Digha is a charming seaside town on the coast of the Bay of Bengal in West Bengal, India. It’s a popular weekend destination for locals due to its scenic beaches, relatively calm waters, and relaxing environment. The town is divided into Old Digha and New Digha, each with unique features and attractions. Here’s a breakdown of Digha’s key spots and activities:

Key Attractions in Digha

1. Old Digha Beach:
   • Known for its scenic beauty, Old Digha Beach is lined with casuarina trees and rocky shores, making it ideal for relaxation and enjoying the sunset.
   • While it’s popular for its ambiance, the rocky terrain makes it less suitable for swimming. However, you can enjoy walking along the shore and exploring the shops and snack stalls.
2. New Digha Beach:
   • Located about 2 km from Old Digha, New Digha Beach is wider and has finer sand, making it great for swimming and sunbathing.
   • This beach is more developed, with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and seating areas. It’s also known for its stunning sunrise and sunset views.
3. Udaipur Beach:
   • Situated close to the Odisha border, Udaipur Beach is quieter and more secluded than Digha’s main beaches. It’s perfect for those who prefer tranquility and scenic beauty.
   • Local fishermen offer boat rides, and there are small stalls serving fresh seafood, especially prawns and fish fry.
4. Chandaneswar Temple:
   • Just 8 km from Digha, across the Odisha border, the Chandaneswar Temple is an ancient Shiva temple with high religious significance.
   • This temple sees a large number of pilgrims, especially during the annual Charak festival, which typically falls in April.
5. Amarabati Park:
   • Amarabati Park is a beautifully landscaped park featuring lush greenery, flower gardens, and a small lake with boating facilities. It’s a great spot for families and couples.
   • The park also has small walkways and benches, perfect for unwinding amidst nature.
6. Marine Aquarium and Regional Centre (MARC):
   • Operated by the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute, this aquarium houses various marine species, including lobsters, rays, and starfish.
   • It’s an educational and interesting stop, especially for children and families interested in learning more about local marine life.
7. Digha Science Centre:
   • This interactive science center has fun exhibits and a planetarium, making it a popular spot for kids and science enthusiasts.
   • It also has a Taramandal (mini planetarium) that shows astronomical displays.
8. Shankarpur Beach:
   • About 14 km from Digha, Shankarpur is a pristine beach known for its clean sands and a peaceful atmosphere.
   • The beach is lined with casuarina trees and is less crowded than Digha, making it a great spot for quiet relaxation.
9. Digha Mohana Fish Market:
   • Located near the Digha Mohana (river mouth), this bustling fish market is known for its fresh catches brought in daily by local fishermen.
   • It’s a great place to see a variety of fish and seafood, including prawns, crabs, and pomfret.

Things to Do in Digha

• Beach Activities: Swim, sunbathe, and relax at New Digha and Shankarpur beaches. Enjoy scenic walks along the shore in Old Digha.
• Water Sports: Try jet skiing and banana boat rides, especially available at New Digha Beach.
• Boating: Enjoy a boat ride at Udaipur Beach or Amarabati Park.
• Shopping: Explore the local markets for seashell jewelry, conch souvenirs, and handcrafted items.
• Seafood Tasting: Try fresh seafood at Udaipur Beach or local restaurants serving Bengali and Odia cuisine.
• Cultural Exploration: Visit Chandaneswar Temple to experience the local spirituality and architecture.

Best Time to Visit

• October to March: Ideal for pleasant weather and enjoyable beach activities.
• April to June: Warm but still manageable, especially near the beach.
• Monsoon Season (July to September): Heavy rains make it less ideal for beach outings, but it brings lush greenery to the surrounding areas.

Digha offers a relaxed coastal experience with the perfect mix of scenic beaches, temples, parks, and unique cultural sights. It’s especially great for short getaways from nearby cities like Kolkata!