Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is not just about colonial architecture, literary heritage, and mouth-watering street food. The city also serves as a gateway to some of the most fascinating destinations in West Bengal and neighboring states. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or spiritual seeker, there are plenty of amazing places you can explore on a one-day trip from Kolkata.
In this guide, we’ll take you through 11 incredible destinations perfect for a short getaway, along with the best times to visit, nearby attractions, hotel options (if you decide to extend your stay), and approximate travel fares.
Table of Contents
1. Sundarbans – The Mystical Mangrove Forest
Distance from Kolkata: ~110 km (3-4 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: October to March (avoid monsoons due to flooding)
Why Visit?
The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the world’s largest mangrove forest and home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. A day trip here includes a thrilling boat safari, spotting wildlife like crocodiles, dolphins, and exotic birds.
Top Attractions:
- Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary (entry fee: ₹60 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners)
- Sudhanyakhali Watchtower (best for tiger sightings)
- Dobanki Canopy Walk (aerial view of the forest)
Travel Fare:
- By Car: ₹3,000-₹4,000 (round trip)
- By Shared Boat Tour: ₹1,500-₹2,500 per person
Where to Stay (if extending):
- Sundarbans Jungle Camp (Luxury eco-resort)
- Tiger Roar Resort (Budget-friendly)
2. Shantiniketan – Tagore’s Abode of Peace
Distance from Kolkata: ~160 km (3.5 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather)
Why Visit?
Founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, Shantiniketan is a blend of art, culture, and nature. The Visva-Bharati University and Kala Bhavana (art school) are must-visits.
Top Attractions:
- Tagore’s Ashram (Upasana Griha)
- Amar Kutir (Handicraft Village)
- Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary
Travel Fare:
- Train (Howrah-Bolpur Express): ₹150-₹300
- By Car: ₹2,500-₹3,500 (round trip)
Where to Stay:
- Shantiniketan Tourist Lodge (Government-run)
- Poush Mela Guest House (Budget stay)
3. Bishnupur – The Terracotta Temple Town
Distance from Kolkata: ~150 km (4 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Why Visit?
Bishnupur is famous for its 17th-century terracotta temples, classical music (Bishnupur Gharana), and Baluchari silk sarees.
Top Attractions:
- Rasmancha (Oldest temple with pyramid-style architecture)
- Jor Bangla Temple (Exquisite terracotta carvings)
- Bishnupur Mela (Annual fair in December)
Travel Fare:
- Train (Howrah-Bishnupur Express): ₹120-₹250
- By Car: ₹3,000 (round trip)
Where to Stay:
- Bishnupur Lodge (Budget)
- Hotel Laxmi Park (Mid-range)
4. Digha – The Beach Getaway
Distance from Kolkata: ~180 km (4 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Why Visit?
Digha is Kolkata’s closest beach destination, perfect for a relaxing seaside escape.
Top Attractions:
- New Digha Beach (Cleaner and quieter)
- Marine Aquarium (₹30 entry fee)
- Shankarpur Beach (Less crowded)
Travel Fare:
- Train (Howrah-Digha Express): ₹150-₹300
- By Car: ₹3,500 (round trip)
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Sea Hawk (Beachfront stay)
- Digha Resort (Family-friendly)
5. Mandarmani – The Longest Driveable Beach
Distance from Kolkata: ~170 km (4 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Why Visit?
Mandarmani boasts India’s longest driveable beach, luxury resorts, and fresh seafood.
Top Attractions:
- Mandarmani Beach (Red crabs & serene waves)
- Water sports (Jet skiing, banana boat rides)
Travel Fare:
- By Car: ₹3,500-₹4,000 (round trip)
Where to Stay:
- The Dune Resort (Luxury stay)
- Hotel Sonar Bangla (Budget-friendly)
6. Chandannagar – The French Connection
Distance from Kolkata: ~40 km (1.5 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: December-January (Christmas lights)
Why Visit?
A former French colony with colonial-era charm, churches, and riverside walks.
Top Attractions:
- Strand Road (Ganga riverfront)
- Patal Bari (Tagore’s favorite house)
- Christmas Festival (December)
Travel Fare:
- Local Train (Howrah-Bandel): ₹20-₹50
- By Car: ₹1,500 (round trip)
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Neer (Budget)
7. Bakkhali – The Hidden Beach Gem
Distance from Kolkata: ~130 km (4 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Why Visit?
A less commercialized beach with golden sands and peaceful vibes.
Top Attractions:
- Bakkhali Beach (Long walks & seafood shacks)
- Henry’s Island (Mangrove trails)
Travel Fare:
- By Car: ₹3,000 (round trip)
Where to Stay:
- Bakkhali Tourist Lodge
8. Murshidabad – The Nawabi Heritage
Distance from Kolkata: ~200 km (5 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Why Visit?
A historical treasure trove of Nawabi palaces, mosques, and silk factories.
Top Attractions:
- Hazarduari Palace (1,000 doors!)
- Kathgola Gardens (Ancient Jain temple)
Travel Fare:
- Train (Sealdah-Lalgola Express): ₹150-₹300
- By Car: ₹4,000 (round trip)
Where to Stay:
- Hotel Manjusha (Budget)
9. Jayrambati & Kamarpukur – The Divine Retreat
Distance from Kolkata: ~110 km (3 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Why Visit?
Birthplace of Sri Ramakrishna & Ma Sarada Devi, offering spiritual solace.
Top Attractions:
- Kamarpukur Temple (Ramakrishna’s birthplace)
- Jayrambati Ashram (Ma Sarada Devi’s home)
Travel Fare:
- By Car: ₹2,500 (round trip)
10. Kalna – The Temple Town
Distance from Kolkata: ~80 km (2.5 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Why Visit?
Famous for 108 Shiva Temples (Naba Kailash) and terracotta art.
Top Attractions:
- Naba Kailash Temple (108 Shivlings)
- Rajbari Complex (Royal heritage)
Travel Fare:
- Train (Howrah-Kalna): ₹100-₹200
- By Car: ₹2,000 (round trip)
11. Henry’s Island – The Eco-Paradise
Distance from Kolkata: ~130 km (4 hours by road)
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Why Visit?
A pristine, untouched island with mangroves and birdwatching.
Top Attractions:
- Mangrove Kayaking
- Private Beach Stays
Travel Fare:
- By Car: ₹3,000 (round trip)
Where to Stay:
- Sundarban Mangrove Retreat
Final Thoughts
Kolkata’s proximity to beaches, forests, temples, and heritage towns makes it an ideal base for short getaways. Whether you want a spiritual retreat, historical exploration, or beach relaxation, these 11 one-day trips offer something for everyone.
Which one will you explore first? 🚗✨