Shantiniketan Day Excursion from Kolkata – Full Day Private Tour to Shantiniketan
Nestled in the serene Bolpur region of Birbhum District, Santiniketan is a remarkable and peaceful destination that beautifully embodies the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature. Conceived and constructed by the renowned poet and Nobel laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore, Shantiniketan stands as an idyllic retreat for travelers seeking tranquility and a rich cultural experience. By including a visit to Shantiniketan in your Kolkata itinerary, you’re bound to elevate your excitement and return home with unforgettable memories. In 2023 Santiniketan becomes the 41st UNESCO World Heritage Site in India and the third in West Bengal. The ideal time to explore Shantiniketan is during the winter season, spanning from October to February. During winter period, the weather is characterized by temperatures ranging from 13°C to 29°C, offering a consistently pleasant and cool ambiance throughout the day. It is advisable to make advance reservations for your trip and ensure you pack warm clothing to stay comfortable during your visit.
Basanta Utsav, translated as the celebration of spring, is a cherished tradition in Bengal that takes place in Santiniketan, the home of the world-renowned poet Rabindranath Tagore. This festival exemplifies Tagore’s vision of education and the development of human minds in harmony with nature’s abundance.While the rest of India joyously observes Dol or Holi, Santiniketan marks the arrival of spring in its own unique way. On the auspicious day of “Dol Purnima,” the vibrant colors of spring are embraced through music and dance. Teachers and students exchange greetings adorned with Abir (dry colors) during this festive occasion. At dawn on Dol Purnima, students don yellow or pristine white attire and embellish themselves with garlands of fragrant flowers. Accompanied by musical instruments such as ektara, dubri, veena, and more, they engage in singing and dancing. This cultural celebration draws a significant number of national and international visitors who come to witness this beautiful and traditional event.
Shantiniketan Day Tour From Kolkata – One Day Kolkata to Shantiniketan Trip by Cab
Santiniketan Day Trip From Kolkata Itinerary –
Departing from Kolkata at 5 am, your journey will take you to Shantiniketan, a place of great cultural significance. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore various landmarks associated with Rabindranath Tagore and the Visva-Bharati University. Your itinerary includes visits to the iconic Kala Bhavan, Rabindra Bhaban Museum, Shantiniketan Griha, Path Bhavan, Uttarayan complex, Upasana Griha, Chhatimtala, and other places where the esteemed poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore once resided. You’ll also have the chance to offer your prayers at the sacred Prayer Spot beneath a chatim tree and the serene Upasana Mandir. As your day unfolds, the timing for your return journey to Kolkata will depend on when you choose to depart from Shantiniketan. Your Shantiniketan day tour from Kolkata promises to leave you with cherished memories of the remarkable Bard of Bengal.
Shantiniketan 2 Night 3 Day Tour Itinerary –
Day 1- On the first day, not much happens as we ease you into the swing of things. After your arrival here, you will be taken to your hotel to get the ball rolling on the check-in process. Once that is sorted out, head over to your room and relax as we spend the night in Shantiniketan.
Day 2- On the second day of your Shantiniketan tour, you’ll embark on a fascinating exploration of this cultural hub. At the heart of Shantiniketan lies the renowned Viswa Bharati University, a pivotal attraction in the area. This university holds immense national significance, not only due to the illustrious figures associated with it but also because of its unique approach to education. While it has embraced modernization with state-of-the-art facilities, it cherishes the tradition of conducting certain classes in the open, beneath the cool shade of mango trees.
Viswa Bharati University is divided into various specialized institutes, each dedicated to a distinct field of study. A visit to this institution promises to be an educational and enlightening experience. After this enriching excursion, we’ll return to our hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 3- The Shantiniketan package concludes on its third day, wrapping up this short yet memorable tour of Shantiniketan. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before it’s time to check out and head back to your home. Though the trip may have been brief, it has undoubtedly been a rejuvenating and enriching experience, embodying the essence of a fulfilling vacation.
Package Include –
Transportation Pick & drop from Bolpur railway station/ Prantik railway station.
Accommodation in hotel/resort.
Breakfast & dinner (MAP meal plan).
Local Sightseeing.
Luxury AC vehicle.
Driver Charges.
Package Exclude –
Any hard or aerated drinks.
Video camera charges.
Any miscellaneous expenses incurred by the guests.
Entry fees.
Parking charges.
Weekend Tour Package From Kolkata To Santiniketan
Bolpur celebrates “Poush Mela” (Last 10 days of December) and “Basanta Utsav” (Holi) every year on a very large scale. Thousands of people gather at that time, so all the services like accommodation, transportation, and food generally become very very expensive.
Shantiniketan Tourist Places
Visva Bharati University: Established by Rabindranath Tagore, this cultural and educational institution boasts a tranquil campus with lush gardens and historic structures. Explore the Uttarayan Complex, which includes Tagore’s residence, Upasana Griha (prayer hall), and Patha Bhavan (school).
Amar Kutir: A cooperative society that showcases indigenous handicrafts and traditional Bengali artistry. Stroll through its emporium and witness skilled artisans creating exquisite handicrafts, pottery, and textiles.
Rabindra Bhaban Museum: A dedicated museum that offers insights into the life and works of Rabindranath Tagore. It houses personal belongings, manuscripts, and artwork, providing a profound understanding of the poet’s philosophies and literary creations.
Kopai River: Enjoy a serene walk along the riverbank and immerse yourself in the picturesque surroundings. This peaceful setting is perfect for picnics and moments of contemplation.
Deer Park (Ballavpur Forest): Located approximately 3 km from the university’s main campus, this forest is home to a diverse population of deer. It is also known as the Deer Park.
Kankalitala: A quaint rural town situated 7 km from Santiniketan, offering a glimpse of India’s beautiful semi-urban landscape.
Santiniketan – Basanta Utsav
Basanta Utsav, meaning the ‘celebration of spring,’ marks the vibrant season of Dol Utsav in the Bengali calendar, specifically during Falgun and Chaitra. Nature adorns itself with the colorful blossoms of Palash, Shimul, and other flowers during this time. The tradition of celebrating the spring festival in Bengal was inaugurated by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore at Visva-Bharati, Santiniketan. While similar to Holi, Basanta Utsav distinguishes itself with its graceful festivities. The fervent celebration takes place on Dol Purnima, the Full Moon day of Falgun. The day begins with a lively procession featuring long musical dances, followed by performances of Tagore’s music, rhymes, and dances by students from various departments. Dressed in yellow (basanti), symbolizing the vibrancy of spring, boys and girls elegantly welcome the season of hope. As the day progresses, both students and teachers participate in applying colored powders, known as abeer (abhor), on each other. This colorful tradition transforms the university premises into a lively canvas of hues. Visitors are warmly welcomed and encouraged to partake in the festive spirit. The air is not only filled with a myriad of vivacious colors but also with the essence of joy and hope, creating a delightful atmosphere. In the evening, students from Sangit Bhavana at Visva-Bharati present selected dance dramas by Tagore, adding an artistic touch to the festivities..
Poush Mela: The festival of music and craft, Posh Mela is organised between December and January. It is celebrated on the Foundation Day of the University.
Basant Utsab (Basant Festival): The Basant Utsav is organised during Holi and is quite an affair at Shantiniketan.
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