A Nature Lover's Journey: Tarapith, Bakreswar, Santiniketan
Saturday September 30: Tarapith
Start your nature-filled adventure at Tarapith. Begin your morning at the Tarapith Temple, a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Tara. Experience the spiritual ambiance and witness the morning rituals. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Tarapith Deer Park, home to various species of deer and lush greenery. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Dwarka River, enjoying the serene surroundings and catching the sunset.
Tarapith Temple: Free, 2 hours
Tarapith Deer Park: Free, 1 hour
Banks of Dwarka River: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Hotel Swapan located near Tarapith Temple. They offer a variety of delicious Indian and continental breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Annapurna Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering Bengali cuisine. The restaurant is situated near Tarapith Deer Park. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Enjoy a delightful dinner at Dash Restaurant, located near the banks of the Dwarka River. They serve a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday October 1: Bakreswar
Embark on a nature retreat as you head to Bakreswar. Begin your morning by visiting the Bakreswar Thermal Power Plant, known for its scenic location amidst mountains. Enjoy a refreshing morning walk in the nearby Bakreswar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna. In the afternoon, indulge in a picnic at the picturesque Bakreswar Dam, surrounded by lush greenery. As the evening sets in, take a soothing dip in the hot springs of Bakreswar for a relaxing experience.
Bakreswar Thermal Power Plant: Free, 1 hour
Bakreswar Wildlife Sanctuary: Free, 2 hours
Bakreswar Dam: Free, 2 hours
Bakreswar Hot Springs: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
A perfect spot for a delicious breakfast is Cafe Sunrise, known for its freshly brewed coffee and mouthwatering pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Spice Garden Restaurant, specializing in traditional Bengali cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
In the evening, dine at The Tamarind Tree, a cozy restaurant offering a wide array of dishes from around the world. Enjoy their signature cocktails while overlooking the serene surroundings. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Monday October 2: Santiniketan
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Santiniketan. Start your morning with a visit to the picturesque gardens of Rabindra Bharati University, adorned with colorful flowers and sculptures. In the afternoon, explore the serene surroundings of Kopai River, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride or simply relax by the riverside. As the evening approaches, don't miss the sunset at Amar Kutir, an artisan village showcasing traditional handicrafts and artworks.
Rabindra Bharati University Gardens: Free, 2 hours
Kopai River: Free, 2 hours
Amar Kutir: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
For a hearty breakfast, head to Cafe Rhymes, a charming eatery known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Kala Bhavana Canteen, a popular dining spot offering a variety of vegetarian dishes inspired by the local cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Tagore's Terrace, a rooftop restaurant offering a scenic view of Santiniketan. Enjoy their delectable Bengali specialties at an average cost of 500 INR per person.
Tuesday October 3: Tarapith
Return to Tarapith for another day of natural wonders. Begin your day with a visit to the serene Nalhateshwari Temple, located amidst beautiful gardens and surrounded by tranquility. In the afternoon, explore the scenic beauty of Tamareshwar Shiva Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere. As the evening sets in, take a walk through the Tarapith Forest, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna.
Nalhateshwari Temple: Free, 2 hours
Tamareshwar Shiva Temple: Free, 1 hour
Tarapith Forest: Free, 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day off at Shyam Sundar Tea Stall, a quaint local eatery located near Tarapith. Indulge in delicious tea and traditional Bengali breakfast items like Luchi and Aloo Dum. Average cost for a meal is about ₹100 per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to Maa Annapurna Restaurant which offers a diverse menu ranging from authentic Bengali cuisine to North Indian dishes. Enjoy the serene ambiance along with their signature Thali meals. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
End your day with a culinary treat at Rupbani Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering Bengali seafood specialties and aromatic biryanis. The cozy ambience and attentive service make it the perfect place for a relaxing dinner. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday October 4: Bakreswar
Continue your exploration of Bakreswar's natural wonders. Begin your morning by visiting the scenic Bakreswar Hills, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. In the afternoon, venture into the Bakreswar Mahadev Temple, a revered Hindu temple located amidst the hills. As the evening approaches, enjoy a leisurely walk in the Bakreswar Eco Park, experiencing the serenity of nature and its diverse ecosystems.
Bakreswar Hills: Free, 2 hours
Bakreswar Mahadev Temple: Free, 1 hour
Bakreswar Eco Park: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Indulge in a delicious and filling breakfast at Café Nalini, known for its wide variety of freshly baked pastries and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: Savor the flavors of authentic Bengali cuisine at Aaheli, offering a diverse menu of traditional dishes such as macher jhol (fish curry) and shorshe ilish (hilsa fish in mustard sauce). Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Dinner: Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Prantik Garden Restaurant, where you can enjoy a range of delectable continental and Indian dishes in a serene garden setting. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday October 5: Santiniketan
Conclude your nature-centric journey in Santiniketan. Begin your morning by visiting the tranquil Upasana Griha, an open-air meditation hall surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the scenic beauty of Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary, home to various species of plants, birds, and animals. As the evening sets in, wander through the peaceful surroundings of Khoai Mela, a local fair showcasing traditional arts, crafts, and music.
Upasana Griha: Free, 2 hours
Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary: Free, 3 hours
Khoai Mela: Free, 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Yellow Chilli Cafe, a cozy cafe known for its delicious coffee and fresh pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, indulge in local flavors at Khana Khazana, a traditional Bengali restaurant serving a variety of authentic dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Bhojohori Manna, offering a range of mouthwatering Bengali delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For nature enthusiasts seeking off-the-beaten-path attractions, consider exploring the Muruguma Dam near Tarapith. This hidden gem offers mesmerizing views of the dam surrounded by lush greenery. Another local favorite is the Bakreswar Hills, where you can hike to experience breathtaking vistas and the tranquility of nature. Don't forget to indulge in local delicacies like 'Shorshe Ilish' (Hilsa fish in mustard sauce) and 'Pithe' (traditional Bengali sweet) during your journey.
Check out this link to find the best hotel and flight deals for your journey.