Travelling on a Tight Purse? Here Are 10 Budget Weekend Getaways from Kolkata!

If waking up to the hot and humid weather of Kolkata is something you dread every day, then a weekend getaway is in order. Here is a list of some excellent destinations from Kolkata that can easily be done on a budget.

1. Digha

Let’s first include an old favourite. Digha has been overrun by Bengalis on the run from Kolkata since times immemorial. Now a far more commercialised city, Digha’s beaches, delicious sea food and its proximity to Kolkata is why Digha is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Kolkata and for good reason. Digha’s general laid-back vibe is infectious, which is just what one wants on a short break.  Other attractions in the city are the Marine Aquarium Research Centre, or the Lord Shiva Temple at Chandaneshwar. Another viable option is to wander to the Digha boardwalk and sit and enjoy the cool sea-breeze along with a refreshing daab. There are many cheap "rice hotels" all over Digha, serving cheap, but good quality dishes which give you a taste of Bengal. Digha’s reputation precedes itself, and you can go there for yourself and see why. 

How To Get There: Three trains run daily from Howrah Railway Station at 06.40 (Tamralipta Express), 11.15 (Duranto Express) and 14.40 (Kandari Express) daily which will get you to Digha in no time. Or you could drive To Digha that a mere 4-5 hours from Kolkata. There are regular and frequent services to Digha from the Bus Terminus (Route 6) in the Garia suburb of Kolkata.

Where To Stay: Digha provides extremely cheap options for accommodation all over the city. Greenland Inn and Hotel Seagull are available for Rs.600-1500 per night. They provide excellent service at the best rates.

2. Mandarmoni

A lesser known favourite, Mandarmoni is popularly known as the longest driveable stretch of a beach in India. Commercialisation hasn’t yet gripped Mandarmoni and hence it a great place fo a peaceful getaway. You can also enjoy a variety of beach-side sports such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, bungee tramp lining and riding ATV bikes which are available on the beach at a small price. Mandarmoni is meant for those who want to enjoy the simple pleasures of life like a relaxing walk on the beach. 

How to Get there: The nearest train station is at Contai from where you will have to hire a car to take you to your hotel in Mandarmoni however the better option would be to drive to Mandarmoni. The route is pretty straightforward and scenic and the total trip from Kolkata is around 3.5 hours. You could also take State Transport Buses are available cost Rs 130. A number of deluxe coaches run daily, Rs 100-150.

Where to Stay: Ajoy Minar and Sun View resort allow a budget traveller to enjoy all the perks that Mandarmoni has to offer at cheap rates and with great service as well. 

3. Bolpur​

Considered as the seat of education and culture in West Bengal, Bolpur is popular for the famous Viswa Bharati institution. Shantiniketan, established by Rabindranath Tagore, is the reason why Bolpur is visited by tourists, art-enthusiasts, students and curious people from all over the world. Bolpur is steeped in literature and cultural values which is prominent even in the environment and students of Viswabharati. The town has little to see apart from the institution and overall reminds you of a sleepy little town that has a variety of food joints. The bougainvillea covered buildings of Shantiniketan are reminiscent of the past that seeks to endure through the people and the centre of learning. 

How to Get There:  Shantiniketan is connected with Kolkata by an excellent road by NH2 which can be covered in approximately 3 hours. Or for greater convenience, you could take the train. Bolpur is two to three hours by train from Kolkata. The Shantiniketan Express departing Howrah at 10:05 is the only train which originates/terminates in Howrah and Bolpur.

Where To Stay: Those of you who are interested in staying near Shantiniketan, Lodge Lipika is the place to be which is a budget traveller’s delight as it provides all basic amenities at Rs. 800 approximately, per night.

Read More: 5 Best Kolkata Restaurants for Foodies

4. Darjeeling

 

Darjeeling, a colonial haven to escape from the summer’s heat is a popular weekend getaway from Kolkata. Famous for its tea estates and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, this quaint hill station has featured in many popular Bollywood films such as Parineeta and Barfi. There are a variety of adventure sports also available here such as trekking, mountain climbing and mountain biking. The Himalayan Zoo is famous for housing the various denizens of the mountain especially the popular Red Panda. Apart from the stunning views, Darjeeling also has many Buddhist monasteries where you can spend many peaceful hours. 

How To Get There:  The nearest railway station to Darjeeling is New Jalpaiguri which connects with all major cities including Kolkata. There is a regular bus service from Silguri to Darjeeling. However, they are quite slow due to the steep, twisty climb up to Darjeeling. As an effective budget traveller you could choose to take taxis, shared jeep at Rs. 100-200 depending on your bargaining skill.

Where To Stay: Darjeeling is well equipped with hotels that are geared to deal with budget travellers. Pahari Soul Darjeeling and Hill Crown retreat are well furnished to handle all your requirements as a traveller.

5. Sundarbans

One of the most famous tiger reserves in India, the Sundarbans offers the best possible opportunity of sighting the reclusive Bengal tiger.  The Sundarbans largely comprises of mangrove forests which make up one of largest biospheres in the country. Those of you interested in exploring this world heritage site would be interested to know about the variety of endemic species that are a part of the Sundarbans ecosystem, many of which are already extinct due to climatic changes and poaching. This deltaic wildlife sanctuary is a beautiful sight to witness because of lush green surroundings and the variety of fauna one may observe while touring inside the sanctuary. However make haste and visit this wildlife sanctuary soon because it may not survive for long due to fast-changing climatic conditions which are leading to its imminent demise. 
Note:  While roaming the park, please stay with the forest guide and do not step out of your vehicle alone.

How To Get There: Canning is the nearest rail head to Sundarban Tiger Reserve. Railway distance from Kolkata to Canning is 45km and 29km away from Godkhali Port. It takes 1hr 20mins to reach Canning station from Sealdah station in Kolkata. This is the most convenient and efficient means of getting to the Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary.

Where to Stay: Sundarbans provides a variety of hotels that also cater to budget travellers. Royal Sundarbans and Sunderban gateway Resort  are all great hotels that are available at Rs.1000-2000 per night. Those of you who would like to keep a greater budget for the jungle safari could choose to live at Prakrity Village Resort or Cnest Eco Hub which are available at less than Rs.1000 per night. 

6. Gangtok

Gangtok is a popular getaway from Kolkata given its pleasant climate and beautiful views. Apart from that the city is also known for its beautiful Buddhist monasteries, the most popular being the Enchey Monastery. This hilly paradise is perfect for budget travellers and there are many restaurants where you can enjoy a wide variety of food like Momo’s, Thukpa and also delicious Chinese food. 

How To Get There:  Work has started on a broad gauge link that connects directly from west Bengal to Gangtok. Until then the nearest railhead connected to the rest of India is the station of New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri, situated 124 km from Gangtok. Otherwise, Gangtok is connected to the rest of India by an all-weather metalled highway, National Highway 31A, which links Gangtok to Siliguri, located 114 km (71 mi) away in the neighbouring state of West Bengal.

Where To Stay: Hotel Royal Residency and The Nettle and Fern Hotel are equipped to handle budget travellers and provide rooms at Rs.500-2500 per night, depending on your requirements. 

Read More: Best Hotels in Kolkata: 3 for Every Budget

7. Puri

Renowned for the legendary Rath Yatra that’s celebrated in the month of June or July, Puri is considered an important site of pilgrimage in India. Situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, Puri is famous for its sandy beaches and beautiful temples. Apart from that, the city is also known for its beach shacks that serve delicious sea food. Tourists can also shop for indigenous crafts and arts unique to Odisha, especially silver filigree items.

How To Get There: Puri is a major railhead on the east coast railway and has direct trains connecting it to Kolkata. The Railway Station of Puri is in the heart of the town and near to all hotels. Hence using the railways is the cheapest and most convenient option of conveyance. 

Where To Stay: This city being a popular destination for tourists, has many hotels that are available for budget travellers such as Balaji International and Hotel Lee Garden which charge Rs.1000-2500 per night. 

8. Kalimpong​

For those who’re crunched for time, Kalimpong serves as a great weekend getaway as it is located very close to Kolkata. Situated at the height of 1,250 metres above sea level, Kalimpong was previously a British settlement which is still evident from the colonial architecture and planning of the town. Kalimpong is considered a major hill station in Bengal because of its proximity to the Himalayan vistas and its prime location overlooking the River Teesta. Deolo Hill in Kalimpong is a must visit as it provides you with a brilliant view of the valley while you enjoy the clouds as they converge over the high mountaintops.

How To Get There: Kalimpong is located off the National Highway 31A and there are regular state buses which could directly take you from Kolkata to Kalimpong. Four wheel drives are popular means of transport, as they can easily navigate the steep slopes in the region. The closest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri, on the outskirts of Siliguri, which is connected with almost all major cities of the country, including Kolkata.

Where To Stay: Hotel Mountain View and The Soods Garden Retreat all provide amazing services which allow you to enjoy Kalimpong for the delight that it is. 

9. Bankura

Bankura is a seemingly unlikely addition to this list; however it’s steeped in historical importance and is more importantly famous for the Bankura Horses, which is a popular craft from West Bengal. The city has contributed great deal toward modern Bengal art and architecture. Bankura is famous for its beautiful temples and terracotta art and architecture. Other popular tpourust attractions in Bankura are the Joyrambati, Mukutmonipur and Biharinath Hill.

How To Get There: Bankura is linked with NH-19 by road ways and it takes approximately 4 hours to reach over a distance of 219kms. Bankura Railway Junction is managed by the South Eastern Railways and is on the Adra-Midnapore rail route that is directly connected to Kolkata.

Where To Stay: Due to its lack of commercialisation, Bankura has Hotel Saptarishi and Saptaparna which are hotels that will cater to budget travellers at Rs.500-1500 per night.

Read More: Restaurants in Kolkata that Dish Out Amazing Seafood

10. Kurseong

Kurseong is a far less commercialised version of Darjeeling. A laid back little hill town, Kurseong is perfect for those who plan to do nothing but relax. The road to Kurseong is utterly beautiful and the small town is even more so. Located 1,458 metres above sea level, Kurseong is the best place to relax and rejuvenate minus the hordes of tourists.  Kurseong is surrounded by beautiful tea gardens and a small walk around town would provide you with stunning views of the Teesta River and the rest of the valley below. Kurseong was a Colonial-era Favourite and it still is a favoured of all those who wish to escape to the hills for some peace and quiet.

How To Get There: Kurseong is an important station on the Toy Train route from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling and it takes a little over 5 hours to reach Kurseong. The town is also well connected by roads. There are three roads from Siliguri to Kurseong. The shortest one is called Pankabari Road. Taxis are available and it takes 45 minutes to reach Kurseong from Siliguri. Kolkata is about 570kms from Kurseong. There are many trains that go to Siliguri after which there are various means of reaching Kurseong.

Where To Stay: Due to the lack of commercialisation, Kurseong has limited hotels available so please remember to book in advance. The Amarjeet Hotel provides rooms at Rs.1000-2000 per night. 
Excited already? What are you waiting for! Star packing those bags now.