Explore exciting One day trips from Kolkata to 12 authentic spots – serene beaches, historic temples, and nature escapes for joyful adventures near the city!
There’s something magical about waking up in bustling Kolkata and deciding to chase a quick escape – a day filled with fresh air, new sights, and zero overnight packing. These One day trips from Kolkata are perfect for that sudden urge to explore Bengal’s hidden treasures without long journeys.
From peaceful riversides to cultural gems, each spot offers a heartfelt break from city life. As someone who’s loved these little getaways, I can tell you they bring back that childlike excitement. Let’s wander through 12 of the most authentic and beloved ones!
1. Bawali – A Royal Heritage Retreat
Bawali_Rajbari by DeepanjanGhosh, CC BY-SA 4.0
Walking into Bawali feels like stepping back in time. The grand Rajbari slowly reveals its charm through antique-filled rooms, long corridors, open courtyards, and lush gardens where time seems to pause. Every corner tells a story of zamindari life, making it perfect for quiet walks, photography, and soaking in royal nostalgia. Sitting in the shaded courtyard, listening to birds, feels like a rare luxury so close to Kolkata.
Famous for: Colonial-era zamindar architecture and aristocratic history.
Best time to visit: October to March for comfortable weather.
Where and what to eat: On-site heritage dining offers Bengali thali with fish curry (₹500+), but head to nearby Bawali Dhaba for budget luchi-aloo dum (₹100-150).
How to reach there: Drive via Diamond Harbour Road (35 km, ~1 hour) or bus from Esplanade.
Nearby Attractions: Diamond Harbour for river views.
2. Golpatar Jungle – Mini Sundarbans Adventure
Golpatar Jungle unfolds like a secret world of water and greenery. Boat rides glide through narrow river channels lined with Golpata and Geowa trees, where birds flutter overhead and crabs scuttle along muddy banks. The forest feels alive yet calm, offering canopy walks, birdwatching, and moments where silence is broken only by water and wind — a true taste of Sundarbans-like wilderness without going far.
Famous for: Its mangrove ecosystem resembling the Sundarbans on a smaller scale, with unique Geowa and Golpata trees.
Best time to visit: October to March for pleasant weather and better visibility.
Where and what to eat: Simple local shacks near Taki offer fish fry or crab curry (₹200+), but try Taki Local Eatery for affordable Bengali meals (₹120).
How to reach there: Drive via Basanti Expressway to Taki (70 km, 2 hours) or train to Taki Road station then local transport; entry to forest is ₹10 with van ride ₹20.
Nearby Attractions: Taki for Ichamati River border views.
3. Raichak – Fort and River Vibes
Raichak by Pinakpani, CC BY 4.0
Raichak blends comfort with river-side calm. The wide Ganges stretches endlessly here, and watching boats drift past from manicured lawns feels deeply relaxing. River cruises, open green spaces, and colonial-style architecture create a laid-back luxury atmosphere, perfect for slowing down, enjoying the breeze, and spending an unhurried day by the water.
Famous for: Ganges-side luxury and colonial charm.
Best time to visit: October to March.
Where and what to eat: Resort cafes offer ilish bhapa (₹400), but Raichak Riverside Dhaba nearby serves mutton kosha (₹150).
How to reach there: Drive on Diamond Harbour Road (50 km, 1.5 hours) or bus.
Nearby Attractions: Diamond Harbour.
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4. Tarkeshwar – Divine Temple Day
Babataraknathtemple by Sankha Karfa, CC BY-SA 3.0
Tarkeshwar welcomes visitors with a sense of devotion and peace. The sound of temple bells, chanting, and incense fills the air as devotees move calmly through the complex. Sitting quietly during aarti or walking barefoot around the temple grounds brings a soothing rhythm to the day, making the experience more spiritual than hurried thus it emerged as a good choice amongst the best one day trips from Kolkata.
Famous for: Religious significance and Shravan festivals.
Best time to visit: October to March or Shravan month.
Where and what to eat: Temple prasad sweets (₹100), but Tarkeshwar Bazar offers veg thali (₹80).
How to reach there: Train from Howrah (60 km, 1.5 hours) or drive via Delhi Road.
Nearby Attractions: Kamarpukur.
5. Taki – Border River Charm
Ichamati–Taki by Biswarup Ganguly, CC BY 3.0
Taki offers a rare experience where nature and borders meet. Boat rides on the Ichamati River allow visitors to see Bangladesh just across the water, creating a quiet yet fascinating moment. Machranga Island adds greenery and calm, while nearby Golpata forests deepen the sense of being close to untouched river life.
Famous for: International border views and serene greenery.
Best time to visit: October to March.
Where and what to eat: River vendors offer fish fry (₹200), but Taki Local Eatery serves Bengali meals (₹120).
How to reach there: Train to Taki Road station (70 km, 2 hours) or drive via Basirhat.
Nearby Attractions: Golpatar Jungle.
6. Piyali Island – Swampy Nature Hideaway
Piyali Island is an ideal place amongst top one day trips from Kolkata. Feels raw and untouched. Slow boat safaris pass through swampy waters and mangrove-like landscapes where birds nest quietly and water reflects endless sky. Walking along the banks or sitting silently near the river makes the place feel remote, perfect for those who love nature without crowds.
Famous for: Untouched riverine ecosystem resembling Sundarbans.
Best time to visit: October to February.
Where and what to eat: Island shacks for crab curry (₹300), but Piyali Dhaba offers veg options (₹100).
How to reach there: Bus/drive to Piyali (75 km, 2 hours) via Baruipur.
Nearby Attractions: Taki.
7. Kamarpukur – Mystic Village Vibes
Kamarpukur_Ramakrishna_Hut, Alan Perry by CC BY-SA 3.0
Kamarpukur moves at a gentle pace. The birthplace of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa carries a quiet spiritual energy, felt while walking through temples, small lanes, and museum spaces. The village atmosphere invites reflection, and the simplicity of daily life here makes the visit feel grounding and soulful.
Famous for: Spiritual heritage and Bengali mysticism.
Best time to visit: October to February.
Where and what to eat: Prasad khichdi (₹150), but Kamarpukur Bazar for luchi-sabji (₹50).
How to reach there: Train to Tarakeswar then bus (95 km, 3 hours) or drive via AH1.
Nearby Attractions: Tarkeshwar.
8. Bishnupur – Terracotta Art Haven
Jod Bangla Terracotta Temple, Bishnupur by Shatarupa Dutta, CC BY-SA 4.0
Bishnupur is a living art gallery. The terracotta temples stand proudly with intricate carvings that reward slow observation. Walking between Ras Mancha and Jor Bangla temples, touching cool brick walls, and watching local artisans at work connects visitors deeply with Bengal’s artistic heritage. This place is an ideal place amongst the top one day trips from Kolkata.
Famous for: Malla dynasty terracotta architecture.
Best time to visit: October to March.
Where and what to eat: Temple sweets like mihidana (₹200), but local eateries for fish meals (₹150).
How to reach there: Train to Bishnupur (140 km, 3 hours) or drive via NH19.
Nearby Attractions: Shantiniketan.
9. Shantiniketan – Artistic & Peaceful Retreat
Santiniketan_Griha by SuparnaRoyChowdhury, CC BY-SA 4.0
Shantiniketan feels open and thoughtful. Wide red-earth paths, classrooms under trees, art studios, and Baul music floating through the air create an atmosphere unlike any other. Visiting Tagore’s home and nearby villages brings together creativity, philosophy, and calm, making the experience enriching rather than rushed.
Famous for: Rabindranath Tagore’s legacy and Poush Mela.
Best time to visit: December to March.
Where and what to eat: University canteens for veg thali (₹250), but Sonajhuri Haat for snacks (₹100).
How to reach there: Train to Bolpur (160 km, 3 hours) or drive via NH19.
Nearby Attractions: Bishnupur.
10. Bakkhali – Beachy Coastal Charm
Bakkhali invites long walks and open skies. The wide beach, gentle waves, red crabs near the shore, and distant windmills create a peaceful coastal scene. Sitting quietly during sunset or walking barefoot along the sand brings a sense of freedom rarely found near the city.
Famous for: Pristine delta beaches near Sundarbans.
Best time to visit: October to March.
Where and what to eat: Beach shacks for seafood curry (₹300), but Bakkhali Market for prawn fry (₹150).
How to reach there: Bus to Namkhana then ferry (125 km, 4 hours) or drive via NH117.
Nearby Attractions: Henry’s Island.
11. Chinsurah – Europe on the Ganges
Bandel_Church_by Swarnasubarna26, CC BY-SA 4.0 Commons
Chinsurah feels like history whispering by the river. This is an ideal place amongst top one day trips from Kolkata. Old Dutch cemeteries, colonial gardens, and European-style tombs create a unique atmosphere. Walking along the Hooghly River and visiting nearby Bandel Church and Imambara connects different eras, cultures, and architectural styles in one calm journey.(inspiration for Ruskin Bond’s story), visit Hooghly Imambara and Bandel Church for colonial architecture and river views.
Famous for: Dutch colonial history and “Europe on the Ganges” vibe with European settlements along Hooghly River.
Best time to visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
Where and what to eat: Local stalls offer fish curry and sweets (₹150), but nearby Hooghly eateries for Bengali thali (₹100-200).
How to reach there: Train from Howrah to Chinsurah station (40 km, 1 hour) or drive via NH19.
Nearby Attractions: Hangseswari temple and Serampore.
12. Jhilimili – Forest & Lake Serenity
Jhilimili is definitely one of best One day trips from Kolkata which unfolds slowly through forests and water. Dense sal and mohua trees surround quiet paths, while watchtowers open panoramic forest views. Sitting near Sutan Lake or the Kangsabati River, with only rustling leaves and water sounds, makes the place feel like a deep breath of nature.
Famous for: Dense sal and mohua forests, scenic lakes, and peaceful rural beauty in Bankura district.
Best time to visit: October to March (post-monsoon for lush greenery).
Where and what to eat: Local resorts like Rimil offer simple Bengali meals (₹200+), but roadside stalls for tea and snacks (₹50).
How to reach there: Drive via NH14 to Bankura then Jhilimili (around 200 km, 5-6 hours) or train to Bankura then bus.
Nearby Attractions: Mukutmanipur Dam for boating.
unset Reflections: The Joy of One Day Trips from Kolkata
Image credit – Dwip Sutradhar, CC BY-SA 4.0
As the day ends and you head back to Kolkata’s lights, these One day trips from Kolkata leave you refreshed with memories of nature, culture, and simple happiness. They remind us how close true escapes are. For more inspiring journeys, be with Travelseek!
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