Digha: The Timeless Favourite
For generations, Digha has been the go-to seaside destination for people from Kolkata, and for good reason. Its accessibility and budget-friendly nature make it perfect for an impromptu weekend plan. The town is split into Old Digha, with its calming
promenade, and New Digha, known for a wider, more vibrant beach. Getting there is simple and cheap. Several daily trains, like the Tamralipta Express and Kandari Express, run from Howrah to Digha, taking about three to four hours. Alternatively, frequent government and private buses depart from Esplanade, offering a journey of around four to five hours. Accommodation is plentiful, with options ranging from basic guesthouses starting at under ₹1000 per night to mid-range hotels. For food, skip the expensive hotel restaurants and head to the small local eateries for fresh seafood thalis that are both delicious and easy on the pocket.
Mandarmani: The Drive-in Beach
If you're looking for a slightly quieter alternative to Digha, Mandarmani is an excellent choice. Located about 180 km from Kolkata, its main attraction is the long, motorable beach where you can actually drive your car along the sand at low tide. This gives it a unique charm and a sense of open space. The most convenient way to reach Mandarmani is by car, a journey of roughly four hours. Buses also run from Kolkata, but you may need to take a local auto or taxi from the Chaulkhola bus stop to reach the main hotel area. For train travellers, the nearest station is Kanthi (Contai), from where you can hire a vehicle for the last leg of the journey. Budget hotels and resorts are widely available, with many offering sea-facing rooms. While there, you can indulge in water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides or simply enjoy a long, uninterrupted walk along the expansive shoreline.
Bakkhali & Henry’s Island: The Rustic Retreat
For those who prefer nature and tranquility over crowds, the twin destinations of Bakkhali and the adjacent Henry's Island offer a rustic and serene escape. Located about 125-130 km from Kolkata, this area feels more secluded and is part of the Sundarbans delta. The journey itself is an experience, historically involving a ferry crossing at Hatania-Doania river, although a bridge now makes access easier. The most economical way to travel is by taking a train from Sealdah to Namkhana, the nearest railhead, followed by a short van and boat or toto ride. Bakkhali beach is quiet and lined with casuarina trees, perfect for relaxation. A short toto ride away is Henry’s Island, a government-run fishery project that feels like a hidden nature park. Here you can climb a watchtower for panoramic views, walk through mangrove forests on a bamboo path, and see thousands of red crabs on the beach. Accommodation includes basic hotels in Bakkhali and government-run guesthouses on Henry's Island, which can be booked in advance for a peaceful stay.
Smart Budgeting for Your Trip
Regardless of the destination, a few simple tricks can help you save more. Travelling by train is almost always the cheapest option. For accommodation, booking in advance, especially during long weekends, can secure better rates. When it comes to food, eating at local dhabas and small family-run restaurants will give you an authentic taste of coastal Bengali cuisine at a fraction of the price of resort dining. For local sightseeing, hiring a toto for a package trip to cover multiple spots is more economical than paying per trip. Finally, travelling in a small group allows you to share the costs of transport and accommodation, making the entire trip even more affordable.
