Weekend Getaways Near Kolkata: Resorts, Cottages, and Nature Retreats

Sometimes, all you need is a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Fortunately, Kolkata is surrounded by serene destinations that are perfect for rejuvenating weekends. From riverside retreats to eco-tourism spots, here’s a curated list of resorts, cottages, and nature retreats near Kolkata that promise tranquility and adventure.

1. Sunderbans: The Mangrove Paradise

• Distance from Kolkata: ~110 km (~3 hours by road)
• Stay:
  • Sunderbans Tiger Camp: Offers comfortable cottages with wildlife safaris.
  • Sundarban Riverside Retreat: A serene retreat overlooking the mangroves.
• Activities:
  • Explore the world’s largest mangrove forest on a guided boat safari.
  • Spot the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger and exotic birds.
  • Visit the Sajnekhali Watchtower for panoramic views.

Travel Tip: Travel in groups to maximize your experience, and don’t forget insect repellent.

2. Shantiniketan: The Land of Tagore

• Distance from Kolkata: ~160 km (~3.5 hours by road/train)
• Stay:
  • Mitali Homestays: Cozy cottages with a rustic vibe.
  • Vishram Vatika: An eco-friendly retreat close to nature.
• Activities:
  • Visit Tagore’s home, Visva-Bharati University, and the Uttarayan Complex.
  • Explore the local haat (market) for tribal handicrafts and baul music performances.
  • Take a serene stroll through the Kopai Riverbanks.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit around Poush Mela (December) or Basanta Utsav (Holi).

3. Mandarmani: A Beach Retreat

• Distance from Kolkata: ~180 km (~4 hours by road)
• Stay:
  • Rose Valley Resort: Luxurious beachfront accommodations.
  • Eco Villa Resort: Sustainable cottages with sea views.
• Activities:
  • Enjoy serene walks along the beach.
  • Indulge in water sports like ATV rides and banana boat rides.
  • Relish fresh seafood delicacies at local shacks.

Travel Tip: Mandarmani is quieter than Digha, making it ideal for those seeking peace.

4. Bawali: The Heritage Hamlet

• Distance from Kolkata: ~35 km (~1.5 hours by road)
• Stay:
  • The Rajbari Bawali: A restored 300-year-old zamindar mansion offering royal hospitality.
• Activities:
  • Experience a blend of luxury and history in the opulent property.
  • Stroll through the nearby villages for a glimpse of rural Bengal.
  • Enjoy cultural evenings with folk music and traditional Bengali cuisine.

Travel Tip: Ideal for short trips; book well in advance as the Rajbari is a popular choice.

5. Bishnupur: The Temple Town

• Distance from Kolkata: ~140 km (~4 hours by road/train)
• Stay:
  • Hotel Annapurna: A simple yet comfortable stay.
  • Heritage Cottages: Near the terracotta temples.
• Activities:
  • Marvel at the terracotta temples like Rasmancha and Jor Bangla.
  • Shop for Baluchari sarees and terracotta artifacts.
  • Visit the Madan Mohan Temple and Dalmadal Cannon for a touch of history.

Travel Tip: Bishnupur is best explored on a bicycle or by walking through the heritage sites.

6. Raichak: A Riverside Escape

• Distance from Kolkata: ~50 km (~2 hours by road)
• Stay:
  • The Ffort Raichak: A luxury riverside resort with stunning Ganges views.
  • Ganga Kutir: A boutique resort with a serene ambiance.
• Activities:
  • Take a ferry ride on the Hooghly River.
  • Enjoy spa treatments and swimming pools at the resorts.
  • Relish a candlelight dinner with a riverside view.

Travel Tip: Perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

7. Mousuni Island: An Offbeat Beach Paradise

• Distance from Kolkata: ~120 km (~4.5 hours by road)
• Stay:
  • Eco-camps and Tents: Basic and eco-friendly accommodations close to nature.
• Activities:
  • Relax on pristine beaches away from commercial chaos.
  • Witness mesmerizing sunsets and starlit skies.
  • Engage in kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching.

Travel Tip: Carry essentials like toiletries and snacks as facilities are minimal.

8. Henry’s Island: A Coastal Hideaway

• Distance from Kolkata: ~130 km (~4 hours by road)
• Stay:
  • Sundari Eco Resort: Comfortable cottages amidst mangroves.
  • Henry Island Fisheries Lodge: Government-operated simple stays.
• Activities:
  • Explore the quiet, secluded beaches.
  • Spot crabs and other marine life in the tidal creeks.
  • Take a leisurely walk through the mangrove forests.

Travel Tip: The best time to visit is during winter when the weather is pleasant.

9. Joypur Forest: A Nature Lover’s Retreat

• Distance from Kolkata: ~150 km (~3.5 hours by road)
• Stay:
  • WBFDC Forest Bungalows: Comfortable and rustic accommodations in the forest.
• Activities:
  • Go for a jungle safari or nature walks.
  • Spot deer, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Enjoy peaceful evenings surrounded by dense greenery.

Travel Tip: Carry binoculars and wear muted colors to blend into the forest environment.

10. Tajpur: The Virgin Beach

• Distance from Kolkata: ~170 km (~4 hours by road)
• Stay:
  • Tajpur Nature Camp: Eco-friendly tents close to the beach.
  • Pearl Beach Resort: Modern amenities with scenic views.
• Activities:
  • Take a stroll on the red-crab-laden beach.
  • Enjoy adventure activities like parasailing and windsurfing.
  • Savor fresh seafood at local shacks.

Travel Tip: Visit during weekdays to experience the true serenity of this offbeat destination.

Quick Packing Tips for Weekend Getaways

• Comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
• Power bank and portable chargers.
• Basic medicines and toiletries.
• A camera to capture your memories.

With these serene retreats and offbeat destinations near Kolkata, you’ll always have a quick escape ready for your weekends. Whether it’s reconnecting with nature, indulging in luxurious comforts, or discovering hidden gems, these getaways promise unforgettable experiences.