Beyond Digha Darjeeling: Explore These Offbeat Places in West Bengal for a Pristine Experience

Away from the maddening crowds, the state of West Bengal hosts some of the best and incredible offbeat destinations for a weekend trip or a short vacation. Quaint and peaceful, these places are ideal to spend a wonderful trip. Few hours away from Kolkata, travel and accommodation are affordable and comfortable.

Let us find out which are those 10 best offbeat spots, capturing the minds of many travellers.

1. Mousuni Island

Situated near Namkhana, Mousuni island beams with natural beauty. There are a plethora of activities to do in the island. Bird watching, strolling across the beach, go for a boat ride and enjoy partying with friends and family. Relaxing at the eco-cottages or tents, you can watch the sunset spreading its golden hue around.

Location: Near Namkhana in the southern part of the state on NH117.

Distance from Kolkata: 120.4 km approx.

2. Duarsini

Duarsini is essentially a forest covered with huge green trees and dense plantations. Santhal, Kheriya and Munda are the three villages in the place. The region is surrounded by breathtaking lakes, gushing waterfalls and the thick rainforests. The flora and fauna at Duarsini are incredible, perfect place for wildlife photographers and nature admirers.

Location: Purulia district

Distance from Kolkata: 265 km approx.

3. Samsing

Samsing is a pristine hamlet in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal. Its key attractions are the beautiful tea gardens at the banks of the river Murti. You will love the greenery around and more importantly the gurgling sounds of the river waters splashing against the rocky beds. The place remains less crowded, ideal for spending a secluded vacation.

Location: At Matiali in the Malbazar subdivision of Jalpaiguri district

Distance from Kolkata: 720 km approx.

4. Sonajhuri

Believed to be one of the most cleanest forests in India, Sonajhuri is an enthralling offbeat destination. You will cherish the beauty of the nature around and the simplicity of the tribal people. If you happen to visit the place on a Saturday, then you can visit the local market selling the hand-made products of the villagers.

Location: Near Santiniketan in Bolpur

Distance from Kolkata: 166 km approx.

5. Junput

If you love beaches, then you can visit Junput. You won't experience the huge crowds at its beach, but a silent atmosphere all around. Watching the sunset at the beach, while being engrossed into its picturesque landscape, is truly a bliss. The line of palm trees alongside the beach, swaying along with the breeze, create a soothing sensation.

Location: Purba Medinipur district

Distance from Kolkata: 158 km approx.

6. Taki

A pristine retreat for a weekend getaway or vacation. You can go for a boat ride on the river Ichamati and watch the sunset. There are several ancient buildings and temples to explore, mingle with the villagers and taste the traditional food. Do not miss visiting the Kingfisher island and the Golpata forest.

Location: North 24 Parganas district and located at the banks of the river Ichamati; bordering the two neighbouring nations India and Bangladesh.

Distance from Kolkata: 71 km approx.

7. Chandraketugarh

For history buffs, the 2300 years old Chandraketugarh is an ideal location. Many historical relics and archaeological excavations can be found in the city, popularly known as Bengal's Harappa. As per the studies the place seems to belong to way back in the 3rd century BC. You must visit the museums to see the terracotta images, motifs, seals and many more.

Location: Near Berachampa in North 24 Parganas district along the banks of the river Bidyadhari

Distance from Kolkata: 44 km approx.

8. Rajabhatkhawa

For nature lovers, Rajabhatkhawa is a small town covered with forests. Due to its proximity to the Buxa Tiger reserve, the place flourishes with its exotic flora and fauna. You will love to visit the forest village adorned with different species of trees, orchids, herbs, shrubs and creepers. There is a watchtower from where you can watch the forest animals and birds.

Location: Alipurduar district in the Dooars region

Distance from Kolkata: 740 km approx.

9. Lepchajagat

If you are on a honeymoon trip or want to spend a cosy vacation, Lepchajagat will be a good place for you. You can easily avoid the crowds while enjoying the mesmerising beauty of nature. It was once a hamlet of the Lepcha tribes and hence the name. You will love to stroll across the forest trails and feel the freshness in the air.

Location: Darjeeling district

Distance from Kolkata: 620 km approx.

10. Garh Panchkot

An ancient fort and a palace are the key attractions of Garh Panchkot, perfect for a weekend trip. There are artistic temples dedicated to the Hindu gods and goddesses - Rama, Vishnu, Kali and many others. The palace called Rani Mahal was originally a massive structure as obvious from the ruins discovered from the area.