Top 8 Offbeat Weekend Destinations Near Kolkata (2025 Guide)
Offbeat Weekend Destinations Near Kolkata – Hidden Gems to Explore 🏞️
While popular destinations like Digha, Mandarmani, and Darjeeling are favorites among weekend travelers, West Bengal is filled with hidden gems that promise peaceful escapes, nature’s beauty, and cultural richness — all within driving distance from Kolkata.
Here are the top offbeat weekend destinations near Kolkata you should explore if you love quiet travel, authentic experiences, and lesser-known spots.
1. Taki – A Riverside Retreat at the Border 🌊
Taki, on the banks of the Ichamati River, is a tranquil town that offers a rare glimpse of India’s border with Bangladesh. It’s known for scenic boat rides, historic rajbaris (palaces), and the serene Golpata Forest. You can see Bangladeshi villages across the river — a unique experience in itself.
What to Do:
Take a boat ride on the Ichamati
Visit the remnants of the Zamindar Rajbari
Explore Golpata Forest (a mangrove patch similar to Sundarbans)
Watch Durga idol immersion from both sides of the border during Bijoya Dashami
Best Time to Visit: October to February (cool, pleasant weather and cultural festivals)
Distance from Kolkata: ~80 km (~3 hours by road)
2. Bawali – Heritage, Royalty & Rustic Charm 🏯
Bawali is home to the Rajbari Bawali, a restored 300-year-old mansion turned into a luxurious heritage hotel. A stay here is like time-traveling to Bengal’s aristocratic past. The peaceful village surroundings, ponds, and temples make it perfect for a rejuvenating break.
What to Do:
Explore the grand Rajbari and dine like royalty
Visit nearby temples and rural villages
Attend cultural evenings organized at the heritage property
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Distance from Kolkata: ~35 km (~1.5 hours)
Located near Namkhana, Mousuni Island is still untouched by mass tourism. The island offers clean beaches, eco-stay camps, and spectacular sunsets. There are no hotels here — only tents and basic huts — perfect for those who want to disconnect from the city and enjoy nature.
What to Do:
Stay in beachside tents
Birdwatching and sunrise photography
Stargazing by the sea
Try local seafood cooked by villagers
Best Time to Visit: October to March (avoid monsoon and summer heat)
How to Reach: Drive to Namkhana → Cross the river by ferry → Take a local ride to the island
Distance from Kolkata: ~120 km (~5–6 hours including travel time)
In the Purulia district, Ajodhya Hills offers rolling green hills, waterfalls, and tribal culture — all in one package. It’s perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. The area is dotted with sacred sites and tribal villages.
What to Do:
Trek to Bamni Falls and Upper Dam
Visit Mayur Pahar, Pakhi Pahar, and Charida village (famous for Chhau masks)
Enjoy sunset views over the hills
Attend cultural shows during Tusu Parab
Best Time to Visit: October to February (winter is best for hiking)
Distance from Kolkata: ~325 km (~7 hours)
5. Antpur – The Temple Village of Terracotta Beauty 🕉️
Antpur is a spiritual and historical village known for the Radha Govindji Temple, built in 1786. The temple features intricate terracotta carvings and Bengal’s unique temple architecture. It’s also linked to Swami Vivekananda and early Ramakrishna Mission activities.
What to Do:
Explore the 100-foot high Radha Govind Temple
Visit the monastery and meditation spots
Take rural walks and enjoy a picnic under palm trees
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Distance from Kolkata: ~60 km (~2 hours)
6. Piyali Island – A Budget-Friendly Sundarbans Gateway 🌾
Often called the “Mini Sundarbans”, Piyali Island is an affordable alternative to the main Sundarbans region. It’s ideal for one-night trips filled with greenery, river views, and peaceful surroundings.
What to Do:
Nature walks through paddy fields and mangroves
Boating in the Piyali and Matla rivers
Birdwatching and village exploration
Best Time to Visit: November to February (ideal for spotting migratory birds)
Distance from Kolkata: ~70 km (~3 hours)
7. Garh Panchakot – Ruins in the Forest Foothills 🏛️
Nestled near Panchet Hill, Garh Panchakot is a historically rich site with ancient temple ruins surrounded by forests. It’s believed to have been a stronghold against Maratha invasions. The setting is peaceful and photogenic.
What to Do:
Visit the temple ruins and old fort site
Stay in forest resorts or eco-tourism lodges
Explore the nearby Panchet Dam and Joychandi Pahar
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Distance from Kolkata: ~270 km (~6–7 hours)
8. Shankarpur – Bengal’s Untouched Sea Beach 🌅
Located a few kilometers from Digha, Shankarpur offers serene sea views without the crowds. It’s known for its fishing harbor, red crabs, and clean beaches. Perfect for a peaceful beach vacation.
What to Do:
Enjoy long, quiet beach walks
Visit the nearby Mandarmani beach
Watch fishermen bring in their morning catch
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Distance from Kolkata: ~185 km (~4.5 hours)
If you’re tired of touristy chaos and looking for something meaningful yet close to Kolkata, these offbeat weekend destinations are perfect. From riverside charm to ancient ruins, from virgin beaches to tribal hills — Bengal has so much to offer for those who are willing to explore beyond the usual.
So this weekend, skip the crowd and choose one of these hidden gems for a soulful getaway!
