New Delhi: Kolkata becomes so alive during Durga Puja, with beautifully decorated pandals, crowded streets, cultural performances and food stalls that
remain busy late into the night. For many visitors, exploring these celebrations is the highlight of a trip during the festive season. But if you want a break from the festive rush, West Bengal has destinations worth visiting and just a few hours away.
From peaceful university towns and historic temples to coastal beaches and unusual landscapes, these places offer a different side of West Bengal.
Here are five destinations within approximately 200 km of Kolkata.
1. Shantiniketan
Distance: Approximately 165 km from Kolkata
Shantiniketan offers a more relaxed setting. The town is closely associated with Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore and is home to Visva-Bharati University, making it an important centre for art, literature, music and education.
Visitors can explore local handicrafts and learn more about Bengal’s cultural traditions. Shantiniketan is particularly for travellers who enjoy history, creativity and quieter surroundings.
2. Sundarbans
Distance: Approximately 100–120 km from Kolkata, depending on the entry point
The journey usually involves travelling to a gateway such as Godkhali before continuing by boat through the waterways. Depending on the tour, visitors can enjoy the scenery, watch for birds and learn about the communities that live with this ecosystem.
Spotting a tiger is never guaranteed; the boat ride itself is a major part of the experience. The Sundarbans can be a good choice for travellers who are looking to spend time in nature during the festive season.
3. Digha
Distance: Approximately 180–190 km from Kolkata
Visitors can spend time by the Bay of Bengal, try local seafood and sample popular snacks. The destination is also familiar to Bengali families who have been visiting its beaches for generations.
Shankarpur is also around 14 km from Digha. Its coastal surroundings and casuarina trees provide an alternative to the main beach areas. Both destinations can attract large crowds during holidays.
4. Bishnupur
Distance: Approximately 140 km from Kolkata
The Rasmancha, Jor Bangla Temple and Madanmohan Temple are among its best-known attractions. Their detailed terracotta panels depict religious stories and scenes that offer a glimpse into old traditions.
Bishnupur is also known for its Baluchari silk sarees, recognised for their elaborate woven designs. The town also has a strong musical heritage.
5. Gangani Canyon
Distance: Approximately 170 km from Kolkata
West Bengal is associated with its rivers, green landscapes and coastline, but Gangani presents a surprisingly different view. Located near Garhbeta in the Paschim Medinipur district, the area is known for striking red and ochre coloured earth formations.
Created over time by erosion and weathering, the landscape features rugged formations and is nicknamed the ‘Grand Canyon of Bengal’.
Planning A Short Trip During Durga Puja
Kolkata’s Durga Puja celebrations offer more than enough to fill several days; a short trip outside the city can add dimensions to your holiday.
Before booking, check the travel times, accommodation and availability and local conditions, particularly during the festive rush. A little planning can help you enjoy Kolkata’s celebrations while discovering the famous destinations around the corner.
Written by Uditi Sharma!
