Searching for a weekend getaway? Here are the top weekend destinations near Kolkata!
Is the city tiring you out? Is the constant demand of the concrete jungle tiring you out? You can plan a short trip over the weekend. This will recharge your mental and physical batteries and give you the motivation to face the upcoming weekdays. Considering this, some of the top destinations for weekend destinations near Kolkata are:
Pelling
Pelling is a tourist town located in the Indian state of Sikkim. It is known for offering breathtaking views of the majestic Kanchenjunga Range. It is the third-highest mountain in the world with an elevation of 2150 feet. Pelling is a place that has received abundant blessings from the nature gods. Eternally covered in a blanket of clouds, it is the land of beautiful valleys, soaring rivers, and high mountains. Its natural qualities make it the best spot for adventure sports and nature walks. It is perfect for you if you like mountain biking, trekking, and birdwatching. Pelling is the home of the Khangchendzonga National Park. This park has been recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO due to its rich biodiversity. With all these aspects, Pelling is among the best choices for your weekend destinations near Kolkata.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Take a shared cab to Bagdogra or New Jalpaiguri (NJP), then to Pelling.
- Best time to visit: March- June and September- November
- Attractions: Kanchenjunga Falls, Rabdentse monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, Chenrezig statue.
- Things to do: Trekking, mountain biking, nature walks, birdwatching. You can get the best experience with Eco Adventure Resorts.
Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake is a famous tourist spot in Sikkim. Located in Changu in Gangtok, it is also known as Changu Lake. It is one of the leading weekend destinations near Kolkata. This glacial lake remains frozen throughout the winter. It is unique as its surface changes colours. This phenomenon is dependent on its surroundings. For instance, during the time of spring, the surrounding area is full of blooming flowers and rich vegetation. So the colour of the lake is vibrant. In contrast, in winter, as the snow covers everything, the lake surface takes on an ashy colour. This lake is highly revered by the local Sikkkimese monks.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Reach Kolkata to Bagdogra via flight. Take a cab to Gangtok and then a local taxi to Tsomgo Lake.
- Best time to visit: Between April and May
- Attractions: Orchids, Rhododendrons, and the small Shiva located near the lake
- Things to do: Yak rides, mule rides, nature walks. You can get a fulfilling experience of Tsomgo Lake with us, Eco Adventure Resorts.
Zuluk
Zuluk is a beautiful hamlet in Sikkim. In the local language, it is also known as Jhuluk or Dzuluk. It is notable for its rough terrain and remote nature. Zuluk is an emerging destination for tourism. This is mostly because it offers a breathtaking view of the Himalayas. It is a natural haven, circled by untamed forests, completely untouched by humans. In these forests reside animals such as wild dogs, deer, red pandas, and the Himalayan bear. Plus, a varied number of birds also deem it home. This includes the Himalayan monal, Snow Pheasant, and Kalij Pheasant. A great spot for weekend destinations near Kolkata.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Reach Bagdogra or NJP on a flight or train. Then, drive to Rongli from there. Make sure to have a valid permit.
- Best time to visit: March- June and September- November
- Attractions: Thambi View Point, Nathang Valley, Kalpokhari Lake, Old Baba Mandir
- Things to do: Birdwatching, trekking, enjoying stunning views
Goechala
Goechala, or Goecha-La, is a mountain pass in Sikkim. Its exact location is in the Gyalshing district in the Himalayas. Since it is in the southeastern part of the range, it offers the best view of the Kanchenjunga. This is why, oftentimes, this pass is treated as a base camp for those who want to climb the mountain. Goechala is best known for its trekking opportunities. However, the Goechala trek is considered to be among the most difficult in the world. Despite this, the views make it worth the risk. It is truly one of the most underrated places for weekend destinations near Kolkata. You can enjoy this spot with Eco Adventure Resorts.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Take a flight or train to Bagdogra or NJP. Drive to Yuksom and then trek to Goechala.
- Best time to visit: March- June and September- December
- Attractions: Sunrise at Dzongri top, Mount Pandim, Mount Tenchenkhang
- Things to do: Trekking and viewing the mountains
Yumthang
If you visit Sikkim, this is a great choice for weekend destinations near Kolkata. Yumthang is a picturesque town in Sikkim. Famous for its Valley of Flowers, it is also known as Yumthang Valley. It is the home of the reputed Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. In this sanctuary, one can see more than 24 types of rhododendrons. If one wants to witness the flowers of this region, it is best to visit the sanctuary during spring. Nature paints this valley with diverse colours during the season. This makes it one of the best romantic destinations near Kolkata as well. For the best experience, keep in touch with Eco Adventure Resorts.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Reach NJP Station from Kolkata via train or bus. From there, get a local taxi to Gangtok. Jeeps towards Yumthang are available once in Gangtok.
- Best time to visit: February- June
- Attractions: Naga falls, Bhewma falls, Lachung river
- Things to do: Enjoy the breathtaking nature views offered by the sanctuary
Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is a mountain pass located in the Himalayas. It is shared between Sikkim and Tibet (China). A small part of this pass touches West Bengal as well. This pass links the major towns such as Kalimpong and Gangtok, along with the villages located in the Chumbi valley. The meaning of its name translates to “the whistling pass.” As per the Chinese interpretation, it is a place where the wind is the strongest and the snow the deepest. This pass ranked among the best weekend destinations near Kolkata. Its picturesque scenery and adventure opportunities will surely be etched in your heart. Explore the Nathula Pass with Eco Adventure Resorts.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Once you reach Gangtok from NJP or Bagdogra, you can reach Nathula Pass by riding the local Sikkimese cabs. You cannot take your private transport there.
- Best time to visit: May- October
- Attractions: Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, Mera Bharat Mahan hill, Mandakini falls
- Things to do: Trekking and enjoying the natural views
Yuksom
Yuksom is a city in Sikkim. It is located in the Gyalshing district of the state and is one of the best weekend destinations from Kolkata. Not only that, due to its picturesque surroundings, it is also placed among the best-ranked romantic destinations near Kolkata. A key spot for the native Bhutia committee, this town is notable for its cultural aspects and religious sights. Considering this, Yuksom houses numerous important Buddhist monasteries, religious sites, and Gorkha villages. Plus, in this town, beautiful views of the Kanchenjunga are also available. The trek from Yuuksom to Goechala is approximately 80 km. You, too, can come and enjoy this city with Eco Adventure Resorts.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Direct buses from Kolkata to Yuksom are available. Opting for the luxury buses provided by the West Bengal Surface Transport Corporation is the best option.
- Best time to visit: March- June and September- November
- Attractions: Tashiding Monastery, Dubdi Monastery. Coronation Throne of Norbugang
- Things to do: Trekking, mountaineering
Joychandi Pahar
Joychandi Pahar is located in the Purulia District of West Bengal. It is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning views and calm surroundings. It is abundant in terms of attractions. The best among them are the Joychandi Hills, the Joychandi Temple, and the Joychandi Waterfalls. These places offer tourists a calming place to rest in the lap of nature. It also has a religious significance as the Joychandi temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali. Its position as one of the best weekend destinations near Kolkata is truly deserved. Eco Adventure Resorts will help you get the best out of your trip here.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Reach Purulia from Kolkata via train. Once reached, get a local vehicle to take you to Joychandi Pahar.
- Best time to visit: Anytime
- Attractions: Ma Chandi temple, Joychandi Hill, Joychandi Waterfall
- Things to do: Rock climbing, nature viewing
Baranti
Baranti is a tiny tribal village in Purulia. Its location is just beside the Grand Baranti Lake. Over the years, it has emerged as one of the most sought-after weekend destinations near Kolkata. The place is quiet and serene, providing travellers with the ultimate opportunity to rest and relax. The Paanchkot Hill surrounds the whole village, along with the Biharinath Hill. Besides that, it is also very close to Joychandi Pahar, with the distance between the two being approximately 18 km. It is best known for the Baranti Lake and the jaw-dropping sunset views. You can get the best experience of this spot with Eco Adventure Resorts.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Reach the Muradi station via the Howrah station. From there, take a car to Baranti. Baranti is also among the best weekend destinations near Kolkata by road, as reaching this place directly from Kolkata by road will take only 5 to 6 hours.
- Best time to visit: October- February
- Attractions: Baranti Lake, Muradi Dam
- Things to do: Enjoy nature views
Baghmundi
Baghmundi is a small village in Purulia. It is an underrated destination with ample scenic beauty and unconditional cultural richness. There are many places one can roam around once they arrive. Among such places are spots like Ajodhya Hill and Forest Reserve Area, Murguma, and the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary. With the facilities provided by Eco Adventure Resorts, you will be able to have an experience with the melting point of the rural and the urban. Additionally, Baghmundi is considered to be a paradise for food lovers. You can enjoy dishes like traditional Bengali dishes. On special occasions such as Makar Sankranti, special dishes such as Muri Ghonto are made. This is truly one of the best weekend destinations near Kolkata.
Specifics:
- How to reach: From Kolkata, Baghmundi can be reached by train. The entire journey will take approximately 6 to 7 hours.
- Best time to visit: Anytime
- Attractions: Bamni Falls, Turga Lake, Lahoriya Baba Dham
- Things to do: Nature walks and sightseeing
Saheb Bandh
Saheb Bandh is a popular lake located right at the heart of Purulia. It is known for being a refuge for migratory birds who come from different places around the world. This lake is very near the beautiful Kangsabati River. It has scenic surroundings due to the forests and hills that surround it. Besides this, the area around the lake has immense religious importance as well. Spots such as Maa Kalyaneshwari Temple nd the Panchkot Palace are located here. These spots serve a historical role as well, as they are intertwined with Purulia’s past. If you are visiting Purulia for a weekend, you should check out this spot. We, Eco Adventure Resorts, can provide you with the best experience.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Purulia by boarding a train from the Howrah or Sealdah station. Once reached, book a local cab to Saheb Bandh.
- Best time to visit: Anytime
- Attractions: Surrounding forests, native wildlife, Saheb Bandh Lake
- Things to do: Nature walks, historical spot exploration
Bamni Falls
Bamni Falls is a popular waterfall in Purulia. People from near and far come to witness these majestic waterfalls. These falls can be found exactly at the centre of the Ajodhya hill. It ranks among the best weekend destinations near Kolkata for a variety of reasons. The foremost among such reasons is mental peace. The calm and serene surroundings of the falls provide travellers a brief rest from the demands of city life. A natural vibe can be found all over the place as the air is full of fragrant smells. These smells are from the local vegetation, such as wild spruce. With Eco Adventure Resorts, you will get the best Bamni Falls.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Board a train from Howrah or Sealdah Station and head towards Purulia. Once you reach it, get a local cab or a car to Bamni Falls.
- Best time to visit: October- February
- Attractions: Enjoy the views of the surrounding area
- Things to do: Wildlife viewing, swimming
Deulghata
Deulghata is one of the most popular historical destinations in Purulia. It houses the old temples built during the reign of the Sen and Pal Empires of Bengal. Among history buffs, Deulghata is ranked pretty high up in weekend destinations from Kolkata. It is one of the very few places that gives travellers a glimpse of what Bengali architecture was before the rule of the Muslims began. Considering this, temples with special types of decorations named chaitya and shikhara are a must-visit. At present, all that remains of the grand architecture are three deuls made out of brick. Despite so little remaining, the three structures show the grandeur of medieval Bengali craftsmanship.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Purulia from Kolkata by train. Then go to Deulghata through local transport facilities.
- Best time to visit: Anytime
- Attractions: Deulghata temple, Jain Temples
- Things to do: Temple and nature viewing
Khairabera Lake
Khairabera Lake is a notable wonder in Purulia. It is a natural water body that is surrounded by deep forests and low hills. The famous Khairabera Dam is located here as well. The entire area is calm, with rugged and rough terrain. Tourists mostly come here to rest and enjoy the chill surroundings. A lot of adventure activities can be done here. For instance, the option to trek is available at certain times. In addition, the area is also rich in wildlife. Some of its native species include wild boars, leopards, and peacocks. For the best experience of this place, Eco Adventure Resorts is your best companion.
Specifics:
- How to reach: Board a train from Kolkata from Howrah or Sealdah Station. Reach Puruli, and then take a local car.
- Best time to visit: October- March
- Attractions: Khairabera Dam, native wildlife and nature, Bhadu Festival
- Things to do: Trekking
Conclusion
These are some of the best destinations for a holiday over the weekend. For the best travel experience, choose Eco Adventure Resorts, the best weekend resorts near Kolkata. Stay within nature, and enjoy without stress!