Bakkhali Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and things to do in Bakkhali, India. Read our comprehensive tour guide for your next adventure.


Introduction to Bakkhali

Bakkhali is a beautiful seaside town located in the South 24 Parganas district of the Indian state of West Bengal. This picturesque town is known for its pristine beaches, dense mangrove forests, and rich cultural heritage.

With its captivating beauty, Bakkhali has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from across India and the world. The town boasts a relaxed and laid-back vibe which is perfect for vacationers looking for a peaceful and serene getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Bakkhali

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Henry’s Island

Henry’s Island is one of the most popular tourist spots in Bakkhali. It is a small island located a few kilometers away from the town of Bakkhali. The island is home to a bird sanctuary, which is a paradise for bird watchers. Henry’s Island also has a beautiful beach which is perfect for swimming and taking long leisurely strolls.

Frasergunj wind farm

The Frasergunj wind farm is located on the edge of the Sundarbans mangrove forest. It is a popular tourist spot and attracts many visitors throughout the year. The wind turbines provide electricity to the neighboring villages and also offer a stunning backdrop for perfect photographs.

Bishnupur

Bishnupur is a historic town located near Bakkhali. It is known for its terracotta temples and intricate baluchari sarees. The town is home to several temples, including the Madan Mohan Temple, which is one of the most famous temples in the region.

Natural Attractions of Bakkhali: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bakkhali Beach

Bakkhali Beach is the main attraction in the town, and it is a beautiful stretch of white sand that runs alongside the Bay of Bengal. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming in the sea, and taking long walks while enjoying the sound of the waves.

Jambudwip

Jambudwip is an uninhabited island located a few kilometers away from Bakkhali. It is a beautiful place for sightseeing and has a lovely beach that is perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls. Jambudwip is home to several migratory birds, making it a perfect spot for bird watching.

Bakkhali Watch Tower

The Bakkhali Watch Tower is located on the outskirts of the town, and it provides a spectacular panoramic view of the entire region. The watchtower is perfect for photography and provides an excellent opportunity to get an overview of the region and its natural beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bakkhali

Bakkhali is home to several hiking and biking trails that allow visitors to explore the beauty of the region up close. The Sundarbans mangrove forest is one of the most popular hiking spots in the region and provides a unique opportunity to explore the dense forests and its unique flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Bakkhali: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Bakkhali offers several other activities and tours, which include:

  • Boating tours in the Bay of Bengal
  • Bird watching in the Henry’s Island bird sanctuary
  • Visiting the Bishnupur terracotta temples
  • Exploring the Frasergunj wind farm
  • Taking a dip in the natural hot springs

Week-Long Itinerary for Bakkhali

If you’re planning to spend a week in Bakkhali, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Bakkhali and check into your hotel. Spend the day exploring the town and its beaches.
2 Visit the Henry’s Island bird sanctuary and spend the afternoon exploring the mangrove forests.
3 Visit Bishnupur and explore the town’s terracotta temples.
4 Take a trip to the Frasergunj wind farm and enjoy the scenic views.
5 Relax on the beach and take a dip in the sea.
6 Hike through the Sundarbans mangrove forest and explore its unique flora and fauna.
7 Take a boat tour on the Bay of Bengal and watch the sunset before departing Bakkhali.

Food and Drink Scene of Bakkhali

Must-Try Dishes

Bakkhali is known for its seafood, and some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Fried fish
  • Crab curry
  • Lobster
  • Prawn curry
  • Macher muro diye dal (lentils cooked with fish head)

Local Beverages

Some of the local beverages in Bakkhali include:

  • Coconut water
  • Sugarcane juice
  • Aam panna (a drink made from green mangoes)

Where to Stay in Bakkhali: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bakkhali offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of the best places to stay in Bakkhali include:

  • Hotel Amarabati
  • Hotel Dolphin
  • Sundarban Gateway Resort
  • Apsara Guesthouse

What to Buy in Bakkhali: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Bakkhali include:

  • Terracotta pottery
  • Baluchari sarees
  • Handicrafts made from coconut shells
  • Sea shells

Local Culture and Customs of Bakkhali

Bakkhali is a traditional Bengali town, and visitors are expected to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Respect for elders is highly valued in the local culture, and visitors are advised to follow local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Bakkhali

The best time to visit Bakkhali is from October to March, as the weather during this period is mild and pleasant. Summer months can be hot and humid, making it difficult for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bakkhali

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Try the local seafood dishes
  • Take a dip in the sea

Don’t:

  • Disrespect elders
  • Wear revealing clothing in public places
  • Litter on the beaches and public places

Safety and Health

Safety in Bakkhali

Bakkhali is a safe place for tourists, but visitors are advised to take basic precautions, such as not carrying valuables on the beaches and being cautious when traveling at night.

Health in Bakkhali

Visitors should ensure that they are up-to-date with their vaccinations before traveling to Bakkhali. Visitors should also be cautious when consuming street food and only drink bottled water.

Getting to Bakkhali: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bakkhali

The nearest airport to Bakkhali is Kolkata International Airport, which is around 120 km away from the town. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Bakkhali.

Bus Stations Near Bakkhali

The nearest bus station to Bakkhali is located in Kolkata, which is around 115 km away from the town. Buses are available from Kolkata to Bakkhali, and the journey takes around 3 to 4 hours.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Bakkhali by hiring a private taxi or taking a train to Namkhana, which is the nearest railway station to Bakkhali.

How to Get Around in Bakkhali

Bakkhali is a small town, and the best way to get around is on foot or by hiring a bicycle. Visitors can also hire a taxi or a car to explore the region.

Where to Go Next from Bakkhali: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the popular destinations near Bakkhali include:

  • Kolkata
  • Sundarbans National Park
  • Digha
  • Mandarmani

Conclusion

Bakkhali is a beautiful destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town’s pristine beaches, mangrove forests, and historic temples attract visitors from all over the world. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, Bakkhali is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Beach at Bakkhali Beach at Bakkhali Another beach view Another beach view View of Henry's Island from the tower View of Henry's Island from the tower