The City of Joy, Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, was once the capital of India under the British Raj from 1773-1911. Today, a major metropolitan of India, Kolkata is the most culturally rooted city in the country with a multitude of centres dedicated to performing arts, history, and culture of the city. The people of Kolkata are known for their honey covered tongue and warm hearts, and therefore a trip to this city is recommended for those looking for that dose of a heritage walk.

Best time to visit Kolkata is during the months of October-December, to enjoy the city tour without breaking a sweat. Talking of December, do not forget to walk through the posh Park Street to attend the best Christmas party in Kolkata! Anyway, check out these enchanting destinations around this city, that are ideal for an offbeat winter vacation.

Shantiniketan

Home to Rabindranath Tagore and his vision as Viswa Bharati University, Shantiniketan is a tranquil retreat close to Kolkata, ideal for a winter tour. Visit the Poush Mela (at the season of Makar Sankranti) which is praised to welcome the Spring post winter. Visit the history-loaded exhibition halls and parks in and around Shantiniketan to feel the way of life of the little town.

Mukutmanipur

Situated at the confluence of the Kangsabati and Kumari rivers, this quaint village is a beautiful getaway in the Bankura district of West Bengal. The Mukutmanipur reservoir was constructed to supply water facilities to the nearby agricultural villages. The dam, with surrounding hills, and a lush green cover to it, is a perfect winter resort for a cosy and relaxing getaway.

Raichak

A definitive retreat for the weekend to spoil yourself, Raichak is one of the most loved spots to visit close to Kolkata in winter. Situated on a waterway curve exactly 50 km far from Kolkata and 15 km from Diamond Harbor, and arranged on the Raichak Jetty, this used to be home to a Dutch Fort constructed in the eighteenth century. Later, the Radisson group of hotels changed it over into an excellent lodging resort. Stroll around in the untainted surroundings, unwind and spoil yourself in the resort’s ultra sassy spa and play some golf on the off chance that you wish. This is one of the best places to visit in India in October to December months.

Mandarmani

An ideal retreat for the mind and soul. Literally, this is one beach on the Bay of Bengal that has a relatively lower waveline, and therefore one can walk barefoot on the beach for a therapeutic walk of joy. Mandarmani is 170 km from Kolkata and is one of the best spots around the city for an ultimate winter trip.

Digha

Considered to be the most stunning beach in West Bengal, Digha has the right ambience to amp up your winter vacation. It is a pretty surreal place, with abundance of tranquil vibes around, and makes for that perfect relaxing weekend on the beach. The mornings here are a bit lazy, but the evenings are very much pleasant, especially in October.