Hey, bored with the weekly visit to the malls and eating joints. Why don’t you just pack your bag and leave the city limits far behind. Here are the 5 best driving getaways from Kolkata which can be reached without much planning.
Raiganj, 390km
If you are looking for a holiday of a different kind, Raiganj is the place to be. Though a little far away from the city, once you visit the place you will agree that the effort is worth it all. The Raiganj Bird Sanctuary, also known as the Kulik Sanctuary, this place has over 160 avian species. With the Kulik river flowing right beside the sanctuary you will love the tranquil setting here. Do not forget to carry your binoculars along.
Driving route: Kolkata – Berhampur – Malda – Raiganj
Approx time: 7-8 hrs
Bishnupur, 140 km
A quaint town rich in heritage is the best way to describe Bishnupur, a quick 3 hours drive away from Kolkata. Even as you drive up to Bishnupur between unending paddy fields, the town greets you with sight of temples in bright brick red colour. These group of temples are perfect examples of excellent craftsmanship and intricate carvings. After a long and satisfying temple visit you can also keep your mood upbeat with some quick shopping. Bishnupur is also the place where the famous Baluchari sarees depicting scenes from the Mahabharata are woven by local artisans.
Driving route: Kolkata – Dankuni – Arambagh – Bishnupur
Approx time: 3-4 hrs
Shankarpur, 140km
Very close to Digha, Shankarpur is the still-virgin beach of Bengal. With a long unspoilt beach and all the trappings of a beach destination, you are surely going to love Shankarpur. The early morning sight of fishermen returning with a happy catch is a pleasure to watch. Local kiosk sell mouth watering fish fry and curry, which is a must-try. Do visit the nearby Mandarmani with its longest motorable beach.
Driving route: Kolkata – Namkhana – Sonakhali – Raidighi – Canning – Najat – Sundarbans
Approx time: 3-4 hrs
Sunderbans, 110km
Close to the city and yet so enchantingly different, Sunderbans delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a major tourist attraction. This largest estuarine rainforest of the world, Sunderbans offers a complete unique experience with boat rides, mangrove forest and rustic local life in all its beauty. Sunderbans is also synonymous with the Royal Bengal tiger so keep your binoculars handy. Plenty of avian species, crocodiles and small animals are sure to give you company.
Driving route: Kolkata – Namkhana – Sonakhali – Raidighi – Canning – Najat – Sundarbans
Approx time: 3 hrs
Shantiniketan, 165 km
As the name suggest, Shantiniketan is an abode of peace and tranquility. At a driving distance of 4 hours the Visva Bharati University is a great place to spend a day amidst great works of art. The university campus is full of murals and sculptures and you can also find students painting under the trees. Music is a way of life here, and musicians are often seen performing to entertain guests. The year-end is a great time to visit Shantiniketan for its ever popular Posh mela.
Driving route: Kolkata – Bardhaman -Bhedia– Bolpur – Shantiniketan
Approx time: 1.30 hrs
Raichak, 55 km
Feeling lazy to go on a long drive? Well Raichak at less than 2hrs drive is your best bet. The Fort Raichak, a luxury resorts on the banks of the Ganges will spoil you with all its amenities. The choices here are plenty; whether you want enjoy a spa session, play some golf or tennis, or just relax with a book. An oasis of luxury, Raichak is a great place to relax and leave your worries behind.
Driving route: Kolkata – Behala – Amtala -Raichak
Approx time: 1.30 hrs
So, here we have given you the destinations, the route as well as the reason to head for a great driving getaway this weekend. Vroooom!!!
