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As Independence Day approaches, prepare for an unforgettable long weekend filled with exploration and adventure. Immerse yourself in the rich history of ancient Buddhist learning centres, indulge in regal stays nestled in lush forests, and experience the quaint charm of British-era hill stations dotted with inviting cafes. These captivating destinations from Kolkata promise an enriching and memorable long Independence Day weekend escape.
If you are seeking a tropical forest getaway, consider heading to Jhargram. Situated about 170km from Kolkata, Jhargram is renowned for its former palaces and dense forests, known for their wildlife and beautiful natural scenery. On the outskirts of Jhargram town, you'll find an eco-tourism centre and tribal museum, offering insights into the local Indigenous culture and way of life. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Kanak Durga Sacred Grove, located approximately 15km from Jhargram town, an important biodiversity zone. It's reported that the grove is home to over 300 plants, including medicinal ones, and over 20 species of smaller animals. For accommodation, consider staying at the Jhargram Palace, showcasing the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. The Malla Dev royal family resides in the palace and has converted about ten rooms on the ground floor into a heritage hotel.
Getting There:
The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, about 188 km from Jhargram. The nearest railway stations are Howrah or Tatanagar, about two and a half hours. The distance between Kolkata and Jhargram is 178 km by road and takes about four hours.
The charming mountain town of Kalimpong, located in West Bengal, captivates visitors with its breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush tea gardens, and meandering streams. Kalimpong's allure lies in its diverse cultures, which is evident in its vibrant markets and hip cafes. Stroll through its winding streets lined with colonial-era buildings, each telling stories of a bygone era. Nature enthusiasts can find solace in the nearby Durpin Monastery, which offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range. Meanwhile, adventure seekers can embark on treks to the enchanting Neora Valley National Park.
With its colonial bungalows and quaint hotels, Kalimpong still evokes memories of the British era. Most of these buildings, built by British wool traders, are located on Rinkingpong and Hill Top roads. Notable ones include Morgan House, Surya Sadan, Galingka, Tashiding, and Ringking Farm. Both Morgan House and Tashiding are now state-run tourist lodges.
Getting There:
Bagdogra is 80 kilometers away from Kalimpong and has an airport. The closest railway stations are New Jalpaiguri, 77 kilometers away, and Siliguri, 66 kilometers away. Taxis are readily available at these places.
The tribal people in the densely forested northern Jharkhand region have a remarkable tradition of decorating their houses. The beautifully painted houses of Hazaribagh are a representation of an ancient tradition. The Khovar drawings, painted on inner walls during the marriage season, symbolise fertility, while the Sohrai type, on outer walls, celebrates cattle and the harvest. Sohrai paintings have garnered national and international attention in recent years. These paintings feature exquisite motifs depicting geometric shapes, animals, flowers, plants, and other forms related to nature.
Getting There:
The nearest domestic airport is Birsa Munda Airport in Ranchi, which is 90 km from Hazaribagh and is well connected to various cities. The nearest railway station is Hazaribag (5 Km). Take a bus, or hire a taxi or auto from there.
As you step into Raghurajpur in Odisha, a picturesque sight unfolds. Neatly arranged rows of houses adorned with vibrant and intricate paintings welcome you. Raghurajpur is not just a village; it's a living canvas where homes serve as workshops for talented artists. Here, you will witness the age-old tradition of pattachitra, a traditional art form of Odisha, being meticulously practised. The village was honoured with the title of 'heritage village' by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) in 2000, affirming its rich artistic heritage. The village is also known for making Ganjifa and the Dashavatar playing cards of Odisha. Palm-leaf painting, another cherished art form in Raghurajpur, reveals delicate line drawings in black, often adorned with subtle daubs of colours, each telling its own story. These intricate masterpieces are created on interlocked strips of palm leaves, resembling tapestries of narratives.
Besides pattachitra and palm-leaf paintings, artisans in Raghurajpur also showcase their expertise in crafting papier-mâché toys, masks, coconut crafts, and wooden toys, each exuding a unique charm and cultural significance. You can pick up various souvenirs, including exquisitely painted palm leaf bookmarks. You can also drive down 14 kilometres to the coastal town of Puri, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus. Puri is renowned for the revered Jagannath Temple, where spirituality and architectural splendour converge. The town also boasts the pristine Puri Beach, providing a tranquil escape and vibrant markets and bustling streets waiting to be explored.
Getting There:
The nearest airport is the Bijupattnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is around 45 km away. The closest railway station is Sakhigopal, approximately 5 km away. Alternatively, you can also get off at Puri Railway Station, which is around 10 km away. Raghurajpur is only 10 km by road from Puri, but it's not on the popular tourist circuit. Therefore, you'll need to book a car or an auto-rickshaw from Puri to get there.
The ancient Nalanda Mahavihara, or "great monastery," in Bihar, stands as a sprawling archaeological site, holding the remains of numerous monasteries, classrooms, and libraries. Walking through the ruins, you can imagine the vibrant intellectual and spiritual life that once thrived here. In particular, the Dharmaganja, a three-story library housing a vast collection of manuscripts, echoes with the whispers of ancient wisdom. The site also features the grand Stupa of Sariputta, an imposing stone structure once enshrining the relics of one of the Buddha's closest disciples, as well as numerous votive stupas and sculptures that paint a vivid picture of the site's rich history.
Make sure to visit the Xuanzang Memorial Hall, open from 9 am to 5 pm, where you can delve into the life of the renowned Chinese Buddhist monk who studied at Nalanda in the 7th century. The hall contains relics of Xuanzang and offers intriguing exhibits that shed light on the cultural exchange between China and India during that era. You can also immerse yourself in daily rituals and practices at the local monasteries. Many offer meditation classes and workshops, providing a deeper insight into an ancient spiritual tradition.
Getting There:
The nearest airport to Nalanda is Patna Airport, about 89 km away. Patna is well-connected to major cities across India. You can take a cab or bus from Patna Airport to Nalanda. The nearest railway station to Nalanda is Rajgir, about 12 km away. Trains from Delhi, Patna, Gaya and other major cities halt at Rajgir station. Another convenient rail option is to take a train to Gaya Junction, about 95 km from Nalanda.
