Why Choose Henry's Island?
Located about 130 kilometres from Kolkata in the South 24 Parganas district, Henry's Island is a world away from crowded tourist spots. It is not a place for loud parties or luxury resorts. Instead, it is a tranquil fishing island managed by the West
Bengal Fisheries Department, known for its serene natural beauty. Visitors come here for peaceful walks along deserted beaches, to spot countless red crabs, and to explore the dense mangrove forests connected by charming bamboo bridges. Unlike the bustling nearby town of Bakkhali, Henry's Island promises quietude, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking solitude.
Getting There on a Budget
The most economical way to reach Henry's Island is by train. You can catch a Namkhana local from Sealdah station in Kolkata, with a ticket costing as little as ₹25. The journey takes about three hours. From Namkhana, the final stop, you can hire a toto (e-rickshaw) to take you directly to the island. A more frugal option is to take a shared van to the Jelighat or Bakkhali bus stand and then hire a toto for the last few kilometres. If you prefer travelling by bus, WBSTC buses ply from Esplanade in Kolkata towards Bakkhali. You'll need to get down at the Jelighat crossing, from where a toto can take you to your accommodation. For those driving, the route via NH-12 is smooth, and the new bridge over the Hatania-Doania river at Namkhana means you no longer have to wait for a ferry.
Affordable Accommodation Options
Accommodation on Henry's Island is primarily limited to government-run guesthouses, which keeps the experience rustic and affordable. The most popular options are the Sundari and Mangrove tourist complexes, managed by the West Bengal State Fisheries Development Corporation (WBSFDC). These lodges offer basic but comfortable rooms. It is crucial to book these accommodations in advance, especially for weekend trips, as they fill up quickly. Bookings can typically be made online through the WBSFDC website. If these are full, you can find numerous private hotels and resorts in the nearby town of Bakkhali, which is just a short toto ride away.
What to See and Do
The main activity on Henry's Island is simply to slow down and connect with nature. A must-do is the walk through the mangrove forest via the 500-metre-long bamboo bridge that leads to Kiran Beach. During low tide, the beach is a fascinating sight with thousands of red crabs scuttling across the sand. For a panoramic view of the island, the Bay of Bengal, and the surrounding mangrove canopy, climb the watchtower located within the Sundari tourist complex. Birdwatching is another popular pastime here, with the island attracting numerous species, especially during the winter months. You can also take peaceful walks around the large fishing ponds, known locally as 'bheris', and watch the local fishermen at work.
Fresh Food and Sample Budget
The food on the island is simple, local, and delicious, with a focus on fresh fish. The canteens at the government lodges serve Bengali-style meals. A key tip from frequent visitors is to order your lunch and dinner, especially if you want specific fish preparations like Bhetki or Prawn curry, as soon as you check in. A two-day weekend trip can be incredibly budget-friendly. A rough estimate per person could be: Train travel (return) for ₹50, local transport (totos) around ₹300-400, one night's stay at a government lodge for about ₹800-1200 per room, and food for two days at approximately ₹600-800. This brings a comfortable weekend trip to well under ₹2000 per person.
A Simple Weekend Itinerary
Day 1: Start early from Kolkata to avoid traffic. Arrive by 11 AM, check into your lodge, and immediately order your meals. After a fresh fish lunch, rest and then walk through the bamboo bridges and mangrove forest to reach Kiran Beach for sunset. Watch the thousands of red crabs on the shore. Day 2: Wake up early for a walk around the fish ponds to watch the fishermen. After breakfast, you can climb the watchtower for a stunning 360-degree view. Alternatively, you can arrange a short boat trip to the nearby Fraserganj harbour or take a toto to explore Bakkhali beach before heading back to Kolkata in the afternoon.
