Kolkata, the City of Joy, has a lot to offer. The city has everything that can satisfy your cultural and historical needs. This city has everything from the iconic Dakshineshwar Temple to the colonial-era Victoria Memorial. If one plans to explore the state of West Bengal, Kolkata is the first place that comes to mind. However, what if you are done exploring the city? Good news for you! The city is close to many beautiful places that are worth a visit. Here are ten must-visit places you can consider for a one day trip near Kolkata:
Raichak
If you are planning a one day trip near Kolkata, Raichak will be your ideal choice. This small village is located near the Bhagirathi River and the Hoogly River. The cultural and historical importance of this spot is unmatched. It is the home of the famed F Fort. At present, this fort is being turned into a luxurious five-star hotel. Its lush green landscapes and colonial architecture are among its key highlights. It is a charming place that gives travellers a glimpse of old-school European architecture, particularly the British and the Dutch. It also has premium resorts such as Ganga Kutir, Anaya, and Ffort Suites.
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Diamond Harbour
Diamond Harbour is a great choice for a one day trip near Kolkata. This picturesque tourist spot is situated near the Hooghly River. It is one of the key places that tourists from West Bengal visit. From this place, one can see the confluence of the Bay of Bengal. Since this place is near to the sea, it has a beach-like ambience. This makes it a perfect getaway spot from the hustle and bustle of the city. Since this spot is close to Raichak, the tiny village can also be visited from Diamond Harbour. It is truly a wonderful place.
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Sunderban, the largest mangrove forest in the world, is great for a one day trip near Kolkata. This vast continuous spread of mangrove forests is one of the natural wonders of the world and a hotspot for tourism. The forest is the home of the elusive Royal Bengal tiger, which can only be spotted if one is lucky enough. Other than that, it is also a goldmine of diverse flora and fauna, along with exotic wildlife. However, it is worth mentioning that the full beauty of this place can only be realised through a two- or three-day trip. However, if you are planning only a short trip, a day is enough to explore the key spots of this place.
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Tarkeshwar
This place is immensely famous for a one day trip near Kolkata. It is a beautiful place and the home of the grand Tarkeshwar temple. The beauty of this temple attracts spiritual tourists from not only West Bengal but also from India. The influence of the temple is so all-encompassing that the city is dubbed the city of Shiva, or Baba Dham in the native language. During the holy month of Shravan, this place blooms into its full beauty. A similar scene can be observed on the day of the festival Shivratri. All in all, this city’s tourism potential is dependent on its divine, and relaxing atmosphere.
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Chinsurah
Chinsurah is truly the hub of the architectural wonders of West Bengal. Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, this city is among the key tourist spots of the state. Among common folk, this place is better known as Chuchura. This city, like Kolkata, is multicultural and a melting pot of cultures. It became a notable trading town after the Dutch Factory was set up here. This got this city’s attention from Dutch and Armenian tradespeople. Native Bengali merchants came in touch with Armenian merchants and traded items like indigo, cotton, and silks. Today, this city is one of the best choices for planning a one day trip near Kolkata.
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Deulti
Deulti is one of the most underrated spots for a one day trip near Kolkata. Located on the banks of the Roopnarayan River, it holds the potential to be a great tourist spot. Among its key highlights are the Madangopal and Radha temples. This temple showcases the expert capabilities of the local craftsmen. It is decorated with art made out of terracotta artform. Additionally, this tourist spot is also the birthplace of reputed Bengali author Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. It is the ideal spot if one wants to enjoy a slow life. Its calm scenery, stunning views, and warm people make it the best for a short vacation.
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Burdwan
This place is the most ideal when it comes to a one day trip near Kolkata. Being one of the key cities in West Bengal, it is a hub of both cultural and natural wonders. In addition, it is also renowned for its industries. This city is historically rich as well. In the past, it was the hometown of the Maharajas of West Bengal. These people were the noblemen who were dominant in the lower parts of Bengal. It has a certain colonial charm as well, marked by key spots such as the Curzon Gate. It is a city that contains the essence of the entire West Bengal in one place.
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Taki
Taki is a peaceful place situated on the banks of the Ichamati River. Travelling to this place is sure to make one interested in the ancient Royal history of West Bengal. It is a place full of royal ambience that is bound to be etched in your memory forever. Historical significance lies at the core of its beauty even if some of its monuments are in a dilapidated state. Considering this, this place is a record of old Bengal with remnants of Zamindari houses, old temples dedicated to Goddess Kali, and the centuries-old Sahib Mandir. Additionally, this tourist spot is also a haven for sweet lovers, enthusiasts, and bloggers. After all, Taki is the birthplace of the famous Chhanar Malpoa. You can get the best experience of this place between October and January. Overall, a good choice for a one day trip near Kolkata.
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Haldia
Haldia is a tourist spot full of natural wonders. It is perfect for a one day trip near Kolkata. Also known as the “Gateway of Eastern India,” this place is the meeting point of wonderful heritage and stunning nature. Apart from its natural and cultural elements, this city is also notable for its industrial edge. Being a port city, it is one of the key industrial hotspots of West Bengal. This city has other special qualities as well. For instance, it is the meeting point of the Haldi and the Ganges River. The Haldia Dock Complex is located at this exact meeting point. Besides, it is one of the key points of foreign trade in India.
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Bawali
Bawali is a beautiful place not far from Kolkata. It is suitable for both solo and group trips. Like many other tourist spots in West Bengal, Bawali too is noted for its natural charm and the warmth of the local people. However, apart from its natural qualities, it is also a leading spot for all things paranormal and supernatural. One of the key spots in this town, the Rajbari Bawali, is said to be haunted. Although snippets of paranormal encounters in this royal palace are available in internet forums, the general opinion is that there is no such thing. The palace, at present, is a spot for weddings and photoshoots.
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These are your best options if you want to plan a one day trip near Kolkata. Each of these places has something unique to offer. This will certainly freshen up your mind and give you a new zest for life. Plan a trip today and get away from the demands of the city. Go out of the concrete jungle and enjoy.