Places to visit near Kolkata – A bucket list of road trips around Kolkata

The City of Joy – Kolkata was the erstwhile capital of India and is known for its vibrant culture with a significant history and grand architecture belonging to the colonial era among other attractions. It is the land of thinkers and visionaries like Rabindranath Tagore, Swami Vivekananda, and Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and is home to a range of cultural and art-related events. Kolkata also functions as an essential hub for traveling to northeastern states and exploring neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Burma. While there are numerous places to visit in Kolkata, the city is surrounded by man-made and natural wonders and is the ideal starting point for many memorable road trips. Within a few hours from the city, you can be immersed in the lap of nature or marvel at fascinating landscapes or structures. If you are interested in travelling to these destinations near Kolkata, you can avail our Kolkata cab service for a comfortable travel experience.

Savaari’s Curated Places to Visit near Kolkata

  1. Santiniketan (Shantiniketan), The Land of Rabindranath Tagore
  2. Sunderbans, The Largest Mangrove Forestation in the World
  3. Digha, Brighton of the East
  4. Gangani, Bengal’s Grand Canyon
  5. Gangasagar, Take a Holy Dip
  6. Tendrabong, The Mystical Valley
  7. Ambika Kalna, The Heritage Town
  8. Mousuni, Virgin beaches and fisherfolk fables
  9. Murshidabad, For the love of history
  10. Taki, Peek into Bangladesh
  11. Madarmani, the beach getaway
  12. Bardhaman, the haven for history lovers

Why is Kolkata an ideal starting point for road trips?

Kolkata is situated on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River and offers easy access to major cities in central and northeastern India. West Bengal shares its borders with the Indian states of Orissa, Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, and Sikkim, and other countries including Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. Roads and highways, in and around Kolkata, have been maintained by the authorities offering a smooth driving experience. 

Exploring a region can be done best with an experienced driver and a well-maintained car. While you can drive and explore destinations yourself, Savaari offers highly affordable and efficient car rental service in Kolkata to help you enjoy the journey without having to worry about driving. Save & share this handy infographic curated by Savaari for the best places to visit near Kolkata. The roads are calling where are you?

Places to visit near Kolkata

[Also read: History of Durga Puja & list of Pandal hopping in Kolkata]

Santiniketan (Shantiniketan), The Land of Rabindranath Tagore

Santiniketan, also known as Shantiniketan, was founded by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore in 1921 as a neighborhood that embodies peace and tranquility. Situated in green surroundings, a trip to this world-famous neighborhood will take you back in time and marvel at the revolutionary thought process of Rabindranath Tagore.

Why do we recommend visiting Santiniketan?

Places to visit near Kolkata, Shantiniketan

Santiniketan is a marvel of modern times. If you haven’t read about Tagore and his life, then we recommend that you do so before visiting Santiniketan. It’s a seat of education in nature and works as the pivot for local artists and artisans encouraging local handicrafts. It is one of the perfect places to visit for a one-day trip near Kolkata.

Why should you travel to Santiniketan by road?

Santiniketan is situated in the Birbhum District of West Bengal. If you are in the mood for a four-hour drive that takes you back in time and offers insights into the passion and vision of the visionary Rabindranath Tagore, then a trip to Santiniketan is highly recommended. 

You need to head north from Kolkata and take the NH19 and NH114 to Rabindra Bithi Bypass Road in Bolpur. This bypass will take you straight to Santiniketan. The drive from Kolkata to Santiniketan will take you through the mesmerizing countryside of Bengal. With villages as old as time and modernization teasing at their peripheries, the road trip is guaranteed to be a memorable one.

A trip to Santiniketan is ideal for 

One day is usually sufficient to explore Santiniketan from Kolkata if you are willing to leave early in the morning (remember, around four hours of travel time to reach). If you are fascinated by the place, then there are several hotels in the neighborhood that can be considered for an overnight stay.

You should travel here if you are:

  • A history buff and aware of the teachings and philosophies of Rabindranath Tagore. 
  • A solo traveler to enjoy the serenity in the air. A quiet walk around the campus can help you imagine how life would have been there more than a century ago.

[Book a cab from Kolkata to Shantiniketan]

Sunderbans, The Largest Mangrove Forestation in the World

Sunderbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a mangrove forestation spread across an area of around 10,000 square kilometers making it the largest in the world. Interestingly, around 60% of the Sunderbans falls in Bangladesh and only 40% in India. It is home to the largest number of tigers in India along with a range of plants and species native to the region.

Why do we recommend visiting Sunderbans?

Kolkata to Sunderban weekend getaway

There are many forests and wildlife sanctuaries in India. However, they don’t compare to the thrill and excitement offered by the Sunderbans. Apart from being the largest deltaic mangrove forest in the world, it is also the world’s largest estuarine forest with hundreds of creeks and tributaries crisscrossing through the forest. Despite being one of the most preferred weekend getaways from Kolkata and having attracted millions of visitors over the years, Sunderbans is still considered to be an undiscovered paradise.

[Also read: A detailed travel guide on Sunderbans]

Why should you travel to Sunderbans by road?

While there are many ways to reach Sunderbans from Kolkata, the most convenient option is by road. Also, it is important to remember that you will have to leave your vehicle and take a boat to reach Sunderbans. Hence, a rental car is a better option than driving your own vehicle. You can catch a ferry from the Godkhali Ferry Ghat to the national park. Sunderbans is one of the best places to visit near Kolkata within 100 kms.

You need to head south from Kolkata and take the Baruipur – Canning Road and SH3 to reach the Godkhali Ferry Ghat in South 24 Parganas. As you start driving from Kolkata to Sunderbans, the urban landscape will gradually give way to a calmer rural setting, vast open fields, and culminate at the estuary-rich region of South 24 Parganas. It is important to remember that traveling to Sunderbans during the monsoon months of June to October is banned.

A trip to Sunderbans is ideal for 

While Sunderbans is huge, you cannot explore it entirely during one trip. However, to get a good experience of the region, make sure that you plan a trip for at least two-three days. Hence, if you are looking for places to visit near Kolkata for the weekend, then Sunderbans is a good option. 

You should travel here if you are:

  • A wildlife enthusiast
  • A photographer who loves clicking animals, plants, and landscapes
  • An adventure-seeker 

[Book a cab from Kolkata to Sunderbans]

Digha, Brighton of the East

Digha is one of the most popular seaside destinations in West Bengal. Popularly known as Brighton of the East, it has a shallow sand beach and gentle waves making it an ideal sea resort and tourist spot. It is girdled by casuarina plantations and offers mesmerizing views of the sunrise and sunset.

Why do we recommend visiting Digha?

Beach places to visit near Kolkata, Digha

Digha offers one of the most picturesque views of the sunset in West Bengal. It is a flat beach and is considered to be one of the widest in the world. It has an unspoiled and vast shoreline that exudes beauty at every step. Discovered in the 18th Century by the British, the first Governor-General of Bengal, Warren Hastings named it Brighton of the East for its unparalleled beauty. This is one of the beautiful beach places to visit near Kolkata.

[Also read: A detailed travel guide on Digha]

Why should you travel to Digha by road?

Digha is situated in the Purba Medinipur District of West Bengal. It is a scenic four-hour drive and passes through some plush green surroundings with a range of eateries. Well-maintained roads ensure a smooth and memorable drive. Digha Beach is at the border of Orissa and West Bengal. You take the NH16 and turn on the NH116B at Kolaghat. It is an amazing drive, especially during the bright summer months.

[A detailed road trip guide from Kolkata to Digha]

A trip to Digha is ideal for 

Digha is one of the most popular romantic getaways near Kolkata. It is one of the few places to visit near Kolkata in the summer. You can plan a one-day trip or spend the weekend at this beautiful seaside location. The flat beach at Digha makes it ideal for children since they can play and families to just sit down and marvel at the setting sun.

You should travel here if you are:

  • Looking for a seaside romantic getaway
  • Traveling with your family and kids
  • A Thalassophile (an ocean lover) 

[Book a cab from Kolkata to Digha]

Gangani, Bengal’s Grand Canyon

Gangani Danga or Gangani Canyon is a small but rare landform on the banks of the Shilabati River. This is a 70-feet deep natural canyon created by the erosion of the river. It is a picturesque location and sunsets are mesmerizing when seen from across the canyon.

Why do we recommend visiting Gangani?

Gangani places to visit nearby

Gangani is West Bengal’s answer to Arizona’s Grand Canyon and Gandikota in Andhra Pradesh. This is one of the most exciting offbeat places to visit near Kolkata. You can trek up the mountains and enjoy an unrestricted view of the Shilabati River. 

Why should you travel to Gangani by road?

Gangani is situated in Paschim Medinipur in West Bengal. You can start early in the morning from Kolkata and halt at Kolaghat for breakfast before you start your journey toward Kharagpur. The journey from here is very smooth and surrounded by mountains and greenery.

A trip to Gangani is ideal for 

Gangani is the perfect destination for a one-day picnic or a weekend getaway.

You should travel here if you are:

  • Traveling in a group
  • Looking for a one-day or weekend picnic destination near Kolkata
  • A nature lover 

Gangasagar, Take a Holy Dip

Gangasagar, also known as Sagardweep is an island in the Ganges Delta and at the confluence of the Ganga into the Bay of Bengal. It is a popular and important pilgrimage site in West Bengal.

Why do we recommend visiting Gangasagar?

Gangasagar drive from Kolkata

In the old days, people traveled from all across Bengal to take a holy dip in the Gangasagar. This dip is believed to purify people of their sins and help achieve Moksha – freedom from the cycle of life and death. The most auspicious time to visit Gangasagar is during Makar Sankranti.

Why should you travel to Gangasagar by road?

Situated in South 24 Parganas. As you start approaching the location, you will be amazed by the sight of beautiful dotting little ponds at the side of the road. With a rental car, you can sit back and soak in the views while enjoying the journey. 

[A detailed road trip guide from Kolkata to Gangasagar]

A trip to Gangasagar is ideal for 

Gangasagar is a perfect weekend getaway. Since it’s a short drive from Kolkata, you can plan a one-day trip here too provided you leave early in the morning.

You should travel here if you are:

  • A religious traveler
  • A spiritual person looking for a peaceful and serene atmosphere

[Book a cab from Kolkata to Gangasagar]

Tendrabong, The Mystical Valley

Tendrabong is a hilly hamlet and one of the most sacred places of the Lepcha and Limbu communities. Its name is derived from Buddhist rituals and signifies a locality where ‘Tangdar’ or ‘Beating of Drums’ can be heard during Buddhist rituals. 

Why do we recommend visiting Tendrabong?

Tendrabong is a serene Lepcha village in the Mayrong forest. It is an ideal getaway for spending serene holidays in the lap of nature, witnessing the traditional art of step-farming, and walking amidst the clouds. When the skies are clear, you can also get an exclusive view of Mount Kanchenjunga from the village.

[Also read: A detailed travel guide on Kalimpong]

Why should you travel to Tendrabong by road?

Tendrabong is located 25km northeast of Kalimpong. The journey includes driving through the open landscapes of rural Bengal and the hilly terrain of North Bengal. Avoid traveling during monsoons as landslides are highly possible. 

A trip to Tendrabong is ideal for 

Tendrabong is one of the best places to visit near Kolkata by car. It is an ideal destination to explore the unexplored hills of the mysterious Neora Valley National Park.

You should travel here if you are:

  • A nature lover
  • Trekker and wildlife enthusiast

Ambika Kalna, The Heritage Town

Ambika Kalna is a heritage town that dates back a thousand years graced by the presence of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in the sixteenth century. The famous terracotta temples of Ambika Kalna was built in the 18th and 19th centuries by Burdwan Maharajas. 

Why do we recommend visiting Ambika Kalna?

Ambika Kalna place to visit near Kolkata by car

Ambika Kalna is an ancient town with history at every turn. A simple walk around the narrow lanes can leave you pleasantly enriched by the history this town holds. The Raajabari Complex is home to most of the famous temples of Ambika Kalna. 

Why should you travel to Ambika Kalna by road?

Ambika Kalna is located in the Purba Bardhaman District of West Bengal. You can take the SH6 from Kolkata and drive through the picturesque rural landscapes of Bengal.

A trip to Ambika Kalna is ideal for 

Ambika Kalna is a heritage town and is ideal for a one-day trip from Kolkata.

You should travel here if you are:

  • A history buff
  • A lover of temple architecture

Mousuni, Virgin beaches and fisherfolk fables

Mousuni is a small island near Namkhana at the confluence of a sea and river. It is a paradise for birdwatchers and an ideal destination to laze on hammocks, take a short swim, and build sand castles.

Why do we recommend visiting Mousuni?

Kolkata to Mousuni a scenic shoreline road trip

Mousuni is a fisherman’s wharf and a birdwatcher’s paradise. With a clear sandy beach, coconut trees, serene waters, and hammocks – Mousuni has everything one needs from a beach location minus the excessive crowds and commercial establishments.

Why should you travel to Mousuni by road?

Mousuni is on an island near Namkhana in West Bengal. You can take the NH12 from Kolkata and cut through some beautiful houses and landscapes of Bengal.

A trip to Mousuni is ideal for 

Mousuni is an island beach location that is ideal for a one-day trip as well as a weekend. 

You should travel here if you are:

  • A beach lover
  • Looking for a quiet destination for a beach party or family reunion
  • A romantic couple

Murshidabad, For the love of history

Murshidabad is an excellent offbeat weekend destination for history lovers. This ancient capital of Bengal was once as prosperous as London but started losing its glory after the British annexed it in 1757. However, structures and relics from the past whisper stories of its glory across the city.

Why do we recommend visiting Murshidabad?

Murshidabad offers a range of experiences to travelers. It is a town steeped in history with structures dating back hundreds of years.

Why should you travel to Murshidabad by road?

To reach Murshidabad, you can take NH12 from Kolkata and drive through refreshing rural Bengal leaving the urban Kolkata stress behind. 

A trip to Murshidabad is ideal for 

Murshidabad is a historical town and an ideal weekend destination from Kolkata. Since you have to drive for around 6-7 hours to get there, you should plan a trip for 2-3 days to explore the place.

You should travel here if you are:

  • A history buff
  • Someone who likes exploring ancient towns

[Book a cab from Kolkata to Murshidabad]

Taki, Peek into Bangladesh

Taki is growing in popularity as a weekend getaway from Kolkata. Situated on the banks of the Ichamati River, it traditionally used to be a seat of rich zamindars in the region. It still has many palatial buildings along with the oldest Ramkrishna Mission, a 250-year-old Government School, and a 300-year-old Jora Shiva Temple among other attractions.

Why do we recommend visiting Taki?

Taki is an extremely green location with numerous Sundari and Golpata trees. The Ichamati River has India on one side and Bangladesh on the other. You can stand on the banks of the river and peek into another country. You might need to carry a valid government identification document since this is a border area.

Why should you travel to Taki by road?

To reach Taki, you can take Basanti Highway from Kolkata. The road cuts through some interesting villages and locations. Make sure that you leave early so that you can halt at these villages for a memorable journey. 

A trip to Taki is ideal for 

While Taki is at a short distance from Kolkata, you need at least two days to explore the area and places around it ideal for families and large groups as they can enjoy picnics, jungle walks, and ferry rides

You should travel here if you are:

  • Traveling with your family
  • Traveling in a large group

[Book a cab from Kolkata to Taki]

Mandarmani, the ultimate beach getaway

Mandarmani is one of Bengal’s most fashionable beach resorts. It is a calm seaside destination where you can feel the full splendour of the Bay of Bengal, making it ideal for a romantic break by the sea. Its glittering waters and thick palm groves make it an ideal escape from the city for couples, families, and tourists from all walks of life. This beach also happens to be India’s longest motorable beach, and the high-speed trip on the beach will provide you with an unforgettable sensation.

Why do we recommend visiting Madarmani?

places to visit near Kolkata, Mandarmani

Located on the sparkling western coast of India, Mandarmani is a laid-back and close proximity to other coastal towns of Bengal, which makes it a great place to base yourself for a relaxing beach holiday. It also offers a variety of sports such as jet skis, rough rides, banana boats, and ATV cycles. Crab, fish, and lobster fans will find an abundance of mouthwatering delicacies. It is an ideal weekend getaway location near Kolkata.

Why should you travel to Madarmani by road?

The road from Kolkata to Mandarmani passes through many of the smaller towns and villages of the southern districts of Bengal. By driving from Kolkata to Mandarmani, you can enjoy the ride through the old industrial towns along the Hooghly River. Along the way, you will pass major cities like Howrah as well as trading towns like Nandakumar, Bagnan, and Contai.

[A detailed road trip guide from Kolkata to Madarmani]

A trip to Madarmani is ideal for 

A weekend is usually sufficient to explore Madarmani from Kolkata if you are willing to leave early in the morning. If you are fascinated by the place, then there are several hotels in the neighborhood that can be considered for your weekend stay.

You should travel here if you are:

  • Someone who loves to explore unknown places that are away from the touristy crowd.
  • Best for a drive from the city

Bardhaman, a haven for history lovers

Bardhaman in West Bengal, with its magnificent old-charm, transports visitors back to the 6th century BC. Its history dates back to the 6th century BC, to the days of Mahavir and the roots of Jainism. Bardhaman also, for a large part of history, served as the headquarters of the British Empire in India. When visiting Bardhaman, tourists will notice Mughal and Bengali-style architecture as well as delicious native desserts.

Why do we recommend visiting Bardhaman?

Spritual getaway from Kolkata, Bardhaman

Located at the banks of Damodar River, this Mughal-era town is a grand symbol of the glorious times of the Raj. Bardhaman, one of the best places to visit near Kolkata, is an important landmark of the Independence struggle, art, and culture. It is popular for the vast and scenic paddy fields that give it the name of the ‘rice bowl of Bengal’, wildlife sanctuaries, historic temples, and gardens.

Why should you travel to Bardhaman by road?

When you take a road trip from Kolkata to Bardhaman, you are definitely waiting to spend a magnificent time in this amazing city. By driving from Kolkata to Bardhaman, you can enjoy the ride through the towns like Singur, Gurap and Rasulpur.

A trip to Bardhaman is ideal for 

A day is usually sufficient to explore Bardhaman from Kolkata if you are willing to leave early in the morning. If you are fascinated by the place, then there are several hotels in the neighborhood that can be considered for your overnight stay.

You should travel here if you are:

  • Someone who is delving deep into history, art & culture.

[Book a cab from Kolkata to Bardhaman]

The list of destinations around Kolkata mentioned above can help you craft memorable trips. However, remember, Bengal and the region surrounding Kolkata have a lot more to offer. If you are looking for travel suggestions or itineraries, then talk to our trip experts and get the guidance you need. Further, book a chauffeur-driven comfortable cab from Savaari to your selected destination now! 

Take a back seat & enjoy being driven to your nearest favorite destination near Kolkata by Savaari experts. Rent a chauffeur-driven car now.

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