The emerald green gem of the eastern part of India, Kolkata is a land of diverse cultures, lush green landscapes, and sublime architecture. Visitors will notice a British architectural influence in buildings such as the Metcalfe Hall and the Indian Museum. Kolkata is one of the largest cities in India and is the capital of West Bengal. The state of West Bengal lies between the Himalayas and the Bay of Bengal. It features romantic and serene hill stations such as Kurseong and Darjeeling, as well as pristine and isolated beach getaways such as 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, Mount Kanchenjunga, can be witnessed. You can stay at a backpacker hostel in Kolkata as you explore the beautiful coastal city and all its attractions. Additionally, the selection of short tours offered here is one of the best and quickest ways to explore hidden gems. If you wish to enjoy the authentic Indian culture and landscapes, then make Kolkata your next travel destination and check out this list of the top weekend getaways around Kolkata, India.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 04, 2024.
1. Darjeeling (from USD 56)
Darjeeling is home to the world’s third highest peak, the majestic Kanchenjunga, and the UNESCO World Heritage site, the renowned Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The town makes for a perfect weekend trip from Kolkata in the summer.
Darjeeling also beckons travelers to experience the warm hospitality of the locals. 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). Here you will find majestic Buddhist monasteries, elegant colonial-era architectures, and picturesque vistas of emerald-green tea plantations set on the slopes of the rolling hills. If you want to take in the breathtaking view of Mount Kanchenjunga, then you should definitely opt to stay at the sublime Sinclairs Darjeeling hotel situated minutes away from the town center of Chowrasta.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
I went to Darjeeling for my honeymoon and fell in love with the warm ambiance of the hill station. From the bustling Mall Road, where you can find lovely winter accessories, home decor, and antique items at reasonable prices, to the excellent eateries in the area, there's much to enjoy in Darjeeling. Some must-try restaurants in town include Kunga Restaurant, which serves delicious Tibetan food, Glenary's, which is ideal for breakfast with a view, and Keventer's, another breakfast spot known for its lovely views and delectable cold cuts. All these eateries are located in Chauk Bazaar near Mall Road and are great for couples, solo travelers, and families. Even the small roadside shops sell juicy dumplings to die for! Darjeeling is surely a top destination for both nature lovers and foodies.
Sinclairs Darjeeling
Address: 18/1, Gandhi Road
377.79 km (234.8 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
Central Gleneagles Heritage Resort - The Mall Road
Address: Mall Rd, Chowrasta - Mall Road, Darjeeling, India, 734101
378.69 km (235.4 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
2. Shantiniketan (from USD 35)
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 from Viswa Bharati University. The highlights of the accommodation are the cool ambiance and strikingly beautiful views of the surroundings.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
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.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
If you're looking for a family-friendly nature retreat in Shantiniketan, book a stay at Raktokorobi Karugram. This property is surrounded by greenery and has its own pond. I spent most of my time strolling the scenic walkways while observing birds and insects. The restaurant here is also top-notch, serving traditional Bengali food in a rustic setting. Do remember to carry an insect repellent spray and rub some mosquito repellent ointment on your skin as the remote natural location attracts bugs. This property is best enjoyed in winter when the weather's cool and dry. While the resort itself is in a secluded location, it's within a 15-minute driving distance of many attractions, including Amar Kutir, the ideal place to shop for local handicrafts, and Surul Rajbari, a historical landmark.
Raktokorobi Karu Gram
Address: Nachansaha Road
8.9 km (5.6 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
Santiniketan, West Bengal, India
1.14 km (0.8 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)Top 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
3. Mandarmoni (from USD 62)
The laid-back coastal village of Mandarmoni is only 180 km (111 miles) away from Kolkata. This resort village is nestled in the east Midnapore district in the state of West Bengal. It is fast becoming a honeymoon destination as 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 water 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 that 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 Sana Beach-Spa Resort Mandarmani, which has a beautiful garden, a restaurant, a chill-out bar, and comfy rooms with Wi-Fi access.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
What I like about Mandarmoni is that the beach is clean and there are fewer people around. If you're seeking a serene beachside stay near Kolkata, this village is a perfect choice. It usually takes around four hours to reach the destination by car from Kolkata, and the drive is quite smooth. While driving to Mandarmoni, make sure to stop at Kolaghat to have lunch at Sher-E-Punjab Hotel. If you're looking for upscale and family-friendly accommodation in Mandamani, book Hotel Sonar Bangla Mandarmoni for your stay. This property comes with a beautiful lawn where my family and I spent time enjoying snacks, playing outdoor games, and simply soaking in the ocean breeze. We also loved the stretch of clean and secluded beach in front of the hotel, which gave out a private-beach-like vibe.
The Sana Beach- Spa Resort Mandarmani
Address: Mandarmani Sea Beach Road
224.22 km (139.4 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
Hotel Sonar Bangla Mandarmoni
Address: Mandarmani Beach Road Kalindi post, Mandarmoni, Purba Midnapur, Chaulkhola
225.62 km (140.2 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
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4. Bakkhali (from USD 6)
Bakkhali, a charming coastal town, is a hidden oasis that offers a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Just four hours away by car, it’s perfect for weekend getaways from Kolkata.
Nestled along the Bay of Bengal, Bakkhali boasts pristine beaches, such as Bakkhali Sea Beach and Frazerganj Sea Beach, and untouched natural beauty. You can also stroll along the expansive shoreline, feel the soft sand beneath your feet, and bask in the gentle sea breeze at Tapama Resort in the Amrabati part of Bakkhali. Then, visit Bakkhali Watch Tower to get more stunning views of the area.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
I have lost count of the number of times I have visited this majestic place. I love the blissful tranquility of the sea and can spend countless hours at this beach destination. The last time I visited, the family had reserved rooms in the Sundari Complex on Henry's Island, which is a 15-minute drive from Bakkhali. I used to sit on a chair at the beach and drink coconut water along with delicious seafood fare, sourced and prepared by the locals. Long walks by the water are highly recommended - they are therapeutic!
Tip from Trip101 local expert
This is one of my favorite day trip destinations around Kolkata. The quickest and cheapest way to reach Bakkhali is by train, which stops at Namkhana, taking a van to the bus stop, and then boarding one of the buses going to Bakkhali. If you start at 6am from Kolkata, you can easily reach by 9am. Spend the whole day at the sea, dry off on the beach getting all the sun you need, and have a sumptuous seafood lunch at one of the shacks near the beach. You can opt to stay the night in a hotel or come back the same way.
Tapama Resort
Address: National Highway 12 Bakkhali, West Bengal, Amrabati, Bakkhali, India, 743339
242.81 km (150.9 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
Kolkata Tour Guide
Nibedita Sen
A hearty WELCOME to our page Happiness Activist. We are here to solve the problems of foreigners who come to explore India. Firstly, we suggest them to stop visiting the wonders and mundanes of social media advertisements about overrated traveling. We provide them the basic needs and guidelines that the audience requires when they first step into an unknown land which we have already explored. Secondly, we are not like any other travel guides. If you are here to explore the museum, zoo, or places that you can easily google about Kolkata then Sorry, we are not the right one to help you. Our USP is to guide those travellers who are offbeat and craze for the undiscovered and less travelled places in India, Egypt and Israel. Through our eyes, 'WE WILL MAKE YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH YOURSELF'
Tours by Nibedita
5. Mayapur (from USD 71)
Looking for a popular weekend destination from Kolkata? Mayapur holds great spiritual significance as the birthplace of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Located along the Ganges River, about 128.3 km (79.72 mi) from Kolkata, this sacred town attracts devotees worldwide. The iconic Temple of the Vedic Planetarium (TOVP) - ISKCON Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir, one of the world’s largest temples, serves as a spiritual center.
Pilgrims engage in devotional activities, including chanting, meditation, and lectures. The temple complex features lush gardens and exhibits about the culture.
Mayapur offers a serene escape from city life, providing an opportunity for introspection and rejuvenation. Immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere, explore the spiritual heritage, and connect with Vedic culture.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
It is a customary ritual for me to visit the iconic ISKCON temple whenever I am staying in Mayapur. On most of our visits, we have booked rooms in the temple's guesthouse. The ambiance around the temple is peaceful, and I have spent hours here just meditating, reading, and conversing with other pilgrims.
Hotel Sonar Bangla Mayapur
Address: NH 34, Mouza Bahadurpur, P. S - Dhubulia,, Mayapur, Mayapur, India, 741125
77.48 km (48.2 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
6. Sundarbans (from USD 269)
Wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers will undoubtedly want to take a weekend trip from Kolkata and 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 Dayapur Island, just some 15 km (9 miles) away from the Sundarban Park Safari, and 150 km (93 miles) from 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.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
I visited the mangrove forest of Sundarban during my high school years, along with my parents. We booked the package cruise tour offered by West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation and spent two days exploring the rivers and creeks of Sundarban on a well-maintained launch. I will never forget the experience of floating on the mysterious waters looking at the dark forests on either side, wondering what secrets they hid. I knew well enough what was under the water though - we saw two huge crocodiles from afar! The saltwater crocodiles of Sundarban are known for their large size and ferocious nature.
We were not 'lucky' enough to come across the other pride of Sundarban, the Royal Bengal Tiger. But we did see some pug marks on the mud near the Sajnekhali Watch Tower.
Sunderban Tiger Camp
Address: Sunderban Dayapur, District 24 Paraganas (South)
210.26 km (130.7 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
7. Gangtok (from USD 9)
Tucked away in the eastern Himalayan range at an elevation of 5,410 feet (1,650 meters), Gangtok is the buzzing capital city of Sikkim. Misty verdant rolling hills, dramatic snowy landscapes, and the contrasting skyline of Gangtok have won the hearts of avid travelers. Witnessing Mount Kanchenjunga’s golden hue in the morning will surely be a wonderful experience. The city is about 671 km (416 miles) away from Kolkata. One of its most revered spiritual sites is Rumtek Monastery, where you can witness sacred paintings, manuscripts, and art objects. If you’re a backpacker then look for the Tagalong Backpackers accommodation, which is affordable and comes with a complimentary Wi-Fi connection. It is situated 1.6 km (0.9 miles) from Palzor Stadium.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Gangtok is another place my parents took me to when I was a kid. I still remember visiting Tsongmo Lake, popularly known as Chhangu Lake amongst Bengalis, and the cold October wind almost blew me away. Then, I had a yak ride and it was very insistent on walking right by the edge of the lake, making my teeth chatter even more - this time in fear.
Tag Along Backpackers
Address: Near Punjab and Sind Bank, Development Area, Gangtok
416.93 km (259.1 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
8. Rishyap (from USD 33)
Boasting misty mornings in the ever-green rolling Neora Valley in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal lies the quaint Himalayan hamlet, Rishyap or Rishop. Choosing this serene and verdant destination means feasting your eyes on the incredible vistas of the snow-capped mountains of the Kanchenjunga range and 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 in 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 a tranquil atmosphere. The area is popular for having gorgeous hiking trails.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
I have visited Rishyap twice, once with my parents and once with my university friends. I have sweet memories of hiking on the scenic trails from both trips. The beauty of the mountains and the glorious diversity of flora and fauna here are amazing. I have heard that there are bears in the forest, but I haven't come across any - probably they don't like tourists.
Neora Valley Retreat
Address: Neora Valley Resort
392.93 km (244.2 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
9. Puri (from USD 11)
The spiritual place for 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 city also has a long beach, which is better for strolling than swimming. Backpackers can head to the eastern end of Chakratirtha Road to enjoy the calm shoreline. Find Puri Hotel situated right on Puri Beach. It is close to 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.
474.69 km (295.0 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
10. Kurseong (from USD 21)
The lush hill station of Kurseong is located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. It is 32 km (20 miles) from Darjeeling. Due to its altitude of 1,458 meters (4,783 ft), the hill station is home to a myriad of verdant tea gardens. Kurseong is dubbed as the ’Land of White Orchids’, and you can spot the beautiful flowers here. Kurseong is accessible by road from Siliguri, which is about 47 km (29 miles) away. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway also connects the town with other parts of the state. Just a 1.5-km (0.9-mile) drive away from Kurseong is Sunnyside Eco Homestay, which offers chic wooden cottages nestled in a small forested area. The property is ideal for 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
362.62 km (225.4 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
11. Digha (from USD 30)
Digha is a popular coastal resort for a family vacation in West Bengal. This beach town lies about 200 km (124 miles) southwest of Kolkata. You can access this getaway by taking a bus ride from Kolkata, which might take you around five hours. Digha has a powdery sand beach extending about 7 km (4.3 miles) in length and is encompassed by the resplendent Casuarina plantations along the coast. Enjoy spectacular sunrises and sunsets on the Bay of Bengal and feel the soothing cool sea breeze. Consider staying at Hotel Seagull, which is affordable and elegant at the same time. It offers comfortable rooms with a garden view.
Tip from Trip101 local expert
Digha is best enjoyed in cooler seasons, such as monsoon or winter, as it tends to get extremely hot in summer. If you do visit in summer, make sure to carry sunscreen, a hat, and an umbrella with you. It is advisable to carry your cell phone in your pocket or bag while exploring the streets for extra safety. You will find many vendors selling roasted corn by the beach - a must-try in my opinion. While fried seafood is sold on the beach itself, it's best to relish that at your hotel. If you're looking for a hotel close to the beach, book a stay at Hotel Marine Park, which is less than a five-minute stroll away and is ideal for both couples and families. The hotel has a lovely lawn with swing sets and a swimming pool, which made sure we had a wonderful time even when we were not at the beach! While the hotel itself serves delicious food, you can check out nearby eateries such as Aqua Blues or Sonar Bangla Restaurant, both less than five minutes away.
Hotel Seagull
Address: Old Digha Sea Beach Road
229.29 km (142.5 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
12. Bolpur (from USD 36)
This beautiful city is located about 145 km (90 miles) north of Kolkata and is close to Visva Bharati University in Shantiniketan. Bolpur is a subdivision of the Birbhum district in West Bengal. Tourists will have the chance to visit historical buildings, narrow lanes, cottage-style homes, and 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 Rabindra Jayanti, when locals celebrate the birthday of Rabindranath Tagore. Consider staying at Saptarshi Bungalow, which comes with a beautiful garden and a terrace. The accommodation is fully equipped and there are ample spaces for a leisurely stroll. Bolpur is about 2 km (1.2 miles) from Saptarshi Bungalow.
Saptarshi Bungalow
Address: Purbapalli North Santiniketan
659 meters (0.5 ft) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
13. Murshidabad (from USD 40)
A historic town on the banks of the Hooghly River, Murshidabad is a must-visit destination near Kolkata. You can travel to the town via train; take the Hazarduari Express to reach within just four hours.
Murshidabad is most famous for the stunning Hazarduari Palace, which houses a museum on its expansive compound. You will find real weapons and other interesting artifacts belonging to the erstwhile Nawabs of India displayed here. Aside from this popular attraction, the town is dotted with ruins of several mansions, palaces, and mosques, including the majestic Katra Masjid and Kathgola Palace. Once you’re done visiting the historic monuments, shop some fine silk garments to take home.
Jalchhabi Hotel and Resort
Address: 351, Chandni, Lalbag., Hazarduari, Murshidabad, India, 742149
80.09 km (49.8 mi) from Rabindra Bhavana (Santiniketan Museum)
Rejuvenating getaways from Kolkata
Spend a relaxing and intimate weekend getaway in the northeastern part of India and discover a totally different side of the country. Plan your Kolkata itinerary by considering the above-listed weekend getaways and enjoy a marvelous time visiting all these destinations.
Frequently asked questions about the top weekend getaways around Kolkata, India
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