When the temperature shoots over 35°C in April, satiate your summer wanderlust by exploring the best places to visit near Kolkata in April. As a treat, you will give yourself the time to soothe in the serene environs. From here, you can venture north to Darjeeling, and continue to the mountains of Sikkim. There is so much to know about Kolkata other than knowing it as a “Cultural Capital of India.”
You would be amazed to know the level of impact the city of Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray can make on you! To understand the same, add a tingle of excitement and take a break from worldly worries by taking a weekend getaway near Kolkata in April.
Another great thing about travelling to Kolkata in April is you can attend the Bengali New Year extravaganza – Pohela Boishakh. This unique festival is celebrated annually in mid-April for 2 days which usually falls either on 14th April or 15th April.
So now you are convinced to visit Kolkata, let us throw a travel curveball at you in Bengali:
“NO-MOSH-KAR”
“Oh, Kolkata! Tumi amake bishwito koro ekti dhonyo shishur moto!
It translates to – “Ah, Kolkata! You always mesmerize me like your blessed kid!”
India’s artistic and intellectual capital, Kolkata, also called the ‘City of Joy, is the country’s third-largest city. It is decidedly futuristic and cultured to entice locals and tourists. It is the capital of West Bengal state and everything in Kolkata is typical – weekend getaways from Kolkata to visit in April. Even from looking at the historical lens, it was the British East India Empire’s capital from 1773-1911 and history buffs will have plenty of encounters with colonial architecture.
Apart from the influence of colonial architecture, the geographic location of Kolkata is also amazing! It has hill stations located within its outskirts. Located within a reachable distance from the famous hill station of North East India, this 330-year-old India metropolis beckons you to venture it and explore its colonial architecture, the nearby hill stations, and educational places as well.
Why Should You Visit Kolkata?
In the famous city of West Bengal, maybe you want to;
- Ride India’s only operating tram network.
- Get mesmerized with the Durga Puja celebration.
- Capture the Ganges flowing beneath Howrah Bridge on your camera lens.
- Take that summer road trip to nearby hills.
- Gobble Rosogollas.
- Stay Victorian at Victoria Memorial.
- Watch a cricket match at Eden Gardens.
- Get a glimpse of India’s first published newspaper (1779), Hickey’s Bengal Gazette.
Places to Visit Near Kolkata in April
You will have close access to Himalayan hill stations near Kolkata like Sikkim, Darjeeling, and Gangtok. Also, there are plenty of beautiful beaches near Kolkata located within 200 kilometers (approx.). There is so much special about Kolkata you hardly know until you visit it! So what are you waiting for?
Mishti doi, rasgullas, shondesh, and jhalmuri are second. The first is exploring the best place to visit near Kolkata in April. Scroll for more, folks!
1. Barrackpore
Why Visit in April: To beat the summer blues by enjoying boating with family.
Distance from Kolkata: 28 kilometers/1.5 hours (approx.)
Tourist Places in Barrackpore: Dhobi Ghat, Tarakeshwar Temple, Mangal Pandey Park
If you are looking for the best summer holiday destination near Kolkata in April for a family trip, consider Barrackpore. This place is bestowed with several gardens, museums, and temples and holds great historical significance. Historically, Barrackpore was the primary place where Britishers set up their cantonment before spreading their invasion agenda in India.
You will get to picnic in the lush green gardens and can spend relaxing picnic time on the ghats with your family. The proximity of Barrackpore to Kolkata is minimal, and you should definitely visit it if you are looking for less crowded places near Kolkata.
Things to Do in Barrackpore
- Admire the Gothic architecture of Bartholomew Church
- Pass through the serene villages on the boat ride in river Hooghly
- Photograph the flower patches at Jawahar Kunj Garden
How to Reach from Kolkata: Regular buses run from Kolkata to Barrackpore. However, the train is also possible as Barrackpore has its own railway station.
2. Murshidabad
Why Visit in April: Arts and crafts activities and production of world-class silks and sericulture.
Distance from Kolkata: 218 kilometers/7 hours (approx.)
Tourist Places in Murshidabad: Hazarduari Palace, Nizamat Imambara, Motijhil
Immerse yourself in the past’s beauty with the present’s beliefs in the historical paradise near Kolkata. Murshidabad is both a religious town and a monument city. Located on the Hooghly banks, it is one of the best places near Kolkata in April for history lovers. Here, the Nawab of Bengal used to reside in the erstwhile era before the Britishers’ invasion.
You will get bewitched with the beauty of this town. Several quaint lakes are located in Murshidabad, where migratory birds flock in monsoons and winters. Even this place is shrouded with lush green gardens that house fragrant flowers with fountains. If you are looking for a weekend getaway from Kolkata to visit in April, Murshidabad is the perfect place to beat the summer heat.
Things to Do in Murshidabad
- Get intrigued with the Shola Art
- Purchase the Baluchari silk saree
- Take evening strolls along the Bhagirathi river
How to Reach from Kolkata: The best way to reach Murshidabad from Kolkata is via a road journey. Also, train travel is considered the second-best option as Murshidabad has its own railway junction.
[ Take a look at our exclusive Murshidabad Tour Packages ]
3. Taki
Why Visit in April: To beat the summer blues by enjoying boating with family.
Distance from Kolkata: 70 kilometers/2.5 hours (approx.)
Tourist Places in Taki: Eco-Tourism Park, Machranga Island, and Golpata Forest
Take a digital detox from a monotonous life and head to Taki if you are looking for a destination for a one-day trip near Kolkata in April. It is located on the Ichamati river banks where you can enjoy boating and picnic because of the woody areas and farmlands. Across the Ichamati River lies Bangladesh. A lot of solitary boats float by and give tourists the sight to behold for nature photography.
In the erstwhile era, this place used to be the land of “Zamindars.” Now, Taki is a famous attraction for Durga Idol immersion. For a short weekend getaway from Kolkata, Taki is the best place to go!
Things to Do in Taki
- Revel in boating in the Ichamati River
- Enjoy a canopy jungle walk at Golpata Forest
- Tour the erstwhile palatial buildings
How to Reach from Kolkata: Both – a train and a road journey to a Taxi from Kolkata is possible and quick. So plan accordingly.
4. Netarhat
Why Visit in April: There will be less crowd, and you can own the surroundings to yourself!
Distance from Kolkata: 556 kilometers/13 hours (approx.)
Tourist Places in Netarhat: Betla National Park, Upper Ghaghri Waterfalls, Magnolia Point
Netarhat is in Jharkhand’s Latehar district and is not on the tourist radar for people visiting outside Kolkata. This place has striking geography as the landscapes here are replete with hills and green valleys. People who live in and around Kolkata know that Netarhat is one of the hidden offbeat places to visit near Kolkata in April.
You will be enthralled with the lush greenery, wildlife – pristine waterfalls at Netarhat. Throughout your stay here, sunsets and sunrises are super to spellbound you! If you are keen to learn history, you must visit Netarhat as it was once the home to the British East India Company Governor. Compared to other places to visit near Kolkata in April, this place remains less crowded because of its offbeat nature.
Things to Do in Netarhat
- Watch the birds bidding goodbye to the orange hues at Magnolia Point
- Trek through to Pine Forest to engulf in the expanse of greenery
- Hear the chirping of birds at Lower and Upper Ghaghri Waterfall
How to Reach From Kolkata: The intercity bus from Kolkata to Netarghat runs overnight and takes 14-18 hours (approx.). Train travel is not a suggested option as Netarghat doesn’t have its own railhead. The nearest railhead is in Ranchi.
5. Kalimpong
Why Visit in April: To battle the heat in Kolkata in April.
Distance from Kolkata By Road: 626 kilometers/16 hours (approx.)
Tourist Places in Kalimpong: Tharpa Choling Monastery, Sherpa View Point, Deolo Hills
Located at the foothills of the Shivalik Range, this hill station is a particular hit amongst spirituality, adventure, and peace lovers. Kalimpong countryside comprises lush terraced fields, quaint hamlets, and different settlements, including Sherpas, Tibetan, and Lepchas. What is special about Kalimpong during the 19th century, this hill station near Kolkata was under the Bhutan and Sikkim Kingdom.
Kalimpong is dotted with temples, monasteries, and churches, which will show you different settlement people in Kalimpong. The elevation of Kalimpong is 1247 m (approx.) which means any time of the year is the best time to visit Kalimpong. But it is particularly hit amongst the tourists for summer vacations from April to June.
Things to Do in Kalimpong
- Go to Deolo Hills for paragliding, trekking, and horse riding
- See the snow-clad Himalayan ranges of West Sikkim from Durpin Dara Hill
- Feel the spookiness in Haunted Morgan House
How to Reach From Kolkata: Road connectivity to Kalimpong from Kolkata is amazing. Regular buses run. The nearest airport to reach Kalimpong is Bagdogra International Airport, 79 kilometers/3 hours (approx.). While the nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, 73 kilometers/3 hours (approx.).
Explore Kalimpong tour packages to plan your holiday
6. Chandannagar
Why Visit in April: To soak French vibes from the 17th century.
Distance from Kolkata By Road: 48 kilometers/1.5 hours (approx.)
Tourist Places in Chandannagar: The Patal Bari, Chandannagar Museum, KMDA Park
Chandannagar is located in the Hooghly city of West Bengal and has a striking resemblance with India’s famous French town, Pondicherry. The city in the erstwhile era was first under the Nawab rule, then the reign shifted to French and later, under British rule. With independence, Chandannagar finally merged into West Bengal.
A visit to this less explored town near Kolkata in April is sure to spellbind you with its vibrant history. You are guaranteed to unlock the dose of various foreign influences of the past era. Here in April, summer won’t ruin your plans as the maximum temperature hovers around 32°C (approx.)
Things to Do in Chandannagar
- Historical buffs must visit the Chandannagar Museum to witness British and French artifacts
- Enjoy boating amidst the lush greenery of KMDA Park
- Visit Nandadulal Temple to seek blessings
How to Reach from Kolkata: Due to its short distance from Kolkata, it is best to reach Chandannagar via road. Although, it has its own railway station which is well connected with Howrah Railway Station. Chandannagar does not have an airport. The nearest airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata.
Explore Chandannagar tour packages to plan your holiday
7. Darjeeling
Why Visit in April: To marvel at the panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga snow peak.
Distance from Kolkata By Road: 633 kilometers/17 hours (approx.)
Tourist Places in Darjeeling: Padmaja Naidu Park, Batasia Loop, Tiger Hill
Once ruled by the invading Gorkhas from Nepal for temporary, Darjeeling was under the Sikkim Kingdom before being developed by the Britishers in mid 19th century. Later, Britishers found that the land of Darjeeling is perfect for tea plantation and cultivation.
Now it is a famous hill station near Kolkata to visit with family as around 80 operational tea gardens are sprawling. The Himalayan Train Ride dates back to 1880 and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Moreover, shutterbugs would be in a constant retreat as the town is crowned with the Kanchenjunga Range. From watching snow leopards to praying in the monasteries to enjoying a ropeway amidst the rolling green hills, your Darjeeling Gangtok tour packages in April is the best thing you can do in the summer.
- Relish the original Darjeeling Momos to satiate your gastronomic soul
- Head to Tiger Hill to watch the sunrise over the snowy peaks of Mt Kanchenjunga
- Watch the traditional art of rug weaving at the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Center
- Experience the bird-eye view of the town by doing paragliding
- Stroll around the British Era Mall Road
How to Reach from Kolkata: The best way to reach Darjeeling from Kolkata is via a flight. Arrive at Bagdogra International Airport, 70 kilometers (approx.). Afterwards, taxi cab/taxi. Another suggested option is via train ride. Arrive at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, 73 kilometers (approx.).There is no direct bus to Darjeeling from Kolkata. You need to change the bus from Siliguri to Darjeeling.
[Plan your Tour to Darjeeling with these tastefully crafted packages]
8. Sandakphu
Why Visit in April: For trekking in summer without getting sweat at the highest peak of West Bengal.
Distance from Kolkata By Road: 638 kilometers/18 hours (approx.)
Tourist Places in Sandakphu: Singalila National Park, Phalut, Meghma
Sandakphu is an abode for trekkers as it provides travelers with the best views of the Kanchenjunga range. In summer, the temperature is pleasant for hiking as Sandakpu is perched on the Singalila Ridge on the West Bengal -Nepal border. Due to its 3665 m (approx.) elevation, Sandakpu remains pleasant in harsh summers for trekking enthusiasts.
Apart from trekking, the village of Sandakpu boasts a range of hotel options where you can rejuvenate your mind amidst the immaculate greenery. This is one of the best places for adventure buffs who are itching to bask in nature’s bounteous beauty around Kolkata.
Things to Do in Sandakphu
- Test your endurance with a trekking excursion
- Flaunt your nature photography skills
- Revitalize your mind and body with a relaxing stay
How to Reach from Kolkata: The fastest mode to reach Sandakphu is to arrive at Bagdogra International Airport, 115 kilometers (approx.). Another convenient option is taking a train route and arriving at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, 140 kilometers (approx.). However, a road journey is considered the cheapest option to reach Sandakphu from Kolkata, but it takes around 18 hours (approx.). So, plan accordingly to your travel taste and style.
9. Shillong
Why Visit in April: The Sun will smile over your head as the temperature ranges between 15°C – 24°C (approx.).
Distance from Kolkata By Road: 1137 kilometers/28 hours (approx.)
Tourist Places in Shillong: Ward’s Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Elephant Falls
Shillong is, although the capital of Meghalaya, it’s a long distance from Kolkata, making it one of the famous hill stations to visit near Kolkata in April. Reason? The long-distance distance would be a rewarding experience because you will be welcomed in Shillong with a blend of fresh essence and old charm.
For more info: Things to do in Shillong
Watch the tall pine and oak trees fluttering and dancing in the breeze. You will see the clouds kissing you from short margins. From lush green parks to pristine waterfalls and museums, there won’t be any dull moment on your Shillong vacation!
Things to do in Shillong
- Enjoy boating in Umina Lake
- Satiate your adventure-hungry soul with water rappelling at Elephant’s Fall
- Become a shopping spree at the Police Bazar
How to Reach from Kolkata: The most preferred mode of transport tourists opt for is air travel. Arrive at Umroi Airport, 30 kilometers (approx.). If you want a train travel experience, the nearest railhead to Shillong is in Guwahati, 96 kilometers (approx.).
10. Kurseong
Why Visit in April: To marvel at nature at her pristine best wrapped in lush greenery.
Distance from Kolkata By Road: 587 kilometers/15 hours (approx.)
Tourist Places in Kurseong: Eagles Crag View Point, Forest Museum, Drow Hill Park
If you are looking for an amazing weekend getaway from Kolkata in April with family or friends, bookmark Kurseong. This enchanting place falls on the route to Darjeeling and is decked with an expanse of greenery. There are manicured tea plantations, pristine lakes, and museums for tourists. For thrill-seekers, trying the river rafting and trekking amidst the tea plantation hill is one of the best things to do in Kurseong. This peaceful hill retreat is one of the famous mountains near Kolkata.
Things to Do in Kurseong
- Go on trekking to watch the dominated snow-covered peaks in the background
- Capture the Victorian look and fame of several schools
- Watch the sweeping views of Mt Kanchenjunga at Eagles Craig View Point
How to Reach from Kolkata: The most convenient way to reach Kurseong is via flight journey. Arrive at Bagdogra Airport and proceed with your journey to Kurseong, 40 kilometers (approx.). Another convenient way to reach is via train. Board a train to New Jalpaiguri Station, 43 kilometers (approx.). Keep in mind that there are no direct buses to reach Kurseong from Kolkata. You need to take a halt at Siliguri and then change a bus.
We hope you are convinced to explore the best places to visit in Kolkata in April with your beloved ones. You can consider these weekend places from Kolkata in April for as long as you want to holiday. Just commit to knowing about the temperature conditions and activities to do in the summer months.
[Explore Kolkata tour packages to plan your holiday]
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