Escape the City: Offbeat Weekend Getaways from Kolkata

Travelling to offbeat destinations can be a unique and enriching experience, allowing you to escape the well-trodden tourist paths and explore lesser-known places. Offbeat destinations offer a chance to immerse yourself in local cultures, sample authentic cuisine, and see breathtaking landscapes that are not overrun by tourists.

The state of Bengal, commonly known as West Bengal, is situated in Eastern India and is renowned for its cultural and historical heritage as well as its stunning natural landscapes. Bengal's offbeat tourist places, away from the city's more well-known attractions, are where visitors may find the real Bengal.

I have compiled 4 weekends getaways from Kolkata that is simple and economical to reach.

1. Baguran Jalpai

In the Purba Medinipur district of Contai, you'll find the unspoiled and serene beach of Baguran Jalpai.As a potential destination for our weekend getaway, Baguran Jalpai was a clear frontrunner. About 160 kilometres (100 miles) from Kolkata, in the Contai sector of East Medinipur, closer to Bankiput. The trip to this hidden gem from Kolkata just takes around four hours. The long stretch of golden sand beach, shaded by towering casuarina trees, is the perfect spot to unwind and recharge. As you watch the waves roll in and out on the sand, you won't realize how much time has passed. At sunset, this place is quite stunning. After taking in the sights along the coastline, go inland to meet some local fisherman and see how they live.

Travel time from Kolkata : 

160 kilometres

Directions  

Catch a train from Howrah to Kanthi. Hiring a vehicle or auto from the Kanthi Railway Station or Bus Stand can get you there from the nearby location in 10 kilometres.

By driving, you must take the route to Chandpur that is just before the entrance to Shankarpur. Public and private bus services link Digha extremely effectively. Travel time to Digha is about 5 hours. There, you may arrange to rent a car to take you to Baguran Jalpai. Trains run frequently between Kolkata and Digha; passengers may simply get out at Digha Station and take a walker to Chandpur.

What are some things that may be done to ensure that this vacation will be one to remember?

Amble down the sands of the seashore.

Laze about on the beach.

      

Take pleasure in the peacefulness of the beach's waters.

Seek out red crabs

Is there a time when you may expect excellent weather to really liven up your vacation?

Yes, the winter months are the best time to go to the beach and enjoy the soothing seas.

2. JUNPUT

The picturesque town of Junput, which is located in the Purba Medinipur district of West Bengal, is probably unknown to the vast majority of tourists who travel to the state on an annual basis. This popular tourist destination can be found near Midnapore, and it is renowned for the stunning beaches that are framed by tall, verdant palm palms. The town of Junput, which is located in a far-flung region of the state, is a retreat for those in search of peace and quiet as well as a fantastic fishing place. Despite this, the fact that it is one of the beaches that less people visit than others does have some positive side effects. Because of this feature, the site is perfect for people who place a high emphasis on solitude and contemplation within themselves. It's possible that Junput is the finest place for you to go if you want to get away from the commotion of the crowds and the boom of the engines.

                       Travel time from Kolkata : 

                                                                        160 kilometres.

                                          Directions  

There are two trains that will get you to the resort of Junput from Howrah: the 6.40 am Tamralipta Express, which arrives in Contai at 9 am and then requires an auto or rickshaw to get you to Junput, or the 11.10 am Howrah Digha Superfast Express, which arrives in Contai at 1.50 pm.

What are some things that may be done to ensure that this vacation will be one to remember?

Enjoy the serene sunrises and sunsets.

Get together around bonfires and chill out among the palm trees, eucalyptus, and casuarina.

Take a stroll down the beach and feel your stress melt away.

      Don't miss out on seeing the Dariapaur lighthouse and the Kapalkundala shrine.

3.  AMBIKA KALNA

Located in the Bardhaman district of West Bengal, India, Ambika Kalna is a town of significant religious and historical value. For generations, this sleepy little town has served as a vital religious hub for Hindus, and its many temples and shrines have become famous across the world.

What are some things that may be done to ensure that this vacation will be one to remember?

The Jagannath Temple in Ambika Kalna is devoted to a manifestation of Vishnu, and is hence one of the city's most well-known religious landmarks. Many devout Hindus make the journey to this temple since it is widely recognised as one of the oldest in the area. The temple's elaborate carvings and decoration are renowned for their artistic excellence and represent the region's rich cultural history.

The Radhamadhav Temple, also devoted to Krishna, is a well-known landmark in Ambika Kalna. The majestic architecture and intricate carvings of this temple are iconic symbols of West Bengal's illustrious cultural history. People from all over the world, curious about the region's rich religious and cultural history, go to the temple to learn more.

Ambika Kalna is well-known for its traditional clay handicrafts in addition to its religious importance. Sculptures, pots, and other artistic objects are only some of the many uses for terracotta, a form of clay common in the area. Ambika Kalna's traditional terracotta handicrafts are recognised for their exquisite details and gorgeous designs, a monument to the artistic abilities of the local craftsmen.

Ambika Kalna is visited by many people who are interested in seeing some of the natural beauty of West Bengal as well as its religious and cultural importance. The hamlet is encircled by verdant forests, making it an excellent base for hiking, camping, and animal watching. Ambika Kalna is a great place to go if you want to get away from the city, and the neighbouring rivers and lakes are great for fishing and boating.

Ambika Kalna is a wonderful destination for anybody seeking spiritual solace, cultural enrichment, or a quiet respite from the bustle of the city.

                    Travel time from Kolkata : 

                                                      85 kilometres.

                           Directions  

Traveling by rail from Kolkata to Ambika Kalna takes around 2 hours and four minutes and spans a distance of about 86 kilometres. The Indian Railways provide a train from Kolkata to Ambika Kalna, which leaves from Howrah Jn and terminates at Ambika Kalna. There are usually 92 trains every week, however weekend and holiday timetables may vary.The nearest train station is Bardhaman Junction(63 km west)

Is there a time when you may expect excellent weather to really liven up your vacation?

Yes, the winter months are the best time to go .The summer season (May to june ) can be avoided due to hot and humid weather.

4. ITACHUNA RAJBARI

The Itachuna Rajbari, or Itachuna Palace, is a palace in the town of Itachuna in the Hooghly district of West Bengal, India. One of the greatest examples of colonial-era architecture in the area, the palace was constructed by the Maharajas of Itachuna. This area of West Bengal has become a significant tourism hotspot, drawing in many visitors curious in the region's rich cultural history.

What are some things that may be done to ensure that this vacation will be one to remember?

The Itachuna Rajbari, erected in the nineteenth century, is a prime illustration of the synthesis of European and Indian forms that characterised architecture of the colonial era. The palace has two stories and is laid up around a central courtyard and beautiful grounds. The palace's interior is just as grandiose, with soaring ceilings, ornate carvings, and exquisite artwork. The palace features several impressive rooms, including a huge ballroom, a lavish dining hall, and an impressive entry hall.

The ornate carvings and sculptures that decorate the front of the Itachuna Rajbari are one of the building's most striking characteristics. The beautiful gardens that encompass the castle are ideal for outdoor pursuits like picnics and birdwatching. Garden visitors may stroll the grounds and take in the sights of the many plants and flowers.

The Itachuna Rajbari is a popular vacation spot for individuals looking for something out of the ordinary. A variety of events and activities, including as cultural performances and cookery demonstrations, are available to guests of the palace. Fish curry and rice are two of West Bengal's most popular meals that visitors may try while also learning about the region's culinary traditions.The Itachuna Rajbari's traditional Bengali dishes are not to be missed; they are wonderful and hard to get elsewhere. Classic Bengali delicacies such as 'Luchis' with 'Saada Alur Tarkari,' 'Dhokar Dalna,' and 'Shukto,' as well as the decadent 'Kasha Maangsho,' are included on the menu.

                Travel time from Kolkata : 

                                                      90 kilometres.

                           Directions  

 BY CAR 

 You may get to the Durgapur Expressway from Kolkata quickly by using the Dakhineswar or Vidyasagar setu. After about an hour on the road, you'll see the Azad Hind Dhaba and Hindusthan Hotel on your left; from there, take the next left exit and turn right under the bridge; this is Bosipur; from there, continue on for another 19 kilometres to Halusai; from there, take a left toward the Khanyan Railway Station. Just 10 minutes after leaving Halusai, you'll see ITACHUNA RAJBARI located on the left side of the road.

BY TRAIN

From Howrah Station, you may get a train headed for Burdwan on either the main line or a Memari/Panduah local.Khanyan Station is very close to Talandu Station, where you should get out (Bandel, Adisaptagram, Mogra, Talandu, Khanyan).

Time on the train is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.The platform has two exits; the one on the left is the one you want. Van Rickshaw is Easily Accessible.

It takes around 12 minutes to get to ITACHUNA RAJBARI by van rickshaw (about Rs.15 per head one way), and about 7 minutes by magic & auto (roughly Rs.6 per head one way).

Is there a time when you may expect excellent weather to really liven up your vacation?

Throughout the year