From the world's largest mangrove forest to centuries-old temples, the region around Kolkata offers rich weekend options.
1. Sundarbans
Distance: about 110 to Godkhali jetty km (about 3 hours by road, then by boat) · Best for: nature and wildlife
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Royal Bengal tiger. Explore creeks by boat, visit watchtowers such as Sajnekhali, and spot crocodiles, birds and spotted deer. Most visitors join a two-day package that includes the boat, meals and permits.
2. Digha and Mandarmani
Distance: about 180 km (about 4 hours; also by train to Digha) · Best for: beach weekends, families
Popular sea beaches on the Bay of Bengal. Digha is lively and busy, while Mandarmani has a long, quieter beach with resorts.
3. Shantiniketan
Distance: about 160 km (3 to 4 hours, or by train to Bolpur) · Best for: culture, art lovers
The university town founded by Rabindranath Tagore, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Visva-Bharati, the Tagore museum, the Saturday Sonajhuri haat and, in December, the famous Poush Mela.
4. Bishnupur
Distance: about 150 km (about 4 hours) · Best for: history, crafts
Known for its 17th and 18th-century terracotta temples, such as Rasmancha and Jor Bangla, and for Baluchari sarees and terracotta crafts.
5. Mayapur
Distance: about 130 km (about 3.5 hours) · Best for: spiritual travel, families
A spiritual centre on the banks of the Ganga, home to the large ISKCON temple complex, with peaceful river views and boat rides to Nabadwip.
6. Taki
Distance: about 75 km (about 2.5 hours) · Best for: slow, peaceful breaks
A quiet riverside town on the Ichamati, which forms part of the India–Bangladesh border. Enjoy river views, sunsets and local sweets.
Quick comparison
| Getaway | Approx. distance | Ideal trip | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sundarbans | 110 km + boat | 2 days | Mangroves and wildlife |
| Digha / Mandarmani | 180 km | 2 days | Beaches |
| Shantiniketan | 160 km | 1 to 2 days | Tagore and culture |
| Bishnupur | 150 km | 1 to 2 days | Terracotta temples |
| Mayapur | 130 km | 1 to 2 days | Spiritual and riverside |
| Taki | 75 km | 1 day | River border town |
Tips
- October to March is ideal; avoid the Sundarbans during cyclone warnings.
- Use government-approved operators for Sundarbans trips and carry ID for permits.
- Book early for Poush Mela weekends in Shantiniketan.
- Carry mosquito repellent for mangrove and riverside trips.
Weekend Getaways: the full series
- Part 1: From Chennai
- Part 2: From Bengaluru
- Part 3: From Hyderabad
- Part 4: From Mumbai and Pune
- Part 5: From Delhi
- Part 6: From Kolkata (you are here)
- Part 7: From Kochi
- Part 8: From Coimbatore and Madurai
- Part 9: From Ahmedabad
- Part 10: How to Plan a Budget Weekend Trip
Travel times, distances and prices are approximate and can change with season, traffic and local rules. Check weather, road conditions, entry permits and timings before you travel.
