Kolkata, the vibrant capital of West Bengal, is not just a city of history, culture, and bustling markets; it’s also a fantastic starting point for some memorable road trips. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway, a peaceful retreat, or an adventure in the wild, there are plenty of destinations within a few hours’ drive from Kolkata. Here are some of the best road trips from Kolkata, complete with distances and nearby attractions.
1. Digha
Distance from Kolkata: 185 km
Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
Overview: Digha is a popular seaside resort town located on the coast of the Bay of Bengal. Known for its long sandy beaches, it’s a favorite weekend destination for people from Kolkata.
Nearby Attractions:
- New Digha Beach: A quieter and cleaner alternative to the old Digha Beach, perfect for a peaceful evening stroll.
- Marine Aquarium and Research Centre: Home to a variety of marine life, this center is both educational and entertaining.
- Shankarpur Beach: Another tranquil beach close to Digha, known for its scenic beauty and fishing activities.
2. Mandarmani
Distance from Kolkata: 180 km
Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
Overview: Mandarmani is a lesser-known but equally beautiful seaside destination. It’s famous for its long motorable beach, making it ideal for beach drives and water sports.
Nearby Attractions:
- Mandarmani Beach: Known for its cleanliness and tranquility, it’s perfect for sunbathing and beach sports.
- Delta Beach: Located at the end of Mandarmani Beach, it’s a serene spot where the river meets the sea.
- Amarabati Park: A beautiful park with a lake and boat rides, ideal for a relaxing evening.
3. Shantiniketan
Distance from Kolkata: 165 km
Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
Overview: Shantiniketan, founded by Rabindranath Tagore, is a cultural and educational hub. It’s famous for Visva-Bharati University and its vibrant festivals.
Nearby Attractions:
- Visva-Bharati University: Explore the rich heritage and beautiful campus of this world-renowned institution.
- Tagore’s Ashram: A museum and residence of Rabindranath Tagore, showcasing his life and works.
- Kopai River: A picturesque river, ideal for leisurely walks and picnics.
- Amar Kutir: A cooperative society promoting local handicrafts and arts.
4. Sundarbans
Distance from Kolkata: 100 km to entry point (Gosaba), further travel by boat
Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours by car to Gosaba
Overview: The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest mangrove forest in the world and home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger.
Nearby Attractions:
- Sundarbans National Park: Explore the rich biodiversity and spot wildlife, including tigers, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.
- Sajnekhali Watchtower: One of the best spots for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
- Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower: Another excellent spot to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Dobanki Watchtower: Known for its canopy walk, offering a unique perspective of the forest.
5. Bishnupur
Distance from Kolkata: 140 km
Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
Overview: Bishnupur is renowned for its terracotta temples and rich cultural heritage. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and art enthusiasts.
Nearby Attractions:
- Rasmancha: An ancient temple with a unique architectural style, built in 1600 AD.
- Jorebangla Temple: Known for its intricate terracotta work and twin hut design.
- Madan Mohan Temple: Another beautiful terracotta temple dedicated to Lord Krishna.
- Bishnupur Museum: Showcases artifacts and history of the Malla dynasty and Bishnupur’s cultural heritage.
6. Mayapur
Distance from Kolkata: 130 km
Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours
Overview: Mayapur is the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and a major center for the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).
Nearby Attractions:
- ISKCON Mayapur Temple: A grand temple complex and spiritual center, attracting devotees from around the world.
- Chandrodaya Mandir: An under-construction temple expected to be the tallest temple in the world upon completion.
- Srila Prabhupada’s Samadhi Mandir: A memorial shrine dedicated to the founder of ISKCON.
- Ballal Dhipi: An archaeological site believed to be the remains of an ancient Buddhist stupa.
7. Sunderban Tiger Camp
Distance from Kolkata: 110 km to Sonakhali, further travel by boat
Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours by car to Sonakhali
Overview: A part of the Sundarbans, the Sunderban Tiger Camp offers a unique opportunity to experience the mangrove forests and wildlife.
Nearby Attractions:
- Sundarbans National Park: Explore the dense mangrove forests and spot wildlife.
- Watchtowers: Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali, and Dobanki watchtowers for excellent views and wildlife spotting.
- Village Tours: Visit local villages to experience the lifestyle and culture of the Sundarbans’ inhabitants.
8. Henry’s Island
Distance from Kolkata: 130 km
Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
Overview: Henry’s Island is a serene beach destination near Bakkhali, known for its peaceful environment and natural beauty.
Nearby Attractions:
- Henry’s Island Beach: A quiet and less crowded beach, perfect for relaxation.
- Mangrove Forest: Explore the lush mangrove forests and their diverse flora and fauna.
- Frasergunj: A nearby fishing village with a charming beach and wind farm.
- Bakkhali Beach: Another tranquil beach close to Henry’s Island, ideal for a quiet retreat.
9. Taki
Distance from Kolkata: 80 km
Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours
Overview: Taki is a quaint town located on the banks of the Ichamati River, offering a peaceful escape with a unique border experience.
Nearby Attractions:
- Ichamati River: Enjoy a boat ride on the river, which serves as a natural border between India and Bangladesh.
- Taki Rajbari: An old palace showcasing the architectural grandeur of the past.
- Golpatar Jungle: A small forest area ideal for nature walks and picnics.
- Machranga Dwip: A small island on the Ichamati River, perfect for a day trip and picnic.
10. Murshidabad
Distance from Kolkata: 200 km
Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours
Overview: Murshidabad, the erstwhile capital of Bengal, is steeped in history and boasts numerous architectural marvels.
Nearby Attractions:
- Hazarduari Palace: A grand palace with a thousand doors, now a museum showcasing the Nawabi era’s artifacts.
- Katra Mosque: An ancient mosque known for its impressive architecture and historical significance.
- Nizamat Imambara: One of the largest imambaras in Bengal, built by Nawab Siraj ud-Daulah.
- Khosh Bagh: The garden cemetery of Nawab Siraj ud-Daulah and his family.
Conclusion
From wildlife adventures and historical investigations to beach vacations and cultural outings, road trips from Kolkata offer a wide variety of activities. A short drive away is the ideal location for you, whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just want to get away from the bustle of the city. From Washington to Kochi Gather your belongings, get on the road, and begin discovering the intriguing locations surrounding Kolkata!
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