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Kolkata, which is popular as the nation’s cultural capital, is marked with age-old beauty. The city’s delight with an endless range of colonials plus divine structures draws many art practitioners and tourists alike. The places of interest include the famous Victoria Memorial, the British Raj symbol built entirely with white marble, and the Dakshineswar Kali Temple. Every site here presents a story about the history and modernity of Kolkata, which is why this place is worth visiting for those searching for art, history and culture all in one place.
10 Places To Visit Near Kolkata
Here is a list of 10 such places to visit near Kolkata that would enhance the charm and essence of any individual visiting the city.
1. Eco Park
Photo: Tms masum / Wikimedia Commons
Developing a typical metropolitan forest region in the city of Kolkata in West Bengal, encompassing an area of 480 acres is the Eco Park situated in Rajarhat. The gardens include a managed path that allows views into a butterfly garden, there is also a rose garden as well as a bamboo garden which will easily cater to nature enthusiasts and fans of all age groups. People go to the children’s play area, the Japanese Garden and a replica of the Eiffel Tower among others.
Distance From Kolkata: 9 km
Major Attractions: Boating, Eiffel Tower replica, Butterfly garden
2. Diamond Harbour
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
Diamond Harbour is a magical weekend getaway predominantly due to the scenic view of the riverside. This place is nestled along the Hooghly River and provides a calm retreat to the residents away from the city. The placid side of the river is perfect for evening strolls, which are further enhanced by the beautiful views of sunsets. Tourists can visit the remnants of the Chingrikhali Fort, a fort built during the rule of the British, or take a boat ride in the river. People who visit Diamond Harbor enjoy its seafood, which is still fresh, therefore, this destination is a haven for such culinary enthusiasts.
Distance From Kolkata: 48 km
Major Attractions: Ruins of the Portuguese Fort, River views, Boating
3. Chandraketugarh
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons
Chandraketugarh, near Barasat, is an ancient archaeological site that remains unfrequented and perfect for all history lovers. Dating back to the Mauryan and Gupta Empire periods, it presents ancient pottery, sculptures, and remnants of civilization which are most interesting. The site is tranquil and not very popular, hence, the visitors get to enjoy the sights without any push and pull. The things that were found in this place are very interesting and tell a lot about the early days of Bengal.
Distance From Kolkata: 50 km
Major Attractions: Archaeological ruins, Pottery, Sculptures
4. Joypur Forest
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
The Joypur forest, located in the vicinity of Bishnupur, is a verdant paradise for all those who appreciate nature and wildlife. The sal forest, which is prevalent in this region, has a quiet atmosphere and many merits including trekking, bird watching, and spotting wildlife including deer and other exotic birds. The forest is home to a variety of deer as well as a few exotic birds. The beauty of the forest is enhanced during the rainy season, making it an ideal haven for every city dweller. Backed by local villages, Joypur comes across as a perfect destination for those who want a retreat within green jungles.
Distance From Kolkata: 130 km
Major Attractions: Sal forests, Birdwatching, Trekking trails
5. Gadiara
Photo: Avishekchatt / Wikimedia Commons
Gadiara is a calm vacation spot located at the confluence of the Hooghly, Rupnarayan and Damodar rivers that enables good sight scenes. One can have picnics by the banks of the river, take walks, or even go and see the remains of the old Gelee Fort. It is also a good place for one to indulge in their aquatic skills with riverside cottages taking the experience to another level. Because of the picturesque environment of the place, Gadiara acts as an escape from the urban hustle and bustle. There is not much activity within the place which makes it ideal for one or two.
Distance From Kolkata: 90 km
Major Attractions: Riverside views, Fort ruins, Boat rides
6. Murshidabad
Photo: Sonu Islam / Wikimedia Commons
Murshidabad, the once capital of Bengal, boasts of several Mughal and British architectural marvels. Square visitors will walk through the wonderful Hazarduari Palace, the Katra Mosque and many other edifices adorned with the splendour of the Mughal dynasty. The city also presents the cultural and historical aspects of the country urging the visitors to explore the depths of historical Bengal. In addition, Murshidabad has riverine transport that carries tourists along the Bhagirathi River which has pleasing views of the old sites from other angles.
Distance From Kolkata: 210 km
Major Attractions: Hazarduari Palace, Katra Mosque, Imambara
7. Garh Panchkot
Photo: Sumitsurai / Wikimedia Commons
Set at the hills of Panchet Hill is Garh Panchkot, a place that embraces both nature and history. The mountain range of ancient fort ruins within the forests here presents a beautiful expedition to the explorers. Apart from the fortress, the region comprises picturesque terracotta temples which are indicative of the traditional style of Bengal architecture. There are trekking possibilities and the most scenic view is from Panchet Hill. Because of the beautiful setting and its historical importance, Garh Panchkot is an ideal destination for the weekend for people who want to explore nature and history.
Distance From Kolkata: 250 km
Major Attractions: Ancient fort ruins, Terracotta temples, Panchet Hill views
8. Deulti
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons
Deulti is an adorable little place that provides the best opportunity to experience the rural lifestyle of Kolkata. The small village is also the birthplace of renowned Bengali novelist Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay, which adds to its cultural appeal. People can visit the house of the author, take a pleasant walk along the banks of the river and meet some of the villagers too. The breathtaking landscape, combined with its serene environment, makes Deulti a suitable place for peace of mind.
Distance From Kolkata: 60 km
Major Attractions: Sarat Chandra’s house, Rural landscapes, Riverbank views
9. Sajnekhali (Sundarbans)
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
Sajnekhali is within the mangrove jungles and is one place which attracts nature lovers and wildlife fans alike. It is one of the tiger safari entry points as well and has a superb bird-watching opportunity at the Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary. Here, visitors can appreciate the interesting mangrove habitat and may be able to see crocodiles, deer and of course the Bengal tiger, if they are lucky. Sajnekhali is rich in flora and fauna and has beautiful river views. It is also a starting point for entering the Sundarbans which is full of wonders, providing an everlasting experience of wilderness.
Distance From Kolkata: 100 km
Major Attractions: Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary, Wildlife spotting, Mangrove forests
10. Maithon
Photo: Tarunsamanta / Wikimedia Commons
Maithon is a peaceful and beautiful place on the banks of the Barakar River just over the Bengal-Jharkhand border. This place is famous because of the beautiful Maithon Dam, the largest dam in this part of the country. Thus, this place is a mixture of nature and the exploits of mankind. The waters of the large lake created by the dam are suitable for boating activities, while the green and hilly geography around offers a nice place for all nature lovers. Sights include Deer Park, Kalyaneshwari Temple and picturesque surroundings with forests good for picnics and bird watching.
Distance From Kolkata: 230 km
Major Attractions: Maithon Dam, Kalyaneshwari Temple, Boating
The areas close to Kolkata are ideal for getting acquainted with the natural beauty, culture, and history that Bengal boasts of. Be it the historical district of Bishnupur famous for its terracotta temples or the quiet scenic beauty of Shantiniketan, every place is a world of its own, rich in culture and history. Trip XL makes available all these exotic places without any fuss.
Cover Photo: Harsh Dubey / Unsplash
