Spending five years in Kolkata as a law student gave me ample opportunities to explore some of the most beautiful weekend getaways from this City of Joy. From serene beaches to the enchanting Himalayas, lush mangroves to cultural havens, these destinations offered a perfect respite from the academic rigors of a national law school.
Here’s a glimpse into my favorite weekend getaways from Kolkata—Sankarpur Beach, Darjeeling, Sundarbans, and Shantiniketan, which I made with my law school friends more than ten years back.
Darjeeling has always been close to my hometown, Katihar in Bihar, yet I never had the chance to explore its beauty until this unforgettable weekend trip. Years later, I found myself returning to this charming hill station in 2021, but this time, it was part of an epic road trip all the way from Mumbai to Darjeeling—an experience that deepened my connection to this magical place.
I reluctantly went on this trip after much persuasion from my best friends in law school, as I was worried about my tight budget. Yet, as I look back more than a decade later, my heart swells with gratitude for the younger version of me who decided to go. The memories of that journey remain vividly etched in my mind, like treasured photographs in an album I can never put away. With time, these moments have grown even more precious, a reminder of friendships, youth, and the irreplaceable joy of shared adventures.
Darjeeling: The Queen of Hills
August 2012
A weekend in Darjeeling is nothing short of magical. Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, this hill station is about 600 km from Kolkata and offers breathtaking views, colonial charm, and the aroma of world-famous tea.
- Highlights: Sunrise at Tiger Hill, the heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), and a visit to the serene Ghoom Monastery.
- How to Get There: An overnight train to New Jalpaiguri, followed by a scenic 3-hour uphill drive.
- My Experience: The mist-covered hills, a piping hot cup of Darjeeling tea, and the echoing Kanchenjunga left me spellbound every time.
It was a trip that defined the carefree joy of college life—a larger group of us boarding a local train from Sealdah to Canning, making our way to Godkhali, the gateway to the Sundarbans. While the elusive tiger remained hidden from sight as our houseboat meandered through the winding delta, we were treated to fleeting glimpses of deer amidst the mangroves. Yet, what truly stayed with me wasn’t the wildlife but the laughter, camaraderie, and sheer exuberance of those unforgettable days.
The memory of the early morning sunrise, its golden hues dancing on the rippling water, with a lone boat silhouetted against the horizon, is etched in my heart forever. This photograph remains one of my proudest captures—a timeless keepsake of a moment filled with beauty, serenity, and the irreplaceable magic of those youthful adventures.
Sundarbans: A Date with the Wild
January 2012
The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of mangrove forests and home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. This unique ecosystem, located about 100 km from Kolkata, offers an unparalleled experience of nature and adventure.
- Highlights: Boat safaris through the creeks, spotting wildlife like saltwater crocodiles and exotic birds, and visiting the Sajnekhali Watchtower.
- How to Get There: A 3-hour drive to Godkhali, followed by a boat ride to your resort or homestay.
- My Experience: Navigating the serene waterways, with the possibility of catching a glimpse of a tiger, was both thrilling and humbling.
It was one of those spontaneous, unplanned adventures that only hostel life can offer—the boys on the floor deciding on a whim to head out. A quick breakfast of parotta and aloo curry at Chingrighata fueled our excitement as we hopped onto a bus from Kolkata to Sankarpur. A rickety cart ride later, we finally reached the beach, where the salty breeze greeted us, and a budget-friendly stay awaited, perfectly aligned with our modest student wallets.
It was here, standing on the sands of Sankarpur, that I witnessed the sea for the first time in my life. Its vastness, stretching endlessly to meet the horizon, left me completely awestruck—its rhythm and roar unlike anything I’d ever experienced. Surrounded by the laughter and chatter of good friends, that moment became more than just a first encounter with the ocean; it became a memory of pure joy and camaraderie that still warms my heart to this day.
Sankarpur Beach: A Quiet Coastal Retreat
November 2011
Located about 170 km from Kolkata, Sankarpur is a hidden gem along the Bay of Bengal. Known for its pristine sands and tranquil environment, this beach is ideal for unwinding after a hectic week.
- Highlights: Watching fishermen and boat-makers at work, sunrise over the Bay of Bengal, and fresh seafood at local shacks.
- How to Get There: A 4-hour drive/bus from Kolkata or a train journey to Digha by Duranto Express, followed by a short cab ride.
- My Experience: I loved the solitude of Sankarpur so much that I made two trips to the same location, one with friends and one with my sister. Long walks on the beach and the sound of waves made me just fall in love with this place.
Looking at these photographs after so many years, reminds me how fleeting those moments were, etched in a time when we were all together, carefree and united by shared laughter and dreams. Knowing that we will probably never sit together at the same place again, gazing at the same view and feeling an unspoken bond with the same people, fills my heart with nostalgia—a longing for the irreplaceable magic of that togetherness that time has gently taken away.
The original plan for the trip included two boys and two girls. However, with Tanuj backing out, I found myself traveling with two Malayali girls. Initially, it felt a bit awkward—being part of their lively “girls-talk” and long conversations in Malayalam, especially since I had never traveled with female friends before. That said, I’m certain they made adjustments for me as well, and over time, the journey became a memorable experience for all of us.
During this trip, we rented bicycles from our host, leisurely exploring the charm of this small town. We often paused at popular tourist spots and quaint shops, picking up souvenirs along the way. Without a camera of my own, I relied on Jasoon’s 7-megapixel pocket camera to capture glimpses of these moments—a modest yet cherished tool for preserving the memories of this adventure. I wish I had more pictures saved from this trip.
Shantiniketan: A Cultural Oasis
January 2010
Founded by Rabindranath Tagore, Shantiniketan is a treasure trove of art, culture, and education. Located about 160 km from Kolkata, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of tranquility and intellectual stimulation.
- Highlights: Visiting Visva-Bharati University, exploring art galleries, and experiencing the vibrant Poush Mela (if visiting in December).
- How to Get There: A 3-hour train journey to Bolpur, followed by a short rickshaw ride.
- My Experience: The peaceful vibe of Shantiniketan and its focus on creativity and learning were truly inspiring. Strolling through the campus under sprawling banyan trees remains a cherished memory.
These four destinations made my years in Kolkata even more memorable. Whether you’re looking for solitude, adventure, or cultural enrichment, these weekend getaways promise an experience to cherish. Pack your bags, hit the road, and let the charm of these places rejuvenate your soul.
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