Latest news with #Malla
India.com
23-05-2025
- India.com
Exploring 6 Underrated Hill Stations Close To Kolkata
Kolkata is famous for its magnificent past, exciting festivals, and delicious food. Known as the cultural capital of India, the place attracts millions every year. But did you know that besides the famous Kolkata landmarks, the place also has some very calm hill stations? These are accessible by a few hours of train or car ride. Dominant places like Darjeeling and Kalimpong get a majority of the tourism, but when do you get the chance to visit underrated places around Kolkata? In this article, we will take a deeper look into the places that will allow you to relax and recharge your batteries. 1. Chandrakona Chandrakona is relatively unknown in comparison to other picturesque getaways in Kolkata. Only 150 kilometers away from Kolkata, the town has Garh Mandaran fort which dates back to Malla dynasty. The town is blessed with hills which makes It a great location for nature lovers. While there, tourists can enjoy the fort's remnants as they soak in the beautiful glass-like scenery. The breathtaking views make it an access point for bird watchers and photographers. 2. Bishnupur Bishnupur is known for its terracotta temples, but it is about 130 kilometers from Kolkata and has much more to offer. This quaint town is surrounded by low hills, making short hikes quite energizing. The rich cultural history along with the natural beauty makes it a one of a kind getaway. Don't miss out exploring the exquisitely crafted Rasmancha Temple and Jor Bangla Temple. If you are looking for a place to escape, the nearby Susunia Hills offer great hiking and picnic spots. 3. Dooars Region While technically part of North Bengal, the Dooars region can be reached from Kolkata through Jalpaiguri and has a unique sight. Dooars region features differing landscapes including dense forests, tea gardens, and rivers along with gentle hills. If you are a wildlife lover, Gorumara National Park and Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary are must visit places. There is a chance that you can spot elephants, one horned rhinoceros and many birds. The change in weather is refreshing and the unspoiled wilderness provides a perfect escape from the busy city. 4. Shantiniketan Shantiniketan, located 180 kilometers northwest of Kolkata, is well-known for its scenic beauty. It was established as a Visva-Bharati University and to this day, it epitomizes the artistic spirit and intellectual life of Tagore. During winters, the Khowai River Valley turns into a paradise with misty hills and golden fields. One can explore the Upasana Griha (Prayer Hall) or the Amal Kiran Museum to know more about Tagore's philosophy. Tagore's famous seasonal festivals such as Poush Mela travel further enhance the experience. 5. Jhalda Within 250 kilometers of the Jhalda area, there are many stunning landscapes including hillocks, waterfalls, and enormous verdant forests that remain undiscovered by tourists, making it a hidden gem. The Panchet Dam is popular for its scenic beauty and other activities like boating, as well as the Ajodhya Hills which are also a popular spot for scaling and trekking. Because of the unspoiled environment, Jhalda is perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature. 6. Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary In the Birbhum district, Mayureshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is about a 200 kilometers drive from Kolkata. This sanctuary is home to various animals, some of which include leopards, deer, and many more, along with a great variety of plants. The sanctuary's hilly areas are perfect for trekking as well as camping. Bird fans can especially be amazed at the colorful variety of birds during the migration season. With low human interference and high biodiversity, Mayureswar ensures unparalleled eco-tourism experience. Conclusion This is especially useful for people who need a quick and relaxing escape – Kolkata is near many wonderful hill stations featuring unique characteristics like Chandrakona charming history or the wild beauty of the Dooars. Regardless of the distinctiveness, each location will inspire awe. The next time you travel from Kolkata, don't forget these hidden gems.
India.com
21-05-2025
- India.com
5 Scenic Road Trips From Kolkata City That Are Perfect For Weekend Getaways
As India's cultural center Kolkata provides many options for exploring its nearby picturesque locations and watching its interesting festivals along with celebrating its rich heritage. The city of Kolkata connects to many roads which provide various destinations accessible for weekend excursions. Multiple road trip destinations near Kolkata offer travelers unforgettable opportunities between nature and historical sites and peaceful relaxation. Seven charming locations surround Kolkata to offer residents calm respite from urban living. 1. Sundarbans A United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage Site along with being the world's largest mangrove forest exists about 100 kilometers south of Kolkata. The distinctive bio-weeny system shelters Bengal Royal Tigers and many bird species as well as deer and crocodiles. Traveling to Sundarbans starts by reaching either Godkhali or Sonakhali using a vehicle and continuing the journey by boat through the forest. During this trip all visitors can observe wildlife in its natural habitat while enjoying remarkable vistas of the thick mangrove forests which envelop winding waterways. Educational activities merge with thrilling opportunities at this place. 2. Shantiniketan Shantiniketan stands as the town founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore which can be reached by driving for just 180 kilometers from Kolkata within three hours. The peaceful site houses Visva-Bharati University as it offers visitors the chance to learn about art together with cultural and spiritual experiences. The property includes a visit to cultural programs and museum exploration at Kala Bhavana while allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the lush greenery. Visit Upasana Griha while savoring local food from the small eateries in the area. During spring time Shantiniketan becomes particularly enchanting because of the annual Poush Mela celebration. 3. Digha The town of Digha provides beach lovers with their perfect seaside sanctuary. The coastal town of Digha sits at a distance of 187 kilometers from Kolkata and offers beach visitors excellent vistas at New Digha Beach and Udaipur Beach. The combination of blue sea waters with golden shoreline beaches offers a splendid spot for relaxation. Families should try various aquatic activities on their stay and romantic pairs should walk down the beach shoreline together. Marine Aquarium Digha stands as an educational attraction which displays a wide variety of marine life during your stop. Digha serves as a weekend attraction for many because it can be reached through NH6. 4. Bishnupur The whole town of Bishnupur situated 150 kilometers from Kolkata fascinates history seekers. Bishnupur showcases Malla dynasty terracotta temples that serve as perfect examples of architectural talent throughout the town. The main highlights in the town are the Rasmancha Temple together with Jor Bangla Temple and the Madan Mohan Temple. The temples lead into Baluchari silk weaving areas where visitors can purchase exclusive handicrafts. Bishnupur brings townspeople an appealing authentic atmosphere that serves as a peaceful refuge from metropolitan confusion. 5. Mandarmani The coastal town of Mandarmani exists at a distance of about 180 kilometers from Kolkata. Digha and Mandarmani stand in contrast because Mandarmani shows calmer beaches that remain untouched by human development. Visitors find the longest drivable beach status in this region significant because it enables them to simultaneously drive while watching the waves. Adventure enthusiasts love visiting the destination due to opportunities for jet skiing and parasailing and dolphin observation activities. An amazing sight in Mandarmani is the stunning sunset that reveals the Bay of Bengal. Conclusion The city of Kolkata provides an ideal starting point for people who want to experience the various attractions of West Bengal. Travelers will discover something meaningful at these seven locations because they present different combinations of adventure with cultural elements and peaceful experiences along with spiritual attractions. Packing your possessions will lead you to powering your automobile while traveling on an unforgettable road journey that revitalizes both mind and spirit.
BBC News
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Poole underpass mural designed to 'inspire positivity'
An artist who painted a mural in a town's subway has said he wanted his art to create positivity for those who see Malla, who paints under the name Tech Moon, was commissioned by Poole Business Improvement District (BID) to paint a mural on the walls of Poole work depicted Dorset's iconic landmarks, symbols, wildlife and historical said the artwork's "sole purpose" was to "just make people feel positive". "It's not trying to sell you anything, it's not trying to be preachy, but just to instil a positive attitude and a positive feeling," he said. The mural, which he painted in April, included Old Harry Rocks, the flying boats that were based in Poole during also featured pirate Harry Payne, who attacked ships approaching the Poole coastline in the 14th and 15th who has previously painted a mural on a homeless shelter in Bournemouth and a public toilet block in Salisbury, said he found painting such large artworks "tricky" at times."There's quite a few different techniques to [paint such large pictures]," he said. He said he used a scribble grid to mark reference points on the blank wall - but that meant the wall looked scruffy to begin with, which sometimes caused problems."People often call the police at that stage," he said."They actually turned up in the first 15 minutes on this particular job, which is quite impressive." Despite the challenges, Malla said he enjoyed how the work encouraged him to learn about the area in which he painted."Because every job is different you're researching lots of different things," he said."For the toilet block in Salisbury, we were looking into native species that we are going to benefit from this river work that they were doing."The Poole job, it was... revealing these hidden histories."He said the story behind the artworks made people appreciate them more."When people of reflect and recognise what you're doing, I think that's when they enjoy the art work a bit more," he said. You can follow BBC Dorset on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.
