Soak up the sun
At about 180 kilometers from Kolkata, Mandarmani is the Digha for millennials. The mostly un-spoilt surroundings are not as crowded yet, and the cleaner beaches, along with accommodation ranging between decent to good, gives us a chance to connect meaningfully with nature, on the shores of the Bay of Bengal.
How to reach
The road that leads to the yellow sands of Mandarmani…
There are many ways to reach Mandarmani, on budgets that cater to all travellers. The idea is to reach Digha or Contai station by train, bus or car and then head towards Mandarmani. Travelling options include a train from Howrah, buses from Esplanade or other stops, or one’s own car of course. The drive entails four to five hours through West Bengal’s greenery, after which you have the chance to unwind in Mandarmani’s serenity and beauty. Make sure to stop at Kolaghat’s Sher-E-Punjab, without which any trip down that road can never be complete.
The Mandarmani beaches are about 30 kms from Digha, which takes about 30-45 minutes to reach. There are also many economical options, such as toto e-rickshaws, which one can take from Contai or Digha.
Road Guide from Digha
Sleep, Eat, Repeat
It is always advisable to arrive at the hotel well before nightfall. Mandarmani offers many choices for a vacation that suits all budgets, offering decent amenities and food to relish. A few minutes of browsing on the net and you will be spoilt for choices, but ranked high on the list is the Massara Beach Resort that offers an unforgettable view of the sea and the beach. If you happen to enjoy seafood (especially crabs), then the culinary options at affordable rates will make this a veritable paradise.
Beaches that stretch beyond the horizon, dotted with comforting human presences and their abodes… Courtesy: Amiyanath Bhattacharya
Crabs it is – to view and to devour… Courtesy: Amiyanath Bhattacharya
A crustacean sentinel stands mute witness to an ever-changing canvas Courtesy: Amiyanath Bhattacharya
Go gallivanting
For those desirous of seeing more, there can be the trip to the Mohana estuary, which is the confluence of River Champa with the Bay. Digha, Tajpur, Talsari are also at driving-distance from here. Pristine beaches, a chance to see fisherfolk at close quarters in their surroundings, a satiating coconut drink on the beach, ample opportunity to introspect as well as to spend quality time with loved ones in the midst of nature are the big draws of Mandarmani.
Breakfast! Courtesy: Amiyanath Bhattacharya
A boat bobs on disappearing waters Courtesy: Amiyanath Bhattacharya
Have fun, stay safe!
Finally, a word of caution – secluded locales have their share of discomfort, therefore exercising caution is always advisable. Soak in the sun, take a long, safe walk with the fabled red crabs, enjoy that sumptuous spread. Here, you will be able to witness nature at her splendid best, both in the sun and under the pearly moonlight.
Distance between Kolkata to Mandarmani is about 180 Kms via NH 16 and NH 116B.
Travel time from Digha to Mandarmani (30 Kms) is generally 50 minutes via Chawlkhola Mandarmani Road and NH 116B.
Watcher on the beach: A red guard who stands his ground with countless others Courtesy: Amiyanath Bhattacharya