Visiting Digha? Here's Everything You Need to Know!

A scenic coastal town where golden sands meet endless horizons and the sea tells tales with each tide. The city is located along the Bay of Bengal and only a few hours away from Kolkata. This beach town is famous for its breathtaking sunrise view, beautiful sea waves, delicious local seafood, relaxed atmosphere, and a combination of nature and local culture. 

Digha is a perfect mixture of peace, scenery, and simplicity. The town offers a lot to explore, from a relaxing walk along the shores of Digha’s beaches to banana boat rides at Udaipur breach to enjoying fresh seafood by the beach. 

Overall, Digha is ideal for a quick weekend trip, a Digha puja vacation, or a peaceful vacation by the seaside. 

Best Time To Visit Digha

• October to February: This is an ideal time of year for beach strolls, sightseeing, photography, and outings. Digha's weather remains cool, and the skies are clean. 
• March to June: Summer in Digha is hot and humid. If the heat doesn't bother you much, early morning and evening walks along the beach are an absolute treat. The hotels are usually cheaper during this season. 
• July to September: It is suggested to avoid the Digha monsoon trip as heavy rain can disrupt travel plans. However, if you’re looking for an off-season and less crowded experience then this season is ideal for you. 

How to Reach Digha (From Kolkata)

By Train: 

It is the quickest and most comfortable option to reach Digha.

1. Boarding Station: Howrah (train runs daily) 
2. Arrival Station: Digha Flag station (taking about 3-4 hours).
3. Ticket Price: Ranges from Rs.170-Rs.2,300(Depending on the class). For online booking, use IRCTC. 
4. Train Options: HWH-DGHA Superfast AC Express(12847), Tamralipta Express, Duronto Express, Kandari Express, and Paharia Express.

By Bus:

Don't want to deal with train schedules? Then, buses are the second best option for you. The best time to begin your bus is either late night or early morning, it's peaceful, less traffic, and you arrive at Digha just in time for the beach sunrise.

1. Boarding bus stand: Esplanade Bus Terminus(Dharamtala)
2. Arrival bus stand: Digha Bus Stand (takes about 4-5 hours to reach)
3. Cost: Ranges from Rs.140-Rs.350
4. Operators: West Bengal Transport Corporation(WBTC), South Bengal State Transport Corporation(SBSTC), Private bus options are also available such as Shyamoli, Greenline, Expressline, etc. 
5. You can book online via Redbus

By Road:

Start your journey in the early morning to avoid traffic and enjoy the afternoon breeze in Digha. 

1. Distance: Around 180km (takes about 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic)
2. Route: NH16 or NH116B to reach Digha
3. Car Rental Options: Available via services like Savaari 

Digha Tourist Places

1. New Digha Beach

It is the most crowded tourist spot in Digha. The beach has spacious, long sandy areas, making it perfect for an early morning walk or relaxing in the evening. There are many food vendors, so don’t forget to try local cuisine. Ideal for swimming, sunrise views, and spending some peaceful moments with your family. 

2. Old Digha Beach

Old Digha Beach has an old-world Charm. The beach is bordered by huge pieces of concrete and rocks, giving it a rugged beauty. It is one of the best spots for photography, sunset walks, and enjoying seafood from local stalls.

3. Udaipur Beach

Only a few kilometers away from New Digha is a less crowded and clean beach. There are exciting Digha water sports to experience such as jet skiing, ATV, and beach biking. Try some freshly caught fried fish from one of the beach stalls.

4. Talsari Beach

The best off-beat spot lies near the Odisha border and is known for its natural beauty and quietness. The sight of red crabs crawling across the shore and the sound of soothing waves makes it a must-visit spot.

5. Shankarpur Fishing Harbour

It's an ideal place for early bird view and photography. The fishing boats, Digha fishing, local fishermen, and the scent of the sea give a natural, raw, and cultural experience.

6. Marine Aquarium and Research Centre (MARC)

An underwater wonder operated by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute. It contains diverse marine organisms like fish, coral, and sea snakes. A perfect place for kids to enjoy and learn.

7. Amaravati Park

A well-maintained park near New Digha and a perfect green escape spot. There are lush gardens, a toy train, and boating facilities, and all of these together make it an ideal family outing or a romantic walking spot.

Entry Fee: ₹10 / person 

Ropway ride:

Adult: ₹80 / person 

Children ( 3-12 years): ₹46/ person 

Boat Ride: ₹80-120 depending on the number of peoples

8. Chandaneswar Temple

A Shiva temple situated about 8 km away from Digha in Odisha. During Maha-Shivaratri, the temple becomes lively, but you can visit any time of the year for a spiritual vibe.

Bonus Spots (Little Gems Around Digha):

9. Talsari Beach

The Talsari is where the sea meets the rivers, surrounded by palm trees and mangroves. A peaceful beach along the Odisha border, only 10-12 km from Digha. It's serene, clean, and perfect for a calm escape from the crowd. 

10. Mandarmani 

This peaceful beach spot is 30-35 km away from Digha, ideal for relaxation and spending quality time with loved ones. Mandarmani is known for its long drivable beach, luxury resorts, and water sports. 

11. Digha Mohana

The Champak River meets the Bay of Bengal. Perfect spot for photography and peaceful Digha boat rides. A beautiful place to watch fishermen catching fish as the sun rises. Mohana is known for its fresh seafood. If you love seafood, grab a plate of steaming seafood in your hands and enjoy it right there while taking in the serene view. 

12. Shankarpur

A small fishing village located 14 km from Digha, perfect for early morning visits. You can see fishermen working, boats arriving with the day's catch, and experience a true sense of coastal life. 

Adventure Highlights in Digha

If you're looking for something beyond the usual beach hooping, Digha has some exciting activities that will get your heart pumping. 

1. Speed Boating

If you have ever thought of zipping across the waves, then you must try speed boating in Digha. The thrill of speeding through the water, with the wind in your hair, and the ocean touches your feet. It's perfect for those who love a little splash of excitement. 

2. Banana Boat Ride

Hop on a banana boat with your friends and family and brace yourself for heart-pounding bounces across the waves. Hold tight for a wild ride with laughter and a splash of fun. Trust me, you'll be talking about this ride for days. 

3. ATV and Bike Rides on the Beach

A once-in-a-lifetime experience. Strap a helmet and zip along the shoreline, let the ocean breeze whip past each bump in the sand feels like a mini thrill, and you'll uncover secret stretches of beach that most people miss. 

4. Parasailing (Seasonal)

Want to see Digha from a different perspective? Then you must try Parasailing- a bird's eye view of the coastline. You will float above the beach and see the Bay of Bengal in a way you've never seen before. Up there is a peaceful but also pretty thrilling ride. 

5. Jet Skiing

Get on board, press the throttle, and feel the excitement as you glide over the waves. This is pure heart-pounding fun that will make your quiet beach day an instant adventure. 

Here's a rough cost guide for the adventure rides in Digha and how to book them. So that you can plan and dive straight into the fun as soon as you arrive. 

• Note: Some rides, like Parasailing and Jet skiing, are available seasonally(Oct-Mar). 
• For some discount, get the combo packages (like speed boat+jet ski+banana boat) that can knock off 10-15%

Suggested Itinerary for Digha(3D/2N)

Day 1: Arrival in Digha and Exploration

Morning: After you reach Digha, first of all, check in at your hotel/resort. Get refreshed and try local breakfasts such as luchi-aloo dom or fresh seafood. 

Afternoon: Visit the Marine Aquarium and Research Centre (MARC) to explore and learn about marine animals. After that, take a serene walk or ride a toy train at Amaravati Park.

Evening: Before sunset head to old Digha Sea Beach to watch the sunset view and enjoy the cool sea breeze. Also, get some evening snacks like crab cutlet, ghugni chaat, and other local foods from beach stalls.

Day 2: Beach-Hopping and Exploring Hidden Treasures

Early Morning: Wake up early for a sunrise view at New Digha Beach. You can go for a morning walk or jog with the locals.

After breakfast, get set to visit Udaipur Beach for some adventurous fun water sports like ATV rides and jet skiing. Continue to Talsari Beach, which is just about 15-20 minutes away from Udaipur Beach. It's famous for red crabs, the calm sea, and fishing boats.

Afternoon: You can enjoy lunch at any nearby beach restaurant or return to your stay.

Evening: Visit the Digha Beach Market and shop for some shell jewelry and handmade crafts. Try some more local foods for Dinner, like Pomfret fry and rice or Prawn Malai Curry.

Day 3: Cultural Touch And Return 

Early Morning: Visit Chandaneswar Shiva Temple, located 8 km away from the New Digha beach. 

On your way back, visit Shankarpur Fishing Harbour. Perfect spot for some good photos. There are fresh seafood markets.

Late Morning: Return to your hotel and pack up items. Have your local food for lunch/brunch before your checkout. 

Start your return journey by train/car with a beautiful sunset view.

Digha Hotels Options

Budget Stay (Rs. 800-1500 Per Night)

This option is perfect for solo travelers, students, or budget travelers. The following are some simple yet clean room stay options near the beach:

1. Hotel Santiniketan: In-house restaurants with Bengali food, with both AC and non-AC rooms, are available.

2. Hotel Seagull: Located in Old Digha within walking distance from the sea.

3. Hotel Coral Digha: They offer Clean and budget-friendly rooms. This is quite popular among weekend tourists.

Mid-Range Stay (Rs. 1500-3000 Per Night)

This hotel is ideal for couples and families looking for affordable stay options. 

1. Hotel Dolphin: You get sea-facing rooms and have an in-house restaurant with excellent seafood options.

2. Park Prime Residency: Offers cozy rooms with room services. They also have parking facilities perfect for those visiting Digha with their car.

3. Hotel Le Roi: Classy interiors with good facilities located near railway stations. The hotel has great reviews for its service and cleanliness.

Digha Luxury Hotels/Resort Stay (Rs. 3000+Per Night)

For the best beach view, comfort, and services

1. Cygnett Inn Sea View: Sea-facing rooms with a rooftop pool. Perfect for Couples and family vacations.

2. Digha Beach Resort: Offers a premium ambiance with spacious rooms and a peaceful environment. One of the best hotels in Digha for couples for a relaxed and slow travel holiday stay.

3. Hotel Sea Hawk: Colonial-style hotel with modern amenities. Offers perfect sunrise views from your room’s balcony.

Estimated Total Cost (Per Person)

Pro Tips:

• Book early on weekends and holidays.
• Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, caps and flip-flops
• There are ATMs but you are suggested to carry some cash for less trouble
• Book your train ticket in advance, particularly on weekends.
• Try local cuisines such as Pomfret fry, Bhetki curry, and Prawn Malai Curry.
• Avoid swimming far out as tides can change quickly.
• Try local vehicles like e-rickshaws for short-distance travel.

Digha offers an excellent combo of nature, culture, and the charm of the beach. This place has everything from gorgeous sunrises/sunsets to delicious seafood, serene spots, and bustling markets. Digha trip may not be a luxury destination, but a simple yet soulful experience. So, what are you waiting for? pack your bags and let the sea breeze in Digha do its magic. You’ll come back refreshed and might even be a little sun-kissed.

1. Is Digha safe for solo travelers or families?

Totally. It's a very tourist-friendly place. Just take basic precautions like anywhere else, and you're good to go. 

2. What can I do in Digha besides beach hopping?

Apart from chilling by the sea, you can:

• Watch the Sunrise and sunset,
• Visit the Marine Aquarium (MARC), 
• Try local snacks and seafood,
• Try Water sports like Jet Skiing, banana boat rides (available seasonally at New Digha and Udaipur Beach),
• Go for boat rides at Amarabati Park,
• Visit nearby beaches
• Night walk by the sea

3. What to eat?

If you're a seafood lover, you're in for a treat: 

• From fresh catch like Pomfret, Bhetki, Prawn Malai Curry, and Crab Masala.
• To Benagli Cusines like Fish Thali, Macher Jhol, and Shutki Maach.

Don't worry if you're a vegetarian, there are plenty of options available like Aloo Posto, Chana Dal, and Veg Thali.

4. Does it get Crowded?

Weekends and holidays can get quite crowded, particularly in Old Digha. For a quieter experience, visit Digha during weekdays or stay a bit away from the main beaches.

5. Are there any nature spots or eco-tourism options?

Absolutely. Apart from the less commercial beaches, the Causuarine tree-lined stretches and nearby spots like Talsari (just across the Odisha border) are super scenic and peaceful. Nature lovers will enjoy the slow pace.