Kolkata India Video

Weekend Getaways: Short Trips from Kolkata India

Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal in India, is known for its rich history, culture, and vibrant street life. While the city itself offers numerous attractions, sometimes you may want to take a break and explore the nearby areas for a refreshing weekend getaway. Here, we present some fantastic short trips from Kolkata that you can consider for your next weekend adventure.

Sundarbans National Park

• Mangrove Forests: Experience the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest mangrove forests, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These dense mangrove forests are home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers and various other wildlife species.
• Boat Safari: Embark on an exciting boat safari through the meandering rivers and creeks of the Sundarbans. Spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, such as crocodiles, deer, and exotic birds, is a highlight of this adventure.
• Watchtowers: Visit watchtowers strategically located within the national park to get a panoramic view of the surrounding forests and observe wildlife from a safe distance.
• Heritage Sites: Explore the ruins of ancient temples and historical sites scattered across the Sundarbans, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Shantiniketan

• Visva Bharati University: Visit the prestigious Visva Bharati University, established by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of this institution, known for its emphasis on art, literature, and cultural heritage.
• Tagore’s Ashram: Explore the tranquil ashram where Rabindranath Tagore resided. It offers a glimpse into the life and works of the renowned poet and philosopher.
• Uttarayan Complex: Wander through the Uttarayan Complex, which houses various art galleries, museums, and exhibitions showcasing the works of Tagore and other eminent artists.
• Sonajhuri Forest: Take a leisurely walk through the Sonajhuri Forest, famous for its red soil and unique flora. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and capture some stunning photographs.

Digha

• Digha Beach: Relax and unwind at Digha Beach, one of the most popular seaside destinations near Kolkata. Enjoy long walks along the shore, indulge in water sports, or simply bask in the sun.
• Marine Aquarium and Regional Centre: Explore the Marine Aquarium and Regional Centre, home to a diverse range of marine life. Admire the colorful fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating creatures.
• Chandaneswar Temple: Pay a visit to the Chandaneswar Temple, a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple attracts devotees from far and wide, especially during the annual Chandaneswar Mela.
• Udaipur Beach: Venture further south to Udaipur Beach, a hidden gem known for its tranquility and scenic beauty. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and soak in the breathtaking views.

Murshidabad

• Hazarduari Palace: Visit the magnificent Hazarduari Palace, a grand structure built during the reign of Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah. Marvel at its architecture, explore the museum inside, and learn about the region’s history.
• Katra Mosque: Explore the Katra Mosque, an architectural marvel known for its intricate artwork and unique blend of Mughal and European styles.
• Wasef Manzil: Discover the Wasef Manzil, a beautiful palace built by Nawab Wasef Ali Mirza. Admire its elegant design and explore the museum showcasing artifacts from the Nawabi era.
• Khushbagh: Take a stroll through the lush gardens of Khushbagh, where the tombs of the Nawabs of Bengal are located. Enjoy the serene ambiance and learn about the region’s rich heritage.

Bishnupur

• Terracotta Temples: Explore the exquisite terracotta temples of Bishnupur, renowned for their intricate carvings and architectural brilliance. These temples are dedicated to Lord Krishna and are a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
• Rasmancha: Visit the Rasmancha, a unique temple structure where the deities are placed during grand processions and festivals. Admire its intricate design and historical significance.
• Bishnupur Museum: Discover the Bishnupur Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, sculptures, and artwork depicting the history and culture of Bishnupur.
• Shopping for Terracotta Crafts: Indulge in some shopping at the local markets, where you can find a wide range of terracotta crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and decorative items.

Mandarmani

• Mandarmani Beach: Enjoy the pristine beauty of Mandarmani Beach, known for its long stretch of golden sand and calm waters. Relax on the beach, indulge in water sports, or take a leisurely horse ride along the shore.
• Red Crab Migration: Witness the fascinating phenomenon of thousands of red crabs migrating along the beach during certain months of the year. It’s a spectacle worth experiencing.
• Digha Mohana Watchtower: Climb the Digha Mohana Watchtower for a panoramic view of the beach and surrounding areas. Capture some stunning photographs and enjoy the cool sea breeze.
• Deltaic Island: Take a boat ride to the nearby deltaic island, where you can explore the mangrove forests and enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst nature.

Bakkhali

• Bakkhali Beach: Spend a relaxing day at Bakkhali Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic beauty. Enjoy the gentle waves, take a dip in the sea, or simply unwind on the sandy shores.
• Fraserganj Wind Park: Visit the Fraserganj Wind Park, a unique attraction where you can witness rows of wind turbines generating clean energy. Learn about renewable energy sources and their importance.
• Crocodile Breeding Center: Explore the Crocodile Breeding Center, which aims to conserve and protect the endangered Estuarine Crocodile species. Get up close to these fascinating creatures and learn about their habitat.
• Jambu Dwip: Take a boat ride to Jambu Dwip, a secluded island known for its pristine beaches and untouched natural beauty. Enjoy the serenity and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the amazing weekend getaways from Kolkata that offer a perfect escape from the bustling city life. Whether you prefer exploring wildlife sanctuaries, historical sites, serene beaches, or cultural destinations, there is something for everyone near Kolkata. So, pack your bags and embark on a memorable weekend adventure!

References

• timesofindia.indiatimes.com
• westbengaltourism.gov.in
• incredibleindia.org
• sundarbansnationalpark.com
• visvabharati.ac.in
• wbtourismgov.in
• westbengalforest.gov.in
• westbengal.com
• tourism-of-india.com
• india.com