“Kolkata can make us mad, make us live, and make us happy”. If you live in Kolkata you too will understand the stated lines. Life in Kolkata has to do with traffic, pollution, the hustle-bustle of the roads, meeting deadlines, etc. But no matter how stressful your weekdays have been, let your weekend relax you.
After receiving a tremendous response to our article about the Ahmedabad weekend getaway, our team studied various related queries for other destinations. Kolkata was the 2nd most popular destination for which we received over 100s of emails asking about:
- What are the best tourist spots near Kolkata?
- Share popular picnic places near Kolkata.
- List the best holiday destinations near Kolkata etc.
Our editors from Kolkata did some research on these queries and tried to compile a list of the 23 best places located at 50 KM to 650 KM distances from Kolkata. You can choose the place based on your interest and can plan your best holiday trip with your friends, family, or your better half. Here we go!
23 Best Places to Visit Near Kolkata:
Here are the 23 best offbeat tourist places near Kolkata that will give you the perfect place to drive, relax, and enjoy jhal muri at your favorite weekend spot.
1. Bakkhali:
Located just 124 km away from Kolkata, Bakkhali is a small town with beaches, wind farms, islands, boat rides, spirituals, etc. One of the best places is Henry’s and JampuDwip Islands. A watch-over is there to give you a panoramic view of the island. Besides, there are large shallow lakes – Bheri, to enjoy your holiday with a combination of islands, lakes, and adventure. Crocodile Reservation Park is perfect for kids to have their set of fun. You can also visit Bishalaxshmi Temple will give you peace of mind.
| Famous For | Famous for its serene white sand beach stretching about 8 kilometers from Bakkhali to Fraserganj, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. |
| Main Attractions | Bakkhali Seas Beach, Bakkhali Watch Tower, Henry Island |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Stay Options | Shree Hotel Bakkhali, Hotel Amarabati, Palette – Beachfront Elegance Resort |
| Distance from Kolkata | 124 km |
2. Digha:
Digha is also known as a beach town in Bengal which is famous for temples, beaches, research centers, and museums. The Temple of Chanadaneshwar is one of the temples to seek blessings from.
The beaches at Digha, considered among the popular vacation spots near Kolkata, will take you by surprise with their water sports activities like water skiing, para-sailing, boating, etc. The Marine Aquarium and Research Center are worth taking your kids to enjoy the magnificent aquariums picturesque. For ladies, handicrafts and seashell jewelry are a must-take souvenirs.
| Famous For | Famous for its serene beaches, vibrant coastal scenery, and being a popular weekend getaway destination. |
| Main Attractions | Digha Sea Beach, Marine Aquarium & Regional Centre, Wonderland Kajal Dighi, Amarabati Park |
| Best Time to Visit | November to February |
| Stay Options | Cygnett Inn Sea View, Hotel Green Gate, Hotel Blue Waves |
| Distance from Kolkata | 184 km |
3. Navadvipa (Nabadwip):
Navadvipa (Nabadwip) known as ‘The land of Krishna Devotion’ is a group of nine islands hence the name.
This place is clustered with forests and orchids. Situated on the banks of the Ganga, this place is blessed with more than 200 temples and has beautiful winding paths leading to the tiny villages to get the essence of peace and tranquility.
This place is a sure shot getaway whether you are a believer of Lord Krishna or not, Navadvipa ought to make you awe. You could take a ferry ride and have a great time.
| Famous For | Famous for being the capital of Lakshman Sena, the renowned ruler of the Sena dynasty, from 1179 to 1203. |
| Main Attractions | Srila Prabhupada Pushpa Samadhi Mandir, Radharani Temple, Sri Devananda Gaudiya Math |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Stay Options | Hotel Nilachal, Hotel Sonar Bangla, Hotel Astha Midway, Hotel City Pride |
| Distance from Kolkata | 119 km |
Also Read: Famous Temples In Kolkata – The City Of Joy
4. Sunderbans:
Royal Bengal tigers are best seen in the biggest mangrove forests in the world and are 109 km from Kolkata. Sunderbans is one of the best forest places in India. It is nature at your feet, a perfect ecologically balanced place. It is a splendid sight to see 200 royal Bengal tigers inhabiting this dense forest.
Seeing them swim in the water, and hunt for fish is a sight to watch. The best spots to watch the Bengal Tigers are Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali, Netidhopani, and Haldi. Tourists all over the world come to witness the beauty of this sanctuary and how could you miss it? You would also be fascinated to see rhesus monkeys, wild pigs and boars, chital, deers, and much more. There is also a museum to amuse you.
The Herbivore Acclimatization Center in Sajnekhali Sanctuary is a steal. Apart from that you could enjoy a boat ride on the river and find various species of birds. The park charges a nominal fee of Rs. 15/- only.
| Famous For | Renowned for being a crucial habitat for endangered species like the Royal Bengal Tiger and Ganges dolphins. |
| Sundarban National Park Timings | 8:00 am to 6:00 pm |
| Sundarban National Park Entry Fee | Rs 60 (Indians) & Rs 200 (Foreign Tourists) per person |
| Best Time to Visit | September to March |
| Stay Options | Hotel Sonar Bangla, Sundarban Tiger Roar Resort, Royal Sundarban Wild Resort |
| Distance from Kolkata | 109 km |
5. Mayapur:
A mere 135 km from Kolkata, between Hooghly and Jalangi River, is the supreme power-blessed place of Mayapur. It is a calm and quiet place away from regular city life. The ISKCON temple gives you peace of mind and you are energized for sure. Besides, there’s is Ballal Mound and the tomb of Chand Kazi to watch around and to sight-seeing.
| Famous For | Renowned as the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and serves as the headquarters of the ISKCON |
| ISKCON Mayapur Timings | 4:30 am to 1:00 pm, 4:00 to 8:30 pm |
| Best Time to Visit | November to February |
| Stay Options | Hotel Balaji Guest House, The Bengal Hotel, Hotel Astha Midway |
| Distance from Kolkata | 135 km |
6. Bolpur:
You got to be kidding if you haven’t been to Bolpur. It is a destination to get the authenticity of Bengal. With baul songs at the backdrop, the serene atmosphere, the red soil of Birbhum, green forest, and the colorful place with its fragrance of love all over.
| Famous For | Famous for Visva-Bharati University, established by Nobel laureate poet Rabindranath Tagore. |
| Main Attractions | Srijani Shilpagram, Rabindra Bhavana (Shantiniketan Museum), Chhatimtala |
| Best Time to Visit | July to February |
| Stay Options | Shakuntala Village Resort, Hotel Royal Bengal, Khoai Village Resort |
| Distance from Kolkata | 160 km |
7. Shantiniketan:
You can explore Tagore’s Ashram, Rabindra Baban Museum Kala Bhavan, china Bhavan, and Sangeet Bhavan. You witness Rabindranath Tagore’s Viswa Bharati University too.
| Famous For | Famous for its unique educational and artistic heritage promoting universal human unity. |
| Best Time to Visit | July to February |
| Distance from Kolkata | 161 km |
8. Haldia:
Haldia is located at Approximately 118 km from Kolkata where you can have an exquisite look at Mahishadai Rajbari and Goplajew Temple. Under the rule of Rani Janki Devi, this palace was built with either side temples. Visions treat for sure.
Haldia Dock and Port is a must-go. Marine Drive is lined with palm trees, you could take the boat near the shore too. Balughara riverside sunset point gives you a picture-perfect scene. Maynagarh is a perfect example of unity in diversity as this is a place where it has a Hindu temple, Mosque, and a Buddhist temple at a hand’s distance.
The Ramjew temple of course depicting 90 feet tall idols of Sri Ram, Sita, and Laxman is a pleasurable sight to look at.
| Famous For | Famous for its petrochemical industries and serves as a major trade port for Kolkata. |
| Main Attractions | Sree Sree Gopal Jew Mandir, Mahishadal Rajbari |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Stay Options | The Golden Retreat, Rajhans Hotel & Resort, Girish Hotel & Resort |
| Distance from Kolkata | 118 km |
9. Bardhaman:
Two and a half hours drive and you enter the land of planetariums and science centers. The red brick church, Christ church is a place to feel solace at. Visiting 108 Shiv Mandir is imperative. Meghana Saha Planetarium, Science Center, and Deer Park are a perfect getaway for kids too. You could also get a rowing experience at Krishna Sayar Park.
| Famous For | Famous for its multi-cultural heritage and ancient dual-style temples reflecting Bengali Hindu architecture. |
| Main Attractions | Bardhaman Science Centre, Krishna Sayar Park, 108 Shiva Mandir, Sarbamangala Temple |
| Best Time to Visit | October to February |
| Stay Options | Sinclairs Burdwan, Green County Wellness Retreat, The Dawn Imperial Hotel |
| Distance from Kolkata | 102 km |
10. Shankarpur:
176 km away from Kolkata resides the beaches of Shankarpur. Located in Medinipur district of West Bengal, the secluded place will keep you speechless. The Shankarpur beach with unblemished water and old country charm will keep you spellbound.
| Famous For | Famous for its clear waters, white sandy shores, gentle breezes, and vibrant fishing harbor. |
| Main Attractions | Shankarpur Beach |
| Best Time to Visit | September to February |
| Stay Options | Hotel Nest Shankarpur, Golden View Resort, Hotel Sea Sand |
| Distance from Kolkata | 176 km |
11. Tajpur:
If you are looking for an adventure, you ought to be at the Crab Beach with fir trees surrounding it which is 174 km from Kolkata, the Tajpur. It is famous for its water sports like parasailing, zorbing, and riding coastal bikes. You can also visit the other side of the shore, Mandarmoni for a day picnic. You also mustn’t miss the river Mohona and the fisherman village to get the old country feel. Go to the Casuarinas’ Groves and Keya flower shrubs; you ought to feel one with nature.
| Famous For | Famous for its virgin beach, red crabs, dense forests, and unique bio-climatic sea coast. |
| Main Attractions | Tajpur Lighthouse, Tajpur Beach |
| Best Time to Visit | October to February |
| Stay Options | The Pavillion Beach Resort, Lake View Village Resort, Classic Beach Resort |
| Distance from Kolkata | 174 km |
12. Bishnupur:
Bishnupur is a land famous for terracotta temples, balucheri sarees, and Bishnupuriya Shree Krishna Raslila. Bishnupur alleviates as the oldest brick temple, Rasmancha. Jorebangla temple is a must-see architecture. Lalji temple will surprise you with its ornamental stucco decorations on low-relief carvings. There are many landscapes to give you picturesque sights.
| Famous For | Famous for its terracotta temples, historic Radha Krishna temples from 1600–1800 CE, and Baluchari sarees. |
| Main Attractions | Ras Mancha, Madanmohan Temple, Pancha Ratna Shyam Rai Temple, Nandalal Temple |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Stay Options | Hotel Annapurna, Olivia Resort, River Side Resort |
| Distance from Kolkata | 138 km |
13. Hooghly:
Hooghly is known as little Europe due to the influence of Portuguese, Denmark, and France. This is why this place has a variety of sights to see. From Bandel Church to Imambara, the beautiful Tarakeshwar Temple to the humble Hangseswari temple, or be it the Pandua Bari Mosque or Anthpur Math, the architecture and serenity will keep you spellbound. For children, Deer Park is the attraction where you will find in the lush greenery deer having their good time.
| Famous For | Famous for being the hub of jute cultivation, industry, and trade along the Hooghly River. |
| Main Attractions | Shri Hanseswari Temple, Baba Taraknath Temple, Hooghly Imambara, Mahesh Lord Jagannath Temple |
| Best Time to Visit | October and March |
| Stay Options | Hotel Aquatic Palace, Anushka Garden & Resort, Hotel Mahal |
| Distance from Kolkata | 46 km |
Read More: Complete Guide on North Kolkata – Best Places to Visit and Things to Do
14. Jhargram:
Jhargram is another tourist attractions near Kolkata which is approximately 173 km from Kolkata. This traditional and cultural city has numerous ancient temples, forests, and royal places. This lesser-known place is also a nice place to visit by tourists from various places.
| Famous For | Famous for its scenic wooded beauty, hill ranges of Belpahari and Kankrajhor, and the Subarnarekha River. |
| Main Attractions | Jhargram Palace, Dhobadhobin Reservoir, Jhargram Rajbari, Chilkigarh Sacred Grove |
| Best Time to Visit | June to August and from October to March |
| Stay Options | Methobari Green Resort, Aranyak Hotel & Resort |
| Distance from Kolkata | 173 km |
Tourist Places Near Kolkata Around 500 KM:
15. Mukutmanipur:
In the Bankura district of Kolkata, 230 km away from the capital of West Bengal, stands Mukutmanipur with its head high. If you are someone who loves greenery, this one is just for you. Surrounded by evergreen forests, absolutely clean blue water, and hills, is going to keep you motivated. The Mukutmanipur dam, the second largest dam in India is a must-go. The Parasanath Hills, a famous pilgrimage center for Jains, is the most 2000 year’s old sorted hills to get yourself deliverance.
For your kids, you can take them to the Bankupuria Deer Park. The ride to the other side of the dam by boat is quite a thrill. For photographers, it is a bonus as you might spot eagles and different species of birds to get them clicked. Should you have some more time, Kangsabati Dam is another huge dam you should not miss. Do not forget to view the sunset from there, it is simply mesmerizing.
| Famous For | Famous for its necklace-shaped dam, surrounded by hillocks and located at the confluence of two rivers in the “Rangamati” region. |
| Main Attractions | Kangsabati Dam, Mukutmanipur Shiv Mandir, Musafirana Viewpoint, Banpukuria Deer Park |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Stay Options | Aranyak Resort, Peerless Resort, Hotel Aparajita |
| Distance from Kolkata | 230 km |
16. Darjeeling:
Darjeeling is a place known for its tea plantations, but you will be amazed to see the things around it. Tiger Hill is a good option if you love trekking and exploring nature around. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and Zoo is quite a thrill for kids. The Bhutia Busty Gompa will amuse you with its charm. Mirik is a fantastic place to relax, boating, and go canoeing. The Mahakal temple is a place of solace. Besides, the monasteries are going to take you for a period of time. Do not forget to take the toy train ride in Darjeeling.
| Famous For | Famous for its tea, breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, and cultural heritage. |
| Main Attractions | Happy Valley Tea Estate, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda, Observatory Hill View Point |
| Best Time to Visit | April to June |
| Stay Options | Hotel Viceroy, Dekeling Resort, Tripoo Potala Palace |
| Distance from Kolkata | 643 km |
17. Murshidabad:
Hazarduari Palace, Nizmat Imambara, and Wasif Manzil… yes we are talking about Murshidabad, a heritage of Mughals par excellence. Moti Jheel will take you to the serenity of life. Murshidabad district museum has quite a store for kids to learn. Ladies will be delighted to grab some ivory and wooden handicrafts, Do not forget to shop for some Murshidabad sarees. 216 km from Kolkata and you are headed for a perfect getaway.
| Famous For | Famous for its brass and bell metal ware, as well as its prominent silk weaving industry. |
| Main Attractions | Hazarduari Palace & Museum, Katra Masjid, Nizamat Imambara |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Stay Options | Jalchhabi Hotel and Resort, Hotel Historical, Golden Retreat |
| Distance from Kolkata | 216 km |
18. Ravangla:
A minor town sited on the edge at an altitude of 7000ft amongst the Meanam and Tendong hills. Ravangla or Rabongla has evolved into a natural tourist resort for its enchanted snowstorm sight and peacefulness. Ravangla is a newly exposed unconventional tourist terminus in South Sikkim that serves as an impeccable retreat from Kolkata. It is well linked by state highway to NJP (125 km). Visit Rayong Sunrise View-point at 8 kms, Ralang Monasteries at 13 kms, and Borong Hot Spring at 7 kms.
| Famous For | Famous for its stunning views of the Greater Himalayan Range and its serene natural beauty. |
| Main Attractions | Buddha Park, Ralang New Monastery, Doling Monastery, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Best Time to Visit | October to June |
| Stay Options | The Alnus Ravangla,Betel Valley Tree Resort, Hotel Ravongla Star |
| Distance from Kolkata | 707 km |
19. Alipurduar:
Jaldapara National Park and you know you are heading for Alipurduar. Buxa Reserve and picture perfect view awaits for you here. Real safari can be experienced at this place. Buxa fort is also interesting to roam and explore. There are about 8 trains to help you reach to Alipurduar from Kolkata and it is a splendid experience to travel through the greens. Rasik Beel where a recognized bird sanctuary has surprised many visitors with whistling teal, cotton teal, dabchick, bronze winged jacana, bareheaded goose and more. A watchtower has been constructed to get the perfect sight.
| Famous For | Famous for its historical significance as an old trading center on the Silk Route connecting Bhutan and Tibet. |
| Main Attractions | Rabindra Udyan, Buxa Tiger Reserve |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May |
| Stay Options | Hotel Dooars Mountain, Hotel Bangabhumi, Hotel Elite |
| Distance from Kolkata | 710 km |
20. Cooch Behar:
Iconic Cooch Behar Raj Bari (Cooch Behar palace) is situated in this place. The architecture is a visual treat as it is built on the design of Buckingham Palace. The Cooch Behar palace also hosts a light and sound show which you cannot miss. Sagardighi is an interesting strolling site to be at. The famous Shivalinga 10 feet below the plinth level, Baneshwar Siva temple is a place to find peace of mind. It may be 710 km away from Kolkata, but with railways nothing is impossible. Your nearest station is Jalpaiguri and you are set to enter Cooch Behar.
| Famous For | Famous for its royal heritage, including the Cooch Behar Palace and Madan Mohan Bari temple. |
| Main Attractions | Madanmohan, Temple, Cooch Behar Rajbari Park, Coochbehar Royal Palace |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Stay Options | Maharani Palace, Hotel Ellora, Hotel Royal Palace |
| Distance from Kolkata | 710 km |
21. Konark:
The Sun Temple is an essential part of any trip to Konark. Trip from Kolkata to this place are ideal. This location is about 495 km from Kolkata and the most mesmerizing event is the annual dance festival. To reach the place buses, taxis, and trains are the mediums to travel. October to March is the best time to visit the place.
| Famous For | Famous for its magnificent Sun Temple, showcasing architectural brilliance even in its ruined state. |
| Timings | 6:00 am to 8:00 pm |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Stay Options | Lotus Eco Resort, Kings Coco Resort, The Pearl |
| Distance from Kolkata | 495 km |
22. Kalimpong:
Kalimpong is a place renowned for its monasteries with old rare scriptures. You get to see Tibetan architecture all over. Get breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga snow peaks from viewpoints. This place is beyond beautiful with parks, and flower nurseries all over. On the way to Deolo hills, resides Grahams Missionary School, which deserves a sneak peek for sure. Besides you cannot go further without getting yourself clicked with the magnificent Buddha statue. You could rest at Durga Mandir, seek blessings and move on to the stairs to pay your prayers at the Hanuman Mandir. Thongsa Gompa, a Bhutan monastery is a place of alleviation indeed. Whether roadways or airways, you got to come 651 km away from Kolkata to witness this.
| Famous For | Famous for its historical significance as a key trade center with Tibet, facilitated by its proximity to the Jelepla Pass. |
| Main Attractions | Delo Park, Mangal Dham Temple, Pine View Nursery |
| Best Time to Visit | March to May and September to December |
| Stay Options | Summit Barsana Resort, Mystic Orchid Retreat, Delight Himalayan View |
| Distance from Kolkata | 651 km |
23. Jaldapara National Park:
Jaldapara National Park is in northern West Bengal, India. It is located at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas and is on the banks of the Torsa River. The park is known for its Indian one-horned rhino, which is the second largest population in India after Kaziranga National Park in Assam. Other animals in the park include the Indian leopard, Indian elephant, sambar, barking deer, chital, deer, and wild bear. Visitors can go on elephant and jeep safaris and should visit the park’s watchtowers for amazing views.
| Famous For | Famous for housing the largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses in India. |
| Timings | 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (Expect Thursday) |
| Ticket Price | Rs 100 (Indians) and Rs 150 (Foreign Nationals) per person |
| Best Time to Visit | November to March |
| Stay Options | Jaldapara Wild Hut, The Jungle Book Resort, Debrani Greenwood Resort |
| Distance from Kolkata | 690 km |
Now have no worries about doing what on a weekend, you are set to look forward to the next plans. Did we miss any sightseeing places near Kolkata best suited for a trip? write them here by comment and we would love to edit this article with your input.
Disclaimer:
We have tried our best to compile the list by doing research and by studying the information provided on official resources. Still, we do not claim the authenticity of information and it may change periodically. Please note that all listed places to visit in Kolkata in this article are shared for your reference only. Kindly do your research before you plan a trip as the information is provided “as is”, and without warranties.
FAQ’s:
Winter is the best season to visit Kolkata and nearby places like Konark, Ravangla, Darjeeling, and many more.
There are many beaches near Kolkata within 300 km. Sagar Beach, Kiran Sea Beach, Talasari Beach, Chandipur Beach and Digha Beach.
Dakshineshwar Kali Temple, Chintamani Kar Bird Sanctuary, Kolkata Snake Park, Barrackpore, Chandraketugarh, and Babur Haat are the most popular places near Kolkata within 50 km where locals can visit any time.
Yes, there are several resorts near Kolkata to spend weekends like Vedic Village Spa Resort, Breathing Earth, Palm Resort, and many more.
Kolkata is known for its best items like Shell Bangles, Saris, Terracotta items, Dokra Craft, Darjeeling Tea, Kalighat Paintings, etc.
Gita Haldar
September 5, 2022 at 8:14 pm
places to visit in & around Kolkata