At some point in our lives, we've all wanted to experience a camping trip with our closest friends and family or a solo trip and live a life like Bunny and Avi from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. You're lucky if you've been on such a trip before, but even if you haven't, Kolkata is no less than Shimla. Surrounded by all aspects of nature —pristine high hills, mountains, serene lakes and rivers— it has multiple spots around where you can plan a fun little camping trip. Here's a round-up of the best camping spots near Kolkata!
7 Scenic Spots Near Kolkata For Your Next Camping Trip
Baranti
If you're someone who wants to get lost in an ocean of greenery, pick Baranti as your next camping destination. It is a peaceful Santhal tribal town surrounded by lakes and mountains. The best part about going camping in Baranti is that you're free to explore any surrounding regions, there are no set rules here. To reach the hills here, you can follow the red dirt path along Muradi Dam. We suggest you visit this place on a full moon day as the atmosphere is absolutely surreal with the forest, hills, and lake, along with the sounds of wildlife. The best time to visit this place is between September to March when the wind is cooler.
Distance: 82 km
How To Reach: If you choose to drive, it takes about 2 hours. Cabs cost between INR 1,400 and INR 1,800. The nearest railway station is Muradi if you choose to come by train. As for the bus, take the 213.
Biharinath Trek
Biharinath is known as Bankura's highest hill, with a strong 1,480 feet in elevation. This place is perfect for a day trek, where you can admire the Purulia hills while the other side offers views of the flowing Damodar River. This place is 29 km from Susunia, and the entire journey is perfect for rock climbing enthusiasts. It offers a panoramic view of the nearby hills, soft rivers, and vibrant flower beds.
Distance: 194 km between Kolkata and Susunia
How to reach: You can take a train from Howrah Junction to Barddhaman, then a train from Barddhaman to Durgapur, followed by a taxi from Durgapur to Susunia Hill. Alternatively, driving down from Kolkata will take you about 5 hours.
Henry’s Island
Bakkhali's Henry's Island is a treasure trove of untouched beauty with a very unique crab population that you wouldn't find anywhere else. Located in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, it is peaceful with pristine, clean beaches, captivating views and lush greenery. The island is named after a British explorer from the 19th century and is essentially a part of Sunderbans, which has off-late become a famous camping site. One can enjoy breathtaking sunrises and sunsets here with ponded surrounding. With its easy accessibility, it's a perfect spot for an outing with friends.
Distance: 125.5 km
How To Reach: If you are travelling by train, get down at Namkhana from Kolkata, then walk to Narayanpur. From there you can catch a ferry to Namkhana LCT Service and finally take a taxi to reach Henry Island.
Gorgaburu Hills
With a height of 677 meters, Gorgaburu is the tallest peak in the Ajodhya Hills and the second-highest point in West Bengal's southern area. It is located in Purulia's Plateau and Highlands and are perfect for rock climbing. If you are an adventure lover, you will have a gala time climbing the rugged terrain. You will also come across organised nature camps that are surrounded by mesmerising landscapes. The best time to visit is during the colder days, which is from October to February.
Distance: 329.4 km
How To Reach: The ideal route to reach Gorgaburu Hills from Kolkata is via the Durgapur to Raghunathpur road. It will take you about 7 hours.
Rocky Island
Rocky Island is an upcoming camping site located in the Dooars near Kolkata that is quickly gaining momentum. It is positioned along the Murti River, 2 km away from Samsing. The campsite is the perfect base for exploring the Neora Valley National Sanctuary and is ideal for people wanting to indulge in activities like hiking, rock climbing, and rappelling. One can start from Rocky Island, a starting point for nearby places like Sherpagaon, Bhalukope, Jhandidara, and Mo-chuki.
Distance: 662 km
How To Reach: You can reach the Bagdogra airport by air. Malbazaar is the nearest railway station, which can be reached from NJP in Siliguri.
Mousuni Island
Mousuni Island is no less than a hidden gem in Namkhana, West Bengal. It offers the perfect blend of beach, sun, sand, and scenic views. It is closer to Kolkata as compared to other trekking and camping spots. The land slowly submerges into the ocean here, therefore staying in camps is recommended. You will find many tent options, including essential amenities like washrooms, food, and blankets. You even have an option of booking the tents in advance.
Distance: 120 km
How To Reach: You can reach the campsite by car via the Baruipur Amtala Road. After crossing the Namkhana Bridge, you can travel along the Baruipur Amtala Road and reach Patibunia Ghat within 30 minutes. From there, you can board a ferry boat across the river, which costs INR 10 per person, and then use a toto to reach the campsite, which costs INR 25 per person.
Teesta River and Valley
If you're not really an adventure-loving person but love to sit by a beach and take in the serenity and calmness of nature, this camping destination near Kolkata is for you. Teesta is a long river that rises in the Eastern Himalayas and flows through Sikkim and West Bengal, followed by entering Bangladesh. In West Bengal, you can set up your camping tents right beside this river in the Teesta Valley, which is surrounded by pristine mountains. You can also take a peaceful guided walk at the nearby Singalila ranges. We suggest organising a bonfire beside your camping site for an unforgettable experience. The best time to visit is from December to June.
Distance: 628 km
How To Reach: The valley is about 14 hours away by car. Teesta Valley is also quite near to Darjeeling, and a car ride from there will only take 3 hours.
