Taki Golpatar Forest

Don’t expect technology to be your friend if the Golpatar forest is your next weekend escape. Far away from the hubbub of honking cars and relentless human activities, the Golpatar forest exists with its lush, untouched natural bounty. The spot makes for the perfect escapade for the adventure-lovers and peace-seekers. At Taki, your trip is incomplete without a boat ride on the Ichamati River, where tourists from within the country and neighboring Bangladesh can be seen enjoying their time in all tranquility.

Distance from Kolkata: 68kms
Weather: Cool
Best time to visit: All year round

Shankarpur Beach

Who wouldn’t want to watch the lashing of the waves and the rising sun in all its glory, after a taxing week at work? A five-hour drive away from the city, Shankarpur beach in Kolkata awaits you with its old-world charm and pristine, isolated beaches. In its proximity are other secluded beaches like Digha and Mandarmani which remain untainted by the human touch. Take a dip in the waters of Shankarpur and cleanse your tension away!

Distance from Kolkata: 175kms
Weather: Humid, breezy
Best time to visit: All year round, except monsoon

Navadvipa

Have you ever felt that divine, blissful moment where you find yourselves nestled between two holy rivers? If not, take your time off this weekend to reflect on life and get a city life-detox at Navadvipa, which is located at the confluence of the Jalangi and Bhagirathi rivers. This ancient city has much more in store for those looking for a weekend of learning, self-discovery, and rejuvenation. For those photography enthusiasts, Navadvipa is a trove of possibilities.

Distance from Kolkata: 124kms
Weather: Mostly humid
Best time to visit: Oct-Mar

Midnapore

Once part of the Kalinga Empire, this township located by the banks of the Kangsabati river is one of the most visited tourist destinations. Its bounty of pilgrimage and heritage sites attract visitors from across the state, additionally due to its proximity to Kolkata. Some of ita major attractions are the Dariapur lighthouse, Jagannath temple, and Jora Masjid among many others.

Distance from Bengaluru: 159.7km
Weather: Mostly humid
Best time to visit: Feb-Mar; Oct-Dec