Kolkata, the ‘City of Joy’ is famed for possessing an old-world charm and a potpourri of cultural extravaganzas, culinary delights and heritage sights. However, not many are well aware of the fact that activities such as trekking near Kolkata have also gained prominence, with fabulous trekking spots located a few hours’ drive from the city. If your idea of a perfect weekend is to go away and charter into unknown territories, then you must look at some of the best trekking places near Kolkata. Magnificent scenic vistas, fresh air, and an opportunity to spend time outdoors are enough to draw you to various hiking trails near Kolkata.
7 Best Trekking Places Near Kolkata
Are you from Kolkata and looking to escape the daily hastiness of your everyday life? We’ve got you covered with the best trekking places near Kolkata. Pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey.
1. Ajodhya Hills
Located in Purulia, West Bengal, Ayodhya Hills, also known as Sita-Kund, is the place where Ram and Sita stayed during their exile, according to mythology. Forming a part of the Dalma Hills, Ajodhya Hills boasts a variety of scenic views, offering trekkers an opportunity to marvel at exquisite rock formations, waterfalls, lakes, and temples.
Avid rock climbing enthusiasts can choose to undertake a basic course or test their skills by climbing one of the intriguing rock formations. Other interesting places to explore during this typically two-day trek include Bamni Falls, Khairabera Lake, Pakhi Pahar, Sita Kund, and Mayur Pahar. Sirkabad, Baghmundi, and Jhalda are the three routes to reach Ajodhya Hills.
Distance from Kolkata: 301 km
Level of Trek: Moderate
Duration of Trek: 6-7 hours
Distance of Trek: 13km
Starting point of Trek: Kishore Bharati Ashram School
Altitude: 2250 feet
Must Read: Best Things To Do In Kolkata
2. Sandakphu Gurdum
Nestled in the Singalila Ridge along the border of India and Nepal, Sandakhpu is undoubtedly one of the best trekking places near Kolkata. Bestowed with an abundance of Himalayan Cobra Lilies, Sandakphu is also known as the ‘Mountain of the Poison Plant’. Offering magnificent views of the Eastern Himalayan Range, the Sandakhpu trek is considered one of the most challenging yet extremely satisfying and thrilling. The trek starts from Manebhanjan Village and traverses through dense oaks and rhododendron forests to reach the vantage point of Sandakphu, the highest peak in West Bengal.
Distance from Kolkata: 500 km
Level of Trek: Moderate
Duration of Trek: 4-5hours
Distance of Trek: 12km
Starting point of Trek: Village of Manebhanjan
Altitude: 11,930 feet
3. Biharinath
Image Credit: Kaushik Goswami for Wikimedia Commons
Unknown to most, Biharinath is a hidden gem offering one of the best treks near Kolkata. Meandering through dense deciduous forest, small ponds, and shimmering streams trickling along rocks and boulders, this tallest hill in the Bankura district is apt for hiking even by beginners. Nature enthusiasts will thrive on spotting various species of flora and fauna, testing their rock climbing skills and experiencing oneness with nature’s myriad offerings.
Distance from Kolkata: 218 km
Level of Trek: Moderate
Duration of Trek: 2.5 to 3 hours
Distance of Trek: 3km
The start point of Trek: Biharinath Temple
Altitude: 1483 feet
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4. Pedong
Nestled in the lap of greenery, Pedong is a scenic town located just 21 kilometres away from Kalimpong, near the Resi-Sikkim border, This unobserved town is a perfect destination for travel enthusiasts seeking solitariness amongst nature’s wilderness. Pedong is famous for its rich cultural heritage and historical Buddhist monasteries. Pedong is nestled by charming green valleys and dense pine forests, which provide a peaceful view of Mount Everest, making it one of the best treks near Kolkata.
Distance from Kolkata: 665 km
Level of Trek: Easy
Duration of Trek: 2-3 hours
Distance of Trek: 8km
Starting point of Trek: Kishore Bharati Ashram School
Altitude: 6000 feet
5. Netarhat
Recognised as the ‘Queen of Chotanagpur,’ Netarhat is a hill station located in the Latehar district of Jharkhand. This quaint and charming hill station is surrounded by dense forests that exhibit a variety of flora and fauna, making it a delight for nature lovers. If you are seeking an adventurous trek, Netarhat can be considered one of the best treks near Kolkata. The upper Ghgari Ghat, Koel Viewpoint, and Netarhat Sunrise Point are beautiful places that will leave you spellbound throughout your trek.
Distance from Kolkata: 578 km
Level of Trek: Easy
Duration of Trek: 4 days
Distance of Trek: 154 km
Starting point of Trek: Ranchi
Altitude: 3514 feet
Suggested Read: Historical Places In Kolkata
6. Simultala
If you want to spend some time in solitude, Simultala can be considered one of the best trekking places near Kolkata for enthusiasts. Simulatala is also known as the “Mini Shimla” of Bihar. The small hill station is on the Delhi- Patna- Howrah railway route, a few kilometres from Devgarh. The Simultala hill station boasts breathtaking landscapes, lush green valleys, and dusky roads that lead down the hill. You can get a scenic view of the village from the top of Lattu Pahar.
Distance from Kolkata: 362.50 km
Level of Trek: Easy
Duration of Trek: 2-3 hours
Distance of Trek: 6km
Starting point of Trek: Jamui
Altitude: 1000 feet
7. Samsing Hill Station
Samsing is a small village and tourist attraction in the Jalpaiguri District adjacent to Neora Valley National Park. Samsing is known for the serene beauty of nature, tea gardens, and dense forests. The hill station’s calm atmosphere and scenic surroundings are why it is listed as one of the best trekking places near Kolkata.
Distance from Kolkata: 556 km
Level of Trek: Moderate
Duration of Trek: 2.5 hours
Distance of Trek: 6.2km
Starting point of Trek: Neora Valley
Altitude: 3000 feet
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Tips For Trekking Near Kolkata
Preparation before the trek: Deciding to go on a trek can be exciting, but your body needs to be prepared as well, as trekking requires ample lung endurance.
Backpacks: A trekking backpack can be useful for your trekking experiences and can carry your essentials. Always choose a backpack suitable for the location you are visiting.
Water bottles: Hydrating your body with fluids is essential to any trek.
Power Banks: We all know how frustrating it is when your camera turns off due to a low battery. To avoid this, carrying a power bank is a must for your trekking journey.
Selecting the right trekking shoes: The right trekking shoes provide the right support and grip in different terrains. The trekking shoes can prevent ankle injuries and blisters.
Best Time For Trekking Near Kolkata
The best time for trekking near Kolkata can vary from different locations. For example, the best time for trekking in Sandakphu is from March to June. During these months, the skies are clear, and the probability of landslides is very low at this time. Another time is the post-monsoon season, which lasts from October to December, so you can have the best trekking experience.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Kolkata
These trekking places near Kolkata can reveal the true essence of paradise, which is less known to the people of Kolkata. These best trekking places near Kolkata will offer a fortifying experience from the hustling life and allow you to absorb yourself into the breathtaking landscape, lush green valleys, and scenic views from the hilltops. Book a trip to Kolkata and delve into the serenity awaiting you amidst these captivating landscapes.
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Cover Image Source: Shutterstock.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trekking Near Kolkata
Is there any Hill station near Kolkata?
There are many hill stations near Kolkata such as Ajodhya Hills, Darjeeling, Sandakhpu, Pedong, and many more.
Which is the coldest place in West Bengal?
Purulia is the coldest place in West Bengal.
Where is the snowfall in West Bengal?
Heavy snowfalls can be witnessed in Sandakphu Hills.
Which is the most dry area in West Bengal?
Purulia district is considered as the most dry area in West Bengal.
Which is the highest trek in West Bengal?
Sandakphu is the highest peak in West Bengal.
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