Deulti

Beautifully located on the bank of the Rupnarayan River, Deulti is a nice little escape from the mundane daily routines. It is nestled amidst a serene and calm rural ambience, yet not too far from Kolkata, which makes it a good choice as a weekend destination. Lose all your worries, rejuvenate your body and unwind your soul as you watch the Rupnarayan River flow through the pristine nature at its own pace. Walk along the edge of the river or set sail on a boat for a unique experience. Deulti is filled with rich biodiversity, pure air and cultural heritage. Samtaber, the neighbouring village of Deulti, is popular among the tourists for being the abode of the famous Bengali novelist Late Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. The charming two-storied dwelling house is a real delight for the visitors. The building is now converted into a museum where mementoes of the author like table, chairs, sandals, stick and bed are kept apart from his books, manuscripts and personal letters. If you have some spare time, do visit the beautiful Terracotta temple of Madangopal and Radha. This temple was built in 1651 AD by Mukundaprasad Roychowdhury, the then Zamindar of Mangalhat Pargana. Deulti is also well known as a picnic spot.

Rupnarayan River, Deulti

How to Reach

You can reach Deulti station from Howrah by local train. The village is located close to the railway station. Deulti is also easily accessible by car from Kolkata. You can drive along Vidyasagar Setu and then take the route to Kona Highway. After few hours, you will reach NH6 from where you will have to drive straight along the national highway to pass Panchla, Uluberia, Kulgachia, Chandpur and Bagnan until you reach Deulti crossing.

Accommodation

Prantik Retreat. Tariff: ₹900-1600. Tel: 8588029760, 9231507277, 8335888718.
Nirala Resort. Tariff: ₹900-4000. Tel: 03214-275043.

Gajaldoba

Gajoldoba is a tiny village on the western side of Teesta River, 30 km from the town of Siliguri. The village is situated in Oodlabari area of Jalpaiguri district. Located in close vicinity to the Baikunthapur forest, Gajoldoba is known for the Teesta River Barrage that was built for irrigation of agricultural land in the surrounding areas. The dam has resulted in the creation of a large water body upstream which has become a hotspot for migratory birds during the winter.

Sightseeing and Activities

Every year during the month of November, thousands of migratory birds from Ladakh and parts of Central Asia flock to this place. The endless chirping and melancholy of the birds continue until March. During this time, Gajaldoba becomes every bird watcher's dream come true. The awe inspiring natural beauty of the place with its view of the forest, river and splendid backdrop of mighty mountains will leave you mesmerized.

A boat ride in the Teesta River at Gajaldoba is an unforgettable experience. You can easily spend a couple of hours with a binocular spotting various species of birds like common shelduck, ruddy shelduck, little egret, great egret, brown-headed gull, great cormorant, red-crested pochard, bar-headed goose, Pacific golden plover and northern lapwing. Still an unexplored tourist destination, Gajaldoba offers you a chance to enjoy the serenity, experience the fresh air, witness the beauty of nature and have a rendezvous with some cheerful migratory birds.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gajaldoba is November to March. However, if you are keen on seeing the maximum number of migratory birds, then you should plan your trip around end of November and early December.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Toto rickshaws are available from New Jalpaiguri station to Gorar More. From there, you can get a Trekker or Magic van to reach Gajaldoba Teesta Barrage.

Accommodation

Bhorer Alo
Tariff: ₹1100-2500/- per room with breakfast
Tel: 7029435557
Online Booking: www.wbtdcl.com

Baghmundi

Often a times, the biggest surprises of life come in small packages. The little village of Baghmundi might sound like just an ordinary village but once you visit the place, your perception is bound to change. Located at the foot of Ayodhya Hills, the village acts as a charming hideaway for tourists from the stress and anxiety of modern life. A rendezvous with the peaceful serenity, uneven topography, cascading waterfalls, trickling rivers, and diverse flora and fauna of the place will leave you awe struck. Bamni Falls is one of the major attractions of the place. This perennial waterfalls is flanked by charming landscape and vivid greenery. Another tourist spot near Baghmundi is Khairabera, a beautiful lake in the midst of mild slopes and thick woods. You can also visit the Tarpania Lake. This blue lake settled in a desolate landscape is a must visit for those who wish to experience serenity and solitude. Art lovers should make it a point to visit Charida, a village famous for the making of Chau masks. Chau is an acrobatic martial art based tribal dance of the region which involves wearing handcrafted, colourful masks while dancing. You can witness the entire process of making a mask and even collect a few as a souvenir.

Baghmundi

Sightseeing

Bamni Falls

Bamni Falls is one of the major attractions of the place. This perennial waterfalls is flanked by charming landscape and vivid greenery. Every year, a large number of tourists from Baghmundi, Ajodhya Hills and Murguma visit this place. A 20-minutes downward trek from the main road along a rocky and lightly-forested trail will take you to the front of the beautiful Bamni Falls. The cascading water falls over the rocks and form a small lake down below. You can even indulge in some shopping as there are many stalls near the road selling a variety of handicraft items and other stuff.

Turga Falls

Located close to Bamni Falls, this waterfalls also attracts a lot of tourists. From the main road, you can catch glimpses of the gushing white waters through chinks in the forest cover. Away from busy city life, the charming songs of colorful birds and chattering noise of squirrels make the environment a pleasant place to be in.

Khairabera Lake

Another tourist spot near Baghmundi is Khairabera, a beautiful lake in the midst of mild slopes and thick woods. The beauty of the place is its serenity, uneven terrain, falls, streams, thick vegetation. During the spring, the Palash trees enhance the scenic beauty of the area with their orange-red flowers. The ample scenic beauty of nature at Khairabera makes it a prime tourist spot.

Pakhi Pahar

This 800 ft high hill called Pakhi Pahar is a canvas for the artist, Chitta Dey, who along with his team, has sculpted nearly 65 images of birds on the sheer rock face. The hill has now become a hotspot for tourists who visit this place, only to be left speechless by the single-minded dedication and passion of the veteran artist. Encompassed by verdant forest, Pakhi Pahar is also a great spot for bird watching.

Upper Dam & Lower Dam

Both the upper and lower dams are part of the Purulia Pumped Storage Project (PPSP). These huge reservoirs are engineering marvels. Water from these reservoirs are used for hydroelectric power generation. The Lower Dam, especially, looks spectacular when viewed from the roadside viewpoint situated between the Upper Dam and Lower Dam.

Charida Village

Art lovers should make it a point to visit Charida, a village famous for the making of Chau masks. Chau is an acrobatic martial art based tribal dance of the region which involves wearing handcrafted, colourful masks while dancing. You can witness the entire process of making a mask and even collect a few as a souvenir.

Marble Lake
You can also visit the Marble Lake situated near Ajodhya Hill Top. This blue lake settled in a desolate landscape is a must visit for those who wish to experience serenity and solitude. Once you reach the place, you will be mesmerized by the charming beauty of the place. This man-made lake was formed when the rocks here were quarried for stone to build irrigation dams. The Marble Lake is surrounded by towering walls of scraggy boulders overhanging the clear, azure waters. There are two points from where you can enjoy the lake's beauty - one is from the top, and the other one is from the side of the lake.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah to Barabhum. Baghmundi is 19 km from Barabhum. Buses and cars are available from Barabhum to reach Baghmundi. Alternatively, you can reach Purulia by train from Howrah, Santragachi or Shalimar. Baghmundi is 59 km from Purulia town.

Accommodation

Chhowburu Guest House
Tariff: Rs. 800-1000/- per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 9732294515

Aranyak Lodge
Tariff: Rs. 500-800/- per room
Tel: 9732394115

For more places to visit near Baghmundi, buy the Weekend Destinations travel guidebook.

Seraikela

Seraikela is a charming destination situated in the Indian state of Jharkhand. Surrounded by low hillocks, verdant forests and sparkling water streams, Seraikela is a great place for a weekend hangout. The town also serves as the administrative headquarters of Saraikela Kharsawan District. Enriched with vibrant colours and rhythms of Chhau dance, the destination is quite popular among folk art lovers. Apart from being well-known around the world for its unique variant of Chhau Dance, Seraikela also hosts a range of tourist attractions.

Seraikela Palace

Sightseeing and Activities

A landmark attraction of the town is the Royal Palace of Saraikela. This ancient archaeological treasure dates back to 300 years in history. You will be spellbound by the exquisite architecture and rich heritage of this palace. Just a stone's throw away from the Royal Palace lies the Mau Paudi temple. The age-old temple is a must visit for art and history lovers. Another important tourist attraction of Seraikela is the Sri Ram Baba Ashram, which attracts thousands of devotees round the year. Other tourist spots in and around Seraikela are Palna Dam, Subarnarekha Dam, Karakatta Dam and Kharkai River.

Best Time to Visit

Summers at Seraikela are scorching hot and hence should be avoided. The best time to visit the town will be during the months of October to March.



How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah to Tatanagar. Seraikela is 40 km from Tatanagar. Buses and hired cars are plying from Tatanagar to Seraikela.

Accommodation

There are no proper accommodation options at Seraikela. The best place to stay near Seraikela is Tatanagar. Some hotels in Tatanagar are listed below.
The Kannelite Hotel. Tariff: Rs. 3500-6200. Tel: 9209010008.
Hotel Ab Palace. Tariff: Rs. 1350-2550. Tel: 9955093493.
Hotel Sky Lark. Tariff: Rs. 600-1500. Tel: 0657-2290300, 9798888393.
Hotel Ashoka Inn. Tariff: Rs. 1100-2650. Tel: 0657-2441874, 7209699105.
Hotel Balajee. Tariff: Rs. 900-1100. Tel: 0657-2320594.

Places Near Kolkata

Phulbani

Phulbani is a little-known tourist destination in Kandhamal district of Odisha. The place is surrounded by lush green hills and a bunch of awe inspiring waterfalls making it the perfect retreat for a sojourn in the wild. Primarily inhabited by the tribal people, Phulbani is home to a rich tribal cultural heritage. The two prime attractions of Phulbani are the Putudi Waterfalls and Pakdajhar Waterfalls. You can also visit the temple of Balaskumpa.

Putudi Waterfalls

Sightseeing and Activities

One of the top attractions of Phulbani is the Pakdajhar Falls. Lose yourself in the rustic natural beauty as you travel through narrow and winding red gravel filled lanes lined on both sides by large deciduous trees. The verdant nature welcomes you with its beautiful landscapes, unmatched tranquility and soft natural winds that caress your face, leaving your soul rejuvenated with a fresh, positive energy. A flight of around 150 steps will take you to the bottom from where you can enjoy a delighting view of the Pakdajhar Waterfalls. Falling from a height of around 100 feet, this waterfalls is an admiring sight for all visitors.

Another must visit attraction of Phulbani is the Putudi Waterfalls situated at a distance of 18 km from the heart of the city. On the way to Putudi Falls, you will be thrilled by the fantastic scenery and bottle green dense woods embracing the road. Once you reach the waterfalls, you will be transfixed by its stunning beauty that is hard to resist. Salunki River is the source of the waterfalls. The cool breeze and the melody of chirping birds generate poetic thoughts in the minds of the visitors. A visit to Balaskumpa, 18 km from Phulbani should also be on the cards. The place is famous for the temple of Goddess Barala Devi who is believed by the natives to be the creator of the world.



Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Phulbani is around August to November. Summers should be avoided as this region remains pretty warm and sunny during this time.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to Berhampur. Buses are available from Berhampur to reach Phulbani.

Accommodation

Phulbani Nature Camp
Tariff: Rs. 3894/- per room with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 7008817600

Hotel Dreamland
Tariff: Rs. 430-870/- per room
Tel: 8763460001, 9583265930

Hotel KP's Salunki
Tariff: Rs. 1000-3500/- per room with breakfast
Tel: 06842-255655, 9437980081

Places Near Kolkata

Koraput

Koraput is an unexplored paradise decorated with pristine forests, cascading waterfalls, lush green valleys and darting springs. Situated at a height of 2900 feet above sea level, the town of Koraput serves as the district headquarters of Koraput district in Odisha. The place is home to several tribes including the Durua, Paraja, Gadabas, Bhumias, Bhotras and Kondh communities. The picturesque outskirts of Koraput town has a lot to offer to nature lovers. Countless ghat roads spiral up and down the high hills and verdant valleys, dotted with blind curves. These roads are lined by dense forests with sunlight piercing in through small gaps between the leaves.

Sabara Sreekhetra Temple, Koraput

Sightseeing and Activities

The prime attraction of Koraput town is the Sabara Sreekhetra Temple. Perched on a hilltop, the temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. You can either climb a fleet of steps in order to reach the temple entrance or take an alternative winding road to reach the temple by car. The temple itself along with its surrounding temples are ornate and grand in their appearance. Behind the Jagannath Temple lies the Tribal Museum where you can get a complete picture of tribal art and culture. Exclusive galleries on tribal jewellery, mask, attire, weapons, musical instruments and food habits, the museum promises to provide authenticate information on various tribes of the region and their way of lives.

Kolab Dam is another must visit attraction of Koraput, 20 km away from the heart of the town. Standing on River Kolab, the picturesque vast reservoir of Upper Kolab Hydro Electric Power Project is an ideal place for relaxing and spending an afternoon close to the nature. A lovely garden with over 200 varieties of flowering plant enhances the beauty of the place. You can also visit the Duduma Waterfalls. At a distance of 88 km from Koraput, this 175 m tall waterfalls is one of the most fascinating waterfalls of the state. Other attractions around Koraput include Jagannath Sagar Lake, Sunabeda Deer Park, Deomali Hill, Gupteswar Temple and Dumuriput Hanuman Statue.

Best Time to Visit

The months of June to October and January to March are the best time to visit Koraput.

How to Reach

Direct train is available from Howrah to Koraput. Alternatively, you can reach Visakhapatnam from Howrah, Shalimar or Santragachi by train. Trains are running from Visakhapatnam to Koraput.

Accommodation

Hotel Maa Mangala Residency. Tariff: Rs. 600-1200. Tel: 9439009761, 9439009767.
Hotel Alishan. Tariff - Rs. 700-2500. Tel: 9938380170.
Hotel Raj Residency. Tariff: Rs. 950-2650. Tel: 06852-251591, 252191.

Places Near Kolkata

Gangani

Gangani (also spelled as Gongoni) is located near the small town of Garhbeta in Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal. It is called the Grand Canyon of Bengal. The place is located on the bank of Shilabati river. The 70 ft deep gorge through which the Shilabati river flows during the monsoon is a beautiful creation of mother nature formed by soil erosion with the aid of the River Shilabati. The fields of Gangani are full of tree fossils scattered across the region.

Gangani

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Santragachi and Shalimar to Garhbeta. The journey to Garhbeta takes about 3 hours. Motor vans are available from Garhbeta to Gangani. It takes around 10 minutes to reach Gangani from Garhbeta.



Accommodation

Hotel Suruchi. Tariff - Rs. 300-500. Tel: 9609455602.

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Sikiajhora

Sikiajhora is a beautiful getaway situated in Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal. It lies inside the Buxa Tiger Reserve. Sikiajhora offers its visitors an opportunity to treat their eyes with the immense scenic beauty and lush greenery of the area. The main attraction of the place is the Sikiajhora River. A small watchtower has been constructed on the bank of the river. You can go for a jungle safari on boat from Sikiajhora which is a truly unique experience. One can spot various birds and even wild animals while boating at Sikiajhora. Boating charges around Rs. 50-100 per person. Sikiajhora is also well known as a picnic spot.

Sikiajhora

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah to Alipurduar Junction. Sikiajhora is 8 km from Alipurduar station. Cars and autorickshaws are available from Alipurduar to reach Sikiajhora.


Accommodation

There are no hotels at Sikiajhora. Only home-stay accommodation option is available.
Banalata, Panialguri. Tel: 9733454779.
Alternatively, you can also stay at Rajabhatkhawa or Damanpur.
WBFDC Buxa Jungle Lodge, Rajabhatkhawa. Tariff - Rs. 1100-3000. Tel: 9232531769.
Damanpur Forest Bungalow, Damanpur. Tel: 03564-255129.

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Shivkhola

Shivkhola is a picturesque tourist destination in Darjeeling district of West Bengal. The prime attraction of the place is its mesmerizing natural beauty with the cascading Shiv Khola river making its way through boulders and rocks. An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located on the bank of the river. The Shivkhola village is situated in a lush green valley at a distance of 1 km from the temple. On the opposite bank of the river lies the Shiv Khola Adventure Camp which offers opportunities for trekking, bird watching and other adventure activities. You can also visit Nurbong Tea Estate and Latpanchar from Shiva Khola.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Howrah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. The journey from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri takes around 10 hours. Auto rickshaws are plying from New Jalpaiguri to Siliguri. Cars are available from New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri to reach Rongtong via Hillcart Road. Shivkhola is easily accessible from Rongtong via Nurbong Tea Estate.



Accommodation

Shiv Khola Adventure Camp. Tariff - Rs. 1320 per head (including food and lodging). Tel: 9733454779, 9836077207.

Places Near Kolkata

Chaibasa

Chaibasa is a beautiful weekend getaway in West Singbhum district of Jharkhand. The town is surrounded by dense forests and mind-blowing hills. Apart from that, Chaibasa is embraced with gardens, dams and water streams which make it ideal for a perfect vacation. The prime attraction is the Chaibasa Forest Range. Other tourist spots in Chaibasa include Rungta Garden, Jubilee Lake, Shahid Park, Madhubandh and Ranibandh. Several tribal villages are also located close to the town of Chaibasa. You can also visit the nearby tourist places - Kiriburu and Meghataburu.

Chaibasa

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah to Tatanagar and Chakradharpur. Buses and cars are available from both Tatanagar and Chakradharpur to reach Chaibasa.


Accommodation

Hotel Annapurna. Tel: 06582-256720.
Hotel Akash. Tel: 06582-256488.

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Panbari

Panbari is a small village in Dooars area of West Bengal. It is one of the latest additions to the tourism map of Dooars. The place is surrounded by lush green tea gardens. The prime attraction of Panbari is its immense natural beauty. One can get a glimpse of the rural life of people while enjoying a serene walk through the pollution free environment of Panbari. The confluence of three rivers - Murti, Jaldhaka and Diana is situated near Panbari and is a must visit. You can also go for boating in the river. The view of sunrise and sunset in the waters of the three rivers is a lifelong experience.

Panbari

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah and Kolkata to reach New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri. Hired cars are available from Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri to reach Panbari via Gajaldoba and Kranti. It takes about two and a half hours to reach Panbari from Siliguri.


Accommodation

Tents and cottages are available for accommodation at Panbari. For booking call 8900044710.

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Dudhia

Dudhia is a beautiful hill hamlet located at a distance of 23 km from Siliguri on the way to Mirik. The place lies on the bank of Balason river. On one side of Dudhia lies the Mirik hill and on the other side lies the Kurseong hill. The southern side of Dudhia is occupied by lush green tea gardens. The prime attraction of Dudhia is its immense natural beauty, peace and tranquility. Since the place is still unexplored, one can find a real glimpse of rural life and untouched nature at Dudhia. You can also visit Dudhia view point which offers a magnificent view of River Balason along with some military camps.

Dudhia

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. Siliguri is located very close to New Jalpaiguri. You can get Mirik-bound buses and jeeps from Siliguri to reach Dudhia.


Accommodation

DGHC Gokul Wayside Inn. Tariff - Rs. 450. Tel: 0354-2243371, 9733378729.

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Purbasthali

Purbasthali is a small town in Burdwan district of West Bengal. It is located at a distance of 120 km from Kolkata and 145 km from Howrah. The place is also known as Chupir Chor and is a paradise for bird watchers. The prime attraction of Purbasthali is the beautiful oxbow lake created by the River Ganga. There is boating facility in the lake. Various species of birds such as Lesser Whistling-duck, Red-crested Pochard, Kingfisher, Osprey, Little Cormorant, Great Egret and Spoon Bill are sighted in this lake. The place also attracts a number of migratory birds during the winter months.

Purbasthali

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- Tariff and contact information of hotels and resorts
- Travel tips and useful medicines
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How to Reach

You can reach Purbasthali from Howrah and Sealdah by Katwa Local. Purbasthali Lake is 3 km from Purbasthali station. Van rickshaws are plying from the station to the lake. If you want to drive to Purbasthali, then take NH34 and reach Nabadwip via Krishnanagar. Purbasthali is 8 km from Nabadwip and is easily accessible via Parulia More.


Accommodation

Tourist Guesthouse. Tariff - Rs. 500. Tel: 8001554531.

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Jhilli

Jhilli is an exciting weekend spot situated near Jhargram. A large water reservoir surrounded by lush greenery is the prime attraction of Jhilli. Paddle boating facility is available in the reservoir. Migratory birds visit this place during the winter. Although Jhilli remains full of people during daylight, as soon as the sun drops below the horizon the place gets deserted. But adventure lovers can opt for night stay inside a tent at Jhilli. So if you are a nature and adventure lover then Jhilli is the right weekend destination for you.

How to Reach

Hatibari is 24 km from Jhargram. Just 2 km before it one has to turn left and travel 7 km from there to reach Jhilli.



Accommodation

There are 4 tents each consisting of 4 beds. Tariff - Rs. 50 per bed. Food charges extra. Apart from this there is a bungalow at Jhilli. Booking: Jhargram Tourist Development Committee, BDO, Chatinasol, Gopiballabhpur, Paschim Medinipore. Tel: 03221-266240.

Places Near Kolkata

Taki

Taki is a great weekend destination situated on the bank of Ichamati River in North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. Bangladesh is located on the other bank of this river. The main attractions of Taki include the Mini Sunderban, Eco Tourism Park, Rajbari and Pratip Saikat. Several temples namely Nandalal Jiu Temple, Jora Shiv Mandir and Kuleshwari Kali Bari lie in and around the place. Other attractions include Bisram Baganbari, BSF Training Camp, Mansingha Road and an ancient watchtower. One can also go for a boat ride in the waters of the Ichamati River. Taki is also well known as a picnic spot.

Taki

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- Concise and informative text with full color photographs
- How to Reach guide with latest train schedules
- Tariff and contact information of hotels and resorts
- Travel tips and useful medicines
- Bonus: 30 Picnic Spots near Kolkata
Available as eBook & Print Book


How to Reach

You can reach Taki Road from Sealdah by Hasnabad Local. It takes around 2 hours to reach Taki Road from Sealdah. Van rickshaws are available from Taki Road station to reach Taki Tourist Spot.


Accommodation

Nripendra Guest House. Tariff - Rs. 350-500. Tel: 03217-233328.
Bidhan Saikat Atithishala 1. Tariff - Rs. 800-1000. Tel: 9734173702.
Bidhan Saikat Atithishala 2. Tariff - Rs. 600-800. Tel: 7602128877.
Suhasini Guest House. Tariff - Rs. 900-1200. Tel: 9330826779.
Eco Tourism Guest House. Tariff - Rs. 1000. Tel: 03217-233324.

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Piyali Island

Piyali Island is one of the main entry points to the Sundarbans. Situated in a pollution free environment, Piyali Island is an ideal weekend getaway. It is well connected to Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali and Netidhopani by waterways. The island is located at the confluence of Piyali and Matla rivers. You can enjoy a boat ride in the waters of the Matla River. The view of Piyali River during sunrise and full moon is mesmerizing. The best time to visit Piyali Island is from October to March. Many migratory birds are also seen at Piyali Island during winter.

Piyali Island

How to Reach

Piyali Island is 75 km from Kolkata. You can drive to Piyali via Baruipur-Gocharan-Dhosa. It takes about two and a half hours to reach Piyali by car. If you want to go by train then you have to catch the Lakshmikantapur local from Sealdah South and get off at Dakshin Barasat station. Trekkers are plying from there to Piyali Island, 24 km away.



Accommodation

Piyali Island Tourist Lodge. Tariff - Rs. 850. Tel: 9433435181.

Places Near Kolkata

Jamuna Dighi

Jamuna Dighi is a leisure weekend destination which has come up centering a number of lakes and water bodies. The place is ideal to spend some time amid nature. Colourful birds are observed sitting and singing on the branches of trees during winter and spring. The lone walk on the roads of Jamuna Dighi is a lovely experience. One can see small villages and mango tree gardens at a distance. An ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Kali is another attraction. You can also visit Bhalki Machan or Shantiniketan.

Jamuna Dighi

How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah to Guskara. Hired cars are available from Guskara to get to Jamuna Dighi.



Accommodation

Amrapali Tourist Lodge. Tariff - Rs. 600-1200. Tel: 03452-245300.

Places Near Kolkata

Massanjore

Massanjore is an ideal weekend destination situated in Dumka district of Jharkhand. The place is located in a peaceful and pollution free environment amidst green hills and bountiful nature. A colossal dam across the Mayurakshi River along with the expansive lake formed by it, make the place a perfect tourist spot. You can enjoy an awe inspiring view of the sparkling blue waters of the reservoir against a mesmerizing backdrop of blue sky and luscious greenery. Altogether, Massanjore is a perfect place for family and friends to stay and enjoy the nature.

Sightseeing and Activities

The prime attraction of Massanjore is the Massanjore Dam built on River Mayurakshi. The dam was constructed in the year 1955 with assistance from the Government of Canada. This dam was constructed as a hydroelectric power project with the motive to generate hydroelectric power. The view of the hills and surrounding forests along with the lake created by this dam is amazing. You can also take a leisurely walk to the nearby tribal village named Lampa. The village is well known for tribal handicrafts. Tilpara Barrage is another attraction near Massanjore.

Best Time to Visit

Massanjore can be visited all throughout the year.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah station to Suri. From there you can book a car to reach Massanjore. You can also board Dumka bound buses from Suri Bus Stand and disembark at Massanjore.



Accommodation

You can stay at the Mayurakshi Bhavan run by the irrigation department. For booking contact:
Deputy Secretary,
Irrigation Department,
Water Resource Development Building,
Salt Lake City,
Kolkata - 700091

Youth Hostel is also a good place to stay at Massanjore. For booking contact:
Yuva Kalyan Office,
32/1 BBD Bag (South),
Kolkata - 700001

Places Near Kolkata

Ghatshila

Ghatshila is an ideal place to spend your weekend. Situated on the banks of Subarnarekha river, Ghatshila is surrounded by forests of Amlaki, Jarul, Simul and Mahul trees. The beauty of nature around the river is wonderful. Those who like natural beauty will find it interesting to visit Phuldungri Hill. Other attractions in Ghatshila are Rankini Devi Temple, Hanuman Temple, Rajbari and Gourikunj, the home of the famous Bengali novelist Bibhutibhushan Bandopadhyay. Dharagiri Waterfalls is located 18 km from Ghatshila. Another tourist spot near Ghatshila is the Burudih Dam. The dam is situated in a peaceful natural environment surrounded by hills on three sides. You can also visit Galudih, 10 km from Ghatshila. The place is ideal for regaining lost health.

Dharagiri Waterfalls

Burudih Dam

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah to Ghatsila. It takes around 3 hours to reach Ghatsila from Howrah. Distance from Kolkata to Ghatshila is 211 km.



Accommodation

JTDC Bibhuti Vihar. Tariff - Rs. 1125-2025. Tel: 06585-240714, 9431383582.
Hotel Akashdeep. Tariff - Rs. 750-1800. Tel: 06585-225799, 9431543968.
Hotel Meridian. Tariff - Rs. 800-2000. Tel: 9787857973.
Adhikari Lodge. Tariff - Rs. 350-500. Tel: 8017008919.

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Henry Island

Henry Island is a small island situated close to Bakkhali Sea Beach. The view of the sunrise and sunset from the watch towers of Henry Island is an unforgettable experience. One can go for a walk to the beach through a stretch of mangrove forest. You will have to cross a small bamboo bridge in order to get to the beach. Henry's Island was actually an extension of the Sundarbans but now it has become one of the most popular holiday destinations of West Bengal.

Henry Island

How to Reach

You can board Namkhana local from Sealdah and reach Namkhana. It takes about 3 hours to reach Namkhana from Sealdah. From there you can take a van rickshaw to get to the Hatania-Doania river jetty. After crossing the river, you can get trekker to reach Henry Island. Otherwise you can reach Bakkhali directly from Esplanade Bus Terminus by bus. Henry Island is easily accessible from Bakkhali by car or van rickshaw.



Accommodation

WBSFDC Sundari Complex. Tariff: Rs. 1000-1500. Tel: 9434947597. Online Booking: www.wbsfdc.com/tourism
WBSFDC Mangrove Complex. Tariff: Rs. 500-1600. Tel: 9734204413. Online Booking: www.wbsfdc.com/tourism

Places Near Kolkata