Kolkata has many beachfronts surrounding the city, making them most accessible for fun weekend getaways. Not only that, along with soaking in the sun and splashing in the ocean, you also get to hog on some tasty authentic regional seafood dishes that you wouldn't find anywhere else. Some beaches are perfect for a long drive along the coast, others for swimming and some even for local street shopping. And the best part? You can reach them all by your car within a couple of hours! Here is the ultimate list of all the beaches you would want to add to your travel list.
6 Beautiful Beaches Near Kolkata For The Perfect Summer Getaway
Bakkhali Beach
Bakkhali Beach is one of the most famous beaches near Kolkata and has been one to successfully maintain its beauty despite the heavy tourist footfall. It’s widely known for its cleanliness and is perfect for nature lovers. If you're into wildlife, we suggest you visit the Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project. Another attraction that is worth a visit is the Bishhalakshmi temple. While you're at the beach, do not miss out on the sunrise. It'll be one of the prettiest you would've ever seen.
Distance From Kolkata: Approx 127.4 km
How To Reach: Kolkata and Bakkhali are connected by NH 12, which will take you 4 hours to travel, starting from Joka. The route goes through Diamond Harbour to Namkhana, crossing the Hatania-Doania Bridge, offering a smooth and hassle-free journey to Bakkhali Sea Beach.
Mandarmani Beach
Mandarmani Beach is by far India's longest-drivable beach, perfect for a getaway with friends and cousins. It offers exciting water sports like jet skiing, surfing, and motorboat rides. Although the beach is suitable for swimming during low tides, it is advised to stay cautious because there are no lifeguards on the coast. One must avoid visiting during monsoons. You can book a stay at a beachfront resort for the best experience and visit the beach anytime between 5 AM to 10 PM.
Distance From Kolkata: 169 km
How To Reach: An ideal way to reach Mandarmani from Kolkata quickly is to take a taxi, which only takes around 2.5 hours and costs around INR 3,700 to INR 4,400. The cheapest way is to go by bus which takes about 6 hours and costs around INR 370 to INR 460.
Digha Beach
Adding another feather to the crown of West Bengal, Digha Beach stands out as one of the world's widest beaches with stunning sunset views. Because of its hard terrain, Warren Hastings once called it the Brighton of the East. Right by the beach is the Marine Aquarium and Research Centre, also the largest in Asia. You can indulge in activities like parasailing and many more on the beachfront.
Distance From Kolkata: 184 km
How To Reach: Three trains run between Kolkata and Digha every day. If not a train, the fastest way to reach Digha is by bus, which takes four hours. You can also take a taxi, which will cost you around INR 3,800 to INR 4,200.
Talsari Beach
Talsari Beach is located 8 km from Digha Railway Station and falls under Odisha's Baleswar district. It's a must-visit spot near the Orissa-Bengal border for those who are seeking a calm and quiet beachy getaway. It is comparatively a less explored beach, that forms the bank of River Subornorekha. We suggest you take a marine drive from Talsari to Udaypur Sea Beach (3 km) for a delightful experience by a boat available at the Talsari shore.
Distance From Kolkata: 188.1 km
How To Reach: A train runs between Kolkata and Talsari, which takes about 4 hours and costs INR 700 to INR 1,600. Alternatively, you can travel to Digha by bus, cab, or self-drive.
Tajpur beach
You can differentiate the beauty of Tajpur Beach by the neat rows of Casuarina trees that you'll find at the shore. It makes for a peaceful spot to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, with soft white sands perfect for relaxing and watching the waves. Don't miss out on the tasty seafood at seaside eateries and try dishes like pomfret fry and lobster curry.
Distance From Kolkata: 172.5 km
How To Reach: Tajpur District does not have a dedicated railway station. The nearest two major rail stations are Kanthi P H and Digha Flag Station. You can take an autorickshaw from Kanthi P H to the beach. If you are coming from the Digha station, we suggest you hire a car to cover the distance of 18 km from Digha to the beach.
Gangasagar Beach
If you want to take a short religious trip, visit Gangasagar. It is a small pilgrimage island with beautiful temples and beaches. We'd recommend you stay at the West Bengal Tourism Guest House for a night to fully enjoy the place's richness. The Sagar beach is where the holy river Ganga and the Bay of Bengal meet, making for a mesmerising water stretch. You can hire local totos to take you around the place, including the Sri Ramakrishna Math!
Distance From Kolkata: 134.6 km
How To Reach: There is no direct connection from Kolkata to Gangasagar, but you can take a train to Kakdwip and then drive to Harwood Point Jetty Lot No. 8, take the ferry to Kachuberia Jetty, and then drive to Gangasagar. Alternatively, you can also take your own car and drive directly to Gangasagar.
