Nawabi culture can be seen through the numerous magnificent monuments and structures.
21. Chandipur
Distance from Kolkata: 257 km
Located in the Baleshwar district of Odisha, Chandipur is famous for one too many things. It is practically impossible to see the Chandipur Beach during the high tides, during the low tide the water recedes or the sea disappears (as it popularly called) by as much as 5 km, everyday. On your next weekend, travel from Kolkata to Chandipur to experience this vanishing sea phenomenon.
22. Duarsini
PC: Official website
Distance from Kolkata: 262 km
Set amidst a picturesque location, surrounded by lush forests, hills, rivulets and abundant natural beauty, Duarsini in West Bengal is an ideal getaway for those seeking tranquil moments. Inhabited by the tribal communities, one can get a taste of the ethnicity of the region. Duarsini is a place every nature lover must visit.
23. Mukutmanipur
PC: Paulsub
Distance from Kolkata: 264 km
Located in the Bankura district of West Bengal, Mukutmanipur is home to the Kangsabati Dam, also called Mukutmanipur Dam. Mukutmanipur is situated close to the Jharkhand-West Bengal border on the confluence of Kangsabati and Kumari rivers. The dam is famed to be the second largest earthen dam, Banasura Sagar Dam in Wayanad, Kerala being the largest in India.
25. Jamshedpur
Distance from Kolkata: 282 km
Jamshedpur is the famed ‘steel city' of Jharkhand that is known for the industrial giants Tata Steels and Tata Motors. This largest city of Jharkhand is named after Jamshedji Tata. It is not only home to the industrial complexes, but also numerous other attractions for visitors, that include Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhuvaneshwari Temple, Tata Steel Zoological Park, Jubilee Park and more.
26. Purulia
PC: Kinjal bose
Distance from Kolkata: 302 km
Located on the north of the Kangsabati River, Purulia in West Bengal is a heritage town. With an interesting mix of natural beauty and historical sites, Purulia is a must-visit for nature as well history enthusiasts. Purulia's rocky and mountainous terrain is ideal for several adventure activities like rock climbing and camping etc. Several archaeological sites are also strewn across the region. One can visit the beautiful ancient Jain and Hindu temples as well, in and around Purulia.
27. Giridih
PC: CaptVijay
Distance from Kolkata: 315 km
Literally meaning land of hills and hillocks, Giridih is a popular mining town in Jharkhand. Rich with natural beauty, there's no dearth of tourist spots and attractions. There are also numerous offbeat and less-explored trails, waterfalls, etc., for the adventurous ones. The Ursi Falls is a famous spot that you mustn't miss when in Giridih. Parasnath Hills and Shikharji are some of the most popular pilgrimages centres that are located at picturesque locations in Giridih.
28. Deoghar
PC: Saurav199707
Distance from Kolkata: 324 km
Deoghar, or as it means "abode of gods" in local parlance, is located in Jharkhand. It is famous as a pilgrimage centre because of the Baidyanath Temple - which is considered as one of the 12, sacred Jyotirlinga temples in India. Even if you are not a religious person, Deoghar can be visited to experience a new culture, and to soak in the beauty of the place.
29. Malda
PC: Ovjtphoto
Distance from Kolkata: 360 km
The ancient capital of Bengal, Malda is a gateway to northern Bengal. The district shares an international border with Bangladesh. Malda, also called Maldah, is famous for a special variety of mango called Fazli. It is also very well-known for its jute and silk cultivation. The folk culture of Gombhira, which artistically represents the daily life of common people, also draws tourists and travellers from not just India but across the globe.
30. Hazaribagh
PC: Joydeep
Distance from Kolkata: 390 km
The city of Hazaribagh is located in the Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand. Located in the Chotanagpur Plateau, Hazaribagh is set amidst rocky hills and rich ecosystem. It is famous for the Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary that is home to a rich flora and fauna. This weekend getaway has lot of interesting places to visit including waterfalls, hills, lakes, museums, art galleries and more. One must visit the stone observatory at the megaliths of Hazaribagh that is used for astronomical purposes.
31. Cuttack
PC: Bikashrd
Distance from Kolkata: 420 km
The historic city of Cuttack in Odisha dates back to the medieval period in history, making it an interesting place to visit, especially for history enthusiasts. This former capital gets its name from the word 'katak' which means fort and one can still see the ruins of the Barabati Fort - a 14th-century fort. This thousands of years old city is also famous for its silver filigree work and hence, is also called the ‘Silver City'.
32. Ranchi
PC: Marian kispotta
Distance from Kolkata: 433 km
Located on the Chotanagpur Plateau, Ranchi is the capital city of Jharkhand. The thick forests of Sal, Mahua and many other trees and its elevation, make the place cooler than the surrounding regions. For this same region, it was also the summer capital of Bihar during the British period. Surrounded with lush forests, wilderness, sparkling waterfalls, hidden trails, and abundant natural beauty, Ranchi is also the gateway to Palamu, (also called Betla) National Park.
33. Bhubaneswar
PC: Sambit
Distance from Kolkata: 440 km
The ancient city of India, Bhubaneswar is located in Odisha. This capital city of Odisha is a treasure trove for history and art enthusiasts. With its numerous stone temples dating back to as far as the 11th century, and the ancient Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves, a visit to Bhubaneswar will surely take you back in time.
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34. Puri
PC: Rcrahul29
Distance from Kolkata: 496 km
Located on the east coast of India, the city of Puri in Odisha is one of the most famous centres of pilgrimage in India. It is also known as Jagannath Puri - the abode of Lord Jagannath and Purusottam Puri - referring to Lord Jagannath Temple that is famous attraction here. The Rath Yatra of Puri or the Chariot Festival is huge festival that attracts thousands of visitors each year.