If you are searching for a perfect blend of serenity, sea, and sunshine just a few hours away from Kolkata, then the weekend destination Mandarmani should be on your travel list. Famous for its unspoiled beaches, adventurous water sports, and peaceful seaside resorts, Mandarmani is one of the most loved coastal retreats in West Bengal. This coastal gem has cemented its reputation as the quintessential weekend destination Mandarmani offers an unbeatable blend of adventure, relaxation, and stunning natural beauty.
Mandarmani is famous for boasting one of the longest motorable beaches in India, offering a unique and exhilarating experience. This 3-day, 2-night itinerary is designed to maximize your fun and relaxation, making it the perfect break for families, couples, and friends, and also guides you on how to reach, things to do, the best time to visit, to staying options.
Why Weekend Destination Mandarmani is the Ideal ?
Mandarmani is a seaside village located in Purba Medinipur district, West Bengal, approximately 180 km from Kolkata. It is known for being one of the longest motorable beaches in India, stretching around 13 km. Unlike Digha, its busier counterpart, Mandarmani offers a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for weekend travelers seeking relaxation with a dash of adventure. Weekend Destination Mandarmani is more than just a beach; it’s an experience. Here’s what makes it unique:
The Motorable Beach
The hard-packed sand allows vehicles to drive right on the beach during low tide—a thrilling experience you won’t soon forget (though exercise caution and adhere to local rules and tide times!). Mandarmani beach is less crowded compared to Digha and Shankarpur. Early mornings are perfect for long walks along the shoreline, while evenings offer mesmerizing sunsets.
Water Sports Hub
Your weekend destination Mandarmani trip, can be adventurous as Mandarmani has evolved into an adventure hub with activities like:
Jet Ski Rides
Banana Boat Rides
Speed Boating
Parasailing
ATV Bike Rides on the Beach
The Mohana (Confluence)
A serene spot where a local river meets the Bay of Bengal, offering a peaceful contrast to the main beach.
Witness The Red Crabs
The beach is famous for the thousands of tiny, vibrant red crabs that emerge from the sand and scamper about, adding a splash of colour to the golden shore.
Short Excursions Nearby
If you have some extra time, you can also explore
Tajpur Beach – Another quiet beach, perfect for nature lovers, approximately 12 km from Mandarmani via Beach Road and 19 km via Chawlkhola Road, and takes 30 min to 40 min approx.
Shankarpur – A fishing harbor with a rustic charm. approximately 18 km from Mandarmani via Beach Road and 22 km via Chawlkhola Road, and takes 40 min to 45 min approx.
Digha – Just 30 km away, you can visit Digha’s Science Center, Marine Aquarium, and Amravati Park.
Your 3-Day Mandarmani Tour Plan
This itinerary is structured for a classic Friday-to-Sunday weekend destination Mandarmani trip, but it can be adapted for any two-night stay.
Best Time to Visit Mandarmani
The best time to plan your weekend destination Mandarmani is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant, and the sea breeze adds to the charm. Summers (April–June) can get quite hot, while monsoons bring rough seas, restricting water activities.
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Thrills
Morning (Travel & Check-in)
Start your drive from Kolkata early (around 5-6 AM). The 4-5 hour drive is comfortable, often involving the scenic route via the Kolaghat/Nimtouri crossing. Arrive in Mandarmani around noon.
Lunch
Check into your resort. Most resorts are situated right on the beach, offering direct access and great views. Enjoy a traditional Bengali lunch with fresh seafood like Bhetki or Prawn Malai Curry.
Afternoon - Adventure Time
Head to the main beach area dedicated to water sports. Indulge in some adrenaline-pumping activities:
Jet Skiing: Feel the spray of the Bay of Bengal as you glide over the waves.
Banana Boat/Sofa Ride: Great fun for groups or families.
Evening - Sunset & Relaxation
As the sun begins to dip, take a long, relaxing walk. The sunset in Mandarmani, casting golden hues over the vast, flat beach, is spectacular. Enjoy snacks from the beach shacks, which often serve tea, pakoras, and delicious deep-fried fish.
Night
Enjoy a leisurely dinner, perhaps a barbecue at your resort, and the sound of the waves from your balcony.
Day 2: Exploration, Confluence, and Red Crabs
Morning - Beach Drive & Red Crabs
This is the day for exploration. Wake up early and take a pre-arranged beach car ride (or drive your own vehicle with extreme caution) towards Mohana. The hard sand is ideal for a long drive, and the entire stretch is covered in tiny holes made by the Red Crabs. It’s a mesmerizing sight as thousands of them scurry sideways.
Forenoon - Mandarmani Mohana
Reach the Mohana (also known as the Delta). This area is quieter and ideal for photography. Watch as local fishing boats come and go, offering a glimpse into the local life.
Lunch
Head back to the central area for lunch. Try the local Pomphet or Ilish fry if they are in season.
Afternoon - Leisure & Spa
The afternoon is reserved for true relaxation. Swim in your resort pool or, if your resort offers one, indulge in a spa treatment or a traditional Ayurvedic massage.
Evening - Local Market
Visit the small local market area in the evening. You can shop for shell jewelry, local crafts, and simple souvenirs to remember your weekend destination Mandarmani trip. End the evening with a walk along the darkened beach, listening to the powerful roar of the ocean.
Day 3: Sunrise and Departure
Morning - Sunrise
Wake up before dawn. Mandarmani is famous for its stunning sunrise over the Bay of Bengal. Find a spot on the beach and witness the sky transition from deep blue to brilliant orange and red as the sun emerges from the water.
Breakfast & Last Walk
Enjoy a final breakfast. Take one last walk along the beach to collect shells or simply breathe in the refreshing sea air.
Departure
Check out and begin your return journey to Kolkata, carrying memories of the sandy beach and the roar of the waves.
Where to Stay: Mandarmani Staying Options
One of the highlights of choosing Mandarmani is its wide range of accommodations. From budget hotels to luxury resorts, there is something for every traveler. From luxurious resorts to comfortable mid-range hotels, almost all of which are situated directly on the beach. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for a weekend destination Mandarmani trip.
Websites like Goibibo, MakeMyTrip, Agoda, Booking.com are good starting points for searching and comparing hotels or resorts for your choice.
How to Reach Mandarmani
Mandarmani is around 180 km from Kolkata and takes about 4 to 5 hours by road.
By Car
The most convenient way is to drive via NH16 and Contai. The roads are smooth, and you can enjoy the scenic countryside along the way.
By Train
The nearest railway stations are Contai (Kanthi), Digha, and Tamluk. From there, you can hire a cab or take local transport.
By Bus
Several government and private buses ply regularly from Kolkata to Mandarmani, Digha and Contai. From Contai, cabs and autos are available to Mandarmani. operators like Greenline, Shyamoli Paribahan, Express Line, and Rubi Paribahan, with buses departing from points like Esplanade. To book tickets and check specific timings and prices, you can use online platforms such as redBus, MakeMyTrip, Goibibo, and AbhiBus.
For a comfortable and flexible trip, traveling by car is highly recommended.
Why Weekend Destination Mandarmani Is The Perfect
Mandarmani beautifully blends serenity with adventure. Unlike overly commercialized beaches, it retains its raw charm while offering enough activities to keep travelers engaged. Its proximity to Kolkata makes it highly accessible for a short trip. The availability of comfortable staying options, fresh seafood, and a calm environment make it an all-rounder weekend getaway.
If you are craving the sea breeze, want to dip your feet in the sand, or simply need a rejuvenating break, look no further than Mandarmani – the ideal weekend destination.
Weekend destination Mandarmani truly delivers on its promise as a perfect coastal getaway. A trip to Mandarmani will leave you refreshed, rejuvenated, and eagerly planning your next seaside escape.