Top 9 Destinations for Monsoon Bike Trips from Kolkata

Monsoon in Kolkata is a magical time. The rain brings a fresh, vibrant look to everything, making it the perfect season for bike enthusiasts to head out on road trips and explore nearby destinations as the scorching heat fades and nature draws you in. If you’re looking for a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, a weekend bike trip can be just what you need. You can escape to a beautiful beach, ride through serene hills, visit historic temples, or even enjoy a cup of Darjeeling tea in a quaint cafe overlooking the tea estate. 

Whether you’re after a quiet retreat or a scenic ride, the Things2Do recommends these nearby spots around Kolkata, that are perfect for a refreshing and enjoyable getaway during the monsoon:

1Darjeeling

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Darjeeling, known as the “Queen of Hills,” is a must-visit for any adventure lover. The 636.6 km ride to this stunning place will take you through clouds, past rain-washed hills, and lush wet grasses, mosses, and ferns. The journey itself is an amazing experience, filled with breathtaking views. Once you arrive, you’ll be even more enchanted by Darjeeling’s charm. You can enjoy a ride on the famous toy train and explore the tea estates that add to the region’s beauty.

2Digha

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Digha is the perfect beach getaway if you’re looking for fun, with huge waves crashing, the sound of thunderous waves, and refreshing coconut water—all without the scorching summer sun burning your feet. Located just 183.7 km away from Kolkata, it’s a favorite spot for Bengalis and tourists alike. The ride from Kolkata to Digha by bike offers an exciting journey through scenic landscapes. Once there, you can enjoy delicious seafood and, if you’re into drinks, head a bit further to Talsari Beach. There, you can relax in a chair and enjoy a cold beer while taking in the beautiful shoreline.

3Mandarmani

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If you’re looking for a private beach experience on a budget, Mandarmani is ideal. Just 171.5 km from Kolkata, it’s a peaceful spot with fewer crowds, especially during the monsoon. The area offers a variety of hotels to fit all budgets, many featuring great views, swimming pools, and tasty seafood, including Bengali thalis. Mandarmani provides a serene and relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for a romantic getaway or a tranquil escape. With its calm beaches and pleasant amenities, it’s an excellent choice for a quiet retreat by the sea.

4Dooars

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For motorheads, the best life experiences are those spent behind the wheel. Add in full control of an elite supercar or single seater, whilst speeding around an iconic venue like Silverstone and you’ve got yourself an unforgettable day that you’ll be talking about for years to come.

It’s a classic life-affirming escapade but with the unbeatable adrenaline rush of freefall paired with the world unfolding beneath you, it’s not hard to see why. Skydiving taps into the innate human desire to experience flight and serves as proof that life’s all about stepping out of our comfort zone.

4Mayapur

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Mayapur is a special place for Lord Krishna followers and is one of the nine holy islands shaped like lotus petals. Situated in Navadvip, 130 km north of Kolkata, it’s the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who is believed to be an incarnation of Krishna. The main spot to visit is the Chandrodaya Temple, the first ISKCON shrine. You can also visit the samadhi of Prabhupada, the founder of ISKCON. The town has a charming, peaceful vibe. You can take a boat ride to see where the Ganga and Jalangi rivers meet. There are guest houses in the temple area, enjoy kirtan 24 hours, and have a delicious satvik bhog at the Gada Bhawan. Free khichdi bhog is also available. Mayapur is a serene and welcoming place for a spiritual retreat.

6Shantiniketan

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Shantiniketan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to the famous Visva-Bharati University, founded by Rabindranath Tagore. This place is deeply cultural, reflecting Tagore’s vision of integrating learning with nature. Here, education is intertwined with the natural world, encouraging students to connect with their surroundings—trees, birds, and animals. One should definitely visit the Chatim Tala, where Debendranath Tagore used to meet locals and discuss Brahmoism. Shantiniketan is ideal for art and history enthusiasts. You can explore museums, visit the Khoai River (which inspired many of Tagore’s songs), and shop at the lively Sonajhuri Haat for handmade items like bags and sarees from local artisans. The atmosphere is vibrant with Baul music and Santhal dance, and you can enjoy delicious Bengali rural delicacies.

7Sundarbans

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Sundarbans is renowned for its lush forest and diverse wildlife. This unique collection of islands is famous for its tiger reserves, crocodile sanctuaries, and rich mangrove vegetation. The vast network of waterways means you can explore almost every part of the forest by boat, making it an adventure for nature lovers. A must-visit is the Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can enjoy excellent bird watching. Another highlight is the Burirdabri Forest Camp, where the Burir Dabri watchtower offers breathtaking views of the mangroves and the Raimongal viewpoint. The combination of dense forest, waterways, and wildlife makes Sundarbans a fascinating destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and diversity of nature.

8Bansberia

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If visiting Hogwarts has been on your bucket list, the Hanseswari Temple in Bansberia might just give you that magical feeling with its impressive architecture. Built in 1679 CE by Raja Rameshwar Roy, this five-storied temple is designed according to Tantra principles and features a unique cruciform layout with 13 pinnacles, representing the five senses. At the highest level, in the central spire, is a white marble Shiva Linga, symbolizing “Param Purush” – the ultimate source of existence and divine consciousness. The Hanseswari deity, residing at the heart of the temple, represents the power of Kulakundalini Shakti, adding to the temple’s spiritual significance.

9Bishnupur

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Bishnupur is famous for its beautiful terracotta temples, built by the Malla kings to honor Lord Krishna. These impressive structures are made from bricks and laterite, and most are of the Eka-Ratna style, featuring a single tower with a sloping roof, a square inner chamber (Garbhagriha), and porches with three distinct arches. Bishnupur is also well-known for its Baluchari sarees, which are inspired by the detailed terracotta designs of these temples. The combination of intricate temple architecture and traditional saree craftsmanship makes Bishnupur a fascinating place for anyone interested in history and culture.

Whether you’re an experienced biker or you just enjoy the occasional bike rides, the monsoon season is perfect for exploring these fantastic spots near Kolkata. From the peaceful beaches of Digha and Mandarmani to the lush tea gardens of Darjeeling and the tranquil vibes of Mayapur, each destination offers a refreshing break from the city. So, get ready to hit the road, and embrace the monsoon magic!

If you want to make your weekends better and watch a movie, read about these amazing films that were shot in Kolkata.