Planning a Weekend Trip From West Bengal? Head To These Spectacular Locations!
Weekend trips are always rejuvenating amidst the monotonous hustle of our daily lives. But, things may go haywire if the trip is not well-planned. Also, I often receive messages from my followers from Bengal asking – “What travel destinations would you recommend for a short vacation?”. Apart from Darjeeling, Gantok, Digha, Puri and Mandarmani, there are actually so many offbeat destinations that are easily accessible from West Bengal and most people are not even aware of them. So here I present, a guide to all places awesome near Kolkata which can be covered in a weekend!
Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
Nestled among the candyfloss like clouds, the small town of Cherrapunji in the state of Meghalaya is a delight for monsoon lovers. This place is a home to stormy skies, rainfall and cozy weather. It already sounds like the perfect place to unwind, isn’t it? It also has a number of jaw-dropping sites like Nohkalikai Falls (tallest waterfall plunge in India), Nohsngithiang Falls, and Krem Mawmluh Cave (fourth longest cave in the Indian subcontinent).
Nohsngithiang Falls in Cherrapungi
How to reach: Arrive at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati. It takes around 5 hours to reach Cherrapunji from there by road.
Majuli, Assam
Sitting in the heart of river Brahmaputra, Majuli is one gem of a river island which is gorgeous yet untouched. This charming place boasts of wide range of flora & fauna with crystal clear water surrounding it. Majuli has a glorious past too. The Neo-Vaishnavite movement started here which promoted peace & harmony. You can enjoy amazing performing art at satras like Auniati, Dakhinpat and Garamurkh. Did you know Majuli is the first island recognised as a district in India?
A beautiful sunset at Majuli (Source: Internet)
How to reach: Arrive at Jorhat Airport and take a taxi to Nimati Ghat (14 kms away). Ferries are available from Nimati Ghat to Majuli during the daytime.
Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh
Are you a sucker for natural serenity with a dash of adventure? Then Ziro will steal your heart. Popularly known for its music festival, Ziro has quite a lot more to offer in terms of experiences. You can walk through the villages to get an essence of the local culture, take a cycle ride to stumble upon hidden gems and catch fish in paddy fields in Apatani (native tribe of Arunachal) style!
After a fun fish-catching session in Ziro Valley.
How to reach: Fly to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati. Take a train from there to Naharlagun, the nearest railway station to Ziro.
Ravangla, Sikkim
With the mystic Kanchenjunga at the backdrop, Ravangla is an amazing hideaway embellished with tea gardens, monasteries and mountains. When in Ravangla, Tathagata Tsal aka Buddha Park is a must-visit. It houses the picturesque 40 metre tall statue of Gautam Buddha. You could also visit Bon and New Ralang monasteries, the Temi Tea Estate, the Ralong Hot Springs, and the Maenam Hill.
Tathagata Tsal (Source: Internet)
How to reach: The Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport. From there it takes around 4 hours by road to reach Ravangla.
Imphal, Manipur
If you’re planning the trip in Spring season or in the month of November, Manipur is the best state that you can lock for a weekend visit! Loktak Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes and a boat ride across the lake with a stopover at a floating restaurant is a major highlight. You may want to stay at a floating homestay too! Other refreshing places to cover are Sadu Chiru Waterfalls, and Willong Khullen Monoliths.
Donning the traditional Meitei dress near Aquamarine Floating Homestay, Loktak Lake.
How to reach: Arrive at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in Imphal and you can visit wherever you want from the capital city.
Want to plan a fun trip with friends and family to any of these places?
