How to reach Mousuni Island from Kolkata?: An easy travel guide

Mousuni Island is a hidden gem off the coast of West Bengal. Known for its pristine beaches, tranquil backwaters, and diverse birdlife, Mousuni Island is quickly becoming a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In this blog, we will discuss all the travel options from Kolkata to Mousuni Island.

Mousuni Island: An Overview

Mousuni is a small, serene island located at the edge of Sunderbans in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. Nestled between the sea and the river, this picturesque island is a perfect getaway for those looking to reconnect with nature.

It is famous for its beautiful beach, dense mangrove trees, and meeting point of the Muriganga River with the Bay of Bengal. The island’s rustic charm makes it a must-visit for travellers looking for an off-beat experience.

The best time to visit Mousuni Island can help you in planning your trip. Here is a summary of the seasons that can make you decide your visit:

• Winter (October to February): This is the best time to go to Mousuni Island. The weather will be cool and good for beach fun, bird watching, and exploring the island’s natural beauty. This is also the busiest time for visitors, so it’s smart to book your place to stay in advance.
• Monsoon (June to September): The island experiences the heaviest rainfall in the monsoon months, hence possibly complicating travelling around the island. If you love green views and don’t mind getting a little wet, then monsoon is a great time to explore Mousuni Island.
• Summer (March to May): Summers on this island are very sultry and tend to heat up with temperatures rising beyond 35°C.

Reaching Mousuni Island by Air

Mousuni Island has no airport. The nearest airport is in Kolkata. Here’s how to reach Mousuni Island from there:

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata

This is around 136 km away from Mousuni Island. The airport is connected with most major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai, and also connects internationally.

From Kolkata Airport: You can book a taxi as soon as you reach Kolkata Airport or even pre-book it. The nearest mainland from where one can reach Mousuni Island is Namkhana. It takes about 3 to 4 hours reach from Kolkata to reach Namkhana by road depending upon the traffic and road conditions.

Reaching Mousuni Island by train

One of the best ways to reach Mousuni Island from Kolkata is by train. Here are the nearest train stations and common train routes:

Nearest Train Stations

• Namkhana Railway Station: This railway station is situated at a distance of 20.4 km from Mousuni Island. It has good connectivity to Sealdah Station, a major junction in Kolkata.
• Sealdah Railway Station, Kolkata: This is the second largest station in West Bengal. You can reach Namkhana by the Namkhana Local. It takes 3 hours to travel.

Reaching Mousuni Island by Road

Car drive to Mousuni Island

If you love road journeys, the drive to Mousuni Island is perfect for you. It is soothing and scenic, featuring the picturesque countryside of rural Bengal. First, you need to drive to Namkhana. From there, Mousuni Island is 21. 5 km away. You can either drive or take the boat. The journey takes about an hour.

Driving from Major Cities

• From Kolkata: The route is about 120 km long, via Kolkata – Diamond Harbour Road – Kakdwip – Namkhana. The duration of travel is about 3 to 4 hours.
• From Howrah: The route is about 130 km long, via Howrah – NH16 – Diamond Harbour Road – Kakdwip – Namkhana. The journey takes about 4 hours.

Bus Transportation and Car Hire

• Bus Services: The state transport and private buses which are available from Kolkata to Namkhana ply from the central bus terminus. The journey takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Buses are a cheap option but may not be as comfortable as a private car.
• Car Rentals: If you like to be on your own and want comfort and flexibility in the trip, then renting a car in Kolkata may be a good idea. There are many rental companies offering cars with or without drivers.

Local Transportation within Mousuni Island

• Mousuni is a small, rural island with limited ways to get around. Here’s how to get about the island: – Walking and Cycling: The best possible way to explore Mousuni Island is to walk or cycle through the island. Since the island is a small patch of land with flat topology, no form of motorized transport is required. Some small local shops also rent bicycles to tourists.
• Boat Rides: One can hire a scoop to look backwaters and mangroves of the island. Boat rides unfold a special view of the natural beauty of the island and a chance to watch the different types of birds.

Tourist Attractions of Mousuni Island

Mousuni Island is one of the finest spots for nature and adventure lovers. Some popular tourist attractions to explore during your visit:

• Bagdanga Beach: This is the main beach on the island and is suitable for resting, sunbathing, and watching the sunset. Mainly devoid of commercial activities, it is a serene and quiet spot for tourists.
• Mangrove Forests: Dense mangrove forests are scattered throughout Mousuni Island, the exploration of which can be done by guided boat tours. These dense mangroves are home to diverse flora and fauna, a variety of birds, and marine life.
• Beach Fires and Camping: Some local companies provide camping facilities where a tent, bonfire, and even freshly cooked meals are prepared.
• Fishing and Crabbing: If you want to experience the lifestyle of the residents of this remote island make their living then, fishing and crabbing are very common. Catch fish and crabs using the traditional ways with the local fishermen in their boats.

Nearby Attractions of Mousuni Island

While Mousuni Island itself offers plenty to explore, there are several nearby attractions that you can visit during your trip:

• Sundarbans National Park: A famous UNESCO World Heritage site, it is home to the famous Royal Bengal tigers and is located just a few hours from Mousuni Island. If you are lucky, then you can even see the majestic tigers peering at you through the bushes. To reach Sunderban from Kolkata, there are various transportation options available.
• Bakkhali Beach: Bakkhali is a stunning deltaic beach 26.5 km from Namkhana. It is famous for its serenity and greenery views. A day trip from Mousuni to Fraserganj, a village close to Bakkhali, is a popular option among tourists.
• Fraserganj: It is popular for its windmills and beautiful beaches. It is the perfect place to experience the local culture and enjoy some of the freshest seafood. The Bakkhali beach is located just 3.2 km away from here.

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Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Visiting Mousuni Island is an adventure that promises tranquillity and natural beauty, but it’s essential to be well-prepared. Here are some additional travel tips to ensure you have a memorable and hassle-free experience:

• Advance Bookings: Given the island’s limited space, there are only a few places to stay. To avoid disappointment, especially during peak seasons like winter and long weekends, it’s crucial to make your reservations well in advance.
• Pack Smart: Given the island’s rustic setting, it’s important to carry essentials like sunscreen, hats, insect repellent, and basic toiletries. There are limited shops on the island, so it’s best to bring everything you might need. Carry medicines as proper pharmacies are not available.
• Respect Local Culture: Mousuni Island is home to a small, close-knit community of locals who are warm and welcoming. Respect their way of life by dressing modestly, being polite, and adhering to local customs. Always ask for permission before photographing locals or their properties.
• Language: While Bengali is the primary language spoken on the island, many locals understand basic Hindi. Learning a few Bengali phrases can go a long way in connecting with the community.
• Cash: The island lacks ATMs, so it’s essential to carry enough cash for your entire trip. Most accommodations and shops do not accept credit, debit cards or online payments.

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Mousuni Island, a hidden gem of West Bengal, offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. From its serene beaches and lush mangrove forest and the opportunity to witness the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, this island has something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquillity, or a connection with nature, Mousuni Island is waiting for you.

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