Marine Drive is a scenic stretch of road parallel to the Bay of Bengal in West Bengal, India. It is located in the town of Digha, a popular tourist destination in the state. The drive offers breathtaking views of the sea and is a great place to enjoy the area's natural beauty.
The Marine Drive runs for about 7 km and is surrounded by lush green trees and plants, adding to the picturesque view. The road is well-maintained and offers a smooth ride for motorists. There are also several small parks and gardens along the drive where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.
One of the highlights of Marine Drive is the New Digha Beach, located at one end of the drive. The beach is popular with tourists and locals and is known for its clean sand and clear waters. Visitors can dip in the sea, relax on the beach, and enjoy the sun.
Amaravati Park is a well-manicured garden with various trees and plants. The park also has a children's play area, making it a great place for families. There is also a food court where visitors can grab a bite.
The Marine Aquarium and Research Centre is another popular attraction along the drive. The centre is home to various marine life, including different types of fish, turtles, and crabs. Visitors can get up close and personal with the marine creatures and learn about their habitats and behaviours.
Marine Drive is a great place to visit for anyone looking to enjoy the natural beauty of West Bengal. The drive offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal and various attractions and activities for visitors of all ages.
Located just a few kilometres from Marine Drive, Shankarpur Beach is a quiet and less crowded alternative to the popular Digha Beach. It's a great place to relax and soak up the sun, and it also offers opportunities for fishing and boating.
Udaipur Beach:
Situated about 15 km from Marine Drive, Udaipur Beach is another beautiful, less crowded beach. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports.
Chandaneswar Temple:
This ancient temple is located about 10 km from Marine Drive and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's believed to be one of the oldest temples in the region and is visited by thousands of devotees every year.
Talsari Beach:
Located about 20 km from Marine Drive, Talsari Beach is a secluded and unspoiled beach perfect for a day trip. The beach is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful sunset views.
Mohana:
This picturesque fishing village is located about 30 km from Marine Drive and offers a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the region. Visitors can explore the local markets, interact with the friendly villagers, and sample fresh seafood.
Subarnarekha River Estuary:
This scenic estuary is about 25 km from Marine Drive and is popular for birdwatching and nature photography. The area is home to various bird species, including kingfishers, storks, and herons.
These are just a few attractions and destinations near Marine Drive in West Bengal. Whether you're looking for relaxation, adventure, or cultural experiences, there's something for everyone in this beautiful part of India.
Things To Do In Marine Drive:
Take a walk along the beach:
New Digha Beach, located at one end of Marine Drive, is great for a stroll. Enjoy the sea breeze and the sound of the waves as you walk along the shore.
Visit the Marine Aquarium:
The Marine Aquarium and Research Centre on Marine Drive is home to marine life, including fish, turtles, and crabs. Visitors can get up close and personal with the marine creatures and learn about their habitats and behaviours.
Relax in a park:
Several small parks and gardens along Marine Drive allow you to relax and enjoy the scenery. Amaravati Park, located near the centre of Marine Drive, is a well-manicured garden with various trees and plants, and it also has a children's play area.
Enjoy water sports:
The beaches near Marine Drive offer opportunities for water sports, such as jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides. You can rent equipment and take lessons from local vendors.
Explore nearby attractions:
Several interesting places are near Marine Drive, including Shankarpur Beach, Chandaneswar Temple, and Talsari Beach. You can easily take a day trip to explore these destinations.
Taste local cuisine:
The restaurants and food stalls along Marine Drive offer a variety of local cuisine, including fresh seafood. Be sure to try some of the local delicacies while you're in the area.
Watch a sunset:
Marine Drive is a great place to watch the sunset over the Bay of Bengal, and the views are particularly stunning from New Digha Beach.
Go on a fishing trip:
The waters off the coast of Marine Drive are rich in fish, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. You can take a fishing trip with local fishermen and try your luck at catching some fish.
Visit the Science Centre:
The Science Centre in Digha near Marine Drive is a great place to learn about science and technology. It features interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a science park.
Attend a cultural event:
Several cultural events and festivals occur in and around Marine Drive throughout the year. These include the Digha Beach Festival, the Jagannath Rath Yatra, and the Durga Puja Festival.
Take a bike ride:
The smooth roads along Marine Drive are perfect for a bike ride. You can rent a bike and explore the area at your own pace.
Visit a nearby lighthouse:
The Digha Lighthouse, located near Marine Drive, offers great views of the surrounding area. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the sea and the town of Digha.
Enjoy a picnic:
Several picnic spots along Marine Drive allow you to enjoy a meal or snack with family and friends. Some popular picnic spots include the Casuarina Forest and the Kajal Dighi Park.
Shop for souvenirs:
The markets and shops along Marine Drive offer a variety of souvenirs and local handicrafts, including shell crafts, terracotta items, and silk sarees. Be sure to take home some souvenirs of your visit to the area.
Best Time To Visit Marine Drive:
The best time to visit Marine Drive in West Bengal is winter, from October to February. The weather is cool and pleasant during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as beach walks, sightseeing, and water sports. The temperature ranges between 10°C to 25°C, and the humidity is low, making it comfortable for tourists.
The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, can be unpredictable, and heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans. The summer season, which lasts from March to May, can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. While visiting during these seasons is still possible, it's important to plan accordingly and stay hydrated.
The winter season is the most popular time to visit Marine Drive due to the pleasant weather and the range of outdoor activities available. However, if you're looking for a quieter time to visit, the offseason can be a good option, with lower crowds and accommodation prices.
Adventure Activities Nearby Marine Drive:
Parasailing:
Parasailing is a thrilling activity that involves being lifted into the air while attached to a parasail by a rope. It offers a bird's-eye view of the coastline and is a popular activity for adventure enthusiasts. Parasailing is available at several beaches near Marine Drive, including Digha Beach and Talsari Beach.
Jet Skiing:
Jet skiing is a popular water sport that involves riding a personal watercraft (PWC) over the waves. It's a great way to experience the speed and thrill of being on the water. Jet skiing is available at several beaches near Marine Drive, including Digha Beach and Mandarmani Beach.
Banana Boat Ride:
A banana boat ride is a fun and exciting activity that involves being pulled behind a speedboat on an inflatable banana-shaped boat. It's a great way to experience the thrill of being on the water with friends and family. Banana boat rides are available at several beaches near Marine Drive, including Digha Beach and Mandarmani Beach.
Scuba Diving:
Scuba diving is a thrilling activity that allows you to explore the underwater world and experience the beauty of marine life up close. Several scuba diving operators near Marine Drive offer a range of diving experiences for beginners and advanced divers.
Surfing:
Surfing is a popular water sport that involves riding a wave on a surfboard. The waves near Marine Drive are ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers, and several surfing schools offer lessons and equipment rental.
Trekking:
The nearby hills of Bankiput and Talseri offer excellent trekking opportunities. The treks offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a chance to explore the local flora and fauna.
Itinerary To Explore Marine Drive in West Bengal
Day 1:
Arrive at Kolkata and travel to Marine Drive by road (around 4-5 hours). Check in to your hotel and relax for a while. Head to Digha Beach, near Marine Drive, and stroll along the sandy beach.
Visit the Science Centre in Digha, which features interactive exhibits and a planetarium. Watch the sunset from the beach and enjoy local street food for dinner.
Day 2:
Start the day early with a visit to the nearby Mandarmani Beach and enjoy some water sports such as jet skiing, banana boat riding or parasailing. Return to Marine Drive and visit Amaravati Park, a beautiful park with a musical fountain and scenic sea views. Visit the Kajal Dighi Park and enjoy a picnic with family and friends. In the evening, explore the local markets and shops for souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Day 3:
Head to the nearby town of Talsari and visit Talsari Beach. Enjoy adventure activities like surfing or scuba diving, or take a boat ride to the nearby islands. Visit the nearby Chandaneswar temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Return to Marine Drive and enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the beach.
Day 4:
Visit the nearby town of Shankarpur and enjoy a peaceful morning walk along the beach. Explore the nearby Casuarina forest and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Head back to Kolkata by road. This itinerary can be customized based on your interests and preferences and the duration of your trip. Marine Drive and its nearby attractions offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty, making it a great destination for a memorable vacation.
History Of Marine Drive in West Bengal
Marine Drive in West Bengal is a popular tourist destination in the town of Digha, in the East Midnapore district of West Bengal. The history of Marine Drive dates back to the British colonial era when it was built as a promenade along the beach, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal.
Marine Drive began in the early 1920s and was completed in the late 1930s. It was part of a larger development plan to transform Digha into a popular seaside resort. The promenade was built using concrete and stone and stretched around 7 km along the beach.
During the British colonial era, Digha was a popular destination for the British officers stationed in Kolkata. They would often visit Digha to escape the heat and humidity of the city and enjoy the cool sea breeze. The construction of Marine Drive made it easier for them to enjoy the coast's scenic beauty.
After India gained independence, Digha grew as a popular tourist destination. In the following years, several hotels, resorts, and restaurants were built near Marine Drive, attracting tourists from all over the country.
Marine Drive is a bustling promenade with several shops, food stalls, and entertainment options. It's a popular destination for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts, offering various activities such as water sports, trekking, and sightseeing. The promenade remains an important landmark of Digha, attracting tourists worldwide to experience its natural beauty and rich history.