Things To Do
in Shankarpur
Shankarpur is a laid-back coastal village in West Bengal's Purba Medinipur district, just south of Digha. Its long golden beaches and working fishing harbour offer a peaceful alternative to busier seaside towns. The area is known for fresh seafood, colorful boats, and dusky sunsets over the Bay of Bengal.
Visitors can explore the harbor, sample fish at the market, and soak in the sea breeze at low tides.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing sunrise yoga session on the serene sands of Shankarpur Beach. Feel the gentle ocean breeze as you stretch and meditate, welcoming the early morning light. Afterward, enjoy a healthy breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh fruits and traditional Indian dishes.
Spend your afternoon relaxing under the sun, lounging on the beach or taking a leisurely stroll along the coastline. For lunch, indulge in delicious seafood at a beachside shack, where you can taste freshly caught fish and prawns. After your meal, consider trying out some beach activities like volleyball or frisbee with fellow travelers.
As the sun sets, enjoy a tranquil walk on the beach, watching the vibrant colors of the sky reflected on the water. Find a cozy spot at a beachside café to sip on coconut water or a refreshing cocktail while listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. End your day by dining at a nearby restaurant, sampling local Bengali cuisine under the stars.
Begin your day with a visit to the bustling local market, where vibrant stalls offer an array of spices, textiles, and handmade crafts. Engage with friendly vendors as you discover unique souvenirs and learn about traditional crafts from the artisans. Enjoy a local breakfast of luchi and aloo dum at a nearby food stall, immersing yourself in the flavors of Shankarpur.
Continue your exploration by visiting local artisans' workshops, where you can see craftspeople at work creating beautiful handmade items. Participate in a pottery or weaving workshop, immersing yourself in the local culture and perhaps creating a piece to take home. For lunch, try out a local eatery renowned for its fish curry and rice, savoring the authentic taste of Bengali cuisine.
After a day of cultural immersion, relax at your accommodation before heading out to experience the vibrant nightlife of Shankarpur. Join a guided tour to explore the area’s hidden gems, including lively cafes and music spots. Conclude your evening with a delightful dinner featuring local specialties, followed by a stroll along the beach to enjoy the cool night air.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Soft drink or bottled water | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.3-1.5 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 🎟️Entrance to attractions | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm coastal vibes away from the crowds
- Fresh seafood and genuine fishing culture
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Seasonal weather can affect beach accessibility
- "Namaskar" - Hello
- "Dhonnobad" - Thank you
- "Apni English bolte parben?" - Can you speak English?
- "Koto taka?" - How much is this?
- "Ami shobji khabo. Vegetarian option ache?" - I will eat vegetables. Is there a vegetarian option?
Places to Visit in Shankarpur
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light on the long shoreline with silhouettes of fishing boats and nets.
Colorful boats and market activity offer dynamic coastal photography.
Panoramic sea views from the area around the lighthouse, especially at dusk.
Reflective surfaces during low tide and migratory birds.
Food in Shankarpur
Shankarpur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy coconut-based prawn curry widely available in seaside restaurants.
Must-Try!
Lightly battered, crispy fish served with lemon and hot chutney.
Crispy fried fish with seasoned batter, a popular beach snack.
Light fish curry with potatoes and tomatoes, a Bengali staple.
Mashed prawns with mustard oil and spices, served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market where fresh catches are sold; great for sampling salt-water fish on the spot.
Shack stalls offering fuchka, jhalmuri, and fried snacks along the coast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes where required; speak politely.
Be mindful around boats and markets during early morning fishing activity.
Haggling is common in markets, but do so with a smile and fair prices.
Safety
Tipping in Shankarpur
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service charge is not included.
Cash is widely accepted along the coast; some places accept cards or digital wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temperatures often above 32°C; enjoy early mornings on the beach and shade; carry water.
Heavy rainfall and rough seas; seas can be dangerous; humidity high; scenery lush.
Pleasant and mild, cool evenings; ideal for beach time and photography with clear skies.
Shankarpur at Night
Hiking in Shankarpur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nearby forested areas with short hikes and coastal views; check local guidance for access.
Airports
How to reach Shankarpur by plane.
Kolkata's major international airport; about 180-230 km from Shankarpur by road, with bus/rail connections to Digha region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in the area with fishing families, small-scale traders, and service workers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in the region, watch local matches or play with locals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shankarpur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable curries, lentil dishes (dal), paneer, and bhajia; many places can prepare a vegetarian thali if requested.