12 Top-Rated Picnic Spots Near Kolkata
Kolkata, with its rich cultural heritage, attracts tourists from all over. Away from the bustling metropolis that the city is, there are several interesting picnic spots in Kolkata to explore. Take a trip to these unique suburban locations that are some of the nearby destinations to Kolkata and make it a time for your potluck recipes, family togetherness, and happy pictures. Book a self-drive car rental in Kolkata for a smooth travel to any of your favorite picnic spots near the city to make memories.
Explore the 12 Best Picnic Spots Around Kolkata
Here is the list of 12 top-rated picnic spots near Kolkata:
- Bawali
- Babur Haat
- Raichak
- Barrackpore
- Falta
- Diamond Harbor
- Deulti
- Taki
- Piyali Island
- Gadiara
- Machranga Island
- Frasergunj
1. Bawli
Located 35 km from the central city, the Bawali Rajbari offers a royal retreat to tourists. Stay over for the night or enjoy a day picnic on the grounds of this erstwhile royal retreat and experience the excellent royal cuisine. There is also a farmhouse that is ideal for picnics and relaxing on the weekend.
- Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 170 km
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round; however, winters offer a more pleasant experience.
2. Babur Haat
Located around 40 km from Kolkata, this is a rural village located near Kolkata serving as a weekend destination to experience traditional Bengali village life and nature. One of the unique rustic picnic spots in Kolkata, the Babur Haat features large ponds, vast areas of green paddy fields, and the warmth of the village people that attract tourists. Located in North 24 Parganas, this is one of the best attractions to visit near Kolkata.
- Distance from Kolkata: 37.1Km
- Best Time to Visit: Winter and early summer months are ideal.
3. Raichak
One of the much-loved picnic places in Kolkata is the small town of Raichak on the banks of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly River. Raichak has several forts and a beautiful river that make this location even more attractive. The grand Radisson Fort resort has also glammed up the area. You can relax at the spa or take a day trip to Raichak.
- Distance from Kolkata: 54Km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is pleasant
4. Barrackpore
If you are looking for a picnic spot in Kolkata for one day, then Barrackpore is an ideal location. Located close to Kolkata, Barrackpore is rich in historical significance from the time of the Sepoy Mutiny. Barrackpore also played an essential role in India’s independence. You can visit the vast Mangal Pandey Garden or the Gandhi Ghat. People also seek their blessings at the age-old Annapurna Mandir.
- Distance from Kolkata: 28Km
- Best Time to Visit: Winter months are preferable
5. Falta
Situated at the meeting point of Hooghly, Damodar, and Rupnarayan is Falta, one of the best picnic places in Kolkata. Tourists come from different places to get a glimpse of the beautiful sunrise and sunset in Falta. You can arrange a day picnic or stay over with your loved ones at Falta. Plan your boat trips and ferry rides here and witness the beauty of this riverside destination.
- Distance from Kolkata: 52.9Km
- Best Time to Visit: Anytime of the year. It is a serene riverside destination suitable for family getaways.
6. Diamond Harbor
Diamond Harbor is located where the Ganga meets the Bay of Bengal. Travelers usually, at the end of the year or in winter, throng to this place for picnics. One of the most popular picnic spots in Kolkata is Diamond Harbor riverside. This is the closest place to the largest delta in the world. This area has a number of farmhouses for picnics with inbuilt kitchen areas for large groups of people.
- Distance from Kolkata: 52.8Km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March offer pleasant weather for sightseeing and boat rides.
7. Deulti
Deulti has a beautiful farmhouse for a picnic near Kolkata. A rustic landscape and good food make Deulti a lovely retreat. You can have a day picnic here amidst the swaying green coconut trees, winding roads, village huts, and fishing ponds. This is also the home of the famous Bengali author Sarat Chandra Chatterjee.
- Distance from Kolkata: 63.2Km
- Best Time to Visit: December and January, especially for the canopy walk experience
8. Taki
Situated on the banks of the Ichamati River, Taki is a small hamlet that is one of the best picnic spots near Kolkata. This is the place from where you can get a glimpse of Bangladesh. You can take a boat ride and see the Bangladesh villages on the other side of the fence from India. Many people love the serenity of Taki, while some love to get a glimpse of the neighboring country.
- Distance from Kolkata: 67.6Km
- Best Time to Visit: January and December for pleasant climate.
9. Piyali Island
Piyali Island on River Piyali is perfect for a day picnic spot. This is the place that attracts nature lovers seeking a lush, green, and serene escape. The Sundarban Tiger Camp, which is located nearby, is close to Piyali Island, and if you are lucky, you can get a glimpse of the Royal Bengal tiger there.
- Distance from Kolkata: 68.7Km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March when the weather is cool.
10. Gadiara
Gadiara is a beautiful picnic spot near Kolkata, away from the daily hustle and bustle. Explore this tranquil hamlet amidst peace and serenity. You can go boating and nature walks in Gadiara. Taste the fresh seafood and exceptional cuisine in Gadiara. Relax and unwind here amidst the beauty of nature in Gadiara.
- Distance from Kolkata: 78.5Km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March is pleasant weather for sightseeing.
11. Machranga Island
Known as the island of kingfisher birds, this tiny place is situated between the Ichhamati and the Bhasa River. It has India on one side and Bangladesh on the other. This is a bird lover’s paradise, and you can watch different species of birds here. Located at a distance of 113 km from Kolkata, you can reach this place from Taki or Hasnabad and spend an entire day here amidst the natural beauty of the place.
- Distance from Kolkata: 71.8Km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, suitable for nature walks and bird watching.
12. Frasergunj
Frasergunj is close to the river delta and offers a beautiful location for a picnic. Famous for its sunrises and sunsets, as well as boat trips, this is a lovely day trip destination from Kolkata. If you are looking for the best picnic spot in and around Kolkata, Frasergunj is an ideal location. You can take a 3-hour drive to Frasergunj from the city and enjoy and relax here. This place is just perfect for everyone.
- Distance from Kolkata: 123.3 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March, offering a pleasant coastal experience.
Best Times for Picnics in Kolkata
Picnics in the Winter Season
The winter months (November to February) offer delightful weather, making them the best time for a picnic. The calm winds and sunshine make for perfect weather to enjoy outdoor activities at a picnic. Festivals during these months are also welcomed, and may even add to the vigor of your picnic plans!
Monsoon Picnics
The monsoon (June to September) period brings heavy rain, which in turn turns the city lush green, making it a good time to enjoy a picnic. If you do not mind getting a little wet, you might enjoy indulging in a picnic during this season. However, make sure to carry umbrellas and raincoats, and don’t forget to book the best car rental in Kolkata for a smooth and hassle-free trip.
Picnics During Hot Summer Days
It gets sultry hot during summer in Kolkata, which makes picnics not a very feasible option. Even if you plan something, make sure to leave early in the morning or a little late in the evening. Also, stay hydrated and bring light snacks and sunblock.
Takeaway
Kolkata has many beautiful attractions in and around the city where you can go on a day trip for picnics or for a weekend tour. If you are planning a trip to the ‘City of Joy’, make sure to include a few such beautiful places in your itinerary. So, pack that picnic basket and get ready to enjoy these beautiful picnic spots near Kolkata. You can use Revv self-drive car rental in Kolkata for a leisurely day trip around the city to explore these picnic spots and move around at your own pace while enjoying the drive.
