HOW TO REACH AND MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS
Getting to Santiniketan (Source: Wikivoyage)
From Kolkata
By plane: The nearest airport is Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport (RDP) at Durgapur, but flights are infrequent. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata is the nearest major airport that is close to Santiniketan.
By train: Santiniketan is two to three hours by train from Kolkata. Vande Bharat Express and Shatabdi Express offer the fastest service. For schedules check with Indian Railways.
There are two railway stations in Santiniketan, namely 1. Bolpur Santiniketan ER (BHP) and 2. Prantik ER. Most express trains stop at Bolpur Santiniketan.
Physical festival at Santiniketan:
Aug 9 to 11, 2024
Online Meet: Aug16 to Sept 15, 2024
Santiniketan is also connected with Burdwan, Bankura and other places in West Bengal.
Express trains that stop at Bolpur Shantiniketan:
From Howrah, Kolkata (HWH): Ganadevta Express, Jamalpur Express, Kavi Guru Express, Malda Intercity Express, NJP Shatabdi Express, NJP Vande Bharat Express (fastest, non-stop), Saraighat Express and Santiniketan Express (the only train that originates and/or terminates at HWH and BHP, so you a better chance of finding seats on this train if you buy unreserved tickets).
From Sealdah (SDAH), Kolkata: Darjeeling Mail and Kanchenjunga Express.
From New Jalpaiguri (NJP), Siliguri: Darjeeling Mail, Howrah Shatabdi Express, Howrah Vande Bharat Express, and Kanchenjunga Express.
By Bus:
From Kolkata, there are two options: The Asansol bus (alight near Panagarh) and the Suri bus (alight near Ilambazar). From both places, local buses are available for Santiniketan. Alight at Bolpur Bus Stand.
By car:
Santiniketan is 212 km (132 miles) from Kolkata by road. Good drivers can cover the distance in about three hours.
Santiniketan is connected with Kolkata by an excellent 4-lane expressway. From Kolkata, travel to Dankuni and take the Durgapur Expressway (NH 19). It will bypass Saktigarh, Bardhaman and Panagarh. At Panagarh (Darjeeling More), turn right. After crossing the Ajay River, take the road to the right at Ilambazar and proceed towards Bolpur.
At the Santiniketan–Sriniketan junction (also called Surul More) take the road to the left. Coming from the direction of Kolkata, one can also take the NH 114 route via Talit, Guskara, Bhedia and Surul More by taking a right turn from the Durgapur Expressway just after crossing Bardhaman on the right (where the Renaissance Township is on the left) and taking this route via Nababhat More. It saves time and the distance is shorter from the above route by about 50 km.
From Durgapur:
Train: Travellers can board trains from Durgapur Station to Bolpur Station, with the journey lasting around three hours.
Bus: Buses connect Durgapur to Santiniketan, providing a travel time of about two hours.
Car: Hit the NH 19 from Durgapur, reaching Santiniketan in approximately two hours.
Must-See in Santiniketan:
Visva-Bharati University: Founded by Rabindranath Tagore, this esteemed institution offers a rich cultural and educational experience. Explore the expansive campus, visit the Rabindra Bhavan Museum, and immerse yourself in its unique learning environment.
Santiniketan Griha: Once Rabindranath Tagore’s residence, now transformed into a museum showcasing his life and works.
Upasana Bhavan: Another residence of Tagore, now serving as a museum dedicated to his spiritual journey.
Kala Bhavan: Dive into the world of visual arts and crafts at this renowned art school established by Tagore.
China Bhavan: Delve into a collection of Chinese art and artefacts housed within this remarkable building.
Sonajhuri Haat: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this market, filled with stalls offering handicrafts, souvenirs, and local delicacies.
Khoai Mela: Keep an eye out for any fairs or festivals happening during your visit for a lively celebration of Bengali culture.
Natural Beauty: Surround yourself with the lush greenery of Santiniketan by taking leisurely walks or bike rides through the scenic landscape.
Baul Performances: Lose yourself in the enchanting music of the Baul mendicants, known for their soul-stirring performances.
Don’t forget to indulge in the delectable offerings of Bengali cuisine during your stay, featuring fresh ingredients and aromatic spices. With its blend of culture, history, and natural splendour, Santiniketan promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Bengal’s artistic soul.