Shantiniketan has a lot to offer a traveller but the offbeat places near Shantiniketan offer a slice of something unique that is worth including in your travelling diary. If you want to experience new unheard-of places by people outside the nearby community, you must dare to travel beyond the usual. These offbeat places are not only crowd-free but have something unique to offer. While some are great for simply rejuvenating after a stressful week, others awaken you spiritually. Whether you are looking for a place covered with natural wonders or a divine gem for a blissful experience, our list has covered it all. So, buckle up and have a look at these gems.
11 Offbeat Places Near Shantiniketan
From divine gems to natural splendour, there are plenty of offbeat places near Shantiniketan that are worth including in your itinerary. These escapes offer you amazing experiences, some new memories and also, Instaworthy pictures!
1. Kankalitala Temple
Image Credit: Pinakpani for Wikimedia Commons
Among the top offbeat places near Shantiniketan is the Kankalitala temple. Devotees believe that the kankhal or the waist of Sati fell here making this temple a Shakti peeth. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Shakti or Goddess Parvati but you can also find a shivalingam in the Shiva Temple. Furthermore, people come here to offer their prayers to the Goddess. An annual fair is held at this temple on the Chaitra month’s last date making it the best time to visit the temple. You can sit near the temple premises for some peacefulness and serenity.
Distance from Shantiniketan: 9 km
Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm, Monday to Sunday
Must Read: Places To Visit In Bolpur
2. Amar Kutir
Image Credit: Biswarup Ganguly for Wikimedia Commons
On the list of offbeat places near Shantiniketan, we had to include Amar Kutir. It is a cooperative society known for selling unique handicrafts. You can find various shawls, bags, handloom sarees, home décor, and much more made by local artisans who are so gifted you will be tempted to take them all. If you are interested in watching the various forms of Bengali traditional art, you can do so at Amar Kutir. Dokra and pottery are some of the art forms you can experience at this place. It is an excellent offbeat place that many tourists do not know about at present.
Distance from Shantiniketan: 3.5 km
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, open from Monday to Sunday (except during national holidays)
3. Boner Pukur Danga
Image Credit: Subhro Kanti Dutta for Wikimedia Commons
The beautiful lake is situated in Bolpur outskirts of Taal Pukur. It makes for a great offbeat picnic spot near Shantiniketan as you are surrounded by greenery and nature. If you are a fan of birdwatching, you can enjoy it here as many birds flock to this lake admiring its beauty. The lake is also recommended for nature walks in the evening time when the weather becomes pleasant. The peaceful quiet of the lake will add an element of charm to your picnic when you come here with your loved ones as you chat and revel in nature.
Distance from Shantiniketan: 3.5 km
Timings: Open 24 hours, Monday to Sunday
Suggested Read: Homestays In Siliguri
4. Bakreshwar
Image Credit: Pinakpani for Wikimedia Commons
Bakreshwar (or Bakreswar) is a village and one of the must-visit offbeat places near Shantiniketan. Not many natural hot springs are present in India so it makes this place an even more exciting one to visit. Taking a dip in these hot springs will make you feel rejuvenated and cleansed while calming all your senses. Bakreshwar Temple is a Shakti peeth as it is believed Sati’s eyebrows fell in this place. There are two temples in the complex; Bakreshwar Temple and Mahishamardini Temple. Bakreshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva while Mahishamardini Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga.
Distance from Shantiniketan: 55 km
Timings: 5:00 am to 10:00 pm
5. Mama Bhagne Pahar
Image Credit: Pinakpani for Wikimedia Commons
Among the top offbeat places near Shantiniketan within 50 kms is the Mama Bhagne Pahar. This place is known for the amazing rock formations that perfectly balance each other. These granite boulders against the soft hills in the backdrop make for a mesmerising shot if you want to surround yourself with God’s creations. Furthermore, walking up the hill you will notice many rocks have cemented their place but they add charm to the place. Moreover, Satyajit Ray had shot a part of his movie ‘Abhijan’ at this location! The Pahareshwar Temple is located at the base of the hill.
Distance from Shantiniketan: 59 km
Timings: Open 24 hours
Suggested Read: Weekend Getaways From Kolkata
6. Nandan Pahar
The list of offbeat places near Shantiniketan includes Nandan Pahar which is within 200 km of Shantiniketan in Jharkhand. It is an amusement park that is a great travel option with your family as it can be a picnic spot too. Boating, joy rides, and theme parks are some ways where you can spend quality time here with your loved ones. Sunrise and sunset can be seen from the Nandan Pahar which provides the perfect escape from the chaotic city life. At the top of the Nandan Pahar is the Nandi Temple where you can worship and feel a sense of peace wash over you.
Distance from Shantiniketan: 165 km
Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm
7. Patharchapuri
Patharchapuri is among the list of offbeat places near Shantiniketan. It is located in Suri and is among the few offbeat places near Shantiniketan within 50 km. The village has a blissful ambience that will make you feel like you belong there. Furthermore, many believe that Saint Hazrat Data Meheboob Sah Wali or Data Baba was given immense power. He used his special powers to remove all suffering and diseases from people by putting ash on them. Moreover, he died in Patharchapuri and his tomb is still historically significant to many. You can attend the annual Data Saheber Mela.
Distance from Shantiniketan: 45 km
Timings: NA
Suggested Read: Beautiful Indian villages
8. Masanjore
Who would have thought a place with a dam would make it an offbeat picnic spot near Shantiniketan? Offbeat destinations can be unexpected sometimes! Masanjore (or Massanjore) is in Jharkhand’s Dumka district. Gorgeous forests and hills bound the dam making it the ultimate picnic spot with your loved ones. Furthermore, it is also known as Canada Dam and is a pollution-free area you will love. It was built in 1956 and has the Mayurakshi River flowing through it. Moreover, the dak-bungalows on the river bank add a touch of elegance to the place. You can also walk to the nearby villages.
Distance from Shantiniketan: 68 km
Timings: 10.00 AM to 5.00 PM
9. Mayapur
Mayapur is among the offbeat places near Shantiniketan that are over 100 km away but worth the travel time and distance. Known as the spiritual capital of the state, the town lives up to its name because just stepping into Mayapur, you can feel a different and vibrant atmosphere. Furthermore, Mayapur’s famous ISKCON Temple attracts tourists from every corner of the world. It is historically significant as well making it a good choice for a weekend getaway. Moreover, for people who want to indulge in some Bengali cuisine, Mayapur is the place for your cravings as you will eat some of the most delicious meals.
Distance from Shantiniketan: 105 km
Timings: NA
Suggested Read: Things to do In Kolkata
10. Tarapith – Powerful tantric temple
Image Credit: Debojyoti Roy for Wikimedia Commons
Tarapith is known for being the hub of temples and it is among the best offbeat places near Shantiniketan for people who want to get spiritually uplifted. You can explore numerous temples here including, the Lakshmi Temple, Nalhateshwari Temple, Birchandrapur Temple, Mallarpur Shiv Temple, and Maluti Temple. Furthermore, Tarapith is a Shakti peeth where Sati’s eyes fell. The main attraction of Tarapith is the Tara Ma murti located in the temple. The temple is intricately crafted with detailing in every corner. Moreover, the tantric cremation grounds are nearby where many tantric practices take place even today.
Distance from Shantiniketan: 61 km
Timings: 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM
11. Nabadwip
Nabadwip is among the offbeat places near Shantiniketan within a 100 km radius. It lies near the Bhagirathi river, just 20 km away. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Chaitanya. The name ‘Nabadwip’ means nine islands. Located close to Bangladesh, this place is popular for Nabadwip Mandala Parikrama and is a religiously significant event attracting many visitors. To experience religious vibes, you can also go to the Gour Nitai Temple in Nabadwip which has Lord Nityananda and Lord Chaitanya.
Distance from Shantiniketan: 94 km
Timings: NA
Further Read: Places In West Bengal
How surprised were you after reading the list of our offbeat places near Shantiniketan? We must admit that these travel destinations will be a refreshing change to your usual itinerary so do not forget to add these to your trip to West Bengal. These are best for people who want to go on a religious journey by visiting the lesser-known temples near Shantiniketan and also a few fun places where their kids can enjoy.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Offbeat Places Near Shantiniketan
On which day is Sonajhuri Haat open in Shantiniketan?
It is open on Saturdays and you can buy a range of tribal items. While you shop, you will hear the baul songs being sung by the locals there providing you with the soothing experience you need.
How many days are needed to visit offbeat places near Shantiniketan?
Most of the destinations are close to Shantiniketan and they can be completed in a day. However, if you want to club the places together, you may need 4 to 5 days to visit them all without rushing.
When is the best time to visit Shantiniketan and the nearby locations?
It is best to travel to Shantiniketan and offbeat places near Shantiniketan during the winter because of the good climate. You can travel all day long.
Which offbeat hill station is close to Shantiniketan?
Trikut Pahar is around 155 km from Shantiniketan and it is the closest hill station if you want to enjoy the cool breeze and lush greenery. It is located in Deoghar, Jharkhand.
Which is the coldest place in West Bengal?
If you want to get the best of winters, head to Purulia which is home to waterfalls, hills, forests, flora, and fauna.
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