1. Sundarbans | 109 kms
The pride of India Sundarbans is one of the thickest forests hosting thousands of mangroves and a perfect weekend getaway from Kolkata. You can get a complete circle of nature here, starting from witnessing the Royal Bengal tiger to exploring roaring rivers and beautiful estuaries. However, the tigers are not easily found. You have to be truly lucky to adventure one.
- How to Reach: You can take a cab or bus to Sonakhali, Canning, Namkhana, Godkhali, or Najat and then take a ferry.
- Places to Visit: Marichjhapi, Ghoramara Island, New Moore Island
- Average Cost: ₹ 3,000 to ₹ 4,000 per person (Overall)
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
2. Bakkhali | 125 kms
One of the popular weekend destinations near Kolkata, Bakkhali, is a small beach town that rests on the southwestern tip of the mesmerising Sundarbans. The pristine beach of Bakkhali snuggles against the fringes of the forest delta, thus offering a quaint tropical combination. Moreover, the vibrant tourists and little stalls available at every corner gives you a lively experience.
- How to Reach: NH 12
- Places to Visit: Windmill of Frasergunj, Crocodile propagation centre, Jambu Dwip, Henry's Island
- Average Cost: ₹ 9,000 to ₹ 10,000 per person (Overall)
- Best Time to Visit: July to March
3. Henry's Island | 126 kms
This island is named after a Britisher who survived the area a century ago. The place is covered in mangrove forestation and charms visitors through its beach. Henry's island is located on the western edge of Sunderbans and takes only four hours to reach. Moreover, once you do, you can dip yourself in the serenity and beauty of this place.
- How to Reach: Via NH 12
- Places to Visit: Crocodile Breeding Centre, Frazerganj Wind Park, Bishhalakshmi Temple, Bakkhali Beach, Jambu Dweep
- Average Cost: ₹ 4,000 to ₹ 5,000 per person (Overall)
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
4. Mayapur | 128 kms
If you are looking for places near Kolkata for weekend fun and to get spiritually recharged, Mayapur is probably the best option for you. It is a place of religious calling for people whose utterly positive atmosphere makes all of your work stress go away and gives you peace. In fact, the verdant greenery of this place has helped many in their soul-searching process.
- How to Reach: Via STKK Road/SH6. The nearest railway station is Nabadwip.
- Places to Visit: Samadhi of Prabhupada, Chandrodaya Temple, Shree Chaitanyamath
- Average Cost: ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 6,000 per person (Overall)
- Best Time to Visit: November to February
5. Junput | 157 kms
For enjoying a solitary moment amidst the calm waters of the Bay of Bengal, the unspoiled beauty of casuarina trees, and a pristine beach, make Junput your next destination for a weekend tour from Kolkata. This place prides itself in providing the required solitude and guaranteeing peace in this widespread commercialisation of today.
- How to Reach: Via NH 16 and NH 116B
- Places to Visit: Kapalkundala temple, Dariapur lighthouse
- Average Cost: ₹ 2,000 to ₹ 3,000 per person (Overall)
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
6. Shantiniketan | 163 kms
The history of Shantiniketan dates back to 1862, when Debendra Nath Tagore bought land, built a guest house, and decorated it with plants and trees. It is the place where Rabindranath Tagore grew up and thus is sacred for many people in India. So, if you are a cultural lover attached to history, this little hamlet is your next destination to explore.
- How to Reach: NH 19 and NH 114/ NH 2B
- Places to Visit: Kankalitala, Tagore's Ashram, Amar Kutir, Kala Bhavana, Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary
- Average Cost: ₹ 8,000 to ₹ 9,000 per person (Overall)
- Best Time to Visit: July to March
7. Mandarmani | 171 kms
Emerging as the new favourite spot of tourists, Mandarmani is a good option to consider for weekend trips from Kolkata. This place is blessed with a pristine beach and an unspoilt surrounding. Moreover, the sun rays glistering all over the water is a scenic beauty you don't want to miss. Also, the route you will take to reach here is covered with little paddy fields.
- How to Reach: NH 16 and NH 116B
- Places to Visit: Amarabati Park, Marine Aquarium & Regional Centre. Nearby beaches include Digha, Tajpur, Shankarpur, and Talsari.
- Average Cost: ₹ 7,000 to ₹ 8,000 per person (Overall)
- Best Time to Visit: July to March
8. Tajpur | 173 kms
Tajpur beach is still unknown to people and thus does not attract a maddening crowd like Digha and Shankarpur. So, if you desire a peaceful weekend with your friends or family, this is your spot. This small town is tucked between Shankarpur and Mandarmani. The highlight of this place is it attracts hundreds of red crabs to its shores which give a crimson colour to the beach.
- How to Reach: NH 16 and NH 116B
- Places to Visit: Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary, Amarabati Park, Marine Aquarium. Nearby beaches include Digha, Mandarmani, and Udaipur.
- Average Cost: ₹ 7,000 to ₹ 8,000 per person (Overall)
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
9. Digha | 182 kms
Digha is one of the popular weekend getaways near Kolkata, and you will be able to figure that out by the crowd's excitement level and the noise. This place also wears a festive look throughout the year, so it is an ideal party destination amidst a sandy beach, calm waters of the sea, and the clear blue sky that lets you enjoy the real pleasure of basking in the sun.
- How to Reach: NH 16 and NH 116B
- Places to Visit: Udaipur Beach, Shankarpur Beach, Chandpur Beach, Amarabati Park, Wonder Land, Marine Aquarium
- Average Cost: ₹ 9,000 to ₹ 10,000 per person (Overall)
- Best Time to Visit: September to March
10. Talasari Beach | 191 kms
Nestled on the border of West Bengal and Orissa Talasari Beach is a popular weekend getaway for people who desire to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. A sight for sore eyes, this place boasts of fresh air, clear sky, pristine beach, calm waves thrashing the shores, and a vibrant atmosphere. Moreover, the sight of the beach gives the required state of peace.
- How to Reach: NH 16 and NH 116B
- Places to Visit: Lankeswari Temple, Marine Aquarium, The Science Centre
- Average Cost: ₹ 5,000 to ₹ 7,000 per person (Overall)
- Best Time to Visit: July to March