The emerald green gem of the eastern part of India, Kolkata is a land of diverse culture, lush green landscapes, and sublime architectures. Visitors can notice the British influence through the architectural buildings such as the Metcalfe Hall and the Indian Museum. Kolkata is the second biggest city in India and is the capital of West Bengal. This cultural state lies between the Himalayas and Bay of Bengal. The state ranges from romantic and serene verdant hill stations such as Kurseong, or Darjeeling to pristine and isolated beach getaways like Mandarmoni. It is a true haven for travel enthusiasts where they will get to experience the surreal, contrasting mountainous landscapes, and the charming towns exuding rich tradition and culture. It is equally a backpacker’s haven where the sheer beauty of the world’s third highest mountain notably Mount Kanchenjunga can be witnessed. If you wish to enjoy the authentic Indian culture and landscapes then make Kolkata as your next travel destination. We have compiled a list of some incredible weekend getaways from Kolkata below.
1. Sundarbans (from USD 58)

Wildlife nature lovers will undoubtedly want to visit the Sundarbans which is a luxuriant forested area extending about 10,000 sq km (3,900 sqm) in a delta formed by the confluence of Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna rivers in the Bay of Bengal. Some of its impressive wild animals are the Indian python, Bengal tiger, and estuarine crocodile. Stay at the most recommended Sunderban Tiger Camp located at the Dayapur Island just some 15 km (9 miles) away from the Sundarban Park Safari, and 150 km (93 miles) from the Howrah Railway Station. This eco-friendly lodge is a haven of blissful relaxation in the midst of nature while providing comfort at the same time.
Sunderban Tiger Camp
Address: Sunderban Dayapur, District 24 Paraganas (South)
Accommodates: 4
Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Garden Terrace
2. Darjeeling (from USD 108)

Darjeeling is home to the world’s third highest peak notably, the majestic Kanchenjunga and the UNESCO World Heritage site the renowned Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Darjeeling beckons travelers to experience the very known warm hospitality of the mountain people. This vibrant municipality is situated in West Bengal just 615 km (382 miles) away from Kolkata. It has an elevation of 6,700 feet (2,042.2 meters) where you will likely find majestic Buddhist monasteries, elegant colonial-era architectures, and picturesque vistas adorned with emerald-green tea plantations set on the slopes of the rolling hills. If you really want to contemplate the breathtaking view of the Mount Kanchenjunga then you should definitely opt to stay at the sublime Sinclairs Darjeeling hotel situated some minutes away from the town center of Chowrasta.
Sinclairs Darjeeling
Address: 18/1, Gandhi Road
Accommodates: 2
Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-hour front desk Non-smoking rooms Airport shuttle Business centre
3. Gangtok (from USD 8)

Tucked away in the eastern Himalayan range at an elevation of 5,410 feet (1,650 meters), Gangtok is a buzzing capital city of Sikkim. Misty verdant rolling hills, dramatic snowy landscapes and the contrasting skyline of Gangtok have won many hearts of avid travelers. Witnessing Mount Kanchendzonga turning into a golden hue in the morning of your Gangtok holiday could probably be something you have never experienced before. The city is about 671 km (416 miles) away from Kolkata. One of its most revered spiritual sites is the Rumtek Monastery where you can witness the sacred paintings, manuscripts and art objects. If you’re a backpacker then look for the Tagalong Backpackers accommodation which is affordable and comes with complimentary Wi-Fi connection. It is situated 1.6 km (0.9 miles) from Palzor Stadium.
Tag Along Backpackers
Address: Near Punjab and Sind Bank, Development Area, Gangtok
Accommodates: 3
Pets allowed Laundry Internet services Hiking Luggage storage WiFi Available Free WiFi Lockers
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4. Rishyap (from USD 34)

With the early misty mornings, ever-green rolling Neora Valley in the Kalimpong district of the West Bengal lies the quaint Himalayan Hamlet Rishyap or Rishop. Choosing this serene and verdant getaway destination means feasting your eyes on the incredible vistas of the snow-capped mountains of the Kanchenjunga range, and the Mount Kailash. Replenish yourself as you soak in the blissful fresh air of the region, and witness the sheer beauty of nature through its sunsets and romantic starry nights. Rishyap is among the most recommended hill stations of northeast India with an elevation of 8202 feet (2500 meters). It is about 658 km (408 miles) away from Kolkata. If you’re planning to spend your vacation here then head to the splendid Neora Valley Resort which offers you a tranquil atmosphere. The area is popular for having gorgeous hiking trails.
Neora Valley Retreat
Address: Neora Valley Resort
Accommodates: 2
Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities 24-hour front desk Garden Non-smoking rooms Family rooms Free parking
5. Shantiniketan

The historical Shantiniketan which means ‘abode of peace’ was founded by Maharshi Debendranath Tagore, the father of the renowned Nobel Laureate, poet, and artist Rabindranath Tagore. It is 180 km (111 miles) north of Kolkata nestled near Bolpur in the Birbhum district of West Bengal. This small town is the epicenter of Bengali art and culture. If you’re planning to visit this place then consider staying at the Country Roads Homestay which is located in the center of the town, just a walking distance to the Viswa Bharati University. The highlight of the accommodation is the cool ambiance offering strikingly beautiful views of the surroundings.
Tip from our local expert
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Plan your visit towards the end of December. This is the time for 'Poush Mela'. It is a carnival organized to mark the beginning of the harvest season. The celebrations begin from the 7th day of Poush (a month in the Bengali calendar). It is a six-day affair when the entire town wakes up to the mesmerizing tune of 'shanai/shehnai' (an Asian musical instrument that resembles a clarinet). This fair offers a glimpse into the folk culture of Bengal. You will witness numerous folk performances, 'baul' (an unorthodox devotional sect of wandering minstrels) songs, and over 1500 stalls with a variety of products starting from Bengal handloom, fabrics, instruments, handicraft items, so on and so forth.
Santiniketan; serene ambiance in central locationSantiniketan, West Bengal, IndiaTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
cz the views inside the room was awesomegood clean rooms with all required basic amenities except wifidinner (extra but cheap) and breakfast (complementary) were deliciousCleanliness:
clean and nice place :)the room was very clean and well maintainedrooms were super cleanthe rooms are clean and people are very helpful and accommodatinglovely spot clean room central locationHost:
the host was very helpful with everythingall people are helpful and friendlyl and specially we liked the food cooked by his staffi had mentioned that i am travelling alone and the owners made sure i felt safedefinitely stay here for a wonderful time with nice attentive staff in serene countrysideall of the people are so very helpful and accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
excellent place to stay and very close to viswa bharati universitythis place is very near to all tourist attractions in santiniketangreat location near the university in a leafy calm environmentthe location is great so are the rooms and facilitiesamazing location very serene and hospitable place
6. Mandarmoni (from USD 63)

The laid-back coastal village of Mandarmoni is only some 180 km (111 miles) away from Kolkata. This beach resort village is nestled in the east Midnapore district in the state of West Bengal. It is fast becoming a honeymoon destination since it offers couples a secluded and romantic environment. Its pristine beach stretches for miles and thus is known as the longest drive-in beach in India. Expect plenty of sea activities including rides on a banana boat, jet skiing, and much more. One of its highlights is the fact that it is home to countless colonies of red crabs which you will end up seeing during your vacation. It is equally a haven for backpackers who are seeking offbeat coastal destinations. One of the recommended places to stay is the Sana Beach-Spa Resort Mandarmani which has a beautiful garden, a restaurant, a chill-out bar, and comfy rooms with Wi-Fi access.
The Sana Beach- Spa Resort Mandarmani
Address: Mandarmani Sea Beach Road
7. Puri (from USD 11)

The spiritual place of the Hindus, and once a popular stop for the hippies of the 1970s, Puri lies in the state of Odisha. It is around 500 km (310 miles) away from Kolkata, and 60 km (37 miles) from Bhubaneswar in the south. Many locals and tourists come to Puri to visit the 12th-century Lord Jagannath (Lord of Universe) Temple and the Sun Temple at Konark. The town also has a long-stretch beach which is better for strolling than swimming. Backpackers can head to the eastern end of Chakratirtha road to enjoy the calm shoreline. Find the Puri Hotel situated right on the Puri beach. It is very near to the Lord Jagannath Temple and 2 km (1.2 miles) from the railway station.
PURI HOTEL HOMESTAY
Address: Puri Beach New Marine Drive Road, Balia Panda, Sagar Vihar,Baliapanda Housing Board Colony.
8. Kurseong (from USD 22)

The lush-green hill station Kurseong is a town located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. It is 32 km (20 miles) from Darjeeling. Due to its altitude 1,458 meters (4,783 ft), the hill station is home to a myriad of verdant and gorgeous tea gardens. Kurseong is dubbed as the ’Land of White Orchids’, which is why you can expect to see an abundance of beautiful orchids growing here. Kurseong is accessible by a road to Siliguri 47 km (29 miles). The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway also connects the town with other parts of the state. Just some 1.5 km (0.9 miles) drive away from Kurseong is the Sunnyside Eco Homestay which offers chic and bucolic wooden cottages nestled in between a small forested area. The cottage is ideal for romantic couples who are seeking a peaceful and secluded environment in a cozy eco-lodge.
Sunnyside Eco Homestay
Address: St. Mary's Hill, Hill Cart Road
9. Digha (from USD 30)

Digha is a popular coastal resort idyllic for a family vacation in West Bengal. This beach town lies about 200 km (124 miles) south west of Kolkata. You can access this sublime getaway by taking a bus from Kolkata which might take you around 5 hours. Digha has a talcum-like beach extending about 7 km (4.3 miles) in length and encompassed by the resplendent Casuarina plantations along the coast. Enjoy the spectacular sunrise and sunset on the Bay of Bengal and feel the soothing cool sea breezes. Consider staying at the Hotel Seagull which is affordable and elegant at the same time. It offers comfortable rooms with a garden view.
Hotel Seagull
Address: Old Digha Sea Beach Road
Beachfront Terrace Luggage storage Outdoor pool Parking Outdoor pool (all year) Garden Room service
10. Bolpur (from USD 36)
This beautiful hamlet is located about 145 km (90 miles) north of Kolkata and is close to the Visva Bharati University in Shantiniketan. Bolpur is a subdivision in the Birbhum district in West Bengal. Tourists will have the chance to contemplate historical buildings, narrow lanes, cottage-style homes, verdant paddy fields, and participate in cultural festivities while visiting this region. If you wish to see a vibrant Bolpur then plan your next visit during the Rabindra Jayanti whereby locals celebrate the birthday of Rabindranath Tagore in pomp. Consider staying at the Saptarshi Bungalow which comes with a beautiful garden and a terrace. The accommodation is very spacious and there are ample spaces for a leisure stroll. Bolpur is about 2 km (1.2 miles) from the Saptarshi Bungalow.
Saptarshi Bungalow
Address: Purbapalli North Santiniketan
Internet services Trouser press Restaurant Invoice provided Children's playground Private parking Free WiFi Terrace
Rejuvenating getaways from Kolkata
Spend a relaxing and intimate weekend getaways in the north-eastern part of India and discover a totally different India.
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