An Offbeat Coastal Hideaway
Nestled near Bakkhali in the South 24 Parganas district, Henry's Island is a world away from the crowded beaches of Digha or Mandarmani. Located about 130 kilometres from Kolkata, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking tranquillity over tourist traps. The
island is a unique eco-tourism project managed by the West Bengal Fisheries Department, which means it’s more of a nature reserve than a commercial resort. Expect sprawling fish farms (bheris), dense mangrove forests, and a quiet beach where countless red crabs are the main inhabitants. This isn’t the place for loud parties; it’s a destination to slow down, walk through serene forests, and connect with nature.
The Journey from Kolkata
Reaching Henry's Island is a relatively straightforward affair, whether by road or rail. Driving is a popular option, taking approximately four to five hours depending on traffic. The journey down NH-12 is smooth, and the new bridge at Namkhana over the Hatania-Doania river means you no longer have to wait for a ferry. For a more economical trip, take the Namkhana local train from Sealdah station, which costs very little and takes about three hours. From Namkhana station, you can hire a toto (e-rickshaw) or take a shared van to reach the island. While some suggest visiting between October and March, the monsoon offers its own charm with lush landscapes, though it's wise to be cautious of heavy storms that can make local roads muddy.
Monsoon Sights and Activities
Henry's Island truly comes alive in the monsoon. The main attraction is the pristine, quiet beach, reached via a charming bamboo bridge that crosses a mangrove forest. It’s the perfect place for a long walk, watching the dramatic grey clouds roll over the Bay of Bengal. From the watchtower at the Sundari Tourist Complex, you can get a panoramic view of the entire island, stretching all the way to the Sunderbans on a clear day. Birdwatching is another popular activity, with kingfishers, herons, and other species commonly spotted. For a change of pace, a short toto ride can take you to the more bustling Bakkhali beach, Fraserganj wind park, or the Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project.
Stay and Eat: Simple and Local
Accommodation on Henry's Island is managed by the government, adding to its non-commercial feel. There are no private hotels on the island itself; you must book a room at one of the government-run lodges like Sundari or Mangrove. These offer basic but comfortable AC and non-AC rooms. For a wider range of private hotels, you can stay in nearby Bakkhali, which is just a few kilometres away. Food is a simple but delicious affair. The canteens at the guest houses serve fresh, home-style Bengali cuisine, with an emphasis on seafood. Ordering your meals in advance is recommended to ensure you get to taste the fresh catch of the day, such as prawn or bhetki curry.
Planning Your Affordable Weekend
A trip to Henry's Island is refreshingly light on the wallet. A weekend trip for two can be managed on a modest budget. The train journey from Kolkata is exceptionally cheap, and local transport via shared vans and totos is also very reasonable. Accommodation in the government lodges is priced affordably. A satisfying meal of rice, dal, and fresh fish curry won't set you back much either. A rough estimate for a two-day, one-night trip for two people, including travel, an AC room, and all meals, can be around ₹3,000 to ₹4,000, making it one of the most accessible coastal getaways from the city. Remember to carry enough cash, as there are no ATMs on the island.
