Places to Visit Near Kolkata

Known For : Marine Station/Aquarium of Zoological Survey of India New Digha Beach Udaipur Beach

Beach town situated on the shores of Bay of Bengal, Digha is a popular tourist destination known for its untouched beaches and scenic views, especially among people in West Bengal.

Distance from Kolkata: 181 km

Best Time: July to March

9 Digha Attractions

Known For : Marichjhanpi Ghoramara Island New Moore Island

Known for hosting the biggest mangrove forests in the world, Sundarbans National Park is located in West Bengal, India. It is also a Tiger Reserve and a Biosphere reserve that provides a complete nature's circle to the tourist right from 'Royal Bengal tigers' to roaring rivers and beautiful estuaries. Sundarbans National Park is a part of Sundarban delta that is covered with Mangrove Forest and the largest population of the Bengal Tigers. It is a UNESCO world heritage site with a large variety of birds and reptiles including salt-water crocodile.

Best Time: September to March

3 Sundarbans Attractions

Known For : ISKCON Chandrodaya Temple Yoga Peeth Sri Chaitanya Math

Standing at the junction of river Ganga and Jalangi, Mayapur is a laidback city with lovely views and plenty of temples, making it ideal for multitudes of team.

Distance from Kolkata: 115 km

Best Time: July to March

5 Mayapur Attractions

Known For : Tagore's ashrama Poush Mela Amar Kutir

Known to few, mainly as Rabindranath Tagore's home and now a university, Santiniketan is a small town located in the Birbhum district of West Bengal. The town comprises mainly of Visva Bharati University.

Distance from Kolkata: 163 km

Best Time: Mid August to March

15 Santiniketan Attractions

Known For : Victoria Memorial Fort William Kolkata Belur Math

Kolkata, India's second biggest city, is a perpetually ongoing festival of human existence, concurrently luxurious and squalid, refined and frantic, pointedly futuristic, while beautifully in decay. A vibrant 350-year-old metropolis located on India's Eastern Coast, the capital of West Bengal thrives on contradictions and imposing spectacles; nothing is commonplace in this city. Famously known as the City of Joy, Kolkata is, in every sense, the artistic, cultural and intellectual capital of the country. Kolkata's streets are vivid, hectic, chaotic, and yet, brimming with life and creativity. Driven by the indomitable spirit of the self-made middle class, the city has created a beautiful juxtaposition of the old colonial-era charm with the nascent upcoming hipster culture that thrives amongst the city's millennial residents.

Best Time: October to March

79 Kolkata Attractions

Sprawling over forty acres of land on the west bank of the Hooghly River, Belur; the Belur Math in Kolkata is a place of pilgrimage and also the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. People from all over the world, irrespective of the religion that they believe in, visit the temple to enjoy the tranquillity and serenity that it imbues.

Distance from Kolkata: 10 km

A stunning island just off the Bengal coast, Ganga Sagar is a place of beauty as well as religious importance. Home to some of the most stunning beaches, it is famous for hosting the Sagar Mela, which is both a pilgrimage and a fair. The island is stunning in its greenery and one can trek around the whole island to discover its beauty Besides being a place for religion, Ganga Sagar is also a place for relaxation and rejuvenation among the sun and sand.

Distance from Kolkata: 119 km

Mandarmani is a small and upcoming beach resort town near Kolkata, West Bengal. Due to its top-notch facilities and luxuries, it has a tremendous potential of becoming a world-class destination. With great scenery, sandy beaches and an amazing aura of luxury about itself, Mandarmani is a great place to be away from the hustle bustle of daily life. Perhaps the longest motorable beach in India, a crazy high-speed ride on the beach at Mandarmani can give you the ultimate thrill along with some time to chill at the beach.

Distance from Kolkata: 175 km

Overview Tucked between Mandarmani and Shankarpur, Tajpur is a small town set on the the tranquil shore of the Bay of Bengal, just 170 kms from Kolkata. Considered to be a serene secret of West Bengal, the virgin beach is hidden away from view and is still untouched by commercialization and tourism. Bereft of chaos and cacophony, it provides the perfect escape from the hustle bustle of city life. The highlight of the pristine beach are the hundreds of red crabs that are found on the shores which also give a perfect crimson colour to the beach. Besides, unlike the usual crescent shaped beaches, this one is an inverted crimson in shape. Fringed by dense eucalyptus, tamarisk and casuarina trees, the secluded beach is perfect to just laze on a hammock and spend some time in solitude amidst the sun, sea and sand.

Distance from Kolkata: 143 km

Known For : Dimna Lake Jubilee Park Tata Steel Zoological Park

The largest city in Jharkhand, Jamshedpur is an aesthetically planned township with an appealing infrastructure and landscape. Juxtaposed against the beautiful Dalma Hills, Jamshedpur is the world's eighth-largest steel manufacturing company, along with being India's first planned city.

Distance from Kolkata: 287 km

Best Time: November to February

21 Jamshedpur Attractions

Known For : Sun Temple, Konark Chandrabhaga Beach ASI Museum

Konark, in the state of Orissa is renowned world over for the Sun Temple which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Annual dance festival and its beautiful sandy beaches.

Distance from Kolkata: 502 km

Best Time: September to March

5 Konark Attractions

Known For : Baranti Reservoir or Murardi Lake Ajodhya Rakab Forest

The western most district in the state of West Bengal, Purulia is a beautiful destination blessed with mesmerizing natural beauty.

Distance from Kolkata: 289 km

Best Time: October to March

7 Purulia Attractions

Known For : Raghurajpur Artist Village Sri Jagannath Puri Temple Puri Beach Markandeswara Temple

Puri in Odisha is one of the four must-visit pilgrimage sites for Hindus because of Jagannath Temple that forms the part of Char Dham in India. Puri is a beach city located on the coast of Bay of Bengal which is one of the favourites among people of West Bengal for a short trip.

Distance from Kolkata: 503 km

Best Time: July to March

29 Puri Attractions

Known For : Bhitarkanika National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary Barabati Fort Stone Revetment

Referred to as the cultural capital of Odisha, Cuttack is a commercial city with plenty of impressive tourist attractions.

Distance from Kolkata: 427 km

Best Time: July to March

5 Cuttack Attractions

Known For : Sri Chaitanya Saraswat Math ISKCON Temple, Nabadwip Radha Rani Temple

Blanketed away in the commotion of West Bengal, Nabadwip - Mayapur is a cluster of nine islands located on the banks of Ganges. This place is one of those few religious shrines whose spirit of devotion is palpable.

Distance from Kolkata: 136 km

Best Time: October to March

8 Navadvipa Attractions

Known For : Mahishadal Rajbari and Goplajew Temple Marine Drive, Haldia Sataku

Often considered as a mere river port assisting Kolkata, Haldia has more to offer to India than just foreign trade. With it's rich collection of heritage locations, temples and local markets, Haldia is geared upto be the next major tourist hub of West Bengal.

Distance from Kolkata: 124 km

Best Time: October to March

11 Haldia Attractions

Known For : Dhauli Shanti Stupa Ashoka Rock Edicts Dhabaleswar and Bahirangeswar temple

Dhauli is a small town 8 Km away south of Bhubaneswar, located on the bank of river Daya and holds great significance for the followers of lord Buddha. Dhauli is said to be the witness of the reform of Ashoka's character.

Distance from Kolkata: 458 km

Best Time: July to February

3 Dhauli Attractions

Known For : Budha Subba Temple Namaste Falls Pindeshwor Temple

Dharan is a city located near the Southeastern border of India and is a replica of Indian culture and tradition. Dharan is the gateway to the Mahabharat hills and is one of the biggest pilgrimage locations in Nepal. This low-lying hilly region is extremely clean, colourful and culturally diverse as well as a centre for football in Nepal, hence it being called 'mini-Brazil'. Located in the Sunsari District of Eastern Nepal, the city does not have extreme climates, making it a pleasant destination for tourists throughout the year.

Distance from Kolkata: 622 km

Best Time: January to April; September to December

8 Dharan Attractions

Known For : Bakkhali Beach Henry's Island Jambu Dweep

Wrapped in the commotion of West Bengal and yet a world in itself, Bakkhali is small beach town located on the West Bengal coast. If you wish to have the perfect beach getaway that doesn't include ear ripping music or just alcohol laden evenings, Bakkhali is the place to be.

Distance from Kolkata: 125 km

Best Time: October to March

6 Bakkhali Attractions

Located in Baleswar district of Odisha and at a distance of 10 Km from Digha, the Talasari beach is pristine, serene and has been bestowed with spectacular panorama.

Distance from Kolkata: 191 km

Best Time: October to December, February

1 Talasari Beach Attractions

Known For : Chandan Nagar Museum The Patal Bari The Chandan Nagar Strand

Wrapped in the interiors of West Bengal, in the Hooghly District, is the small yet significant town of Chandan Nagar. This small town which could have been in place of present day Kolkata, had history gone as planned, has the most unique and formidable history in perhaps all of India.

Distance from Kolkata: 45 km

Best Time: October to February

6 Chandannagar Attractions

Known For : 108 Shiv Mandir Christ Church Golap Bagh

With a convergence of religion, nature, man-made marvels and the proverbial old world charm, Bardhaman is the ideal fit for a weekend getaway.

Distance from Kolkata: 102 km

Best Time: October to March

14 Bardhaman Attractions

Known For : Rasmancha Lalji Temple Susunia Hill

A small town in West Bengal famous for its terracota temples, Bishnupur is famous among tourists, especially for its rich culture including architecture, music and handicraft.

Distance from Kolkata: 137 km

Best Time: October to March

12 Bishnupur Attractions

Known For : Mandarmani Beach Shankarpur Beach Digha Beach

With more and more money being pumped into beaches all around the world to turn them into synthetic poolsides, Shankarpur gives you the luxury of experiencing the thrill of isolated beaches, calming winds and that typical old world charm.

Distance from Kolkata: 175 km

Best Time: October to Apr

3 Shankarpur Attractions

Situated in the Eastern foothills of the Himalayas, the Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary along with Gorumara National Park is famous for one horned rhinoceros, elephants and Bengal Tigers, spotted deers, barking deers, sambhar deers, bison, wild pig, hog deer and bison.

Distance from Kolkata: 712 km

Best Time: September to May

Known For : The Sagar Beach Ganga Sagar Mela Kamil Muni Temple

Sagardwip is a small island, a part of the Sunderbans group of islands. Sagardwip is at the confluence of the holy river Ganga (Ganges) and the Bay of Bengal, making it one of the most popular religious havens of the country.

Distance from Kolkata: 118 km

Best Time: October to March

7 Sagardwip Attractions

Jayrambati is a quaint village in the Bankura district, popularised as an important pilgrimage point among followers of Sri Ramakrishna for being the place of residence of the Holy Mother Sri Sharada Devi. The village has a certain old-world charm to it and has several small temples all across the village, the most popular one however being the Sri Sri Maitri Mandir devoted to the Holy Mother. The religious aspect of the village is what draws most visitors to the village and is an integral part of the village’s culture. The village has been an integral part and woven itself in the life of the holy mother Sri Sharada Devi, the village has witnessed several milestones in the life of the holy mother and has thus resultantly been an important source of pilgrimage for the ardent followers of Sri Sharada Devi.

Distance from Kolkata: 103 km

If you have been fascinated by delightful and thrilling stories about religious deities tussling with one another, or find yourself intrigued by learning about ancient temples, or even have an all-around interest in mythology, and you would like to cultivate this interest further by visiting attractions that are of immense cultural importance, then there is exactly such a place for you. Indeed if, in addition to all of the above, you’ve harboured the itch to take a dip in the calming waters of a hot spring, then this place would also offer you that! This is the town of Bakreswar in West Bengal, and visiting it should be on your bucket-list, especially if you’re travelling to the state. At a distance of about 230 km from Kolkata, Bakreswar is visited by pilgrims and non-devotees alike. It is a spiritual and natural extravaganza that you cannot afford to miss.

Distance from Kolkata: 216 km

If you’ve visited Ranchi and Kolkata -- and having fallen in love with both the cities, you now crave to experience their magic in unison, then do not worry. Your craving is not in vain for there is a place matching exactly that description! Situated in East Singhbhum district of Jharkhand, the town of Ghatshila has the winding rivulets and serene waterfalls of Ranchi while also harbouring ample sites of religious worship and a rich multicultural heritage that Kolkata does. Ghatshila is a town of festivals, where the locals are fond of celebrating in unity. Visiting Ghatshila means not only that you’re in for the opportunity of spending quality time in nature, by the side of mystical waterfalls and picturesque hills, but also that you get to pay heed to deities in old historical temples.

Distance from Kolkata: 245 km

Away from the mell pell of the city lies a hidden gem in the state of West Bengal. Considered to be one of the most clean forests in India, Sonajhuri Forest is a great retreat to be close to nature. The Sonajhuri Forest is replete with lush green trees that has blooming flowers. This place is picturesque with quite a number of mesmerizing places to see and explore. This place is untouched by industrialization and is a inhabited by tribal who lead simple lives. The pristine river flowing alongside the forest makes the whole place look even more magical. Just like Tagore, after seeing its beauty, this place might invoke the poet in you.

Distance from Kolkata: 164 km

Jhargram is small city located in the state of West Bengal with a rich historical and cultural background. Surrounded by dense forests this place is mystical. A perfect place to spend few days in the lap of nature surrounded by friendly tribal population, you are bound to be mesmerized not only by its picturesque beauty but by the gregarious people who inhabit this place. The chirpings of birds will make your heart swell with happiness and you will feel as if you are in paradise.

Distance from Kolkata: 175 km

Barrackpore was the first place where Britishers set up their cantonment and later spread their rules in India. This place is of great historical significance as it was also the first place where the spark to attain I from Britishers was lit. Not to stop at that, this place is also home to some of the most mesmerizing and green parks which are perfect to spend some time lazing around? and relaxing. Pristine temples are also situated in Barrackpore that will purge you soul and invite positive vibes. A visit to Barrackpore will let you enjoy some calm away from the hustle bustle of the city and also give knowledge about one of the most important chapters in the history of India.

Distance from Kolkata: 31 km

A cluster of small villages, Kamarpukur is nestled between Vishnupur and Tarakeshwar. Birthplace of a pious and sagacious saint, Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa, this village is perfect getaway from the pell-mell of the cities. In this village you will be able to enjoy the pleasures of simple rural life. This place being pious is filled with positivity and you will feel recharged after visiting it. Replete with temples and scenic beauty this is just the place to unwind from the pressure of all the deadlines that you are struggling to meet.

Distance from Kolkata: 96 km

Babur haat is the perfect weekend destination for you and your loved ones if you do wish to take a break from the hectic city life and spend some time close to rustic Bengali rural life. Dominated by natural fishing lakes or bheris, responsible for producing some of the tastiest fish in West Bengal, Babur Haat is a nature paradise. Long stretches rice farmlands, vegetable orchards, mango groves, palm groves and rural homes and temples make a wonderful scenic landscape. Fishing is one of the more popular activities in Babur Haat. You can also go on a short picnic trip to the nearby local village grounds, open spaces of which also allow for outdoor games like badminton and cricket to be played. Malancha villages, famous for its fish markets is only 15 km from Babur Haat. You can also opt for country boating, by crossing the river to visit Chaital village. Greenery, fresh air and open spaces will definitely leave your spirits rejuvenated. Babur Haat is located at a distance of about 50 km from Kolkata. You can also choose to avail the bus services from Kolkata to Malancha village via Babur Haat.

Distance from Kolkata: 11 km

Situated on the bank of river Roopnarayan, Deulti provides for an ideal picnic spot. This small village picnic destination is also accompanied by a handful of tourist attractions, like Samtaber, the hometown of renowned Bengali author Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay and the temples of Madangopal and Radha, adorned with embellishments of Terracotta art. If you are a bird lover, keep an eye (read ear) for the chirps of different birds, while you take a walk on the clay paths of the villages. Other popular townships like Kolaghat, Garchumuk and Gadiara are also located nearby Deulti. If you travel by car, Deulti is situated at a distance of about 51 km from Howrah. Alternately, you can avail train services from Howrah station to Deulti station.

Distance from Kolkata: 61 km

Also known as Kingfisher island, this little known day trip destination is situated in the middle of river Ichamati, with India on one side and Bangladesh on the other. Covered by trees, this little island is perfect for nature lovers, as they can walk through the green fields and observe distant Bangladeshi rural settlement. You can arrange for a picnic, take a boat ride and go swimming in the river. Try not to miss the awe-striking view of the setting sun on river Ichamati. You can also visit the nearby attractions- Taki ( only 20 minutes away) and Hasnabad. In order to reach Machranga Dwip, you need to travel to Hasnabad, either by road (75 km from Kolkata), or by bus from Dharmatala or by trains from Sealdah. After you arrive in Hasnabad, avail the services of vans to reach the ferry dock for motorboats to reach the island. You can also hire motor boats from Taki.

Distance from Kolkata: 90 km

The river town of Falta is what constitutes your ideal picnic destination or weekend gateway. Marked by the confluence of river Hoogly and Damodar on the south and river Rupnarayan and Hoogly on the north, this place has developed entirely on the banks of river Hoogly. Known for the beautiful farmhouse- The Bose Bigyan Mandir of famous Bengali scientist Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose. The grounds of this farmhouse allow picnic activities. When if Falta, do not miss the Falta jetty to watch ferries crossing the river and walks along the riverside. You can also go for a boat ride on the river. Nearby attractions include Diamond Harbor at half an hour’s drive, Raichak, Gadiara Geonkhali- all located at less than an hour’s drive. The historic town of Tamluk and Haldia are also in the vicinity. You can choose to drive to Falta, as the distance between Kolkata and Falta is only 51 km. Numerous buses are also available. If you are taking a train, get down at Diamond Harbor and avail a minibus to reach Falta.

Distance from Kolkata: 52 km

Situated at a distance of 72 kms from Kolkata, Piyali is a pristine island in West Bengal. Covered in lush greenery and boasting of surreal natural beauty, the island is an ideal weekend getaway and is a haven for birdwatchers. Nestled at the confluence of the rivers Matla and Piyali, the mangroves covered Piyali Island can be reached by crossing a small bridge atop river Piyali. The island provides peace and tranquility like no place else and is also considered the gateway to the renowned Sundarbans National Park. In addition to this, you can spot exotic birds as the place is home to a wide variety of bird species and/or go boating in the Piyali river. The place provides several accommodation options and is also a popular picnic spot in the region.

Distance from Kolkata: 69 km

Named after an Elephant like stone at its foot, the Elephant Falls are amongst the most popular falls in the North-East, situated next to Shillong. It is a tourists' paradise with three layers of the falls accessible to the layman from different vantage points. The Britishers named this fall so owing to the presence of an elephant-shaped rock on one side of the fall. However, the stone disintegrated and was washed away due to an earthquake in 1897. Elephant Waterfalls is a superb place for spending some time in the midst of nature while capturing the incredible moments for your keepsake.

Distance from Kolkata: 1,109 km

Meghalaya is home to some amazing and mysterious cave systems and Mawsmai Cave is by far the most popular of the lot. Located just 6 km away from the heart of Cherrapunjee Mawsmai cave is a breathtaking maze of caves in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya. The well lit caves are a view to behold when the glistening lights meet with the limestone to create countless hues and patterns of light.

Distance from Kolkata: 1,155 km

The fourth highest waterfalls in the world, Nohkalikai falls plunge some 335 meters from a verdant cliff to the ground giving the portrayal of immense and natural magnificence. The pride of the state of Meghalaya, the falls are one of the most beautiful and grand waterfalls in the country. Tucked in between evergreen rainforest of the Khasi Hill and flowing with all its majesty and might, the falls plunges into a lagoon which is as blue as the afternoon sky.

Distance from Kolkata: 1,151 km

Mawlynnong is a small village in the East Khasi Hills district in Meghalaya, the abode of changing clouds. Mawlynnong is famous for its matrilineal society as well as having been declared Asia's cleanest village which comes under the Pynursla community development block and legislative assembly constituency.

Distance from Kolkata: 1,170 km

Umiam Lake, a mesmerizing man-made reservoir, is located at a distance of 15 kilometres north of Shillong which is the capital of the north-eastern Indian state of Meghalaya. The lake was formed after a dam was constructed to generate hydroelectric power. The scenic Umiam Lake is encircled by lush green East Khasi hills that form one of the best panoramic sights for nature-lovers in the country. The sunrise at the lake is a treat to watch and shouldn't be missed. The Umiam Lake has a park adjoining it which is a hotspot for picnics and frequented by locals for a getaway from their busy scheduled.

Distance from Kolkata: 1,086 km

At 1600 meters, Reiek Tlang is one of the highest hills of Mizoram. A place to find peace and serenity, Reiek Tlang calls out to the lovers of nature, adventure and romance. Located at a distance of 29 km away from the city of Aizawl, Reiek Tlang provides its visitors with an opportunity for trekking with the backdrop of sceneries borrowed from the Mizo Hills. As is the case with most North Eastern destination of India, Reiek is also relatively unexplored and sits pretty as a pearl in the hills.

Distance from Kolkata: 1,501 km

The highest waterfall in the state and the 13th highest in the country, the Vantawng Waterfalls is one of he most mesmerizing waterfalls of the North East. Vantawng falls are the pride of Mizoram and one of its prime attractions. The waterfall which is located 137 km away from the capital city of Aizawl is a gem in its own right. Tucked in between the verdant valleys with thick greenery around the waterfall seems like a river of white milk from distance.

Distance from Kolkata: 1,567 km

Chilika Lake is the largest internal salt water lake in Asia, it is a paradise on earth for bird watchers and nature lovers. The pear-shaped lake is dotted with a few small islands and has fisheries and salt pans around its shore. The Chilika Lake also houses the most accommodating ecosystems in the world, which means that a wide assortment of flora and fauna can be spotted here. The lake offers a flamboyant display of a myriad of avian charms in all diverse hues and colours, ranging from the white-bellied sea eagles to flamingos, and from golden plovers to sandpiper

Constructed across the Mahanadi River in Sambalpur, Odisha the Hirakud Dam is hailed as the longest human-made dams in India. Astonishingly, it is over 56km long and is the top pick among the locals as well as tourists to enjoy a refreshing day out. This marvellous piece of architecture construction was built in the year 1956, and owing to its location is a fantastic spot to watch nature come alive in all its glory. One of the major attractions here is a drive-through road that you can take you 21km over the dam, admiring its ingeniousness and expertise. Another striking feature of the dam is, of course, the wide expanse of the view that it offers from the Gandhi and Nehru Minarets that are located towards the Northern Facade of the dam. It is also a fantastic site for birdwatching as it is surrounded by abundant water and trees on all sides.

Distance from Kolkata: 682 km

Situated on the banks of rivers Murti and Raidak in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, the Gorumara National Park is a site that you cannot miss to afford on your next trip. Spread over an area of 80 sq.km. it sits prettily at the foothills of Great Himalayan mountains and has a large variety of flora and fauna. Full of riverine grasslands and moist deciduous forests, the place is especially famous for its Asiatic one-horned rhino, and also houses many other mammals, reptiles, insects and birds, including the majestic Asian elephants, the royal Bengal tigers and the Great Indian Hornbill.

Distance from Kolkata: 613 km

Located at a distance of about 20 km from the Gorumara National Park, this Wildlife Sanctuary is another spectacle of nature's magnificence. With Kanchanjungha and other Himalayan peaks painted across its backdrop, tourists can see a wide diversity of animals like elephants, gaur, leopards in their natural habitat.

Distance from Kolkata: 632 km

Reflecting the natural beauty of an era gone by, Simlipal National Park is in a beautiful and scenic town in Odisha. Situated in Mayurbhanj, it once used to be a hunting ground for the rulers of the province. Simlipal is the largest wildlife sanctuary in India and is also considered as one of the principal tiger projects in India. The area is rich with dense forests, striking meadows, startling waterfalls and beautiful rivers. It is blessed with great bio-diversity and huge varieties of fauna that make it a great place to engage in wildlife sightseeing! Simlipal Reserve is home to more than 1000 varieties of plants. It has around 96 species of orchids that are endemic to the forest. Baripada is the nearest town to Simlipal and can be considered a gateway to the same.

Distance from Kolkata: 257 km

Betla National Park is a beautiful national park which is spread over the hilly terrain of the attractive Palamau district, west of Ranchi In Jharkhand. Wild elephants wander without restraints in the thickets of the forest and the flora and fauna are enough to mesmerize any visitor. Though there are relatively fewer tigers here, a visit to this ancient area of Jharkhand will be worth it because it provides a deeper insight into the rich tribal heritage of the state. Betla stands as an acronym for Bison, Elephant, Tiger, Leopard and Axis. What makes this park stand out from the rest is the presence of two forts inside its premises. The primary attractions here is observing wildlife from a close range. 

Distance from Kolkata: 690 km

A small border town in the Jaintia Hills, Dawki and its famed river Umngot is a must visit if in Meghalaya. Sandwiched between India and Bangladesh, Dawki is a major center of trade between India and Bangladesh. The small city, besides being a trade hub is also famous for its tourism scene, with many people flocking to the city in order experience a boat ride in its famed Umngot River and enjoy the nearby sights and sounds

Distance from Kolkata: 1,178 km

Known For : Bamakhepa Temple Tarapith Temple Mahasmashana

Tarapith is a famous Hindu pilgrimage in the state of West Bengal and a Shakti Peetha, believed to be the spot where Sati's third eye fell. Tara, another form of Sati, is worshipped in the temple.

Distance from Kolkata: 223 km

Best Time: September to March

3 Tarapith Attractions

Dampa Tiger Reserve, a splendid Wildlife Sanctuary, is located amidst the deep and dense forests of Mizoram in India. The forests are located about 125 kilometres from Aizawl and are rich with a variety of flora and fauna that draw tourists and nature lovers to the North-eastern state of India from all parts of the world. The name Dampa was derived from the lonely bachelors (Dam Pa meaning Lonely Men) left in the region after the passing of a majority of the female population.The Dampa wildlife sanctuary covers a sprawling area of over 500 square kilometres on the western side of Mizoram and touches the international boundaries of Bangladesh.

Distance from Kolkata: 1,528 km

One of the most beautiful destinations in Mizoram, Hmuifang or Hmuifang Tlang is an amazing hill station with a lot to offer to the discerning traveller. Located a distance of 50 km from the capital city of Aizawl, Hmuifang is hill town at the heart of the state of Mizoram. The hill station is known for its adventure and wildlife-related activities which draws many enthusiasts to its hills. It is a land of virginal green forests and slopes untouched by human civilization. Hmuifang is also famous for holding a festival promoted by the Tourism Development of Mizoram called the Thalfavang Kut, that gives you a peek into the Mizo culture by showcasing various dances such as Cheraw, Sawlakai, Siktuithiang lam and Chheihlam

Distance from Kolkata: 1,525 km

The largest lake in the state of Mizoram, Tamdil Lake is a human-made lake exclusively to serve as a natural attraction for the state's tourism. Tamdil Lake, which translates into 'Lake of Mustard ' in Mizo, is a beautiful lake with the magnificent landscape, clear, blue water and serene environment. Tucked between evergreen forests and hills, the lake is located in the wilderness of the hills of Mizoram, some 100 km east of Aizawl.

Distance from Kolkata: 1,552 km

Hidden deep in the lush, green forests of the wettest place in India: Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya; one can find the magnificent Jingkieng Nongriat Double Decker Living Root Bridge; more commonly known as the Umshiang Double Decker Living Root Bridge or simply just the Double Decker Root Bridge.  This area is famous for root bridges made of Indian Rubber Tree, but the Double Decker Bridge is the most famous of all due to its large size. It is 3 kilometers long and placed at a height of 2400 feet! A unique attraction and quite an innovative mix of nature and engineering. The Umshiang River flows beneath the bridge.

Distance from Kolkata: 1,167 km

Pawapuri is a holy site for the Jains. It is situated in the Nalanda district of Bihar state in Eastern India. A long time ago, Pawapuri was the twin capital of Mall Mahajanpad. Mahajanpad later became a part of the kingdom of Magadha and Ajatshatru was a devotee of Lord Mahavira. During the rule of Ajatshatru, the king of Pawapuri was known as Hastipal. When in Pawapuri, Mahavira stayed in the Rajikshala of the king. It is considered as a sacred place because Lord Mahavira was buried here in 500 BC.

Distance from Kolkata: 474 km

Adorning the northeastern corner of West Bengal, bordering Bhutan and Assam, Buxa Tiger Reserve was set up at on 16th February 1983 and was then, the 15th tiger reserve of the country. The forest constituting the Buxa Tiger Reserve is the largest in the Dooars - the Alluvial floodplains of Northeast India. Spanning over a whopping 759 sq. km., this tiger reserve is irrigated by several rivers and their tributaries. It boasts of a diverse and breathtaking landscape. In fact, because of the rocky terrain, many parts of the forest in the Buxa hills that lie in the Sinchula Range are inaccessible even by the authorities, and hence remain unexplored even after so many years!

Distance from Kolkata: 725 km

Hajipur is one of those cities of India which has connected the past and the present in a smooth transition over the years. Though scarce and scattered, Hajipur keeps coming back in the pages of Indian history - be it the time of Lord Buddha or the rule of Islam or the British era, in some way or other, Hajipur is always there. The district of Vaishali, of which Hajipur is the headquarter as well as the largest city, is known for being the place where Lord Gautama Buddha decided upon his final resting - nirvana after bodily death.

Distance from Kolkata: 557 km