About Old Digha Beach
Old Digha Beach is the original sea beach of the coastal town of Digha in Purba Medinipur district, West Bengal, on the Bay of Bengal. Known for its wide sandy shoreline, gentle waves and casuarina-lined promenade, it forms the historic core of Digha's seaside resort. The beach is noted for sunrise and sunset views, nearby markets and seafood stalls, and serves as a popular weekend destination for visitors from Kolkata and surrounding regions.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a wide sandy beach on the Bay of Bengal with a paved promenade, casuarina trees and views of fishing boats. The shoreline is lined with food stalls, tea shops and souvenir markets selling seafood, cashews and handicrafts. Areas are available for walking, sitting, photography and paddling near the shore. The beach is more developed and often more crowded than New Digha, with nearby hotels, shops and easy access to the Marine Aquarium and Science Centre.
Key highlights
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Original and historic beachfront of Digha town on the Bay of Bengal
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Wide sandy shoreline with sunrise and sunset views
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Casuarina-lined promenade for walking and sitting
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Bustling beachside market and seafood stalls
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Proximity to Digha Science Centre and Marine Aquarium
History of Old Digha Beach
The Digha coast was historically known as Beerkul during British rule and was noted in the late 18th century. Its modern development as a seaside resort was promoted in the early 1960s under West Bengal Chief Minister Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, with Old Digha developed as the first beachfront and township area, establishing Digha as West Bengal's most popular sea resort.
Culture & Context
Old Digha Beach is a long-standing recreational and cultural hub for visitors from West Bengal and neighbouring states, especially as a weekend getaway from Kolkata. It reflects coastal Bengali beach culture with seafood cuisine, fishing activity, and markets selling local handicrafts, cashews and marine curios.
Route
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