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Looking for a tranquil beach getaway? Look no further than Digha! With its pristine sandy beaches, vibrant tourism scene, and top sights and tourist places, Digha is the perfect destination for your next vacation. Experience the magic of this charming coastal town with our comprehensive guide to the top sights, food, shopping, and activities. Plan your trip today and discover why Digha is a must-visit for any tourist!
About Digha
Digha is a charming coastal town situated in the state of West Bengal, India. It is located in the Purba Medinipur district and is a popular tourist destination known for its serene beaches and pleasant weather. The town was originally a fishing village, but it gained popularity in the 18th century when it became a favorite weekend getaway for the British.
During the British era, Digha was a part of the Midnapore district, and it was named Beerkul. Later on, it was renamed Digha and became a popular tourist destination in the 20th century. The West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation has played a significant role in the development of the town’s tourism industry. Today, Digha is a thriving tourist spot with numerous hotels, restaurants, and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
Architecture of Digha
Digha’s architecture is primarily influenced by its colonial history and the traditional Bengali style. The town has a mix of old and new buildings, with many old bungalows and villas still standing from the British era. The architecture of these buildings is a unique blend of colonial and traditional Bengali styles.
The new structures in Digha are mostly hotels and resorts that are designed to cater to the needs of tourists. These modern buildings are typically built in the contemporary style and offer a range of amenities such as swimming pools, spa facilities, and restaurants.
One of the most iconic architectural landmarks in Digha is the New Digha Sea Bridge. This bridge is a popular spot for tourists and locals to take in the scenic views of the Bay of Bengal. The bridge also serves as an important transportation link between the old and new parts of the town. Overall, Digha’s architecture is a testament to the town’s rich history and diverse cultural influences.
20 Places to Visit in Digha
- New Digha Beach – A scenic beach with golden sands and clear blue waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Udaipur Beach – A serene and secluded beach, ideal for those looking for a peaceful getaway.
- Shankarpur Beach – A less crowded beach known for its stunning sunrises and sunsets.
- Talsari Beach – A pristine beach with tranquil surroundings and breathtaking views.
- Amarabati Park – A well-manicured park with a lake, playgrounds, and a mini zoo.
- Marine Aquarium and Research Centre – A fascinating aquarium showcasing various marine creatures.
- Digha Science Centre – A science museum with interactive exhibits and planetarium shows.
- Nehru Market – A bustling marketplace with shops selling local handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
- Digha Mohana Fish Market – A vibrant fish market where visitors can buy fresh seafood and observe the local fishing culture.
- Chandaneswar Shiv Temple – A revered temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Talasari Beach Resort – A luxury resort situated on the Talasari Beach, offering world-class amenities and stunning views.
- Old Digha – A historic area of the town, home to numerous restaurants and shops.
- Amarabati Lake – A picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery and ideal for boating.
- Subarnarekha River – A scenic river where visitors can enjoy boat rides and fishing.
- Udaypur Sea Beach – A tranquil beach with soft sands and calm waters.
- Kajal Dighi Wonderland – A water park with thrilling rides and attractions.
- Digha Flag Station – A historic railway station that has been preserved and turned into a museum.
- Digha Gate – A monumental gateway that marks the entrance to the town.
- Old Digha Beach – A picturesque beach with colorful boats and lively local culture.
- Digha Science Center & Museum – A science center and museum with interactive exhibits and displays.
Weather and Best Time to Visit Digha
Digha experiences a tropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Digha is from October to February when the weather is pleasant with cool sea breezes. The monsoon season from June to September should be avoided due to heavy rainfall and occasional cyclones. The summer season from March to May can be quite hot and uncomfortable, although it is a good time for beach activities.
How To Reach Digha
Digha is well-connected to major cities in India via road, rail, and air. Here are the various ways to reach Digha:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Digha is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, which is about 200 km away. From there, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Digha.
- By Train: Digha has its own railway station, which is well-connected to Kolkata and other major cities in India. Visitors can take a direct train or switch trains at Howrah Station in Kolkata to reach Digha.
- By Road: Digha is easily accessible by road, with good connectivity from Kolkata and other major cities in West Bengal. Visitors can take a bus, taxi, or drive their own vehicle to reach Digha.
- By Water: Visitors can also reach Digha via waterways, with regular ferry services available from Kolkata and nearby areas.
Accommodation Options in Digha
Digha offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury resorts to budget hotels and guesthouses. Here are some popular accommodation options in Digha:
- Luxury Resorts: Digha has several luxury resorts offering premium amenities and services, such as swimming pools, spa treatments, and beachfront views. Some popular options include The Palm Resort, Hotel Coral Digha, and Hotel Seagull.
- Mid-range Hotels: Digha also has several mid-range hotels that offer comfortable and convenient stays at affordable prices. Some popular options include Hotel Sonar Bangla, Hotel Dolphin, and Hotel Sea Coast.
- Budget Hotels and Guesthouses: For those on a tight budget, Digha has several budget hotels and guesthouses that offer basic amenities and comfortable stays at affordable prices. Some popular options include Hotel Suman Digha, Hotel Surf Ride, and Hotel Kanchan International.
- Home Stays: Visitors can also opt for home stays in Digha to experience local culture and hospitality. Some popular home stay options include Subhra Jyoti Guest House and Mantra Guest House.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Digha As per users Reviews and Ratings
Based on user reviews and ratings, here are the top 10 hotels to stay in Digha:
- The Palm Resort: This luxury resort is located on the beachfront and offers premium amenities and services, including a swimming pool, spa treatments, and multiple dining options.
- Hotel Sonar Bangla: This mid-range hotel is located near the beach and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, as well as a swimming pool and on-site restaurant.
- Hotel Dolphin: This mid-range hotel is located near the beach and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities, as well as an on-site restaurant.
- Hotel Coral Digha: This luxury resort is located on the beachfront and offers premium amenities and services, including a swimming pool, spa treatments, and multiple dining options.
- Hotel Sea Coast: This mid-range hotel is located near the beach and offers comfortable rooms with basic amenities, as well as an on-site restaurant and swimming pool.
- Hotel Seagull: This luxury resort is located on the beachfront and offers premium amenities and services, including a swimming pool, spa treatments, and multiple dining options.
- Hotel Kanchan International: This budget hotel is located near the beach and offers basic amenities and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
- Hotel Suman Digha: This budget hotel is located near the beach and offers basic amenities and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
- Hotel Rohini International: This mid-range hotel is located near the beach and offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, as well as an on-site restaurant.
- Hotel Sea Mars: This budget hotel is located near the beach and offers basic amenities and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
Here are some travel tips to keep in mind before your trip to Digha:
- Check the weather forecast before you go as the beach can get very crowded during peak season.
- If you are planning to visit during the monsoon season, be prepared for heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
- Digha is a popular tourist destination, so book your accommodations and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Carry sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- Avoid visiting the beach during high tide as it can be dangerous.
- Carry insect repellent as mosquitoes can be a problem during the monsoon season.
- Take precautions to avoid water-borne illnesses by drinking bottled water and avoiding uncooked food.
- If you plan on renting a car or motorcycle, make sure you have a valid license and wear a helmet.
- Respect local customs and traditions, and dress appropriately when visiting temples and other religious sites.
- Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings safe to avoid theft or loss.
Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Digha
Here are some common travel mistakes to avoid in Digha:
- Not planning ahead: Digha is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to plan ahead and book accommodations and activities in advance to avoid disappointment.
- Going during peak season: Digha can get very crowded during peak season, which can make it difficult to find accommodations, and can be overwhelming for some visitors.
- Not carrying enough cash: Many small businesses in Digha don’t accept credit or debit cards, so it’s important to carry enough cash to pay for food, transportation, and other expenses.
- Not packing for the beach: Digha is known for its beautiful beaches, so it’s important to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun, as well as beachwear and towels.
- Not respecting local customs: Digha is a conservative area, so it’s important to dress appropriately when visiting temples and other religious sites, and to be respectful of local customs and traditions.
- Not taking precautions for monsoon season: Digha can experience heavy rainfall and potential flooding during the monsoon season, so it’s important to be prepared with appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Not taking care of personal belongings: Petty theft can be a problem in Digha, so it’s important to keep your belongings safe and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items.
By avoiding these common travel mistakes, you can have a more enjoyable and hassle-free trip to Digha.
Best Places for Shopping in Digha
Digha has several shopping options where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and local specialties. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Digha:
- New Digha Market: This is the main shopping area in Digha, with a variety of shops selling everything from clothes to jewelry to handicrafts.
- Amarabati Park Market: Located near the Amarabati Park, this market is popular for buying shell jewelry and other beachside souvenirs.
- Nehru Market: This market is located near the railway station and is a great place to buy clothes, shoes, and accessories at reasonable prices.
- Gajapati Market: This market is located near the Digha Bus Stand and is known for selling local specialties like sandesh, a popular Bengali sweet.
- Digha Seafood Market: If you’re looking for fresh seafood, this market is the place to go. You can find a variety of fish, crab, and other seafood at reasonable prices.
- Purbasha Handloom Emporium: This is a government-run store that sells traditional Bengali handicrafts like saris, bedspreads, and wall hangings.
- Shopping at the beach: Digha’s beachfront has several vendors selling snacks, souvenirs, and beachwear, so you can shop while enjoying the beach.
Make sure to bargain when shopping in Digha, as many vendors will be open to negotiation.
Food To Eat in Digha
Digha offers a range of cuisine options, including local Bengali cuisine, seafood, and street food. Here are some of the must-try dishes when in Digha:
- Fish Fry: Digha is known for its fresh seafood, and fish fry is a popular dish among tourists and locals alike.
- Prawn Malai Curry: This is a traditional Bengali dish made with prawns cooked in a creamy coconut milk sauce.
- Macher Jhol: This is a simple Bengali fish curry that is made with fish, potatoes, and a variety of spices.
- Luchi and Aloo Dum: Luchi is a deep-fried flatbread that is typically served with a spicy potato curry called Aloo Dum.
- Jhal Muri: This is a popular Bengali street food made with puffed rice, peanuts, spices, and vegetables.
- Rosogolla: This is a popular Bengali sweet made with chenna cheese and soaked in a syrup. Digha has several sweet shops where you can try this famous dessert.
- Puchka: Puchka, also known as golgappa or panipuri, is a popular street food in Digha made with crispy shells filled with a spicy potato and chickpea mixture.
Make sure to try these dishes at some of the popular local restaurants or food stalls in Digha to get a taste of the local cuisine.
Things You Can Buy as a Tourist
Digha is known for its beautiful handicrafts, which make for great souvenirs to take back home. Here are some things you should buy as a tourist in Digha:
- Shell crafts: Digha’s beaches are filled with shells of all shapes and sizes, and local artisans use these shells to make a variety of crafts, including jewelry, wall hangings, and home decor items.
- Handloom sarees: Digha is known for its handloom sarees, which are made with high-quality cotton and silk fabrics and feature intricate embroidery and designs.
- Terracotta pottery: Terracotta pottery is a popular handicraft in Digha, and local artisans create a variety of items, including decorative pieces, kitchenware, and toys.
- Dhokra art: Dhokra art is a traditional form of metal casting that is popular in Digha. Local artisans create a variety of items, including jewelry, statues, and home decor items, using this ancient technique.
- Woodcrafts: Local artisans in Digha create a variety of woodcrafts, including carved figurines, decorative pieces, and furniture.
Make sure to visit some of the local markets and handicraft stores in Digha to find these unique souvenirs and support local artisans.
Nightlife in Digha
Digha is not known for its nightlife, as it is a relatively quiet seaside town that caters more to families and couples looking for a peaceful getaway. However, there are a few options for those looking for some evening entertainment:
- Beachside cafes and restaurants: Many of the restaurants and cafes in Digha offer outdoor seating with views of the beach. Some of these establishments have live music or other forms of entertainment in the evenings.
- Night beach walks: The beach in Digha is a great place to take a stroll in the evenings, as the crowds are thinner and the temperature is cooler. The beach is also illuminated by streetlights, making it a romantic and peaceful setting for a nighttime walk.
- Night markets: Digha has a few night markets that open in the evenings, selling a variety of items including local handicrafts, clothes, and snacks. These markets are a great place to experience the local culture and interact with the locals.
Overall, while Digha may not have a bustling nightlife scene, there are still a few options for those looking for some evening entertainment.
Activities and Things to Do in Digha
Digha is a popular tourist destination in West Bengal, known for its scenic beaches and natural beauty. Here are some of the top activities and things to do in Digha:
- Beach hopping: Digha has several beaches that are worth visiting, including New Digha Beach, Old Digha Beach, and Shankarpur Beach. Each beach offers a unique experience and breathtaking views.
- Water sports: Digha offers a range of water sports activities such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, parasailing, and more. Visitors can enjoy these thrilling activities under the supervision of trained professionals.
- Exploring the Marine Aquarium: The Marine Aquarium in Digha is a popular attraction and is home to a variety of marine life such as sharks, rays, and fish. Visitors can learn about these creatures and their habitats.
- Visiting the Science Centre: The Science Centre in Digha is an educational and interactive experience that is great for children and adults alike. It offers a variety of exhibits and activities related to science and technology.
- Visiting nearby attractions: Digha is located near several other popular tourist destinations such as Mandarmani Beach, Tajpur Beach, and Shankarpur Fishing Harbour. Visitors can plan day trips to these locations and explore the local culture and attractions.
- Watching the sunrise or sunset: Digha is known for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, which can be enjoyed from any of the beaches or nearby viewpoints.
Overall, Digha offers a range of activities and attractions that cater to a variety of interests and age groups.
Lesser Known Facts About Digha
Here are some lesser-known facts about Digha:
- Digha was once a small fishing village before it was developed as a popular tourist destination.
- The name “Digha” means “the border of the sea” in Bengali.
- Digha is known for its “mohana” – a unique natural phenomenon where the sea water and river water meet.
- The Digha Beach Festival is an annual event that takes place in December and features cultural programs, sports events, and a beach beauty contest.
- The Udaipur Beach, located near Digha, is known for its red crabs that can be seen in large numbers during low tide.
- The Talsari Beach, located about 8 km from Digha, is unique because it is a border beach that is divided between West Bengal and Odisha.
- The Science Centre in Digha is the first and only science centre in India to have a dome theatre.
- The Chandaneswar Temple, located about 8 km from Digha, is a popular pilgrimage site and is said to have healing powers.
- Digha is a great place to go bird watching, with several species of migratory birds visiting the area during the winter months.
- The Digha Mohana Watch Tower offers a panoramic view of the sea, beach, and surrounding landscape and is a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
FAQ About Digha
Here are some commonly asked questions and answers about Digha:
Q: What is Digha known for?
A: Digha is known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and as a popular weekend getaway destination.
Q: What is the best time to visit Digha?
A: The best time to visit Digha is from October to February when the weather is pleasant.
Q: How far is Digha from Kolkata?
A: Digha is approximately 185 km away from Kolkata and can be reached by car, bus, or train.
Q: What are some popular tourist attractions in Digha?
A: Some popular tourist attractions in Digha include the Digha Beach, Marine Aquarium and Research Centre, Shankarpur Beach, and Amarabati Park.
Q: What is the nearest airport to Digha?
A: The nearest airport to Digha is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, which is approximately 200 km away.
Q: What is the best way to get around in Digha?
A: The best way to get around in Digha is by foot, bicycle, or hired car/taxi.
Q: Is Digha safe for tourists?
A: Yes, Digha is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Q: What are some must-try dishes in Digha?
A: Some must-try dishes in Digha include fish curry, prawn malai curry, and chingri malaikari.
Q: What are some popular festivals celebrated in Digha?
A: The Digha Beach Festival, held in December, is a popular festival in Digha that features cultural programs, sports events, and a beach beauty contest.
Q: What are some good accommodation options in Digha?
A: Some good accommodation options in Digha include Hotel Coral Digha, The Palm Resort, and Hotel Dolphin.