13 Offbeat Tourist Destinations in South Bengal That You Will Love (2024)

The Southern part of West Bengal consists of the districts that are not included in North Bengal. Precisely, West Bengal’s districts apart from Malda, Uttar Dinajpur, Dakshin Dinajpur, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong. That means the rest of the 15 districts in the state are part of South Bengal. Now, important cities like Kolkata, Bardhaman, Durgapur, Asansol, etc., belong to this part of Bengal, and many notable sites are located over there. You might have heard about some popular destinations in South Bengal, namely, Digha or Bishnupur. But did you know many stunning locations in these districts perfect for short vacations?

These placesin South Bengal are not that popular among tourists due to different reasons. One of the main reasons behind their seclusion is the lack of awareness among tourists. Even though these places are magnificent and full of touristy attractions, people still have not gotten hold of their exquisiteness. That is why they are the perfect place to genuinely relax and forget your hectic life for some days. By staying in these locations, you will genuinely feel a lot better.

Some of these places belong to the PurbaMedinipur district that is most popular for the seaside town of Digha. Other destinations in this list are from North 24 Pgns, South 24 Pgns, and others. They vary from one another on different aspects. Some of them have been included due to their natural beauty, while the others have been included due to their hidden history. As these sites are located in South Bengal, reaching them from Kolkata or other Bengal cities is relatively easy.

Most of these sites can be reached within a few hours by car. So, if you are looking forward to spending a few days in a majestic place devoid of the usual crowds, you are at the correct place. In this blog, you will get to learn about the best offbeat destinations in South Bengal for a genuinely unique vacation.

13 Offbeat Tourist Destinations in South Bengal That You Will Love

These places in South Bengal mentioned in the following part of this blog are stunning and picturesque. By visiting these sites, tourists get to witness natural beauty and get to learn a lot about the history of Bengal.

1. Burraghutu

Located near Mukutmanipur in Bankura, Burraghutu is one of the most beautiful offbeat places in South Bengal. This tribal village is full of surprise and is pretty hidden from the rest of the world. As this hamlet is located on a hillock in Mukutmanipur, the scenic view surrounding it is genuinely alluring. Apart from the surrounding hills, the Kangasabati river basin also accentuates the beauty of this site. Throughout this site, you will see deer roaming freely. The ambiance of this site will take you to a different world. It will take you to a world that is not bound by time constraints.

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Apart from Burraghutu, there are other tribal villages located over there. Some of the residents of the said villages sell handicraft items prepared by Dokra artwork. At the same time, others have Jain temples that are both spiritual and unique at the same time. By staying a few days in this tribal village, you will genuinely learn a lot about the tribal life of Bengal. There is a resort located over there that allows you to experience the entire surrounding more authentically.

Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 220 km.

Time to reach: It would take you approximately five and a half hours to get Burraghutu from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: Kangsabati Dam, Parasnath Hills, Kuilapal Forest Village, and others.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year.

2. Nachan

Nachan is a beautiful yet secluded region in Paschim Bardhaman district. This village is famous for the Nachan lake that is originally a reservoir for the Nachan dam. As this site is located only 20 km from Durgapur railway station, many people prefer to travel there by trains. Surrounded by the thick forests’ lush greenery, Nachan offers you a chance to escape reality for a few days. By staying for a few days in the guest house in Nachan, you will genuinely be able to relax. Due to the lack of tourists, the authenticity of this site is not hindered at all.

The Garh jungle is the forest that surrounds this site. Apart from the greenery, the flowing Ajoy river amid this region makes it even more beautiful. If you go there, do not forget to invest in a good pair of binoculars as Nachan is quite well-known for being home to many rare and beautiful birds. While staying there, you can explore the adjacent sites of Nachan that are quite popular among tourists. Places like Kenduli, Durgapur Barrage, and Deul of Ichhai Ghosh are some of the must-see places in Nachan.

Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 185 km.

Time to reach: It would not take you more than three and a half hours to get Nachan from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: Durgapur, Kangsabati Riverside, Garh Jungle, Kenduli, and others.

Best time to visit: October to February.

3. Khoai

Most tourists are pretty fond of Shantiniketan. Whenever they mention Shantiniketan, Visva Bharati University comes to mind right at that instant, but seldom do people talk about Khoai, one of the most beautiful sites in the region. This area of Shantiniketan was formed due to the steady erosion of the land. Most of the damage is being done continuously by the climatic condition of Shantiniketan. When you visit Khoai for the first time, you will be pretty taken aback. The eroded landscape consisting of red laterite soil makes Khoai significantly different from any other West Bengal site.

Even though Nobel Laurette Rabindranath Tagore mentioned Khoai in many of his great works, tourists have avoided it due to its secluded location. But if you love solitude, you will love Khoai in South Bengal. Surrounded by the unique beauty of Ballavpur village and the mesmerizing Kopai river, this region in Shantiniketan is genuinely alluring.

The entire area is covered by Sonajhuri trees full of bright yellow flowers for most of the year. Apart from the natural landscape, Khoai also gives you a chance to see the tribal Bengal. As this area is located right beside Bonepukur Adivasi village, you will get to know the life of tribal people quite closely.
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Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 162 km.

Time to reach: It would take you approximately three and a half hours to get Khoai from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: Sonajhuri forest, Ballavpur forest, Bonepukur tribal village, and others.

Best time to visit: October to March.

4. Agarhati

Located not that far away from Kolkata, Agarhati is a tremendous offbeat site in South Bengal. Mainly built to cater to the tourist who loves fishing and nature, Agarhati is quite picturesque and well-maintained. The resort in the region allows tourists to witness the panoramic view of the entire surroundings. As this site is located quite close to the largest fishing markets in West Bengal, Malancha, you will get to taste delicious dishes prepared by freshly-caught fishes over there. By staying at the resort in Agarhati, you will get to participate in fishing.

Fishing lakes surround the entire region, so it is easy to catch fish while staying in Agarhati. One of the most notable things about this offbeat resort is its landscape. The fishing lakes are connected by beautiful bamboo bridges that only allow you to go from one part of the resort to another and offer a great scenic view. You can explore the waterbodies in Agarhati by boating. By staying a few days in this beautiful resort town, you will genuinely feel rejuvenated.

Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 65 km.

Time to reach: It would not take you more than one and a half hours to get Agarhati from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: Malancha, Vidyadhari river bridge, Ichamati river, etc.

Best time to visit: November to February.

5. Tajpur

Located in the East Medinipur district of West Bengal, Tajpur is one of India’s most beautiful beach towns in South Bengal. Even though many tourists nowadays visit Tajpur for spending their weekends, a few years back, it was completely hidden from travelers’ eyes. The popularity of Tajpur is limited to day-trips and picnics. Still now, not many people prefer staying there for a few days. This is why it is a great offbeat location to genuinely enjoy the majestic Bay of Bengal in solitude. As this site is located only 16 km from Digha, most people treat this site as a sightseeing spot.

When you reach there, you will realize it is way more beautiful than Digha. Surrounded by Casurian and palm trees, and a golden sandy beach, this village has a lot more to offer to the wanderlust travelers. One of the most extraordinary things about Tajpur beach is that tourists can participate in various water-related adventure sports, unlike other seaside towns in Bengal. If you love adventure, you can join in banana boat riding, paragliding, speed-boating, and others while staying in Tajpur.

Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 180 km.

Time to reach: It would take you approximately four hours to get to Tajpur from Kolkata airport. Places to see: Mandarmani, Digha, Shankarpur, etc.

Best time to visit: October to March.

6. Henry’s Island

Initially built by the Fisheries Department under West Bengal Government to breed different fishes and prawns, Henry’s Island now is one of the best offbeat tourist spots in South Bengal. Located pretty close to Bakkhali, this island is unique in every way. It is a great site to spend some time with your thoughts and get lost in the glory of nature. The continuous waves of the mighty Bay of Bengal, along with the surrounding palm and mangrove trees, make Henry’s Island pretty exotic. When you reach this site, you will understand it is unlike any tourist spot in West Bengal.

Even now, the popularity of Henry’s Island is not skyrocketing. Despite being exceptionally beautiful, people tend to avoid it due to its secluded location. That is why the solace that you will receive while staying over there is unparalleled. While exploring Henry’s Island, it will be an excellent experience for you to visit Bakkhali and its adjacent regions. The few resorts that are located over there are quite comfortable and will make your trip quite fun.
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Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 140 km.

Time to Reach: It would not take you more than three and a half hours to get to Henry’s Island from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: Bakkhali Watch Tower, Crocodile Breeding Center, Fraserganj Wind Park, Bishalakshmi Temple, and others.

Best time to visit: October to February.

7. Duarsini

Located in the Purulia district of West Bengal, Duarsini is one of the best offbeat tourist spots in South Bengal. Throughout this region, you will notice forests consisting of Sal and Segun trees. The lush greenery of the surrounding area makes Duarsini the perfect site to spend a few days without any outside hindrance. As tribal villages surround this region, it is a great site to gain knowledge regarding the tribal community of West Bengal. While staying there, you might encounter wild animals like wild boar or hyenas due to the adjacent forests. Every morning in Duarsini will start with birds chirping and end with the mesmerizing sunset on the lush forests’ backdrop.

This tribal resort village is located by the bank of the Satgudum river. By sitting by this riverside, you will feel an otherworldly feeling that you have never felt before. The government cottages located in Duarsini is the only place to stay there, and that is why it will be better for you to make prior reservations for staying there. Even though this site is not hugely popular, it has become famous among tourists who seek the true beauty of nature.

 

Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 269 km.

Time to reach: It would take you approximately five and a half hours to get Duarsini from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: Satgudum River Bank, Duarsini Forests, and others.

Best time to visit: July to February.

8. Chandpur

One of the most underrated beach towns in West Bengal, Chandpur is an excellent location to spend a weekend amid nature and solitude. The beach in Chandpur is covered with golden sands, and walking on it will give you an unmeasurable pleasure in your life. Seeing the sunsets and sunrises in Chandpur will be some of the best moments of your life. The solace that you will receive by merely loitering by the Bay of Bengal in the region will stay with you for a long time. As this beach is still not that famous among tourists, it is devoid of pollution and littering.

The pristine condition of the beach will genuinely awe you. While staying there, do not forget to get on top of the Dariapur lighthouse. The panoramic view that you will receive from the lighthouse will be genuinely unparalleled. There are a few resorts located in Chandpur that allows tourists to have a cozy stay. Even though you will not find every modern facility, you will be grateful that you decided to take this trip in South Bengal.
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Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 181 km.

Time to reach: It would not take you more than four and a half hours to get to Chandpur from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: Dariapur Lighthouse, Deshapran Fishing Harbour, Shankarpur beach, etc.

Best time to visit: July to February.

9. Garh Panchkot

Surrounded by the breathtakingly beautiful Panchet hills and located by the Panchet lake, GarhPanchkot is one of the most beautiful places in South Bengal. As the altitude of this site is around 2100 feet, you will get to witness the panoramic view of the mountains from every part of the site. Even though this tourist destination is so beautiful, people tend not to stay there overnight. That is why it will be a perfect getaway for you if you are looking forward to leaving your daily life stress for a few days. Apart from the natural allure, GarhPanchkot is historically significant as well.

It is home to the ancient archaeological monument GarhPanchkot fort. Moreover, the remains of an old Jain center have also been found in GarhPanchkot, making this site even more enjoyable. This region has a lot to offer. From mesmerizingly spectacular landscapes to archaeological discoveries, staying at GarhPanchkot for a few days will genuinely satisfy your wanderlust. As this site is located in the Purulia district of West Bengal, do not forget to explore the other famous sites over there as well.
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Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 248 km.

Time to reach: It would take you approximately five and a half hours to get GarhPanchkot from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: Telkupi, Damodar Valley River Project, Maithon Dam, Panchet Hill, and others.

Best time to visit: November to February.

10. Joy Pool

Located pretty close to Kolkata, Joypool is a beautiful site located in the North 24 Pgns district of West Bengal. Most tourists visit there to have a nice picnic with their friends and families. Although Joypool is excellent as a tourist spot in South Bengal, it is fantastic for a short vacation as well. Some resorts are located over there that allow you to spend some days amid natural bliss and solace. A newly-built nature park located pretty close to Joypool will enable you to enjoy yourself to the fullest. If you have kids, this place with enchant you even more.

The farmhouse complex in Joypool helps you in getting connected to nature like never before. Surrounded by many trees, ponds, parks, and a children’s play area, Joypool resort is a great place to spend some time with your family. Apart from the said facts, the famous Chakla Dham is located pretty close to the site. This Dham is quite renowned among spiritual travelers as it is the birthplace of the renowned Yogi, Baba Loknath.
Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 23 km.

Time to reach: It would not take you more than one and a half hours to get Joypool from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: Chakla Dham, Joypool Nature Park, etc.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year.

11. Chandraketugarh

Chandraketugarh is one of the fascinating places in South Bengal. Many people do not know this, but Chandraketugarh is more than 2300 years old, making it one of the oldest regions of West Bengal. If you visit there, you will get to see terracotta sculptures constructed in the said time. It is even believed that Chadraketugarh has indirect connections to the Roman civilization. Several different artifacts have been excavated from this site near Barasat. From pottery items to seals, from toys to plaques, this site is genuinely one of India’s most exciting places.

Many Greek and Roman writers are believed to have mentioned this site’s name in their books. They referred to this site by the term “Gangaridal.” The “KhanamihirerDhipi” is the most notable site in Chadraketugarh. An urban settlement was believed to reside in this area, but due to natural calamity, everything went to ruins. Despite being so historically enriched, not many people have many ideas about it. If you are a history-enthusiast, spending a few days exploring the beauty of Chandraketugarh will be perfect for you.

Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 35 km.

Time to reach: It would take you approximately one hour to get Chandraketugarh from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: PirGorachandDarga, Lal Masjid, Chandraketgarh Fort, etc.

Best time to visit: October to May.

12. Jayrambati

Located in the Bankura district of West Bengal, Jayrambati is a spiritual site in West Bengal. Mostly famous for being the home to the wife of Sri RamkrishnaParamhansa, Sri Sri Sarada Devi, this site is quite essential to the Hindu community of West Bengal. Despite being so famous among the religious community, not many people visit there for exploration. Visiting this site will allow you to gain a lot of knowledge regarding the spirituality and culture of West Bengal.

There are many temples located throughout this town in South Bengal. Among them, the Sri SriMatri Mandir is the most important one. Even if you are not a religious person, you will find Jayrambati to be quite fascinating. Moreover, you will get to see the beauty of rural Bengal while exploring this site quite easily.

Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 102 km.

Time to reach: It would not take you more than three and a half hours to get Jayrambati from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: Shihar Village, Narayanan Temple, Ramkrishna Math, and others.

Best time to visit: November to February.

13. Junput

Located in the East Medinipur district of West Bengal, Junput is a beautiful site. This offbeat tourist destination in South Bengal is soon becoming quite popular among tourists. After a few years, this region will be unrecognizable due to the high volume of tourists, but now it is relatively less popular. That is why Junput is the perfect site to enjoy the majestic Bay of Bengal amid the wilderness and solitude. Surrounded by palm trees, the sandy beach of Junput will enthrall you. By taking a stroll along the beach, you will find your peace of mind that people quickly lose due to daily life’s monotony.

Even though the site does not have many sightseeing spots, spend a few days over there is relatively easy. You will not even realize when the time will pass due to the alluring nature of Junput.

Distance from Kolkata International Airport: 165 km.

Time to reach: It would take you approximately four hours to get Junput from Kolkata airport.

Places to see: Junput beach.

Best time to visit: July to March.

All the sites mentioned in this blog are quite spectacular. They vary from one another concerning topography, location, population, and culture, but they are all unique in their way. Due to tourists’ low density, spending a few days devoid of noise and crowds is pretty easy in these destinations. We hope that you got a good idea about the best offbeat destinations in South Bengal by reading this blog.