Santiniketan can be reached by rail from howrah. Many trains are available throughout the day. And drop at Santiniketan station. Then a van will ferry you till your hotel. There are quiet a few hotels and resorts to choose from. The tariff is little bit on the higher side.
You can see the Vishwa Bharati University founded by Rabindranath Tagore and also see his house. There is a zoo but one won’t find many animals there.
This place is in the backdrop of village. Its a rural town which is developing now. You can visit if you want to freshen up you mind and soul. My heart belongs to here. Its a perfect weekend destination.