Kolkata’s charm doesn’t stop at its city limits. Within a few hours, you can swap the traffic for tea gardens, temples, beaches, and even glimpses of colonial history you didn’t know existed. Here’s where to escape for the day.
Shantiniketan – Tagore’s Cultural Retreat
📍 165 km | ⏱️ ~4 hours by train/car
Founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, this serene town blends art, education, and nature. Explore Visva-Bharati University, browse local handicraft stalls, and time your visit for the vibrant Poush Mela.
Sundarbans – Into the Mangrove Wild
📍 110 km to Godkhali Jetty + boat ride | ⏱️ ~3.5–4 hours
Home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an adventure through winding mangrove channels. Take a guided boat safari for wildlife spotting and breathtaking landscapes.
Mandarmani – Quiet Beach Bliss
📍 170 km | ⏱️ ~4 hours
One of Bengal’s cleaner, calmer beaches. Perfect for long walks, ATV rides on the sand, and lazy seafood lunches by the shore.
Chandannagar – French Flair by the Hooghly
📍 50 km | ⏱️ ~1.5 hours
A former French colony with riverside charm, colonial architecture, and a slower pace. Don’t miss the Sacred Heart Church and Chandannagar Strand for sunset views.
Bishnupur – The Terracotta Town
📍 150 km | ⏱️ ~4 hours
Known for its terracotta temples and Baluchari sarees, Bishnupur is a treat for history buffs and culture lovers alike.
From sandy shores to leafy escapes, these day trips prove Kolkata is the perfect launchpad for Bengal’s diverse beauty. And with Mony, you can pay for train tickets, snacks, and souvenirs without missing a moment.