Slow living has emerged as a new way of lifestyle in the post-pandemic era. As a result, slow travel has also attracted discerning travellers, who are always on the lookout for off-beat experiences. If you are also in the mood to escape city life and take a short trip amidst nature, we have shortlisted 13 places near Kolkata. By Karan Kaushik
Places near Kolkata that deserve a place on your weekend bucket list
Chintamani Kar Bird Sanctuary (20km)
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Named after the noted sculpture Chintamoni Kar, the sanctuary lies in the South 24 Parganas district, at a short distance from Kolkata. Dotted with mango, jackfruit, tamarind, guava, coconut, and other trees, the birding haven inhabits a wide variety of avifaunal species. Some of the most spotted birds here include Spotted Dove, Greater Coucal, Eurasian Coot, Bronze-winged Jacana, Oriental Darter, Indian Cormorant, and White-throated Kingfisher to name a few. You can also spot jungle civets, mongooses, jackals, monitor lizards, and other common mammals and reptiles.
Bawali (35km)
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Famous for its ancient buildings, this rustic town makes for a nice weekend getaway. A stay at The Rajbari Bawali, a 300-year-old boutique heritage property, will give you a sneak peek into the rich cultural heritage of the Mondals, who used to be the zamindars or landlords of Bawali. It is said that the Radha Krishna Temple in Bawali served as the inspiration for the much-revered Dakshineswar Kali Temple. Another must-visit attraction in Bawali is the Gopinath Navaratna Temple.
Chandannagar (48km)
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This popular town stands on the banks of the river Ganges and charms you with its age-old buildings and lush environs. Spend some peaceful time at the Chandarnagar Strand, walk through the pages of colonial history at the Chandannagar Museum, and appreciate the French architecture of the Sacred Heart Church. One of the most fascinating places in Chandannagar is the Patal Bari (meaning underground house), a heritage building famous for its unique architecture. Visited by the likes of Rabindranath Tagore, Patal Bari has found mention in eminent works of Bengali literature.
Babur Haat (50km)
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Visit this quaint village to experience rural West Bengal at its soulful best. Blessed with serene lakes, the idyllic village is perfect for a laidback nature trip. You can try your luck at angling here or enjoy a soothing boat ride and catch stunning sunsets. Thanks to its verdant landscape, the village also serves as a mini paradise for birdwatchers. Embark on a nature trail with a friendly local and get a taste of slow-paced Bengali village life as you pass through thatched mud houses.
Diamond Harbour (50km)
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Situated on the eastern banks of the Hooghly River, Diamond Harbour lies in the South 24 Parganas district. It only takes an hour from Kolkata to reach this quaint town. Diamond Harbour is one of those places you would love to drive to on a lazy Sunday afternoon to spend some therapeutic time. Pilgrims flock to the place to take a holy dip in the Ganges Delta. There’s not much that you can do here. If your idea of spending the weekend includes enjoying stunning sunsets and breathing in some fresh air, while you munch on some seafood, Diamond Harbour won’t disappoint.
Raichak (52km)
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Raichak is perfect if you are looking for a quick escape from the bustling city with your friends and family. A stay at Raichak On Ganges come highly recommended. The luxury getaway is blessed with lush environs and cool breezes, thanks to its location on the banks of the Ganges. The 100 acres integrated lifestyle destination features a boutique resort called Ganga Kutir. Then there’s the resort hotel The Ffort Raichak. If you are in the mood to pamper yourself with a rejuvenating massage, head to Anaya, a spa by L’occitane. To enjoy a couple of drinks with your friends, you may visit Footloose, the sports bar and lounge. Raichak on the Ganges also offers country homes for a private staycation.
Deulti (62km)
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One of the most picturesque villages of eastern India, Deulti will leave you enchanted with its untrammeled landscape and blissful energy. Nestled on the banks of river Rupnarayan, Deulti is steeped in history and culture. Literature lovers would love to visit the beautiful bungalow of eminent Bengali novelist and short story writer Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. Adorned with bougainvillaea trees, the house is a nice specimen of traditional Bengali architecture. When done turning the pages of the writer’s life, take a walk to the Rupnarayan river via narrow clay paths lined by lush paddy fields on either side.
Taki (68km)
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Endowed with a rich cultural heritage and natural reserves, Taki served as the home for wealthy zamindars in the yesteryears. Today, the palatial buildings of those rich landlords stand as a testament to the glorious past of Taki. The most famous bungalow here Adi Bari belongs to General Shankar Roychowshury. Taki is also home to the oldest Ramkrishna Mission. Must-visit attractions include the ancient Jora Shiv and Kuleshwari Kali temples. Nature lovers must also visit Machranga island by boarding a ferry from the banks of the Ichamati River.
Khanyan (68km)
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Khanyan is home to the Itachuna Rajbari, one of the most iconic residential structures of West Bengal. Also known as the Khanyan Rajbari or Bargee Danga, the palatial house was constructed by the ancestors of Safallya Narayan Kundu in 1766. The building is steeped in history and myth. It was built by Maratha warriors, who chose to settle in Bengal, following a long-standing battle between the Marathas and the Mughals. Today, the residential complex serves as a popular heritage homestay. The evening aarti held here is something you must look forward to. The homestay also hosts interesting cultural events and workshops throughout the year.
Bardhaman (103km)
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Famous for its delicious sitabhog and mihidana, Bardhaman or Burdwan is a great example of India’s plurality. Here, you will find stunning temples and Islamic tombs. As you enter the town, you will be welcomed by the historical Bijoy Toran, which was built by Maharaja Bijoychand of Burdwan to welcome Bengal’s Viceroy Lord Curzon. Important attractions in Burdwan include the tomb of Sher Afgan, the tomb of Khwaja Anwar, Kamalakanta Kalibari Temple, Shah Alam’s Dargah, Siddheswari Temple, Baikuntanath Shiva Temple, to name a few. Nature lovers may visit the Krishnasagar Ecological Park. If you are travelling with kids, do take them to the Meghnad Saha Planetarium and the Burdwan Science Centre.
Bakkhali (124km)
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Famous as India’s easternmost beach stretch, Bakkhali will surprise you with its unspoiled and pristine white sand Bakkhali Beach. The beach is located on the southwestern tip of the Sunderbans. When here, you may fancy leisurely walks, sip coconut water, and savour some delicious seafood. You may also plan a trip to Henry’s Island, which will give you an idea about the life lived by the dwellers of the mystical Sunderbans. Bakkhali serves as a nice spot for anglers too, thanks to the ponds that have been created here by the State Fisheries Department.
Mayapur (130km)
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If you are a Krishna devotee and if you love the positive vibes that ISCON temples offer, you can’t afford to miss Mayapur. Formerly known as Miyapur, this charming town sits at the confluence of the Jalangi and Bhagirathi rivers. Home to the world’s biggest ISCON temple, Mayapur is believed to be the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Embark on a spiritual experience like no other and get drenched in religious fervour as you sing and dance with the priests during the evening prayer service at ISCON. You must also visit the Yogapith Temple, which was established in the 1880s by Bhaktivinoda Thakur.
Bishnupur (140km)
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Once the seat of the mighty Malla kings, Bishnupur is famous for its terracotta temples, Baluchari sarees, and Bankura clay horses. Heritage buffs and lovers of traditional art and craft will love it here. The prime attraction is the 17th century Shyam Rai Temple, built during the reign of Bir Hambir and Raghunath Singh. Right next to it are the Jore Bangla and Radhe Shyam temples. The oldest terracotta structure, however, is the Raas Mancha. These ancient temples are located at a kissing distance from Shyam Bandh Lake. Other important attractions are Lal Bandh and Bishnupur Museum.
Related: 5 ‘Hidden’ Gems Of Kolkata That You Can’t Afford To Miss
Karan Kaushik
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