Mandarmani Beach
Expansive beach known for its serene, deserted vibe, vibrant red sand crabs, and lively seafood shacks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Mandarmani Beach
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Expansive beach known for its serene, deserted vibe, vibrant red sand crabs, and lively seafood shacks.
"One of the most beautiful sea beaches I've ever seen, perfect for serenity and peace."
🚗 Easy Drive from Kolkata
Just a 3-4 hour drive from Kolkata, making it a perfect weekend getaway.
🦀 Crab Spotting
Look for the famous red crabs during low tide for a unique natural spectacle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Red Sand Crabs
Shoreline
Witness the mesmerizing sight of countless red crabs scuttling across the expansive beach, especially during low tide.
Sunrise & Sunset Views
Beachfront
Experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the tranquil Bay of Bengal.
Water Sports Adventure
Beachfront
Get your adrenaline pumping with activities like banana boat rides and jet skiing for a fun-filled beach experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Serenity
Resort & Dining Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Drive from Kolkata
Just a 3-4 hour drive from Kolkata, making it a perfect weekend getaway.
🦀 Crab Spotting
Look for the famous red crabs during low tide for a unique natural spectacle.
🍽️ Fresh Seafood Shacks
Enjoy fresh, cooked-to-order seafood at beachside shacks.
☀️ Sunscreen is Key
The sun can be intense; remember to pack and reapply sunscreen.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Drive from Kolkata
Just a 3-4 hour drive from Kolkata, making it a perfect weekend getaway.
🦀 Crab Spotting
Look for the famous red crabs during low tide for a unique natural spectacle.
🍽️ Fresh Seafood Shacks
Enjoy fresh, cooked-to-order seafood at beachside shacks.
☀️ Sunscreen is Key
The sun can be intense; remember to pack and reapply sunscreen.
💰 Budget-Friendly Options
Find a range of accommodations from budget-friendly to luxury resorts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mandarmani Beach is lauded for its serene, less crowded atmosphere, making it ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature's beauty, especially the unique red sand crabs. Visitors appreciate the direct beach access from resorts and the vibrant seafood shacks offering a 'Goa-like' experience at a lower cost. However, some find the beach to be less clean than expected, and the waves are noted as being quite gentle.
"Visiting the beach was an incredibly refreshing experience. The moment I arrived, the cool breeze and the soothing sound of waves created the perfect atmosphere for relaxation. The shoreline was clean, with soft sand that made walking barefoot enjoyable. The water was clear and inviting, making it ideal for swimming and spending time in the shallows."
Bipul Kumar
"Mandarmani is one of the most beautiful beach I've ever been to. Sandy beach with lots of crabs and star fishes to swim with. Even in the days of storms, it's mesmerizing and beautiful. The local food is amazing and lots of restaurants to go to. Be mindful to swim with caution. The beach does not have lifeguards."
Vishaka Tamang
"A peaceful and clean beach near Kolkata, great for relaxation, long walks, and seeing red crabs. The sea is calm and safe for families. However, some areas lack cleanliness and nightlife, and resort quality varies.
⭐ Rating: 4/5 — perfect for a quiet weekend getaway, not for parties or luxury."
RAJIBUL ISLAM
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mandarmani Beach is approximately 170-180 km from Kolkata, a drive of about 3 to 4 hours. You can hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle. The route typically involves NH16 and then state highways.
While direct public transport might be limited, you can take a bus from Kolkata to Contai and then hire a local taxi or auto-rickshaw to Mandarmani.
Auto-rickshaws and local taxis are available for getting around Mandarmani. Many resorts are also within walking distance of the beach.
Parking is generally available at most resorts and designated areas near the beach. Some areas might have limited parking during peak season.
While some vehicles can drive on certain parts of the beach, it's advisable to park at designated spots to avoid getting stuck in the sand, especially during high tide.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no specific entry fee to access Mandarmani Beach itself. However, some resorts or private areas might have their own access policies.
Mandarmani Beach is accessible 24/7. However, for safety and better experience, visiting during daylight hours and early evening is recommended.
It is highly recommended to book your resort in advance, especially if you are planning to visit during weekends, holidays, or peak season to ensure availability.
Generally, bringing your own food and drinks is allowed, especially for personal consumption. However, resorts might have specific rules regarding outside food and beverages within their premises.
You can book accommodations through online travel portals, directly with the resorts via their websites or phone numbers, or through local travel agents.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, long walks, and water sports like banana boat rides and jet skiing. You can also enjoy watching the red crabs and the sunrise/sunset. +1
The sea at Mandarmani is generally calm with gentle waves, making it suitable for swimming. However, always exercise caution and be aware of the tides and currents.
Mandarmani offers a wide range of accommodation, from budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses to luxury resorts with private pools and beach access. +1
The beach offers numerous picturesque spots, especially during sunrise and sunset. The red crabs also make for unique photographic subjects.
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset are highly recommended for the best views and a more serene experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can expect a variety of fresh seafood, including fish, prawns, and crabs, often cooked to your preference. Local Bengali cuisine and Indian dishes are also widely available.
Yes, there are several restaurants and shacks near Mandarmani Mohona where you can enjoy lunch and dinner.
Most restaurants and shacks offer vegetarian options, including traditional Indian vegetarian dishes. It's advisable to inquire about specific options.
Yes, many beach shacks serve alcohol, offering a 'Goa-like' experience at a lower cost.
Trying fresh catch of the day from a beach shack and enjoying it with a sea view is a must-do. Many resorts also offer excellent dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, during sunrise and sunset, offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. The red crabs also provide unique photo opportunities.
The entire stretch of the beach is photogenic. Look for the unique red sand crabs, the calm sea, and the vibrant skies during sunrise and sunset. Resorts with interesting architecture also make good subjects.
Drone usage might be subject to local regulations and resort policies. It's advisable to check beforehand if you plan to use a drone.
Expect scenic beach landscapes, close-ups of the red crabs, vibrant sunsets/sunrises, and candid shots of people enjoying the beach and water sports.
While dedicated photography tours might not be common, local guides or resort staff can often suggest the best spots and times for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The red sand crabs are also a source of fascination for younger visitors. 💑 Couples Retreat
+1 Many resorts provide a tranquil ambiance, with some even offering private pool villas for an intimate experience. The less crowded nature of the beach on weekdays adds to its appeal for a peaceful getaway. 💰 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Mandarmani's Red Sand Crabs
To best witness this, plan your visit during low tide, which typically occurs twice a day. Early mornings and late afternoons can be particularly rewarding. While they are a common sight, remember to observe them from a respectful distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat. The sight of these red dots dotting the vast expanse of sand is a photographer's delight and a memorable part of any trip to Mandarmani.
Resort Life and Beachside Experiences
Marino Beach Resort, and Bombay Beach Resort,+1 provide amenities such as private pools, in-house restaurants, and beachside shacks. This proximity means you can step directly from your accommodation onto the sand, enjoying the sea breeze and the sound of the waves. The beach shacks are a significant part of the Mandarmani experience, offering a chance to select fresh seafood like fish, crabs, and prawns, which are then cooked to your specifications. This, combined with the availability of alcohol, creates a relaxed, almost 'Goa-like' atmosphere at a more accessible price point.
Navigating Mandarmani: Travel and Local Insights
+1 While public transport options might require a change at Contai, private vehicles and taxis offer a more direct route. For travelers concerned about food availability, especially near areas like Mandarmani Mohona, rest assured that restaurants and food stalls are generally available, particularly around the resorts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit