Chandipur: The Beach Where the Sea Disappears
Located in Odisha’s Balasore district, Chandipur offers a natural spectacle unlike any other. Here, the sea recedes up to five kilometres during low tide, allowing you to walk on the seabed and explore its marine life. This “hide-and-seek” phenomenon
makes it a paradise for photographers and curious explorers. The beach is relatively quiet and not heavily commercialised, offering a peaceful atmosphere. You can find red crabs, horseshoe crabs, and other creatures left behind by the receding waters. Accessible from both Bhubaneswar (around 215 km) and Kolkata (around 250 km), the nearest railway station is Balasore, just 16 km away. The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant.
Gopalpur-on-Sea: A Glimpse of Bygone Eras
Once a bustling port during the British era, Gopalpur-on-Sea, near Bhubaneswar, retains a nostalgic charm. It’s a quiet alternative for those who find popular beaches overcrowded. The town is dotted with crumbling walls, old pillars from its jetty, and colonial-era bungalows that speak of its maritime past. The beach itself is clean, with golden sand and groves of casuarina and palm trees. Besides relaxing by the sea, visitors can climb the old lighthouse for panoramic views or explore the nearby fishermen's villages to get a sense of the local life. Situated about 150 km from Bhubaneswar, Gopalpur offers a serene escape for those seeking solitude.
Tajpur and Shankarpur: The Serene Alternatives in Bengal
For those driving from Kolkata, Tajpur and Shankarpur offer a tranquil escape from the perennially crowded Digha. Tajpur, nestled between Mandarmani and Shankarpur, is a relatively new destination known for its pristine beach and countless red crabs that dot the shore. The shoreline is fringed with a dense forest of casuarina and tamarisk trees, adding to its untouched appeal. Shankarpur, a quiet fishing village, provides a more rustic and peaceful beach experience. It’s an ideal spot to watch fishermen haul in their daily catch and enjoy the calm without the usual tourist hubbub. At around 170 km from Kolkata, this circuit is perfect for a rejuvenating weekend.
Bakkhali: A Rustic Southern Getaway
Located in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, Bakkhali is a quiet seaside destination perfect for a peaceful family trip. The long, flat beach is known for its gentle waves and firm sand, making it pleasant for long walks and cycling. A key part of the journey involves a unique ferry crossing at the Hatania-Doania creek, which adds to the adventure. One of the major attractions nearby is the crocodile breeding and conservation centre. The twin beach of Frazerganj, with its towering windmills, is just a short trip away. Being relatively less crowded than other beaches near Kolkata, Bakkhali offers a genuine sense of escape.
