A Weekend Getaway to Shantiniketan: Culture, Baul Music, and Handicrafts

When one chooses Shantiniketan as their weekend getaway, one chooses a weekend of relaxation, quiet leisure, and a welcoming to the old Bengali culture that the town is famous for. Whether you arrived by plane from the CCA IATA, a train seat on the Vande Bharat or Shatabdi Express, or took the most scenic route by car, possibly a road trip via NH 114, here’s a 48-hour itinerary comprised on everything you don’t want to miss out when vacationing in West Bengal’s cultural abode.

Day 1

Shantiniketan has a variety of possible residences for its visitors – accessible hotels, local inns, fully equipped homestays in multiple price ranges, and a couple luxury resorts for those who wish to enjoy the finer things in life.

If you happen to arrive on Friday evening, get yourself settled into your temporary abode before deciding on dinner plans, as there are way too many. One may be inclined to try a sit-down dinner at one of the several authentic restaurants located in close proximity, most of which are reasonably priced and favorably reviewed by other patrons, or hit the streets to indulge in street food such as Kochuri, Puchka (the Bengali variant of panipuri), and Jhalmuri, perhaps ending with indulgent Mishti Doi or Pantua for something sweet to conclude your first night, and hopefully every night, there. 

If you happen to time your arrival to Saturday morning, it’s best to get in some rest as there is no way you’d want to miss Sonajhuri Haat, one of Shantiniketan’s primary tourist attractions. A weekly festival held in the Sonajhuri Forest, it is famous for its cultural significance and experiences. You may browse the affordable, authentic handicrafts made by local artisans, including Kantha sarees, Dokra tribal jewellery, and all sorts of wooden and clay items. It is also a place to experience folk music and dance, specifically Baul music, which blends spiritual and oral traditions. This market is usually kept open until dusk, making it an ideal place to shelter from the afternoon sun and enjoy the natural setting of the forest. An additional bonus is the authentic food options available there, which can satisfy both physiological and cultural cravings.

If you happen to stick around till evening, you’ll be glad to know of the Kopai River viewpoint less than ten minutes away by automobile. The perfect place to unwind after having been on your feet all day, it is somewhere you can set down your bags and watch the sunset over a beautiful mangrove, part of the river that inspired the famous Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore for many of his works. Overall, a peaceful end to the first day of your vacation.

Day 2

If you are willing to be an early riser, you can find your way to Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary and Deer Park, where tourists can safely walk around and look for local wildlife such as cheethals, blackbuck deer, jackals, foxes, and several species of birds. The area is guarded by walls and watchtowers for both the safety of the visitors and the animal residents.

Should you wish to continue your day on the same note as the previous night, you may consider taking a short taxi ride from the sanctuary and visit either or both of two places relevant both to the spirituality and history of Shantiniketan – Upsana Griha and Rabindra Bhavan. Their significance to Rabindranath Tagore makes them appealing to those interested in the life of one of India’s greatest creative minds.

Upsana Griha, also known as Kanch Ghor, was established in 1891 at the location Rabindranath’s father Debendranath had his spiritual revelation, in order to preserve his religious advocacy. The building was restored recently for preservation purposes. It is a representation of unique spiritual and religious beliefs, encased in Belgian glass for a stunning structure and landmark. One may also wish to walk around the mango grove, called Amra Kunj. Rabindra Bhavan, on the other hand, is for those interested in heritage and symbolism. It is a museum and heritage site showcasing Tagore’s writings and relics, and the building within which he worked. These locations are several hours’ worth of exploration, making them a great idea for both a morning and afternoon stint. 

However, should you choose the month of December to visit Shantiniketan, it is likely you’ve centered the trip around the timings of the famous Poush Mela, an annual harvest festival and fair held in the Bengali month of Poush. Poush Mela is a vibrant, exciting celebration of Bengali tradition and culture, where one may find music, dance, art, and food to enjoy. It is one of the most significant and anticipated events of Shantiniketan and the state of West Bengal as a whole, attracting tourists from all over the country. The fair is spread over a large area, which means you’ve got to prepare your walking shoes if you want to explore it thoroughly.

With so much adventure under your belt, it’s only natural to want to find a place and activity to wind down until your departure. You can take this time to check out some Baul performances, which are held by local musicians in various areas. The clever interplay of instruments and skilled vocalists should soothe you right into a calm headspace, and prepare you for all the reminiscing and storytelling that is sure to follow you for a long time after visiting the beautiful town of Shantiniketan.