Tajpur: The Land of Red Crabs
Nestled between the more famous Mandarmani and Shankarpur, Tajpur offers a tranquil escape for those seeking solitude. This crescent-shaped beach is famous for the thousands of red crabs that create a moving crimson carpet on the sand, a sight that is truly
unique to this coastline. The shore is lined with dense casuarina and eucalyptus forests, providing a picturesque backdrop and shaded pathways for leisurely walks. Unlike its commercialized neighbours, Tajpur maintains a serene atmosphere, making it ideal for a relaxing post-monsoon trip when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is lush. Accommodation is largely composed of mid-range resorts and hotels that are easy on the pocket, and local shacks serve up fresh, delicious seafood for a fraction of city prices. To get here, you can drive the 170-odd kilometres from Kolkata in about four to five hours, or take a train to Digha or Ramnagar and hire a local vehicle for the short remaining journey.
Shankarpur: A Quiet Fishing Harbour
If you want an authentic glimpse into the life of a coastal fishing village, Shankarpur is your destination. Located about 14 km from the bustling Digha, it is primarily a fishing harbour, which means the beach is wonderfully uncrowded and peaceful. The shoreline is characterized by rows of colourful fishing boats and casuarina trees, offering a rustic charm that's perfect for photography and quiet contemplation. While the tides can be high, making it less suitable for swimming, the clean, white sand is perfect for long, undisturbed walks. The main attraction is watching the fishermen bring in their daily catch at the harbour. For a budget-friendly stay, Shankarpur has several government guest houses and lodges, alongside private hotels that offer comfortable and affordable rooms. Freshly caught fish is the star of the local cuisine and can be enjoyed at very reasonable prices. It’s about a 185 km drive from Kolkata.
Bakkhali & Henry's Island: The Southern Duo
A bit different from the Digha-Mandarmani circuit, Bakkhali is a quiet island in the South 24 Parganas, offering a unique mix of beach and mangrove forests. The long, firm beach is known for its serene sunrises and sunsets. A short toto ride away is Henry’s Island, a tranquil spot managed by the fisheries department. Here, you can walk through mangrove forests on a canopy bridge and climb a watchtower to get a stunning panoramic view of the island and the Bay of Bengal. This duo is ideal for nature lovers and those looking to escape the usual beach crowds. The journey itself is an adventure, involving a ferry crossing at Hatania-Doania creek. Accommodation in Bakkhali is very budget-friendly, with many simple hotels and lodges available. It’s a perfect spot for a low-key, nature-focused weekend. The distance from Kolkata is around 125 km.
Chandpur Beach: The Newest Hideaway
For those truly wanting to get off the beaten path, Chandpur is the answer. It is one of the newest and least explored beach destinations near Kolkata, located between Shankarpur and Tajpur. This means you get a vast, clean stretch of sand almost entirely to yourself. The beach is perfect for enjoying unobstructed sunrises and collecting seashells. Its relative obscurity ensures a peaceful environment, free from the chaos of more popular spots. The shoreline is marked by some erosion and boulders placed to prevent it, which gives it a rugged, natural look. Low tide reveals a massive expanse of the beach, perfect for a walk. As it’s still developing, accommodation options are fewer but are generally budget-friendly resorts that offer magnificent sea views. From Kolkata, it's about a 4-hour drive. You can also take a train to Digha and hire a car for the 18 km journey to Chandpur.
