There’s no denying that Kolkata’s vibrant vibe is impossible to ignore — always captivating and consistently brimming with energy and buzz. However, a change of pace is sometimes just what you need to recharge. Whether it’s the tranquil charm of Shantiniketan or the wild beauty of the Sundarbans, these must-visit places near Kolkata offer perfect getaway options for a day or two of exploration within West Bengal. Scenic landscapes, ancient temples, coastal retreats, or rural charm — Kolkata’s surrounding routes lead you to adventurous road trips that allow you to discover a quieter side of Bengal without venturing too far.
Those still looking to explore the ‘City of Joy’, check out our selection of the best tourist places in Kolkata. Read on for our roundup of the top places to visit near Kolkata in West Bengal.
Best time to take day trips from Kolkata
The best time for day trips from Kolkata is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities during this period. Temperatures generally range from 15°C to 25°C, making it perfect for exploring destinations in West Bengal that are near Kolkata.
Also, check out this guide to the offbeat places to visit in Kolkata, according to a local.
Places to visit near Kolkata in West Bengal
Henry’s Island (126 km from Kolkata)
Nestled in the coastal village of Bakkali, Henry’s Island offers a tranquil retreat from Kolkata. It is famous for its unspoiled natural beauty, pristine beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and captivating views of mangroves. Legend has it that the island is named after a British explorer who discovered it in the 1800s. For birdwatching enthusiasts, Henry Island serves as a sanctuary where they can observe various bird species, particularly during the migratory season.
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Must-try activities on Henry’s Island include exploring the beaches, observing the red crabs (the island is famous for them), enjoying water sports, and visiting Bakkhali Beach, Fraserganj Wind Park, Bakkhali Watch Tower, Jambu Dweep, and Bishalakshmi Temple.
Best restaurants: Sundari Tourist Complex (for a homely meal), Sagar Kanya Restaurant and Hotel Sundaram.
How to reach: Henry’s Island is a four-hour scenic drive from Kolkata via National Highway 12.
Shantiniketan (160 km from Kolkata)
Shantiniketan is an excellent choice for a day trip from Kolkata for those seeking tranquillity. A renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site in east India, Shantiniketan was founded by Maharshi Debendranath Tagore, the father of Rabindranath Tagore, and later expanded by Rabindranath Tagore himself with the vision of blending nature with education and art.
Shantiniketan gained international recognition with the establishment of Visva-Bharati University in 1921 by Rabindranath Tagore, serving as an educational hub where the curriculum transcends Indian borders. Although its academic legacy remains influential, Shantiniketan’s lush greenery and tranquil surroundings also captivate visitors, providing a peaceful retreat that beautifully complements its rich cultural and educational heritage.
Must-visit places in Shantiniketan include the Visva-Bharati University, Tagore Family Residences, the Rabindra Bhavan Museum, Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary, Chattimtala, Upasna Ghar, or Prayer Hall (one of the most beautiful buildings), and Kala Bhavan.
Best restaurants: Cafe Midori, The Chhaya Ghar Cafe, Amoli, Umul: The Himalayan Cafe, Palashbani Cafe and Ram Shyam Restaurant.
How to reach: Take a scenic Vande Bharat train ride from Howrah Junction or drive approximately 4 hours to Shantiniketan via NH 19.
Also read | Exploring Santiniketan In West Bengal, The Land Of Tagore
Bishnupur (138 km from Kolkata)
Often referred to as the ‘Temple Town’, Bishnupur is renowned for its ancient temples and exquisite terracotta architecture. The town, a popular day trip destination from Kolkata, is distinguished by its unique architectural style, featuring temples adorned with terracotta tiles and intricate carvings depicting Hindu mythology scenes. Beyond its architectural marvels, Bishnupur is also celebrated for its Bishnupur silk and Baluchari sarees, which are integral to the region’s rich textile heritage.
Must-do activities in Bishnupur include a temple run to Rashmancha, Jor-Bangla Temple, Lalji Temple, Madanmohan Temple, and more, visiting the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Auditorium, exploring Joypur Forest, Lalgarh Park, and seeing the Dalmadal Canon.
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Best restaurants: Open Tea House, Aami Bengali, Ambiance Restaurant, Fire & Ice: The Restro Cafe and The Taste Ride.
How to reach: The drive from Kolkata to Bishnupur takes approximately 3 hours.
Sundarbans (358 km from Kolkata)
For adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts, the Sundarbans is an essential visit in West Bengal, near Kolkata. Home to the world’s largest contiguous mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sundarbans is renowned for its lush natural beauty and the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers. In addition to tigers, wildlife enthusiasts can also spot saltwater crocodiles, leopards, wild boar, foxes, jungle cats, grey mongooses, and more. As part of the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta, the Sundarbans is the largest river delta in the world. Whether you’re an adventurer aiming to observe wildlife, a nature lover seeking tranquillity, or a photographer capturing natural beauty, this sanctuary offers it all.
Top things to do in Sundarbans include wildlife watching, birdwatching, taking a boat tour along the waterways, and visiting the Sundarban Interpretation Centre in Canning.
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Best restaurants: Sundarban Dhaba (Canning) and Coffee House Canning (Canning).
How to reach: The drive from Kolkata to Sonakhali takes approximately 2.5 hours. From here, you can take the waterways to Gosaba, the nearest town to Sundarbans.
Digha (183 km from Kolkata)
Digha in West Bengal, is a delightful beach town and one of the top places to visit near Kolkata. A paradise for beach enthusiasts, it is often referred to as the ‘Brighton of the East,’ this coastal treasure was once a fishing village but evolved into a favoured retreat for British officials in the 18th century. Today, Digha provides the ideal escape for anyone looking to unwind by the seashore, savour fresh seafood, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
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Top things to do at Digha Beach include witnessing the sunset, exploring nearby beaches like Udaypur Beach and Shankarpur Beach, visiting Digha Cashew Garden and Digha Gate, taking a boat ride, exploring Digha Mohana (a fishing harbour), and checking out the Digha Science Centre.
Best restaurants: Koshe Kosha, Deli K Sea, Restaurant Khao, Sonar Bangla Restaurant, Mitra Café, Restaurant Jalshaghar and Narmada Cafe & Restaurant.
How to reach: The drive from Kolkata to Digha takes approximately 4.5 hours.
Diamond Harbour (52 km from Kolkata)
Nestled along the Hooghly River, Diamond Harbour is a tranquil town that offers a soothing blend of nature, serene waters, and colonial-era architecture. A must-visit place near Kolkata, it’s just 50 km from the capital city, it is a popular destination near Kolkata for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Once a significant port during the Portuguese and British colonial eras, Diamond Harbour retains much of its old-world charm with its historic forts, lighthouses, and picturesque riverfront.
Top things to do in Diamond Harbour include visiting the Diamond Harbour Fort for colonial-era architecture, exploring the Old Lighthouse, and taking a boat ride along the Hooghly River and its riverfront promenade.
Best restaurants: Gharana, Hawa Badal, The Empire, Cafe D’Harbour and Apnar Kitchen.
How to reach: The drive from Kolkata to Diamond Harbour takes approximately 2 hours, and 15 minutes.
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Babur Haat (41 km from Kolkata)
If you wish to experience rural life in West Bengal, Babur Haat is an ideal one-day trip place to visit near Kolkata. Renowned for its rustic charm and tranquillity, Babur Haat is a quaint village located by the riverside, enchanting visitors with its lush green fields, simple mud houses, and old-world charm. One of the main attractions of Babur Haat is the prevalence of extensive natural fishing lakes, known as “bheris” in Bengali, which provide a profound insight into traditional fishing methods and the rich aquatic biodiversity of Bengal.
Top things to do in Babur Haat include nature walks along the riverbed, boat rides, exploring the natural fishing lakes, and interacting with the local fishing communities.
Best restaurants: Sampling the local fish dishes is a must when visiting this quaint village. There are multiple local food joints where you can savour the region’s delicacy.
How to reach: Drive from Kolkata to Babur Haat takes approximately 2 hours.
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Taki (67 km from Kolkata)
Another charming place to visit near Kolkata for a day trip is Taki, which lies along the banks of the Ichamati River, which forms a natural border between India and Bangladesh. Besides its proximity to the international border, this quaint village draws tourists with its serene waters, lush landscapes, and ancestral palace-like buildings. Taki is home to several Jamindar Bari, grand ancestral houses with intricate designs, large courtyards, and expansive verandas, reflecting the wealth and status of the Zamindar families of the time.
Top things to do in Babur Haat include visiting Taki Golpata Forest, Amrapali Garden, and Jamidar Bari, boating on the Ichamati River, exploring Taki Rajbari Ruins, paying respects at Kuleshwar Kali Bari, and visiting the ancestral house of General Shankar Roy Chowdhury and the Bisorjon film spot.
Best restaurants: Ichamati Restaurant and Tuki Taki.
How to reach: Drive from Kolkata to Taki takes approximately 2 hours.
Raichak (54 km from Kolkata)
Nestled along the Hooghly River in West Bengal, Raichak is a tranquil place to visit near Kolkata for those who appreciate river views. The gentle flow of the river, flanked by lush greenery and charming scenery, enhances the area’s peaceful allure. Home to numerous riverside and luxury resorts, Raichak offers an ideal blend of opulence and natural beauty.
Top things to do in Raichak include exploring Raichak Fort, unwinding at riverside resorts, enjoying a boat ride on the Hooghly River, visiting Garchumuk Deer Park, exploring The F Fort, and shopping for handicrafts in Joynagar.
Best restaurants: Gharana, The Sunflower Cafe, Riviera Hotel, Sonar Tori and The Courtyard.
How to reach: The drive from Kolkata to Raichak takes approximately 2 hours.
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(Feature image credit: RAJAT/Pixahive)
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The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The Indian Museum, the Rabindra Bhavan Museum, Fort William, Rashmancha, Victoria Memorial, and St Paul's Cathedral are some historical sites in and around Kolkata.
Shantiniketan, Darjeeling, Siliguri, Kalimpong, Dooars, and Mirik are several hill stations near Kolkata.
Sundarbans, Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary, Babur Haat, and Buxa Tiger Reserve are excellent locations for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
The Dakshineswar Kali Temple, St Paul's Cathedral, Birla Mandir, Kalighat Temple, and Nakoda Mosque are notable religious and spiritual sites in Kolkata.
Boat tours and wildlife safaris in the Sundarbans, snorkelling at Tajpur Beach, and kayaking at Eco Park are some adventure activities available near Kolkata.
Shantiniketan, the Birla Academy of Art and Culture, College Street, and the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Auditorium are cultural and artistic hubs worth visiting.
Written By
Shaili Shah
An ailurophile, a full-time snacker, an emoji fanatic, and secretly a pahadi - Shaili is mostly found ..Read More
