west bengal top tourist places

16 Top Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal

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India's cultural cauldron of West Bengal combines the arts, the city, the countryside, mountains, and nature. Whether you're intellectually inclined and want to be among writers and wandering minstrels, or adventurous and want to roam with rhinoceroses, these diverse West Bengal tourist places offer it all.

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The West Bengal capital of Kolkata , officially known by its British name of Calcutta until 2001, has undergone a dramatic transformation over the last decade. No longer identified with slums, destitution, and the inspiring work of Mother Teresa, Kolkata has grown into the "cultural capital of India". It's a conflicting city full of captivating soul and sadly neglected crumbling buildings where time seems to have stood still in parts. In addition, Kolkata is the only city in India to have a tram/street car network, which adds to its old-world charm. 

Sundarbans National Park

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The Sunderbans is one of the top national parks in India. This magnificent tangle of mangrove jungle is the largest in the world -- and the only one to have tigers! It's spread over 102 islands (about half of which are inhabited) and extends into neighboring Bangladesh. The Sundarbans is only accessible by boat and exploring it this way is a unique experience that shouldn't be missed. Don’t be hopeful of seeing any tigers though. They're very shy and usually remain well hidden in the reserve.

• Location: 100 kilometers (62 miles) southeast of Kolkata.

Most famous for its lush tea gardens, Darjeeling is one of India's top 11 hill stations . Most of the top things to do in Darjeeling center around tea. However, the town is blessed with a stunning view of Mount Kanchenjunga (the world's third highest peak) and has some interesting monasteries, local markets, handicrafts, and Tibetan and Nepalese food. Before being developed by the British in the mid-19th century, Darjeeling was part of the kingdom of Sikkim and was also temporarily ruled by invading Gorkhas from Nepal. This gives the town a distinctly different culture to other tourist places in the state. To get there, travel on the historic Darjeeling mountain railway toy train. Don't visit during the monsoon season though -- the region is one of the wettest places in India!

• Location: About 600 kilometers (375 miles) north of Kolkata, at the base of the Eastern Himalayas.

If you'd prefer to be away from the crowds, Kalimpong is a less-touristy alternative under three hours from Darjeeling. The town sits on a ridge overlooking the Teesta River, which separates it from Sikkim. It was ruled by the Sikkimese until the early 1700s when it was taken over by the king of Bhutan. The British won it back in 1865. Attractions include Buddhist monasteries, adventure activities, trekking, and nature walks. There are plenty of hills and villages to explore in the vicinity.

• Location: About 630 kilometers (390 miles) north of Kolkata, at the base of the Eastern Himalayas.

Shantiniketan

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They say that the quaint university town of Shantiniketan (meaning Abode of Peace) is better comprehended than seen. Noble Laureate poet Rabindranath Tagore founded a school there in 1901, which later developed into the Visva Bharati University with an emphasis on humanity's relationship with nature. One of the main attractions in Shantiniketan is the Uttarayan complex where Tagore lived. It now has a museum and art gallery. The Upasana Griha prayer hall also stands out because of its many-colored glass windows. Kala Bhavan is considered to be one of the best visual arts colleges in the world. It has wall paintings, sculptures, frescoes, and murals of famous artists. Shantiniketan is also a well regarded center for traditional handicrafts such as batik, pottery, weaving, and embroidery. Shop at Alcha boutique and Amar Kutir. The best time to visit is during one of the many festivals such as the three day Poush Mela (usually in late December), with its live Bengali folk music, and Holi (celebrated as Basanta Utsav). Alternatively, try to catch the Bondangar Haat (village market) that's held every Saturday. Wandering Baul singers are as much a feature as the handicrafts.

• Location: About 160 kilometers (100 miles) northwest of Kolkata.

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Bishnupur is renowned for being the birthplace of terracotta. It's remarkable terracotta temples and terracotta pottery are the main attractions. The temples were built mostly during the 17th and 18th centuries by Malla dynasty rulers. During this time, there was a revival of Hinduism with devotion to Lord Krishna, after a prolonged period of Islamic dominance. The result was temple architecture that unusually blended Bengali-style curved roof with Islamic domes and arches, and Odia-style duel (sanctum). The detailed carvings on the temples' terracotta tiles feature scenes from Lord Krishna's life, as well as the Hindu epics The Ramayana and The Mahabharata. Reproductions of the tiles are sold everywhere. Beyond Bishnupur, you'll find more spectacular terracotta temples in the district.

• Location: About 140 kilometers (87 miles) northwest of Kolkata.

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Mayapur is laid-back pilgrim city with special significance for followers of Lord Krishna. It's regarded as the the birthplace of Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a 15th century Vedic spiritual leader belived to be an avatar of Lord Krishna. His teachings were revived and brought to the west in the 20th century by Srila Prabhupada, who founded the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) and spread the "Hare Krishna movement" throughout the world. The headquarters of ISKCON is located in Mayapur, along with a magnificent temple complex dedicated to Srila Prabhupada.

• Location: About 125 kilometers (78 miles) north of Kolkata, at the confluence of the Hoogly and Jalangi rivers.

Dooars Region and Jaldapara National Park

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If you can't make it all the way as far as Kazaringa National Park in Assam to see the rare one-horned rhinoceros in the wild, don't despair. Jaldapara National Park has about 50 of these creatures, and you can view them close up on an elephant safari. The sanctuary is the most well-known forest in the remote Dooars region. If you stay at the Forest Department's Hollong Tourist Lodge deep inside the national park, you'll be blessed with the sight of animals wandering to the nearby creek and salt lick -- rhinos included! It's possible to make reservations for the tourist lodge online. Otherwise, Mithun Das of Wild Planet Travels in Madarihat is the best person for all travel arrangements, including lodge bookings and safaris. The sanctuary is open from October through May. The top months for rhino watching are March and April when the new grass comes up.

• Location: About 680 kilometers (425 miles) north of Kolkata, at the Himalayan foothills of West Bengal close to Bhutan .

Pandua and Gaur

Spread throughout Pandua and Gaur, in West Bengal's Malda district, are the fascinating ruins of the former capitals of Muslim nawabs (rulers) dating back to the 13th-16th centuries. Most of the ruins are mosques, including the 14th century Adina Masjid in Pandua. It's one of the largest mosques in India and it contains the tomb of its builder, Sikander Shah.

• Location: About 330 kilometers (205 miles) north of Kolkata.

Mandarmani Beach

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Avoid overcrowded Digha Beach and head to Mandarmani Beach instead. Although it's not far from Digha, this fishing village with a super long stretch of beach is so much more peaceful and unpolluted. Bombay Beach Resort and Eco Villa Resort are good places to stay there right on the beach. If you're lucky, you may be able to spot clusters of red crabs running along the sand at sunset.

• Location: About 180 kilometers (112 miles) southwest of Kolkata.

Murshidabad

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Murshidabad was the capital city of the Bengal region during the Mughal empire, and the last capital before British rule. As a result, it has numerous palaces and mosques with marvelous Mughal architecture, plus many more ruins. Intriguing tales of treachery draw tourists to Murshidabad as well. It was nearby that Nawab Siraj Ud-Daulah wrongly lost his reign to the British in the 1757 Battle of Plassey, after the British bribed the commander-in-chief of the Nawab's army. The British met with the traitor, Mir Jafar, at Kathgola Palace in Murshidabad to discuss the promised payment. Imposing Hazarduari Palace is the main attraction though. It has 1,000 doors, and has been turned into a museum with an exquisite collection of regal memorabilia.

• Location: About 200 kilometers (125 miles) north of Kolkata, on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River.

Barrackpore

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History buffs should also head to Barrackpore, where the British set up their first military barrack or cantonment in India in 1772, to explore some relics of the Raj era. After the British gained control of India, the area was transformed into a retreat for the Kolkata-based governors-general and viceroys. Barrackpore started losing its sheen after the British capital was shifted to Delhi. However, the heritage buildings and park were recently restored, and a museum constructed. Notably, the city was home to some important members of the Indian independence movement. In fact, Barrackpore was the scene of an incident widely credited with starting the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

• Location: About 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of Kolkata.

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West Bengal's Purulia district is home to the distinctive acrobatic masked Chhau dance, performed in honor of the sun god. The dance was inscribed in UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010. An annual three-day Chau Jhumur Utsav festival featuring the dance takes place in late December in Balarampur. The masks are made about 45 minutes away in Charida village near Baghmundi, where about 300 artisans are involved in the craft.

• Location: About 290 kilometers (180 miles) northwest of Kolkata.

Along the Hooghly River

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A cruise along the Hooghly River, a lower channel of the Ganges River, provides a memorable glimpse into village life. The Assam Bengal Navigation Company offers comfortable 7-night cruises from Kolkata to Farakka, with the return journey by rail. This stretch is most interesting due to its British, Dutch, French, Portuguese, and Danish heritage -- all of these countries established 18th century trading posts there and you'll get to see the remnants of them, as well as markets, temples, and old mosques.​

Royal Rajbari Heritage Homes

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West Bengal is dotted with rajbaris (homes of erstwhile royalty). Unfortunately, post-independence, they've widely fallen into ruin as it costs too much to maintain them. Some have recently been restored and turned into boutique hotels though (with the royal hosts still in residence). They provide a unique and immersive way of experiencing regional West Bengal, and learning about the state's regal heritage. Options include Jhargram Palace, Rajbari Bawali, Itachuna Rajbari, Amadpur Rajbari, and Mahishadal Rajbari. Itachuna is thought to be one of the oldest  rajbaris  in the state.

Handicraft Villages

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10 villages across West Bengal have been developed as rural craft hubs by the West Bengal government and UNESCO, in conjunction with Banglanatak. Purpose-built Folk Art Centers in the villages provide accommodations and information for guests. TourEast , an initiative of Banglanatak, holds annual rural fairs at the villages and arranges trips. It's possible to see the artisans at work and learn about their crafts including dhokra art, pottery, painting, clay dolls, terracotta, bamboo works, and musical instruments. The villages can be visited throughout the year but the best time is from September to April.

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20+ Top Rated Tourist Attractions in West Bengal: A Local’s Guide

In this blog, I write about the best places to travel in West Bengal. Travelers have explored these tourist attractions in Bengal since millennia. They loved the mountains of the north of Bengal, the beaches beyond Digha, the overwhelming cultural presence in the city of Kolkata, the remnants of history that is presence in the melting pot of Bengal. The Mughals, The zamindars, the British and the first renaissance in India. Bengal paved way for a new dawn in the subcontinent. Read on and decide on your next weekend destination in West Bengal, away from the maddening crowd!

I think I have written about Bengali’s fascination about DiPuDa trail as the ideal places to places in West Bengal. Dipuda is not Dipu dada though but it could well be! Legends have it Bengalis travel extensively to DiPuDa and DiPuDa only. Digha for beach breeze, Puri for pilgrimage (or is it the Khaja?) and Darjeeling, the Himalayan queen! Among these places to visit in West Bengal, Puri is in Orissa. I stand corrected!

But West Bengal itself is a world full of beautiful possibilities and countless tourist attractions. The state is quivering with a jeweled chest of valuable lessons in history. The battle of Plassey took place here that arguably shaped the most important chapter of Indian history, bringing the British East India Company to this part of the world! The British Indian capital of Calcutta , equipped with modern institutions imparting scientific education rising over caste and gender identity paved way for the Indian renaissance. Calcutta is where the bill passed that restricted Satidaha , burning of Hindu widows, a barbaric medieval ritual among the upper caste men. Bengal is where the sapling of modern India was reared with care until the turbulent days of Partition arrived that mass mobilized millions across the subcontinent causing a generational trauma and suffering. Memories of partition remains etched forever in the history of the land and continues to influence politics till date in West Bengal.

I do not believe travel can be apolitical. A man is loyal to his politics. In travel, a joyful and spontaneous activity, his political leaning will be manifested without an iota of doubt! Tourist attractions in West Bengal will feed you to heart’s content if political history of Indian subcontinent fascinates you!

Traveling in West Bengal is in many ways similar to reading various chapters of history. Her nuanced culture manifests through various subtle traits in food habits, cultural celebrations, rituals, olden verses and idioms. Today, in West Bengal, you can find an astounding display of cultural amalgamation in the tourist places. The very English breakfast of Flury’s is celebrated with much fanfare similar to the homely plate of Luchi Begun Bhaja and sumptuous Nihari of Zakaria street that runs short in supply even before sunrise during iftari!

In this blog post, I will try to paint a pretty picture of tourist attractions in West Bengal, with the highlights, the lesser known offbeat destinations as well as the grandeur of celebrations! I repeat, a pretty picture of Bengal since the focal point of the state is often captured by the city supreme, Kolkata ! Not that I can complain much, but lest we forget it is the iconic rural beauty of Bengal that inspired poets to create timeless literary genius since millennia!

West Bengal is an ideal tourist destination for solo female travelers, slow travelers, family and cultural travels, leisure travels and those keen on shopping and living a city life. There are plenty of places to visit in West Bengal.

Kolkata… Calcutta… City of Love!

Kolkata is a city of languish, now. But history had been kinder to Kolkata in yester years. The city, originally three rural settlements of seventeenth century Bengal, served as the capital of British Raj until the turbulent days of Bengal partition. Your travel in West Bengal would ideally start with Kolkata. Howrah Station, to be more specific.

Traveling to West Bengal requires you to spend at least a few days in Kolkata, even better if you are there during the eclectic celebrational times, the famed Durgapuja ! If time is not a luxury, assign Kolkata at least a week of travel time. The cultural capital of India deserves all of it, and more!

The north of the city retains old charms, in Gothic structures of the old crumbling palatial houses, also known as Bonedi Bari of the Babus employed directly under British payroll. The old narrow lanes of Burrahbazar area, the refined Uttor Kolkata ness of Shyambazar residents, the sombre tram rides and the stunning college street area appeals to one and all. In Kolkata, your morning routine should have a visit to the markets , ideally a fish market to witness cacophony first hand, followed by a sip from a warm cup of tea served on an earthen pot.

The Chowrangee area, also known to be the Dharmotola or Central Kolkata is where the Britishers had established their offices and courtroom. The Maidan, also known as Garer Math, has witnessed revolution and love. Visiting Park street and the pubs of the area remains exclusive to the more privileged urban class of the city. And I can bet my life on the fact, experiencing pub culture in Park street is not comparable to anywhere else in the country. And yes, I live in Bangalore.

Pubs are the forte of this city! Check out the old school fire dining restaurants like Mocambo or Peter Cat decked with handpicked tablecloth linens and fresh flowers as centerpiece that serve classical French full course, starting from Chicken Ala Kiev to Lobster Thermidor!

The south of Kolkata, where pretty picturesque places like Gariahat and Ballygunge are, is posh and more expensive to hung around. The bazars are inundated with stylish picks that are hard to ignore. The saree shops are plenty and all of them have exclusive collection! Dare I say Saree Shops of Kolkata feature on the higher side of the list of tourist destinations in West Bengal!

The river Ganga flows by her side, making beautiful promenade and intriguing history at the ghats. Unless I mention about the exorbitant Durgapuja pandals of the city, any mention related to Kolkata remains understated. The city of joy boasts of an unprecedented celebration which was nominated to be the UNESCO World Heritage but sadly did not make it to the final selection. However, I feel every living person on the Earth deserve to experience this beautiful overflowing 5 days of joy and mirth.

Reaching Kolkata is easy. Being the nodal point of business of the East and Northeast of India and an important juncture of Indian politics, Kolkata has always been well connected with the rest of the country, as well as the world. Reach the Dumdum airport named after Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and run through the sleek road of VIP avenue. Or, reach Kolkata by an express train to Howrah station, from where Burrahbazar is just the distance of a cantilever bridge. You can also reach Sealdah station, a rail station swarmed with millions of footfall each day!

Kolkata is famed to be an extremely affordable metropolis. While you can splurge at certain pockets of the city that produces one of the largest numbers of billionaires, you may also experience Kolkata at a shoestring budget. From INR 300 (USD 4) to INR 2000 (USD 30) per day, you can have a plethora of experiences in Kolkata.

Darjeeling… the Queen of Hills!

After Kolkata, you need top head north of the state, to the Himalayan abode named Darjeeling. The world knows Darjeeling for the aromatic first flush but for us, Darjeeling is the queen of Hills, our first refuge from the mundane world. You can visit he mountains and bury your gloom and sorrow and come back to the plain land as a new man!

Darjeeling served as the summer capital for the Britishers for those who wanted to escape the punishing humid summer of Bengal. The foothill of Himalayas here are adorned with rolling tea gardens and beautiful jungles. The town of Darjeeling is inhabited by the Nepalese, Gorkhas, Tibetans and houses plenty of churches, convent schools and quaint little cafes.

You can spend a quick weekend in Darjeeling. You may also extend your stay a bit and spend a week in Darjeeling. Choose one of the heritage bungalows built as summer escape by the erstwhile Maharajas or beautiful homestays hued in myriad mountain bloom, watch the azure sky kiss the entire range of Sleeping Buddha. At night, go seek the ghosts of Darjeeling, the lost Britishers whose soul could not depart from this mountain station!

Darjeeling is beautiful despite being loved to death by over tourism. Thankfully, a series of new destinations are making their way to the tourist map, thanks to social media. Most of these destinations resemble a utopic land. Days are made of snow capped mountain at a distance, a thin mountain stream which becomes voluptuous at the advent of monsoon, a quaint little hut and a meal of fiery hot country chicken. Ahaldara, Lataguri, Jhalong, Tumling, Dhotrey are some of these beautiful offbeat places in North Bengal which can be easily clubbed with a visit to Darjeeling. I recommend Sandakfu, especially.

Of course, tourists can opt for the 7 points or 9 points day trip surrounding in Darjeeling on a daily basis. When in Darjeeling, two things you must not miss, gorging on steamed momo and sipping on the first flush. You can skip the early morning visit to Tiger hill and thank me later!

Also read: 20+ beautiful pictures from Winter Sikkim to inspire your next travel!

To reach anywhere in North Bengal, head straight to the Bagdogra airport. It is a tiny airport which serves sumptuous fish fry and a local beer named Denzongpa. Bagdogra airport is also an army airport. Otherwise, take the night train from Kolkata and reach New Jalpaiguri (NJP station) at the start of the day and take the 4 hour drive uphill to reach Darjeeling. This is also the way to reach Sikkim in case you are traveling by train!

Due to overwhelming tourist footfall, Darjeeling can be particularly costly during tourist seasons. Consider a budget of INR 3000 (USD 30) for a comfortable stay in Darjeeling. If you can manage to visit with a group of friends, this price will come down considerably. The queen of hill now has a hostel for backpackers as well. For the luxury travelers, I recommend a stay at the Elgin, one of the most beautiful hotels in Darjeeling!

Also read: A week in Shillong , the beautiful old town of North east India!

Kalimpong: A Sleepy Tourist Destination in North Bengal

Surrounded by rolling tea gardens at every direction, Kalimpong is one of the most pristine hill station of West Bengal. Kalimpong boasts of a number of tea estates first set up by the Britishers, convent schools, churches, colonial buildings, meadows from where paragliders take a flight towards the sky. For the hiking enthusiasts, there is an inevitable charm of winning over the Deolo hills.

While Kalimpong is comparatively more serene than Darjeeling, it is here or in Kurseong you can truly escape the urban madness yet indulge in the usual privileges. A budget of USD 40 each day (INR 3000) is enough to travel in Kalimpong, which also happens to be one of the most solo female travel friendly destinations in India.

Sonada, lesser known mountains of North Bengal!

Sonada comes on the way back from Darjeeling to New Jalpaiguri. It is a Himalayan hamlet covered with dense towering deodars where mist is omnipresent. The tiny serpentine track of toy train runs by the side. Your eyes will run as far as the mountains roll with tea gardens. At a distance, Kanchenjunga dazzles. The jungle derives her sheen from the insurmountainable morning mist. Sonada is a rural settlement, devoid of tourist vanities yet stunningly beautiful. To taste the true feel of an obscure mountain life, head to Sonada, and spend considerable time in the jungle if you are not staying in at the homestay for the better part of the day!

Also read: 5 days traveling in Leh and exploring the offbeat day trips from Leh!

Cooch Behar: Abode of the Erstwhile King

Set at the Himalayan foothill, Cooch Behar is a prominent town in North Bengal. From Siliguri, plenty of buses run each day that will take you to Cooch Behar. While in the town, be sure to check out the Victor Jubilee Palace, also known as the Cooch Behar Palace. Often compared to the Buckingham Palace in London, the Cooch Behar palace was built by the  Maharaja Nripendra Narayan, an erstwhile Maharaha of the Koch Kingdom. Maharani Gayatri Devi, quintessentially the epitome of grace and beauty from India, belonged to the Koch dynasty.

For the nature enthusiasts, cooch Behar is located close to Rasik Bill, a wet land where plenty of migratory birds reside. Cooch Behar is a very Bengali town, located by the banks of Teesta river, which takes a muddy form as every river does while nearing densely populated locales.

Dooars… The Forests of the Himalayan Foothills!

The foothills of Himalaya is usually rich in diverse flora and fauna. North Bengal is no different. Once you reach the rain station at Alipurduar, you will be spoilt for choices while choosing a place jungle safari.

Dooars region spans across a vast landmass between Teesta in West Bengal and Dhansiri in Assam. Historically, this has served as a gateway between India and Bhutan with 18 passes. Interestingly, Manas National Park in Assam is also a part of this landmass. 

Indian Railway runs straight through the heart of the jungle connecting various tea gardens for obvious business interests. There have been multiple gruesome reports highlighting collision of locomotive engines with elephant herds. 

The jungle of Dooars are called home by a number of precious endangered species of the world: Bengal Tiger, Asiatic elephants, Indian rhinoceros, deers like chital, sambar, elusive clouded leopard, Black bear, Indian leopard, the great Indian hornbill, newts and monitor lizard, Indian Python, very rare hare species (Hispid), Himalayan tahr etc. The rivers are home to crocodiles and gharial. Birding enthusiasts can expect to find a glimpse of the rare avian species like Eurasian spoonbill, brahminy duck, storks, such as painted stork, Indian cormorant, red-naped ibis, kingfisher etc.

The forests of Dooars jungle are well equipped with forest bungalows, cottages, and safari cars. For a fortunate visitor, there is plethora of surprise in the deep of the jungle.

Continuous encroachment of forest land due to widening tea estates had been a real threat to the wildlife of the region. However, once these jungles have been covered under the umbrella of national reserve forest, tourism has experienced a steady growth and poachers have been shunned away by the local protectors.

• Gorumara Forest and Lataguri forests are nearby and can be covered in one trip. You need at least couple of days here.
• Visit Jaldapara and Buxa Tiger Reserve together. Buxa tiger reserve is also known as Chilapata jungle.

While a stay and food at Dooars will not cost you more than USD 40 (INR 3000) each day, the jungle safari should be anywhere between INR 200 to INR 4000 depending on the choice of vehicle (or elephant ride, which I do not recommend).

Also read: How to plan a trip to Kaziranga national Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Shantiniketan, Abode of the Bard! The most Cultural Place to Visit in West Bengal!

Acres of land was bought by a visionary of Bengal years ago. Rabindranath’s passion project, Shanti Niketan gained popularity as the address of Biswa Bharati University, a premier institution imparting independent education dating back to colonial era. In the age when every middle class aspired for a government job, Biswa Bharati was an exception. Soon, it attracted the brightest of minds from around the globe, who had the sheer privilege of studying right under the able guidance of none other than Rabindranath Thakur.

The famous poet of Bengal, Jamini Roy, practiced his art here. Other notable alumni included Indira Gandhi, Syed Mujtaba Ali, Satyajit Ray, Amartya Sen, Ramkinkar Baij, Mahasweta Devi etc.

Shantiniketan today is more famous for the vivid celebration of Dol, Basanto Utsab . What is known as Holi in north India, is celebrated as the advent of spring in Bengal. It is the same in the spirit but Biswa Bharati stresses on a cultural program as a prelude to the colour catastrophe. 

If you want to experience Holi in India but are afraid of venturing into the heartland of Uttar pradesh due to safety concerns, head towards Bolpur shantiniketan instead. It retains the regional charm and how! 

Shantiniketan is also famous for Sonajhuri Haat, a weekend bazaar where tribals come and sell a plethora of beautiful art and woven products along with stunning Dhokra jewelry (sustaining since the days of Indus valley civilization. Roughly 4000 years). 

The arid land known as Khoyai by the river bank is another beautiful somber attraction of Shantiniketan. Many Bengali movies are shot here as the protagonists prance around towering shawls and teak trees in order to romance on screen! 

It takes less than 3 hours to reach Shantiniketan from Kolkata by the morning train from Sealdah. Hotels start from 1000 rs per night. Do indulge in a sumptuous Bengali lunch when traveling to Shantiniketan. Shantiniketan is one tourist attraction in west bengal that has the right amount of culture, nature and gourmet cuisine. Moreover, it is a budget friendly tourist destination of West Bengal!

Also read: The best places to visit in Karnataka!

Chupir Chor, Purbasthali for the Birding Enthusiasts Traveling in West Bengal

Chupir Chor is a rather offbeat destination in Bengal. Famous for birding, Chupir Chor is a riverine marshland in Bardhaman that is home to a number of avian species, many of them being migratory birds who visit only during the misty winter mornings. This is indeed a birder’s paradise, a lot like Dandeli in North Karnataka . To reach Chupir Chor, get onto a Katoa Local, get down at Purbasthali station. 

The waterbody is also known as Khari Ganga to the locals. It is an almost stagnant water body, with hyacinth and dense foliage crowding the river bed. Rent a boat during sunrise or sundown and trace the birds at Chupir Chor. Avoid monsoon since visibility is limited during that time. Mayapur temple of Nabadwip is located very close to Chupir Chor as well.

Mayapur, Nabadwip

A major pilgrimage stop for the Vaishnavite sect of Hinduism, Mayapur nabadwip is the birth place of mahaprabhu Chaitanya deb. With Mayapur, I find an uncanny similarity of Varanasi. The town chants sacred hymns at every corner, even in silence. 

By train or bus, Krishnanagar or mayapur is only 4 hours away. Though it was a prominent stop for the pilgrims traversing all the way from as far as Manipur of North east India. 

The Mayapur ISKCON temple is a beautiful religious institute where people from all over the world come and live and they have facilities to host guests as well. I vividly remember the tune to which they perform hare krishna dance every evening during prayer. My heart was filled with joy by seeing that unhindered show of mirth and joy. 

The old town of Nabadwip is dotted with plenty of temples dedicated to Chaityadeb. This is where Geetgobindo was penned down by the eminent poet Jaydev in another era! 

Please wear modest cloth and be informed the town does not serve non vegetarian food. 

108 Shiv Mandir of Kalna: Religious Travel Destinations in West Bengal

The 108 terracotta Shiv temples of Kalna is a quintessential example of expert craftsmanship and beautifully planned architecture. Located at Ambika Kalna of East Burdwan, the 10 Shiv mandir belonged to the erstwhile kingdom of Tamralipta. Built two centuries ago, the 108 temples consist of two circles with 74 and 34 temples in each stretch. It provides a beautiful photography opportunity. While visiting this destination also check out nearby attractions: Lalji Mandir, Krishna Chnadra Mandir, Projapori Bari, Gopalbari mandir etc.

While visiting Kalna, you can plan a trip to Phulia as well, famed for producing the best of Bengal Tant cotton sarees of the state.

Hangseshwari Temple, Bengal’s Real Hogwarts!

At the town named Bansberia of Hooghly, the Bengal’s Hogwarts, Hangseshwari Ratna temple stands in all her glory. In of the offbeat tourist destinations in West Bengal, Hangseshwari Ratna Temple has come to limelight with many travel groups present in social media! The presiding deity of the old temple is Kali, the eternal mother figure of Bengal and her hinterlands. In the late eighteenth century, the stepping stone to Hangseshwari temple was laid by Raja Nrisinhadeb Roy Mahasay and later finished by his widowed wife. 

The temple has 13 distinct minars, resembling lotus petals. Five stories of the temple resemble five parts of human mechanism, as illustrated in Tantric rituals. The temple can be accessed by a quick train ride on the bandel line from Howrah station. This is a perfect day trip from Kolkata. 

Bandel Church, a stronghold of Portuguese Days

One of the oldest Portuguese churches of Bengal, the bandel church, also known as Basilica of the Holy Rosary is little more than 400 years old. It is one of the historic places to visit in West Bengal. Bandel, the port town was frequented by the Portuguese who obtained permission to establish a church by the emperor Akbar. It shares some semblance with the church architecture of old Goa . The entrance of the church is adorned by a ship’s mast in memory of a vessel that survived a dangerous storm on the sea! 

I have had a chance to taste the distinct Bandel cheese as well, which was inspired by the missionaries of Portugal. You get that in the New market at a stall opposite the Nahoums. 

While visiting the Bandel church, you may also make a quick detour to the Hoogly Imambara. Bandel is easily accessible from Kolkata by trains and you may finish this trip in a day. 

Gadiara, the Obscure village on the confluence of major rivers

Gadiara is a small village some 100 km away from Kolkata. I visited Gadiara with my school teachers as a part of an excursion. Gadiara is where rupnarayan river meets with Hoogly river. The confluence is highlighted by an olden lighthouse and a typical rural set up, mostly safeguarded from the urban vanity. Book a stay with the Gadiara tourist lodge if you are planning to stay for a night. You can also make a day trip and head back home in the last bus to the city. Gadiara stages some of the most beautiful sunsets! Gadiara is one of the most serene places to visit in West Bengal with tranquil nature!

Taki, the border town: one of the most scenic places to visit in West Bengal

Standing by the banks of river Ichamati, Taki is a border town between India and Bangladesh. This could have been a serene peaceful rural bengal settlement but the fuming politics of present day subcontinent is progressingly making an impact in Taki. 

Once upon a time, Taki the border town used to see the best of idol immersion of both the bengals during the end of Durgapuja. Boats of various shapes and sizes would crowd the river stream. Durga idols will come from various parts of the land to be immersed into the water. Taki made for a stunning photo op. However, that has ceased now because a porous border gives rise to various political debates. Who is crossing over… what is one’s identity and many other uncomfortable questions arises. 

Nonetheless, Taki remains a stunning destination. Various river streams cut through each other. Mangroves grow in abundance. Boats frequent the water. 

Taki can be visited by state run bus and locals trains heading towards Hasnabad and Bongao. A few guest houses are there, one of them being government run.

Also read: the most beautiful Beaches in Goa for the first time visitor !

Gongoni, West Midnapur: Stunning Tourist attraction in West bengal

Often hailed as the Grand Canyon of India, Gongoni is a deep protruding gorge on Shilabati River that stands out in distinct deep rust hue in stark contrast to the azure sky! 

You may access Gongoni by the morning train, Ruposhi bangla. Get down at Garbeta and hire a rickshaw van to reach Gongoni gorge. This place is particularly popular during winter afternoons and turns into a picnic spot, thanks to water level that hardly crosses ankle depth. 

Gongoni is enormous and that is where her charm lies. Not a soul could suspect such vibrant arid land mass could be somewhere close to Bengal that is otherwise lush green and fertile in demeanor. Do check out a few of the ancient stone temples of Garbeta which was the dominion of old Bagdi kings. Mythology connects Gongoni with Bheem of Mahabharata who slayed Demon Bakasura. 

Also read: Complete guide to traveling to Hampi!

Purulia, The True Surprise of Rarh Bangla!

The charm of the red earth lingers in a visitor’s mind when the soul is attached to Purulia! The infectious energy of Chow mask dance, an elaborate costume worn by the artist while performing to the storylines of Ramayana and Mahabharata, the bounty of Palash Blossom during spring, which makes the land looks like red woven on red, the intangible heritage of ancient art and craft: Purulia is the best kept secret of not just Bengal but the entire India! 

Now hailed as one of the most beautiful tourist destinations of West Bengal, Purulia was the hotbed of Nakshal insurgency in Indian Red Corridor even a decade back. To trace back the history, go through the posters of the village walls.

Hop onto Purulia Express and spend the evening from on the train that departs from Howrah station on a regular basis and you shall reach Purulia. For a first time visitor, Purulia demands at least 5 days. If you fall in love, allow Purulia a significant time and unearth beauties which remained hidden at the nameless corners of the district. Here in Purulia, you get a chance to be the explorer in a true sense! 

Purulia has some of the profound dam systems built on the course of Damodar river as a part of the archaic 5 year plans India took up as a sovereign country in the initial days. You may spend the nights at adjacent government tourist bungalows. Baranti hill, Jaychandi Pahar, Garpanchkot Dam, Khairabera dam, Bamni waterfall are some of the premium tourist attractions of Purulia!

If possible, watch a Jatra performance in the typical rural set up. That in my opinion will be one of the exclusive local performance experience for you!

Temple Town of Bishnupur: The Quintessential best place to visit in West Bengal

My ancestral house is in Bankura. I spent the initial 5 years there and always remained connected to the land no matter how far I live. The red earth of Bankura has this magical pull to my soul. Now that I have a platform, I leave no stone unturned to amplify Bankura’s (or the Rarh region of Bengal for that matter) art and culture and heritage. 

If I am to highlight a single destination of bankura, this has to be Bishnupur, the temple town . History tells us Bishnupur was established by the Malla kings. History traces back to three centuries or more when all the ornate terracotta temples of Bishnupur were established. Red burnt bricks were made to use. The small aatchala temples invoke intense appreciation with prolonged walls filled with handwork that sustained the gnaw of time and retained glorious remnants of the king’s patronage.

Radhashyam temple, Rasmancha, shyam rai temple, Gar darja, Dalmadal kaman, Chinnamasta temple are some of the tourist attractions of Bishnupur. 

When in Bishnupur, do check out the intricate weaving process of Baluchari sarees. These sarees were initially woven at Murshidabad, where the artisans received direct patronage of the nawabs. Later, the empire fell and they moved and settled at Bishnupur and imbibed the heritage of Bishnupur temples of the border and anchal of the silk sarees. It takes anywhere between a week and a few months to weave beautiful Baluchari sarees, which was earlier used for Bengali wedding ceremonies. The weavers work hard and find little to no taker to pay the price for their toil, which is why many do not want their children to take up the profession. Revival project of Baluchari is undergoing an attempt though by the government. 

A pure Baluchari silk saree will have stories of Ramayana or Mahabharata or trade routes (like they show on many temple panels of Bishnupur) woven on them. Bishnupur is indeed one of the stops for textile tourism in India!

A beautiful Baluchari saree that my Pishi had gifted my mother and I wore during my brother’s wedding. One of the most beautiful weaves of ancient India.

The temple motifs of Bishnupur which often appear on the border of Bishnupuri Baluchari sarees!

Jhargram: A Tourist Destination in West Bengal Tucked away in the Dense Forest!

If your heart longs for a quick escape to the dense canopy safeguarding the elephants of Dalma, head straight to Jhargram. Once a part of the notorious Red Corridor of central India plagued by Maoist Insurgency, Jhargram has returned to normalcy and has started to host tourists in picturesque serene cottages hidden underneath tall eucalyptus.

Jhargram came as a pit stop every time we headed to Bankura on Purulia Express. It is situated 3 hours off the railway track from Howrah and now connected to the city through national highway.

Jhargram is the closest you can come to live Sunil Ganguly’s Aranyer Dinratri. Located close to the tribal heartland, Jhargram retains a rustic charm about her appearance.  The hills of belpahari, red earth rich in iron ore, serene subtle Subarnarekha, older than time Kanak Durga temple, nameless falls complimenting the major one, Ghagra falls, Chilkigarh Palace are some of the usual tourist attractions of Jhargram. However, Jhargram’s heart lies in the stark arid nature which comes to life only during the advent of monsoon. Summer is scorching in this land. River Streams dry up, avians flee. Dense jungle safeguard many a secret of ancient India and her political upheaval which is impossible to witness in a quick trip. Had I been a film director, I would have shot Aranyak written by Bibhutibhushan either at Jhargram, or in the wilderness of Purulia!

Also read: Explore Kargil before you hop onto Leh: Offbeat Destination in Ladakh!

Murshidabad: One of the most Prominent Historic Places to Visit in West Bengal

Now hidden in the obscure times, Murshidabad (erstwhile Kansona, Karnasuborbo) was the capital of Bengal (and Orissa & Bihar, political boundaries were volatile those days) until the advent of East India company. The glorious Nawabi rule of Bengal and its remnants are found aplenty in Murshidabad, a perfect weekend gateway from Kolkata.

Hazarduari express takes tourists swiftly from Kolkata to Murshidabad. Spend an extended weekend exploring the nook and corners of this old land, specially the humongous Hazarduari palace with an astounding 1000 stair cases. Also check out the Nizamat Imam bara, Madina Masjid, katra Mosque, the Jahankosha Topekhana, Nashipur Rakbari etc. The Kathgola Palace of Murshidabad appeared in Srijit Mukherjee’s visually stunning feature film, Ek je chilo Raja!

Maldah, the Mango basket of India

While the mango orchards of Malda are opening a new avenue in experiential tourism in West Bengal, few remember the historic heritage of the city Malda, also known as the gateway to North Bengal. Hop onto Shatabdi express and reach Malda in a few hours from Kolkata. Head straight to English Bazar or old Malda. 

Malda was the capital of Bengal before the British history started. The Goar-Pandua town is preserved by ASI. Check out Firoz minar, Chika Masjid, Kotwali Gate, Baroduari when in Malda. A shrine named Qudm-e-Rasul is believed to be the home of an original footprint of the Prophet Mohammad. 

For me, a major attraction of visiting Malda was to go to Farakka barrage. This is where Ganga gets divided into two, with the bigger tributary Padma making her way into Bangladesh. Farakka barrage is an important political tool of the international diplomacy of the subcontinent. 

Do try Kansat and Chom chom by a sweet shop named after Ratan and Kheer Kodom when you are in Malda.

Also read: 3 days spent in the breathtaking beauty of Western Ghat Monsoon at Chikmagalur, Karnataka!

Mandarmoni: A romantic Escape in West Bengal!

Do Digha a favor. Spare that scheduled visit to Digha, instead save for a while and go to Mandarmoni.

While Digha is the ubiquitous choice of every Bengali household seeking a beach vacation, the sea-shore is decaying faster than light year by day. Tons of families, individuals and tourist groups visit Digha, Some of them camp on the beach and make a feast, especially on new years and other days of collective celebration. Mics scream Bhojpuri music. Country chickens crow before being cut into pieces. Is it overwhelmingly ugly. 

My memory of Digha is filled with disdain. I recall the site of a used condom floating on a wave. Ideally, I would not mention Digha in my list of places to visit in West Bengal. To a certain extent, because I understand how over tourism is eating away her beauty and ruining the Digha beaches.

Instead, visit Mandarmani, the vast sea-shore with calmer waves and dotted with a handful of fishmen’s villages. 

Mandarmoni is changing its face fast with a steady flow of discerning tourists, mostly wealthy groups seeking a resort stay. The shore is a vast swath of land. The sea recedes and comes back based on the tidal cycle. Be careful before venturing into the sea. I recall by the end of the day, the waves reached right in  the front of the resort gate. 

In the morning, Mandarmani beach had a few sailboats making their way into the sea, to collect the day’s yield. The beach shacks sell plenty of coconuts and fish fry. Local moonshine is available but I suggest refrain from drinking it. It can kill. I am serious. 

Tajpur, the lure of stunning sunset sky!

Take an early morning bus to Digha from Esplanade in Kolkata. Get down at a bus stand named Balisai, a few km ahead of Digha. Hire a toto and reach your hotel or accommodation by driving on a road which seemed to be built during the reign of Alexander in Greece. 

Tajpur has a beautiful beach where you may sunbath and indulge in a few boat rides with the local fishermen. On a good day, you can see mandarmoni at a distance too. There is nothing much to do in Tajpur apart from relaxing. ALthough a secluded and printine beach, I would not recommend Tajpur to solo female travelers. This is an ideal weekend getaway from Kolkata for family and friends. 

Hotels will cost you anywhere between 1500 to 3000 per night. Guest houses provide limited accommodation with a budget as low as INR 500 per night. For three meals a day, you need another INR 600. Check out Viceroy resort, Tajpur Nature Camp and Tajpur retreat. Tajpur is an emerging tourist destination in West Bengal among the peaceful thrill seekers.

Sundorbon, Mangrove Kingdom & the Royal Bengal Tiger

If you are bored of consecutive visits to Digha and Mandarmani and Puri and looking for a serene beach destination somewhere near Kolkata, Tajpur is your friend!

The largest mangrove delta of the world, Sundarban is a national park of India, a UNESCO heritage site and the ubiquitous home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Visiting Sundarban is a crazy adventure. Raintracks cease to exist after Canning station. The roads are inundated during prolonged monsoon of Bengal. The rivers are ferocious. It is where their plight has ended. They seek refuge in the womb of Bay of Bengal! The river mouths are as gigantic as the home of prehistoric Megalodon had been! 

Sundarbon stands out with her insurmountable wealth of natural resources, flora and fauna, humans and the grim realities… If you delve deep in the history of the mangrove delta, Sundorbon will show you the grim reality of man-animal conflict and the twisted course of politics plaguing the subcontinent for ages. 

Sundarban is shared between India and Bangladesh. While only certain parts of the mangrove forest is accessible to tourists and locals, lion’s share is actively patrolled by forest guards and kept off limits to humans in order to safeguard the predators. 

An ideal trip to Sundarban revolves around sailing on  refurbished junk boats, and keeping a watchful eye for the birds and the tigers. Sometimes a crocodile, a lizard, a few deers will appear out of nowhere to give you company. If your guard is adventurous enough, you might just venture into the wilderness once in a while, take a dinghy boat at a moonlit night and explore the narrow channels. Needless to say, visiting Sundarban also equates to feasting on sumptuous luncheons of fish and rice! And river crabs, that too! 

It is wise to spend money in Sundarban in such a way that it directly benefits the locals instead of the resort owners who hail from the metropolis. I visited Sundarban with the Backpackers’ Sundarban Eco Village and stayed at a hut and a steamer for consecutive nights! The eco resort was strategically located right at the heart of a real village and we had ample chances to interact with the villagers.

Also read : The Chitwan National Park, T ravel Guide to offbeat Nepal!

Gangasagar: Poetry By the Ancient Sea! (Sea Side Destinations in West Bengal)

Hindu religious scriptures mentions of an atheist sage in high respect, named Kapil Muni. His Ashram remains till date tucked in the sandy shores of Ganga Sagar. A 3 hour bus ride from the heart of Kolkata followed by a boat ride on the river Muriganga will bring you to Gangasagar. Ideally you should spend a couple of days here. If you are starting from Joka, a day trip is a possibility.

Every year, thousands of devotees walk to Ganga sagar to worship at Kapil Muni’s Ashram during mid January (famed as the Ganga Sagar Makarsankranti Mela or Ganga Snan). The ritual involves taking a dip in the river mouth at the crack of the dawn.

The place is also known as Sagar Deep, an island in the maze of humongous Gangetic delta. This is where river gaga leaves the landscape and merges with Bay of Bengal. Set up in simple rural Bengal, a visit to Gangasagar is a distinct beach experience, soaked in reverence by devout religious men for an atheist saint! That is the beauty of this country.

Like many other pilgrimage spots in India, Ganga Sagar is a very budget friendly destination. On a daily basis, you do not have to spend more than 500 rs a day here. Please note, hotels and restaurants are very basic.

Bakkhali: A Tranquil Place to visit in West Bengal by the Calm Sea!

I saw those gigantic buses running frantically on the Diamond Harbour Road as a girl growing up in Behala, south Kolkata suburb. The buses will flaunt parrot green colours, strange horns, and the destinations would be written in bold, Kakdwip, Bakkhali, Fraserganj, Diamond harbour. All of them were destined to reach the wee end of this Gangetic delta, where Ganga will soon merge with the Bay of Bengal. The landscape will have distinct signs of a progressing sea, saline water, palm groves, coconut groves, lush green paddy fields chasing ultramarine sky. This is where the iconic beauty of rural Bengal gets highlighted! 

Many small islands of the region (for example Henry island) had witnessed efforts being in place to a certain extent to establish a tourist infrastructure. Few resort style big hotels have sprang up, Hotel Punyalakshmi being a prominent one. 

Bakkhali also has a number of budget friendly hotels and thriving markets. The pice hotels serve fresh catch of the day for a surprisingly affordable price. You would not need more than INR 1000 each day to have a good stay at Bakkhali. Be mindful of the time you visit though. The seaside destination gets ravaged by periodic cyclones and you do not want to witness nature’s wrath. 

While this is a seaside town, Bakkhali does not really have a proper beach. It looks like a profound mouth of a waterbody.. It could be a river, it could be a sea… reality gets blurred at the surge of tidal waves.

I listed only a handful of prominent Tourist Destinations in West Bengal. Al beit, there are many more beautiful places to visit in West Bengal. The sleepy quaint villages at the border, the busy district towns with a distinct timeless feel, azure waterbody at the south of the state and countless rivers. West Bengal is a jewel for a discerning traveler who is yet to unfold many layers of her unexplored face! I will list down a number of hidden places to visit in North Bengal where beautiful family run homestays are eagerly waiting to host you at the fold of the mighty Himalayas! Stay tuned!

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25 best places to visit in west bengal.

Imagine a place where you are travelling in a train and listening to the Baul music playing in the background with the complimentary chuckles and hushed tone of conversation of people. A gathering after Durga Puja where ladies in white and red sarees put vermilion on each other’s face and greet each other. Imagine these big beautiful eyed ladies discussing prices of the jewellery worn by them and how their kids are performing excellently in their dance, music and art classes and in their schools. Imagine a group of men gathered outside a drama/dance and music theatre, with one side of the cheek slightly puffed with the deposition of fresh paan (betel leaf) while they discuss the Rabindra Sangeet performance held earlier in the month. Imagine crossing by a narrow lane and start to get the aroma of mustard-cooked fish. Imagine a street full of stalls selling food from almost all the Indian states.

Welcome, you are in West Bengal – a proud witness of the evolution of Indian history and a hub of culture and tradition.

West Bengal, the hub of Indian culture, history and tradition, is a place which will always remind you of the sweetness of sandesh and mishti doi (sweet yoghurt) in your mouth. Not only that, the sweetness of people here will also make you remember its nooks and crannies of the place. In a nutshell, it’s a place that will give you millions of reasons to be there and make some travel memories. If you are also someone like us who delights in taking a deep look into the wonderful places of West Bengal, this blog is the ultimate guide for you to visit the top tourist places in the state.

Must-visit Places in West Bengal at A Glance:

Also Check Out: Popular Tour Packages for West Bengal

Kolkata is the face of West Bengal; it’s like the city offers a glimpse of what the entire state is about. From its elegant British Raj buildings to the sprawling gardens, from its historical colleges to its buzzing nightlife, and delicious food to sweets, Kolkata possesses all the necessary factors to be one of the best places to explore not only in West Bengal but in India. Home to a spawning generation of poets, writers, film producers and Nobel Prize winners, the city is also a cultural capital of the country. Expect to be wooed by the nominal prices of things, the hand-pulled-rickshaws, meandering streets with old-fashioned houses and an innumerable variety of sweets.

Highlights:

• Howrah Bridge
• Jorasanko Thakurbari
• Park Street
• Indian Museum
• Victoria Memorial
• Birla Temple
• Kolkata Racecourse
• Eden Gardens
• Marble Palace Mansion
• Kalighat Temple
• Science City
• Paul’s Cathedral
• Nakhoda Mosque
• Shantiniketan

A small town near Bolpur in the Birbhum district, Shantiniketan is known better as the Treasure Trove of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. This small town is home to a university town, Visva-Bharati. Tagore founded an Ashram here in 1863 which became the university later. The Shantiniketan campus is adorned with splendid sculptures, frescoes, murals, and paintings of Rabindranath, Nandalal Bose, Ramkinkar, Binodbehari Mukhopadhyay. It is also popular for its Baul Singers and attending fairs and festivals here like Poush Mela (December) and Basanta Utsav (Holi)( in March) are the top things to do in West Bengal.

• Sonajhuri Forest
• Sonajhuri Market (Sonajhuri Hat)
• Rabindra Bhawan
• Visva Bharati Campus
• Srijani Shilpagram
• Chhatimtala
• Kala Bhawan
• Upasana Ghar or Prayer Hall
• Ballavpur Deer Park
• Kankalitala
• Kopai River

Mandarmani is indeed one of the best places to visit in West Bengal to spend a relaxing vacation with friends and family members. This weekend getaway destination for people of Bengal is located about 14 kms from Chaulkhola in East Midnapore District. Locally called Mandarboni, the village offers a tranquil atmosphere amidst which the travellers can unwind and loosen their grip. The beach at Mandarmani is the perfect spot to watch the sunrise; one can also enjoy water sports like surfing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, ATV bikes and bungee trampoline here. It is to be noted that several water sports are conducted during the Digha-Mandarmani Festival held here in the month of January every year. The festival also showcases performances by several music bands. For those of you who like to shop, the objects and ornaments made from seashells and oysters are available in plenty here.

• Mandarmani Beach
• The Delta or Mohana

Known for its ancient temples dating back to the 15th century, Bishnupur is the history lovers’ paradise. Situated in the Bankura District, Bishnupur has some beautiful terracotta temples and a prosperous Baluchari Saree industry which is famous across the globe. It is believed that art and culture flourished here during the reign of the Malla Rulers who were the patrons of painting and music. The famous temples, which are given a status of heritage place stand here as a proof of the gorgeous architecture that this place once was adorned with.

• Jorebangla Temple
• Pancha Ratna Temple
• Radha Govinda Temple
• Gate of Old Fort
• Keibul Lamjao National Park
• Loukoipat Ecological Park
• Sarbamangala Temple

Here is what makes West Bengal eligible for praise, the Sundarban, a major attraction of heritage tourism in West Bengal. Being world’s largest delta and also the largest Mangrove Forest, Sunderban is on the bucketlist of many travel aficionados around the world. It is the River Matla that divides Sundarban Reserved Forest into Sundarban Tiger Reserve (on the east) and Reserved Forest of South 24 Parganas Forest Division. A 5,400 sq km of non-forest, inhabited region along the north and north-western fringe of mangrove forest, Sundarban is bounded by River Muriganga on the west and Harinbhahga and Raimangal Rivers in the east and one can refer it to the centre of wildlife tourism in West Bengal. It is the biosphere reserve that has received the recognition of UNESCO under its Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme in November 2001. Sundarban National Park, forming the core area of Sundarban Tiger Reserve has also received recognition as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987. One of the largest reserves for Royal Bengal Tigers, Sunderban is also home to a variety of birds, reptiles and many more species. Spotting tigers and capturing pictures of birds here are one of the best things to do in West Bengal.

• Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary
• Nearby Villages
• Netidhopani
• Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project
• Mangrove Interpretation Centre

A sea-side city, Digha is an ideal weekend destination from Kolkata. Digha is extremely popular amidst tourists for its pristine beaches and that is why one must book their tour well in advance, especially on the weekends. This popular coastal town is located in West Medinipur around 200 kms from Kolkata. One of the most popular tourist attractions in West Bengal, Digha is an ideal place to have fun-filled holidays to break the monotony of everyday life. Make sure to try the fried fish that the locals sell, collect sea shells, follow trails left behind by crabs and sip on coconut water while lazing under an umbrella on the beach after a sightseeing tour to nearby places.

• New Digha Beach
• Shankarpur Beach
• Talsari Beach
• Marine Station/Aquarium of Zoological Survey of India
• Temple at Chandaneswar

Other than Kolkata, Darjeeling is the place that gives West Bengal its unique identity. A much-celebrated hill-station in India, Darjeeling is the destination that provides the opportunity to unwind amidst the scenic and serene environ. Blessed with tea estates, red rhododendrons, white magnolias, birds of different species, colonial-era buildings and the Toy-Train facility, this hill station in West Bengal is a perfect tourist destination in India. Trekking, river rafting, and bird watching are some of the activities that you can indulge in Darjeeling apart from enjoying sightseeing and the Toy-Train ride. Click here to read more.

• Kanchenjunga
• Peace Pagoda
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
• Batasia Loop
• Everest Museum
• Barbotey Rock Garden
• Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
• Neora National Park

Popularly known as the Rarh area of Bengal, Bankura is a district in West Bengal that boasts about the fine terracotta temples, dense virgin forests, rolling hills and several scenic spots. A part of Eastern Chota Nagpur Plateau, Bankura district includes Bishnupur, which has been mentioned in the blog separately. Apart from Bishnupur, the must-visit place in West Bengal, Bankura district is also famous for its murmuring rivers, old brown hills and ancient temples which represent a testament of its rich history, culture and tradition with deets of uniqueness. The hills are the best places to go for a hike and the temples are the perfect places to explore to learn about Bengali culture and history.

• Biharinath Hill
• Susunia Hills
• Mukutmanipur Dam
• Garh Darwaja
• Krishna-Balaram Temple
• Ganesh and Nandi Statue

The town Midnapore, also called Medinipur is a place for pilgrimage tours in West Bengal as it is home to a few ancient temples and mosques. The place is also famous for the memorials of many freedom fighters. It is believed to be highly influenced by Buddhism and Jainism in ancient times. Moreover, the bustling port of Tamralipta, which is now known as Tamluk, is the most significant archaeological site here as its name is mentioned in the books of Fa-Hien and Xuanzang, two of the most prominent travellers in history. Situated on the banks of the Kangsabati River, Midnapore is known for its sweet shops that sell fine quality Bengali sweets – ‘Khirer Goja’ or Bengali Gossip.

• Chandrakona
• Bargabhima Temple
• Kurumbera Fort
• Jora Masjid
• Dandeswar Mahadev Temple
• Baptist Mission Church

Siliguri is a picturesque town offering spectacular views of the Himalayas on clear bright days. It is quite famous for its tea gardens and a thick forest. The city is located on the bank of the Mahananda River and is one of the best sightseeing places to stop by if travelling to Darjeeling, Kalimpong or Sikkim. If you wish, you can also visit the colourful Salugara gompa that is about 5 kms from the main town and is adorned with an imposing chorten-like spire. Siliguri is also an ideal place to shop for Chinese knock-offs in the bustling Hong Kong Market, which is off the Sevoke Road in the heart of town.

• Salugara Monastery
• Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary
• Madhuban Park
• Hong Kong Market
• Bengal Safari
• Chilapata Forest
• Coronation Bridge
• Kanchenjunga Stadium
• Surya Sen Park
• ISKCON Temple
• Shorea Forest Recreation Centre
• Fulbari Barrage
• Sevoke, Kalijhora, Mongpong

Murshidabad

Located on the bank of River Bhagirathi, Murshidabad is an ancient city in West Bengal. It was the last capital of independent Bengal under the rule of Nawab Murshid Quli Khan. It is believed that the city was at its height of glory before the British rulers shifted the capital to Kolkata in the year 1773. The place where the historical battle of Plassey or Palashi which was fought between Lord Clive and Nawab Siraj ud-Daulahand in 1757 is situated around 40 km from Murshidabad. The town still bears memories of Nawabs that once ruled here and contributed to the city’s beauty by building mosques, tombs, and gardens. They even set up industries of ivory, gold and silver embroidery and silk weaving. Murshidabad today is a centre for agriculture, handicrafts and sericulture.

• Hazarduari Palace Museum
• Wasef Manzil
• Jalangi River
• Nasipur Palace
• Katra MosqueJahankosha Cannon

Probably one of the most famous places in West Bengal, Hooghly is reckoned to be the place where Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Sarada Devi, two of the respected personalities from Bengal stayed for several years. It also has historical significance as it was colonised by Portuguese, French and the Dutch and one can still see the influence of the colonisation in the architecture here. The district is the witness of the era of different foreign-settlers in different places such as Chandanagar was once a French colony and you can find the French influence here in abundance. From 1656 to 1825, Chinsurah was a Dutch settlement. So, this moderately bustling destination is for those who enjoy spending time exploring the stories of glorious past. It is to be noted, visiting Hooghly, specifically Chandanagar during the time of Jagadhatri Puja is one of the best things to do in West Bengal.

• Chandannagar Museum
• Tarakeshwar Temple
• Hooghly Imambara
• Hangseshwari Temple
• Sri Ramakrishna Math
• Garh Mandaran

Kalimpong is a lovely hill station in the lower Himalayas, situated at an elevation of 1,250 metres. Overlooking the Teesta River, Kalimpong is an ideal destination for nature lovers as the place is blessed with bounties of nature and offers incredible views of the Himalayas. One of the popular points of tourist interest in West Bengal, Kalimpong offers a tranquil environment to attain peace of mind. There is no dearth of sightseeing places in Kalimpong as the hill station is adorned with a number of valleys, churches, Buddhist monasteries and Tibetan colonies. It is also a religious centre of Buddhism as the monasteries house some rare Tibetan Buddhist scriptures. One gets to witness the traditional handicraft, and a wide array of orchids in a flower market here.

• Morgan House
• Durpin Dara Home
• 7th Mile View Point
• Kalimpong Cactus Nursery
• Pine View Nursery
• Jaldhaka River Valley
• Tharpa Choeling Gompa
• Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa
• Thongsa Gompa
• Zang Dhok Palri Phodang

A village in Hooghly district, Kamarpukur is an ancient place that invites all the history buffs and religious people. A visit to this place adorned with old buildings, temples and tanks can take you back in time. Kamarpukur is also considered sacred as it is the birthplace of the famous Bengali saint Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa. He was a great philosopher from the 19th century and became popular during his tenure as the main priest of Dakshineswar Temple. Kamarpukur attracts flocks of devotees of Ramakrishna, who love to attain peace and harmony in his quaint native place. Situated at a distance of around eight kilometres, Jairambati is also popular among people who love to explore religious tourism in West Bengal. Jairambati is the birthplace of another prominent personality, Sarada Devi, who also was the wife of Ramakrishna.

• Kamarpukur Ramakrishna Math
• Talpukur Tank
• Punya Pukur
• Haldarpukur Tank
• Simhavahini Temple
• Jairambati Math
• Mukundapur Temple
• Yogi Shiva Temple
• Gopeshwar Temple
• Matri Mandir

Enjoying a beautiful topography, Jalpaiguri is a blissful destination in West Bengal for nature lovers. Since it is easy to access Darjeeling and Sikkim from here, you would find the city bustling with tourists all year round. The name Jalpaiguri came from the word ‘Jalpai’, meaning ‘Olive’, which grew in this town and the suffix ‘Guri’ means a place, so Jalpaiguri is basically the ‘Place of Olives’. The name is also said to be associated with Jalpesh or Shiva, who is the presiding deity of the entire region. The untouched beauty of the forest and the rolling tea-gardens lined by the roads towards the hills of Darjeeling offers serenity to tourists throughout the year. The whole topography of Jalpaiguri is crisscrossed with rivulets, rivers and hills making it nature lovers’ haven.

• Murti River
• Gorumara National Park
• Buxa Tiger Reserve
• Mendabari Fort
• The Baptist Church
• Panjhora River

Dubbed ‘Nest in the Hills of West Bengal’, Mirik is a beautiful hill town in Darjeeling district at the height of 1,767 metres. The town is situated at a distance of about 49 kms from Darjeeling and it is one of the main sightseeing places to visit for people travelling to Darjeeling. Mirik has a beautiful long lake that is fed by perennial streams. A floating fountain in the middle of the lake is the highlight of the place. Mirik is also adorned with thousands of Cryptomeria-Japonica trees. It certainly is one of those places where one can attempt a solo trip in India. A boat ride in the lake is an ideal thing to do in Mirik along with trekking.

• Pashupati Nagar
• Bokar Monastery
• Rameetay Dara

Cooch Behar

A land influenced greatly by the Mughals is Cooch Behar in Jalpaiguri District. Cooch Behar is not only famous for the Mughal influenced monuments, but is also known for massive water bodies. The place was once the only planned town in the North Bengal region and one can still see the remnants of the royal heritage here. It makes a great destination for those who have a keen interest in learning about the rich history of Bengal. Cooch Behar is also known for its fresh nature, moderate climate and beauty. It is believed that the ancient Kamrup kingdom played a major role in building the present town. The must-see place in the whole town is the palace of Cooch Behar which was built by the Koch king Maharaja Nripendra Narayan in 1887. The design of the magnificent palace resembles the classic style of European architecture.

• Cooch Behar Palace
• Chilapata Forest Range
• Madan Mohan Temple
• Dangar Ayee Temple

Called the ‘Land of the Brave’, Birbhum is a district in West Bengal that holds great importance in the history of the state. Birbhum is known as the ‘Land of the red soil’ for its red soil houses and the roads. Since the beginning, several kings have ruled the place and the ancient ruins found in the district distinctly depict the stories. The most prominent place in the district is Shantiniketan, which has already been discussed separately in the blog. Apart from it, Tarapith, Kankalitala Mandir which are the two famous temples in West Bengal, a natural hot spring called Bakreswar, Labpur, Nanoor, Joydev Kenduli, Dubrajpur, Nalhati, Patharchapuri, Rajnagar, Hetampur and Kaleswar Shiv Mandir are other places to visit in the district.

• Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary
• Temple of Nandikeshwari
• Mama-Bhagne Pahar

Barrackpore

Barrackpore is a land rich in nature’s beauty as well as history. It was here the famous Sepoy Mutiny originated and this has earned Barrackpore a special mention in the history of India. Very few people know about Barrackpore but it is actually worth a visit for those who take keen interest in history. There are places like Gandhi Memorial Museum, Gandhi Ghat and Rishi Bankim Sangrahasala that are must visit for history lovers, whereas, nature lovers can enjoy picnics at Mathura Beel or a place beside the River Ganga.

• Mangal Pandey Park
• Gandhi Museum
• Jawahar Kunj Garden
• Gandhi Ghat
• Bartholomew Cathedral
• Indira Gandhi Water Treatment Plant
• Kali Temple

Located at an altitude of 1,458 metres, Kurseong is a beautiful and lesser known hill station in West Bengal. About 30 kms from Darjeeling, Kurseong is blessed with a salubrious climate all through the year, which definitely makes it an ideal summer destination in West Bengal. What attracts most about this place is the utter peace that it provides. It is worth mentioning that some of the famous poems and songs of Noble Laureate Rabindranath Tagore were composed in Kurseong and such is the magic of this place! Also, the famed painter, Abanindranath Tagore, and great composer Atul Prasad Sen found inspiration for some of their famous works around Kurseong. The lovely tea estates and Raj-era buildings add charm to this place.

• Makaibari Tea Estate
• Eagle’s Crag
• Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum
• Castleton Tea Estate
• Giddapahar Mandir Temple
• Ambotia Shiva Mandir Temple
• Bhangzang Salamander Lake
• Kettle Valley

Located at a distance of around 130 km in north, Mayapur is known as the ‘Kirtan Capital of The World.’ It is situated in the Nadia District, at the confluence of Jalangi River and Bhagirathi River. Adjacent to Nabadwip, another place in Nadia known for its spiritual values, Mayapur is the headquarter of ISKCON, International Society for Krishna Consciousness. Though the place is presently known for being home to a beautiful ISKCON Temple that attracts flocks of devotees from all over the world, the name was derived from Miyapur, the settlement of Muslim fishermen. A holy place for the followers of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, Mayapur can be reached from Nabadwip Dham, which is famous for being the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

• Shri Chaitanya Math
• Sri Devananda Gaudiya Math
• Jagannath Mandir
• Navadwip Mandal
• Ballal Dhipi
• Chand Kazi Samadhi

Lava and Lolegaon

Lava and Lolegaon or Loleygaon are two quaint villages situated in the Kalimpong District at a distance of 24 kms. Both of these charming villages are home to Lepchas, an indigenous community of Sikkim and Nepal. Surrounded by forests of oaks, pines and cypress along with snow clad peaks, both the villages are a perfect place to unwind yourself away from the chaos of daily life. Relaxing amidst the freshness of pure nature, watching the snowy peaks, eating homemade Lepcha dishes, enjoying a bonfire beside the river and having paragliding flights to enjoy the adrenaline rush are some of the best things to do here.

• Lolegaon Viewpoint
• Changey Falls
• Jhandi Dara Viewpoint
• Neora Valley National Park
• Kagyu Thekchen Ling Monastery
• Lava Viewpoint

The westernmost district of West Bengal which acts as a connection between Bengal and the states like Odisha, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, Purulia is one of the popular places to visit. The best time to visit this place is from February to March, around the time of Holi when it gets bloomed with Palash flowers all around. However, its green landscape, dense forests that lead the travellers to the verdant hills for a short hike, looks magical and provides mesmerising views after the rainy season. Apart from this, the place is also famous for being home to several tribal groups and their culture. Spending leisure time in the evening after having a day trip to the sightseeing places and enjoying the musical performances of the tribes like Santhals, Kurmis and Kherias-Sabars are the most popular things to do in Purulia.

• Baranti Reservoir or Murardi Lake
• Gajaburu Hills
• Garpanchkot

Famous for being the place of the annual Gangasagar Mela or Fair which attracts lakhs of devotees from all around the country, Gangasagar is originally a village on the southernmost tip of the state along the Bay of Bengal. The entire place is located in the Delta of Ganges and encircled by numerous channels that lead to different islands such as Sagar Island, Henry Island, Fraserganj Island and Frederick Island. Apart from village tourism in these islands, Gangasagar witnesses flocks of tourists around the time of Makar Sankranti in the mid-January. The fair is the oldest and largest living tradition of Bengal where the devotees take a sacred dip in the sea on the auspicious day of ‘sankranti.’ Visiting this place would not be completed without visiting Kapil Muni Ashram and nearby places such as Bakkhali, Jambudwip, Ghoramara Island and more.

• Kapil Muni Ashram
• Ghoramara Island
• Sagar Lighthouse
• Muri Ganga River
• Sagar Beach
• Omkarnath Temple

Jhargram is a district in West Bengal located beyond the Gangetic Plains, surrounded by the hill ranges of Kankrajhor and Belpahari in the north and River Subarnarekha in the south. The whole district is an abode of nature, adorned with forests of sal, mahul, teak and peasal which are home to wild elephants, deer and birds. The hills are also a place for people who love hiking. Apart from nature, the royal palaces and ancient temples attract history buffs from all around the country. However, the special mention of the place is about the tribes and their culture which can amuse you and make a reason to return here again and again.

• Jhargram Royal Palace or Jhargram Raj Bari
• Chilkigarh Palace
• Barasuli Dam
• Kanak Durga Temple
• Jhilli Pakhiralay
• Deer Park or Jhargram Mini Zoo

Don’t think that these are the only places to see in West Bengal; there are plenty of others. So, if you have been to some place in West Bengal that is not mentioned in the list but truly deserves to be explored, name them in the comment box below. Don’t forget to share this blog, if it makes you happy or smile for that matter. You can also book a tour with Tour My India that offers top tour packages in India. All you need to do is to give us a call at +91-9212777224 or simply drop us an email at [email protected].

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best time to plan a holiday vacation in west bengal.

West Bengal is such a place where you can visit throughout the year. However, the peak season is winter from November to February to plan a holiday vacation here.

How many days are required to explore the best of West Bengal Tourism?

There is no definite time frame to cover the best of West Bengal Tourism, however, a minimum of 10 days are required to explore the famous places.

What are the top tourist destinations in West Bengal?

Some of the top tourist destinations in West Bengal are Kolkata, Shantiniketan, Darjeeling, Murshidabad, Sunderbans, Digha, Birbhum, Gangasagar and more.

What are the best places to explore for a cultural experience in West Bengal?

Some of the best places to explore in West Bengal for a cultural experience are Kolkata, Birbhum, Bankura, Midnapore, Murshidabad and more.

Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites to explore in West Bengal?

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore in West Bengal are Sunderban National Park, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Bishnupur Temple, Neora Valley National Park and Shantiniketan.

What are the best offbeat places to visit in West Bengal?

Some of the best offbeat places to visit in West Bengal are Takdah, Tinchuley, Purulia, Jhargram, Baguran, Mousuni, Gangani, Muruguma and more.

What are the best places to visit for a family trip in West Bengal?

The best places to visit for a family trip in West Bengal are Digha, Mukutmanipur, Darjeeling, Mirik, Jhargram, Murshidabad and more.

What are the popular hill stations in West Bengal?

Some of the popular hill stations in West Bengal are Darjeeling, Mirik, Kalimpong and Kurseong.

What are the best places to visit for a romantic getaway in West Bengal?

The best places to visit for a romantic getaway in West Bengal are Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong, Dooars, Lava, Lolegaon, Digha, Tajpur and Mandarmani.

What are popular historical and architectural sites in West Bengal?

The popular historical and architectural sites in West Bengal are Birbhum, Bankura, Midnapore, Murshidabad, Kolkata, Hooghly and Cooch Behar.

Which are the top wildlife destinations in West Bengal?

The top wildlife destinations in West Bengal are Sunderbans, Jalpaiguri, Birbhum and Burdwan.

What are popular religious places to visit in West Bengal?

The popular religious places to visit in West Bengal are Birbhum, Kamarpukur, Jairambati, Kalighat Temple, Dakshineswar Temple, Belur Math, Kankalitala Temple, Tarapith and Tarakeswar.

What are popular must-see festivals & events in West Bengal?

The must-see festivals and events in West Bengal are:

• Basanta Utsav in Shantiniketan
• Joydev Kenduli Fair in Burdwan
• Durga Puja in Kolkata
• Jagadhatri Puja in Chandanagar
• Poush Mela or Fair in Shantiniketan
• Book Fair or Boi Mela in Kolkata
• Christmas in Kolkata
• Gangasagar Mela in South 24 Parganas

What are popular adventure activities to enjoy in West Bengal?

Some of the popular adventure activities to enjoy in West Bengal are:

• Wildlife spotting
• Paragliding
• Water Sports Activities
• Tiger Safari
• Forest Hiking

Published: 10 Jan, 2024

About the author

Nidhi Singh

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter , Facebook & Instagram .

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8 Best Places to Visit in West Bengal

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1. Darjeeling

At a distance of 65 km from Siliguri, 98 km from Gangtok, 109 km from Jalpaiguri, 371 km from Manipur, 502 km from Guwahati, 503 km from Patna and 507 km from Kolkata, Darjeeling is a charming hill station located in the Shivalik hills of the lower Himalayas in West Bengal, India. Situated at an altitude of 6,700 feet, Darjeeling is one of the most popular tourist places in West Bengal and among the must include places in your honeymoon tour packages . The name Darjeeling comes from two Tibetan words 'Dorje', meaning thunderbolt and 'ling', means a place or land. Before being invaded by the Gorkhas of Nepal in the 1790s, Darjeeling was largely under the Kingdom of Sikkim and native tribes named Lepchas were the original inhabitants of the place. Under the Sugauli Treaty of 1815 CE, Nepal yielded one-third of their lands to the British, who established Darjeeling as the summer capital of Bengal Presidency. During 19th century AD, they set up a sanatorium and a military depot in Darjeeling. Later, extensive tea plantations were established in the region by the British. After independence, in 1947, Darjeeling was merged with West Bengal. Amidst the backdrop of the mighty snow-clad Himalayan peaks, Darjeeling is famous for its tea plantations, spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. The majestic Kanchenjunga, third highest mountain in ...

At a distance of 8 km from Howrah, 133 km from Kharagpur, 167 km from Durgapur, 251 km from Balasore, 270 km from Dhanbad, 289 km from Jamshedpur, 424 km from Cuttack, 449 km from Bhubaneswar, 480 km from Gaya, 550 km from Siliguri and 579 km from Patna, Kolkata is the capital city of the West Bengal, India. Formerly known as Calcutta, it is the second-largest city in India after Mumbai and among the most popular tourist places to visit in West Bengal . Fondly called as the 'City of Joy', Kolkata is a vibrant 350-year-old metropolis located on India's Eastern Coast and has retained its quintessential charm despite modernization. It holds an important place in the economy, politics, and culture of India. The city is associated with some of the greatest thinkers, artists, filmmakers, and writers like Rabindranath Tagore, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay and Satyajit Ray. According to the historical evidence, the region in which the city stands has been inhabited for over two millennia. It is believed that Kalikata was the ancient name of the city and was derived from the Bengali word 'Kalikshetra', which means 'Ground of Goddess Kali.' Kolkata's recorded history began in 1690 when Job Charnock, an agent of East India Company came to the city and bought three villages (Sutanuti, Kolkata, Gobindapur) from the local landlord. In 1699, the East India Company started developing the city as a Presidency ...

3. Kalimpong

At a distance of 51 km from Darjeeling, 58 km from Namchi, 66 km from Siliguri, 72 km from New Jalpaiguri, 74 km from Gangtok, 89 km from Pelling, 358 km from Darbhanga, 445 km from Muzzafarpur, 490 km from Guwahati and 620 km from Kolkata, Kalimpong is a charming hill station in the Indian state of West Bengal. Placed at the foothills of Shivalik ranges, Kalimpong is the headquarters of Kalimpong district and among the most popular tourist destinations in West Bengal . Perched at an altitude of 1250 m, Kalimpong is located in the northern part of the state of West Bengal close to the Bhutan - Tibet - Sikkim border. Kalimpong was an important trading center in earlier days, when the trade routes between Tibet, Bhutan and Sikkim were very much active. It was known as the silk route connecting Lhasa in Tibet with the rest of the subcontinent. According to history, the area around Kalimpong was ruled by the Sikkimese Kings and was known as Dalingkot. In 1706, the Bhutan Empire took over the town and renamed it as Kalimpong. After the Anglo-Bhutan War in 1864, the Treaty of Sinchula was signed in which Bhutanese held territory east of the Teesta River was ceded to the British East India Company and merged into the present Indian state of West Bengal. After India's independence, Kalimpong became a subdivision of Darjeeling district and formed as a separate district in 2017. Sits on a ridge overlooking the Teesta River, ...

At a distance of 21 km from Kalimpong, 21 km from Lava, 70 km from Darjeeling, 73 km from Gangtok, 86 km from Siliguri, 488 km from Guwahati and 640 km from Kolkata, Pedong is a small picturesque hill town in Kalimpong district of West Bengal. Situated on a ridge and surrounded by pine forests, it is one of the great places to visit near Kalimpong. Positioned at an altitude of 3,970 feet, Pedong lies between Lava and Kalimpong. The town, which is located on a ridge, commands a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga and the surrounding mountains. Pedong gets its name from a 200 years old Pine Tree which is located at the heart of the town. In Bhutanese language 'Pe' means Pine and 'Dong' stands for Tree, i.e. Place of Pine Trees. The town is divided into two parts, Upper Pedong and Lower Pedong. Pedong is one of the oldest towns in this region with significant historical importance. The town used to be a major transit hub on the ancient silk route that connects India to Lhasa via the Jelep La Pass. Today the same route has become common tourist attraction. Pedong witnessed the long standing dispute between Lepchas and Bhutias. After Anglo - Bhutanese war in 1865 CE, British took control over Pedong. Pedong is blessed with abundant natural beauty and is a good place to relax for a few days amidst nature. Pine forests, lush green valleys and over viewing of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Siniolchu make beautification to this place. Nathula and Jelep La Pass are closely ...

At a distance of 21 km from Pedong, 30 km from Kalimpong, 80 km from Darjeeling, 82 km from Namchi, 87 km from Gangtok, 118 km from Pelling, 467 km from Guwahati and 650 km from Kolkata, Lava is a small hill town located in Kalimpong district of West Bengal. It is one of the popular tourist destinations near Kalimpong and among the pristine places in West Bengal . Situated at an altitude of 7,016 feet, Lava is surrounded by dense forests of Berch, Pine, Fir and Juniper trees. It is one of the few places in West Bengal that sees snowfall in the winters. Untouched by modernity, Lava is the entry point to the Neora Valley National Park, an unexplored terrain in the Himalayas. The route to Lava is scenic with the change in vegetation from tropical deciduous to the wet alpine trees. Lava is known for the magnificent view of Mount Kanchenjunga. Lava is well renowned for its natural beauty and it attracts large number of nature enthusiasts and adventure buffs. Lava Monastery or Kagyu Thekchen Ling Monastery is one of the main attraction of Lava, located closed to Lava local market. Built in Tibetan style of architecture, the monastery is serene and beautiful. Spread in 4 acres of land, it is home to hundreds of monks. Besides, Changey Falls, Neora valley National Park, Tiffin Dara View Point, and Nature Interpretation Center are the other popular places to visit in Lava. Lava is said to be a haven for bird watchers and ...

At a distance of 35 km from Kurseong, 44 km from Darjeeling, 50 km from Siliguri, 100 km from Kalimpong, 130 km from Pelling, 147 km from Gangtok, 517 km from Guwahati and 591 km from Kolkata, Mirik is a small hill town located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Situated at an altitude of 4,905 feet, Mirik is one of the popular tourist places in West Bengal and among the best places to visit near Darjeeling. Nestled in the serene hills of Darjeeling district, Mirik is known for its pleasant climate, natural beauty and easy accessibility. The name Mirik comes from two Lepcha words Mir-Yok which means 'place burnt by fire'. The town is dominated by the large Sumendu Lake or Mirik Lake. The southern part of the lake is the tourist town where almost all the hotels are located while the northern part of the lake is more local and in the Northernmost fringe is the crowded Mirik market. Like Darjeeling, Mirik also used to be a favourite place for the British in India. The open field on the eastern bank of the Mirik Lake was used as a polo field by the British. In 1969, the West Bengal tourism department began the process of acquiring 335 acres of land from the neighbouring Thurbo tea estate. The work of developing this land into a tourist spot began in 1974 when Siddhartha Shankar Ray was the chief minister of West Bengal. The tourist spot, which included the newly built lake and the Day Centre, was inaugurated by ...

At a distance of 96 km from Haldia, 124 km from Midnapore, 164 km from Howrah, 171 km from Kolkata, 193 km from Barrackpore, 209 km from Hooghly, 228 km from Tatanagar, 289 km from Bhubaneshwar, 345 km from Puri, and 364 km from Ranchi, Digha is a seaside resort town located in Purba Medinipur (East Midnapur) district of West Bengal, India. It is one of the beautiful beach destinations in India and among the must include tourist places in West Bengal Tour Packages. Situated on the shores of Bay of Bengal, Digha is a popular tourist destination known for its untouched beaches, scenic views, religious temples, and museums. Originally known as Beerkul, the town of Digha was discovered in the late 18th century by the British. It is mentioned as the 'Brighton of the East' by Warren Hastings, the first Governor-General of British India. However, the town started gaining fame when in 1923, John Frank Smith, an English tourist got so greatly allured by its charm that he started living here and writing about Digha. After the independence of India, he convinced Dr. Bidhan Chandra Roy, then the Chief Minister of West Bengal to develop this place as a sea beach resort. For ages, Digha has been a one-stop destination for families looking forward to spending pleasurable holidays or at least a weekend together. Being a seaside resort town, Digha naturally boasts of a number of stunning beaches such as New Digha Beach, Udaipur Beach, Talseri Beach, Chandpur Beach, and Shankarpur ...

8. Bishnupur

At a distance of 35 km from Bankura, 50 km from Chhatna, 85 km from Kharagpur, 113 km from Purulia, 119 km from Hooghly, 136 km from Kolkata, 143 km from Barrackpore, 149 km from Jamshedpur, 163 km from Dhanbad, 187 km from Haldia, 216 km from Murshidabad, 565 km from Kurseong, Bishnupur is a small town located in Bankura district of West Bengal. Also called Vishnupur, it is one of the beautiful tourist destinations in India and among the famous heritage places to visit in West Bengal. Bishnupur is famous among tourists, especially for its rich culture including architecture, music, and handicrafts. The history of Bishnupur dates back to 694 AD when King Raghunath I founded the Malla dynasty. The town is also referred to as Mallabhum, after the Malla dynasty, who once ruled this region for almost a thousand years. Bishnupur was the administrative capital under the reign of the Malla kings. It is believed that the town derives its name from the Hindu God, Vishnu as the Malla rulers were Vaishnavites. The legends of Bipodtarini Devi are associated with Malla Kings of Bishnupur. Bishnupur is most famous for its beautiful terracotta temples. The Malla kings built grand terracotta shrines to celebrate their love for Lord Krishna sometime between the 17th and the 18th century CE. Each and every temple in this region bespeak of excellent craftsmanship and intricate carvings. The distinctive architecture incorporated various styles from the neighboring regions. Crafted from ...

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48 Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal with How to Reach Info

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Places to Visit > 48 Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal with How to Reach Info

There is something about West Bengal that allures enthusiasts from both the Eastern and Western world. It is a melting pot of unique tastes, smells and sounds. Here the vistas are quaint, and literature the way of life. Bengal’s air carries the aroma of decadent sweets and its rich culture. Besides offering old vistas, colonial-era architecture, and a hospitality sweeter than a roshogulla, West Bengal has a little something to entice every kind of traveller. It has places that offer a slice of history, the corners that open up to the panoramic views of the Ganges, and a fare best described scrumptious.

Read on to know some of West Bengal’s most famous places for your next big trip:

1. Kolkata, West Bengal

Kolkata, being the capital of West Bengal, is a teeming hub of tourist attractions. One can soak in the grandeur of Victoria Memorial or head to Prinsep Ghat for a moment of quietude. The other things to do include paying obeisance before Maa Kali at the city’s Dakshineshwar Kali Temple or taking a stroll at the bylanes (art lanes) of Kumartuli to witness the idol-making process in action. Complete the day with a hearty meal of Chelo Kebab at Peter Cat, Park Street and a fruit-cake to-die-for from Nahoum’s, New Market.

• Best time to visit – During Durga Puja / Christmas (October-December)
• Ideal duration – 2-3 days
• By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (7 km from the main city) is easily accessible from all the major cities.
• By Train: One can travel by train till the Howrah Junction, and take a cab to the booked place of stay.
• By Road: Kolkata is well-connected by road from all the major cities of India.

Read more about:

• Places to Visit in Kolkata
• Things to do in Kolkata
• Historical Places in Kolkata
• How to Reach Kolkata

2. Siliguri, West Bengal

Known as ‘Gateway to North East India’, Siliguri is blessed with a strategic location. This serene city is famous for tea, timber, music scene, wildlife and a monastery (Salugara).  It also boasts of multiple tea gardens, and a lush view to calm down your senses. Siliguri is what a doctor would recommend, as an antidote to the hustle and bustle of a metropolis.

• Best time to visit – January-February
• Ideal duration – 1-2 days
• By Air: Take a flight to Bagdogra Airport. Alternatively, one can fly to Kolkata Airport (574 km) and take a bus or train from there.
• By Train: Siliguri has good train connectivity from all major railway stations.
• By Road: One can also avail bus service to Siliguri from Kolkata (558 km).

3. Darjeeling, West Bengal

Any mention of Darjeeling is incomplete without the sprawling tea estates or a plate of steamed momos to go with a refreshing cup of hot tea. Lovingly called the ‘Queen of The Hills’, Darjeeling is one of the best tourist places in West Bengal for 2 days ’ holiday . Its tea gardens, Tiger Hill, Toy Train and Ropeway offer an unparalleled tourism experience.

• Best time to visit – Winter Season (October – December)
• By Air: One can take a flight to Bagdogra, and book a taxi to Darjeeling (67.4 km).
• By Train: Darjeeling’s nearest train station is Jalpaiguri (71.3 km).
• By Road: Darjeeling takes an approximate travel time of fourteen hours ( 614 km ) from Kolkata.

4. Bagdogra, West Bengal

If vistas are your thing, Bagdogra is the perfect destination for you. From offering verdant tea gardens to the majestic sights of snow-capped mountains, Bagdogra will charm and calm you at the same time. Blessed with rich flora and fauna, and the serene Teesta River, it is an ideal getaway to detox your senses. Bagdogra is also an entry point to other north-eastern states.

• Best time to visit – October – March
• By Air: Bagdogra has its own airport
• By Train: Bagdogra’s nearest train station is Jalpaiguri (16 km). Upon reaching there, travellers can easily take a taxi to Bagdogra (56.9 km).
• By Road: One can easily catch a bus to Bagdogra from Kolkata (549 km).

5. Jalpaiguri, West Bengal

This town with a unique name is a haven for nature aficionados and is counted among West Bengal’s famous places . Jalpaiguri has impressive wildlife comprising otters, one-horned rhinoceros, barking dears, leopards and more, thanks to its favourable climatic conditions. Besides being home to Gorumara National Park and Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, it boasts of abundant tea plantations. Jalpaiguri is also recognised for its exquisite wooden and jute handicrafts.

• By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport to Jalpaiguri (51 km).
• By Train: One can take a train till Siliguri, and commence the later part of the journey by road (51 km).
• By Road: Siliguri Rd connects Jalpaiguri to NH27.

6. Kalimpong, West Bengal

Kalimpong is a sleepy little hamlet in the northern region of Darjeeling. However, don’t be fooled by its first impression. The town offers a host of attractions to the discerning travellers including Neora National Park, Deolo Hill, Nature Interpretation Centre, Pratima Tagore House and Dr Graham’s Homes. Besides visiting these places, one can indulge themself in a memorable white water rafting experience on the Teesta River.

• Best time to visit – September – December
• By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport (76 km) to Kalimpong.
• By Train: One can either take a train till Siliguri (67.3 km) or New Jalpaiguri (72.2 km), and commence the rest of the journey by road.
• By Road: One can take a private bus to Kalimpong from Bagdogra (79 km) or Siliguri (70 km).

7. Mirik, West Bengal

Mirik is a post-card perfect spot in the tranquil hills of Darjeeling. Flanked by soaring pine trees, the Sumendu Lake in Mirik presents a scenic delight to revel in. But that’s not all, it’s another attraction Ramitey Dara is particularly famous for dreamy sunrise and sunsets amidst the bird’s-eye view of the valley.

• Best time to visit – September-May
• By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport (47.4 km) to Mirik.
• By Train: One can take either take a train till Jalpaiguri, and commence the rest of the journey by road (56.4 km).
• By Road: One can take a bus to Mirik from Darjeeling (60 km) or Jalpaiguri (88 km).

8. Sundarbans, West Bengal

Sundarbans, literally translated as a beautiful forest, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bio-diverse area is also a flourishing space for globally endangered species such as the Royal Bengal Tiger. Sundarbans are also one of the largest mangrove forests, formed by the meeting of Ganges, Meghna and Brahmaputra rivers. A trip here will make any nature enthusiast squeal with pleasure.

• Best time to visit – October-Number
• Ideal duration – 1-2 days (more, if you are an avid nature lover)
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (101 km) to Sundarbans.
• By Train: One can take either take a train from Canning, located 48 km away from the forest.
• By Road: A lot of buses ply from Kolkata (101 km) on a daily basis.

9. New Digha, West Bengal

Located in Purba Medinipur, New Digha is a newly developed beach town that offers an immersive beach experience. Visitors can not only enjoy panoramic sunrise and sunset, but can also try swimming and authentic local fare here.

• Ideal duration – 1 day
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (191.1 km) to Digha.
• By Train: One can take either board on a train from Howrah Station (179.6 km) to reach this beautiful place.
• By Roads: One can also hop into a bus from Kolkata (179.6 km) to reach here.

10. Durgapur, West Bengal

Largely famous for its steel plant, Durgapur is also considered Ruhr of India. Its image of an industrial township is balanced by various tourist places of note such as Bhabani Pathak’s Tilla, Deul Park, Troika Park and Garh Jungle. Durgapur also happens to be the birthplace of Bimal Mitra, the author of the acclaimed classic, Saheb Biwi aur Gulam.

• Best time to visit – October-November
• Ideal duration – 2 days
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (171.1 km) to Durgapur.
• By Train: Durgapur is well-connected from all the cities of India.
• By Road: One can hop into a bus from Kolkata (172.6 km) and reach here.

11. Dooars, West Bengal

The Dooars or Duars is the gateway to the neighbouring nation of Bhutan. Divided by the Sankosh River into two areas namely Eastern and Western Dooars, the region is lavish with countless rivers such as Torsa, Raidak, Kaljani and Dyna. The region is also famed for cultivating high-grade betel nuts. Dooars stunning surrounding makes it an apt destination for Instagram-worthy pictures.

• Best time to visit: July-August
• Ideal duration: 2 days
• By Air: One can take a flight till Bagdogra (83 km) and cover the rest of the journey by train or road.
• By Train: Madarihaat is the nearest station (17 km) to Dooars.
• By Road: One can hop into a bus from Kolkata (625 km) and reach here.

12. Kurseong, West Bengal

Originally a remote village, Kurseong has developed by leaps and bounds and has made it to the list of best tourist places in West Bengal . The area, which is famous for the prettiest white orchids, and rarefied views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, was at one point, home to acclaimed national and international thinkers such as Rabindranath Tagore and Mark Twain. Who knows you might compose your next winning creation during your visit here.

• Best time to visit: September-October (Avoid visiting this place during monsoons)
• By Air: One can take a flight till Bagdogra (40.3 km) and cover the rest of the journey by train or road.
• By Train: The nearest station (43.5 km) to Kurseong is New Jalpaiguri.
• By Road: One can book a taxi from Bagdogra (41 km) to reach there.

13. Birbhum, West Bengal

Birbhum – The Land of Red Soil – is a venue for many marquee cultural events of Bengal. Out of which, the most noteworthy is Poush Mela. The mela , which is celebrated towards the end of a year, sets a stage for an interaction amongst kaleidoscopic cultures while displaying the heritage and ethos of Bengal in its full glory.

• Best time to visit –  December
• Ideal duration –  2 days
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (184.7 km) to Birbhum.
• By Train: Rampurhat is the closest station (52.6 km) to Birbhum.
• By Road: One can take a private vehicle from Kolkata (188 km) to reach Birbhum.

14. Bishnupur, West Bengal

Known for its exquisitely structured terracotta temples, Bishnupur is an ideal destination for a temple trail. It has Radha Govind Temple, Shyam Rai Temple, Kalachand Temple and more to offer. Once you are done with your temple run, take a piece of Bishnupur with you by buying some artistic and genuine terracotta pieces, this earthy town has to offer.

• Best time to visit –  December
• Ideal duration –  2 days
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (139.4 km) to Bishnupur.
• By Train: Bankura is the closest (3.3 km) to Bishnupur.
• By Road: Bishnupur is 150 km away from Kolkata by road.

15. Murshidabad, West Bengal

A hub of silk weave production, Murshidabad was originally named Makshudabad. Historically, Murshidabad has been the capital of three current states namely Bengal, Bihar and Odisha. Once you are here indulge in a shopping spree or schedule a visit to one of the weaving centres to see how they magically come to life. Not only you will come out with a renewed admiration for Indian weaves, but you will also be supporting the Vocal for Local campaign too.

• Best time to visit –  October-March
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (191. 4 km) to Murshidabad.
• By Train: Murshibad is well connected by trains to major cities.
• By Road: State-run buses ply on daily basis from Kolkata (203.7 km) and Siliguri (374.5 km).

16. Bankura, West Bengal

Over the years, Bankura is becoming one of the fastest-growing tourist spots. The culturally vibrant town is an amalgam of temples: Madan Mohan Temple, Sarada Devi Temple, Shyam Roy Temple, and natural marvels. To sweeten your travel experience, this culturally vibrant town also has its peculiar music tradition, Bishnupur Gharana.

• Ideal duration –  1 day
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (212.9 km) to Bankura.
• By Train: One can catch a train to Bankura (209.1 km) from Kolkata.
• By Road: Bankura can be reached by state government buses plying from various parts of West Bengal.

17. Midnapore, West Bengal

Midnapore or Medinipur is an archaeologist’s delight. The town will appeal to anyone having a deep or far-fetched interest in the subject. It also boasts of unique tourist attractions such as Grand Canyon of Bengal within its vicinity. Midnapore’s famous temples: Chapaleswar and Mahamaya are built in an Odisha architecture style. In the past, the town was the prime centre for all the activities of Brahmo Samaj.

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (139.2 km)  to Midnapore
• By Train: One can board a train till Kharagpur (21 km), and cover the rest of the journey by road
• By Road: One can book a private vehicle to Midnapore (130 km) from Kolkata.

18. Nabadwip, West Bengal

Nabadwip is the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a living incarnation of Shri Krishna, The Supreme Personality of Godhead. The place is abuzz with spiritual vibes, and is frequented by the worldwide devotees of Gaudiya Vaishnavite movement. It is an ideal destination for those longing to find spiritual answers to certain questions, and seeking a travel experience with a side of spirituality.

• Best time to visit – March during full moon
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (119.5 km) to Nabadwip.
• By Train: One can board on a train till Kolkata (132.9 km), and cover the rest of the journey by road.
• By Road: One can also take a direct cab (123.6 km) to Nabadwip from Kolkata.

19. Mandarmani, West Bengal

Mandarmani is a seaside resort village in East Medinipur district, its special attraction include the sight of red crabs coming out on the entire thirteen km stretch of the beach. Untainted by crowd, pollution and noise, Mandarmani is the lesser-known gem, the landscape of Bengal has to offer.

• Best time to visit – October-April
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (178.8 km) to Mandarmani.
• By Train: Digha (29.6 km) and Contai (23 km) are the nearest stations to reach Mandarmani.
• By Road: One can find a large number of buses plying from Howrah (157 km) to Mandarmani.

20. Santiniketan, West Bengal

An essential place to visit, Santiniketan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former home to the Nobel Laureate, Rabindranath Tagore. It brims with ideas, knowledge and an intellectual energy. For a traveller, a visit to Santiniketan entails a shift in perception towards knowledge, arts, literature and other finer things of life.

• Best time to visit – July-February
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (160.4 km) to Santiniketan.
• By Train: Bolpur (108 km) is the nearest station to Santiniketan.
• By Road: Santiniketan enjoys good connectivity by road from Kolkata.

21. Haldia, West Bengal

Haldia, which is a predominantly a port city has a mix of sights to offer. Haldia is yet to find its foothold in the tourist map of Bengal, making it an undiscovered gem. The city also has mini-Japanese community and township, Sataku. This makes Haldia, the only Indian city to have a Japantown. One of the best tourist places in West Bengal , indeed!

• Best time to visit – October-December
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (126.5 km) to Haldia.
• By Train: Haldia is well connected by trains (118.7 km) from Kolkata.
• By Road: Once can take a state-run bus to Haldia from Kolkata (127 km).

22. Bakkhali, West Bengal

Though Bakkhali is a tiny village in West Bengal, it still packs a punch. For a traveller, it has Jambu Dwip, Fraserganj and Bakkhali Watch Tower to offer. A noteworthy characteristic of its beach is its sturdiness to let a vehicle pass through it. Another highlight of this village is that the rickshaws are the only mode of local transport here. That says a lot about its air quality and pollution levels.

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (140.3 km) to Bakkhali.
• By Train: Namkhana (23 km) is the nearest station to Bakkhali.
• By Road: WBSTC has a regular bus facility to Bakkhali (125.1 km) from Esplanade, Kolkata.

23. Lataguri, West Bengal

Welcome to the green side. Green is the ruling colour here. Experience living in a forest during your stay at Lataguri Village. Surrounded by Gorumara National Park, and Nature Interpretation Centre, Lataguri is a preferred destination for tourists who want to spend their time in the lap of nature. Over and all, Lataguri offers what a city life fails to, making it one of the best tourist places in West Bengal .

• Best time to visit – December- February (Closed during the monsoons)
• By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport (67.8 km) to Lataguri.
• By Train: New Jalpaiguri is the nearest station (50.6 km) to Lataguri.
• By Road: WBSTC has a regular bus facility (59.9 km) to Lataguri from Siliguri.

24. Raichak, West Bengal

Besides the breath-taking views, Raichak offers a host of things to do to the visitors. Indulge in a long walk by the river or explore your adventurous side by participating in a waterskiing ride. Hop on a ferry to Gadiara from Nurpur Jetty, and be the witness to the change of vistas. Raichak enjoys an average elevation of 26-feet.

• Best time to visit – December- February
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (68.7 km) to Raichak
• By Train: Kolkata is the nearest station (53.6 km) to Raichak
• By Road: As Raichak is at a short distance from Kolkata (53.6 km), one can book a private vehicle or take a bus there.

25. Cooch Behar, West Bengal

Once the residence of Maharani Gayatri Devi; every corner of Cooch Behar now contains bits and pieces of its glorious history – and a royal past. Relive those moments in time by taking a leisurely walk in and around The Cooch Behar Palace. In her memoir, The Princess Remembers, Maharani Gayatri Devi describes about her growing up years in Cooch Behar at length. Read the book before visiting this place for an enhanced feel. Cooch Behar makes it to the best place to visit in West Bengal list, owing to its royal linkage.

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (708.4 km) to Cooch Behar.
• By Train: One can take a train from Sealdah Station at Kolkata (705.7 km) to Cooch Behar.
• By Road: Cooch Behar is well connected by road from all the cities of West Bengal.

26. Bardhaman, West Bengal

Situated on the banks of holy river Damodar, Bardhman is also called as Granary of Bengal. Bardhaman has various points of interest such as Lord Curzon Gate, Hawa Mahal and Meghnad Saha Planetarium to name a few. Of late, it has become a sanctuary of exotic migratory birds such as teal, gulls during the winter season of every year.

• Best time to visit – November- December
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (101.6 km) to Bardhaman.
• By Train: One can also get on a train from Kolkata to Bardhaman Junction (102 km roughly).
• By Road: Bardhaman has fairly good bus connectivity from all cities of West Bengal.

27. Malda, West Bengal

Known for juiciest mangoes, softest silk and high-quality jute, Malda is another gem in West Bengal. Some of its attractions and activities include Adina Mosque, Lattan Mosque, Chika Mosque, Daakhil Darwaza and more. It is also renowned for growing a wide variety of mangoes. Go devour in the vistas and some mangoes! The best travels are those that are accompanied with a great food, err mangoes!

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (326.4 km) to Malda.
• By Train: One can also get on a train from Kolkata to Malda (328 km).
• By Road: A lot of taxis and private mode of transport are also available from Bagdogra (223.7 km) to Malda.

28. Mukutmanipur, West Bengal

Located at the border of the neighbouring state of Jharkhand, Mukutmanipur most famed attraction is its Deer Park. Though it doesn’t have many spots to visit, it compensates for the lack of number with a peaceful ambience. In its vicinity is the historic site of Ambikanagar, an erstwhile religious place of interest for the Jain community, making it among the best places to visit in West Bengal .

• Best time to visit – October-March
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (265.9 km) to Mukutmanipur.
• By Train: Bankura is the nearest station to Mukutmanipur (55.3 km).
• By Road: One can also opt to travel by road (55.3 km) from Bankura.

29. Mayapur, West Bengal

Situated close to Nabadwip is Mayapur, the spiritual capital of the world. If you are looking for a place to go for some spiritual fulfilment and nourishment, this is the destination to be. Mayapur is the birthplace of ISKCON movement, and a one-stop destination for your entire spiritual quest.

• Best time to visit – November-February
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (123.4 km) to Mayapur.
• By Train: Nabadwip Railway Station (30 km) is the nearest station Mayapur.
• By Road: One can also opt for the daily run buses provided by ISKCON Temple, Kolkata (140 km) to Mayapur.

30. Purulia, West Bengal

While in Purulia, make it a point to witness an authentic Purulia Chhau dance, or head to the Science Museum. Breathe in Purulia’s fresh air and experience a still life in all its glory. Your hustle can wait. Do shop for attractive Chau masks once you are here as these versatile pieces can double up as souvenir and accent pieces in your home décor.

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (288.2 km) to Purulia.
• By Train: One can also travel by train from Kolkata to Purulia (289.9 km).
• By Road: Purulia is also accessible by road from Kolkata (289.9 km).

31. Shankarpur, West Bengal

Shankarpur is a beach village located 14 km east of Digha in West Bengal. Fishing is a way of life here. Besides unadulterated serenity, Shankarpur offers a number of temples for those who are religious at heart. A perfect combination, if you ask us.

• Best time to visit – December-April
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (183 km) to Shankarpur.
• By Train: Digha is the nearest station (14.9 km) to Shankarpur.
• By Road: As it is near Digha, one can take a bus to Digha from Kolkata (182.9 km).

32. Jaldhaka, West Bengal

Jaldhaka  is a travel hide spot in the Darjeeling Hills. It offers a simple yet memorable travelling experience. The place is one of those that will stay with you for a long time. Jaldhaka River is unique in a way owing to how it flows between the nations of Bhutan and India. Now, go make some memories.

• Best time to visit – November-January
• By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport (97.5 km) to Jaldhaka.
• By Train: New Jalpaiguri is the nearest station (81.2 km) to Jaldhaka.
• By Road: Jaldhaka is well connected by roads too

33. Jaldapara National Park, West Bengal

A perfect place to spend time with your friends and family, Jaldapara National Park is famous for the one-horned rhino. Though rhinoceros is the star attraction of Jaldapara National Park, one can also spot eye a bevy of eye-catching species of flora and fauna in an untouched, natural setting.

• By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport (134.3 km) to Jaldapara.
• By Train: Madarihat is the nearest station (1.7 km) to Jaldapara.
• By Road: One can also travel to Jaldapara from Siliguri (125.4 km) using a private mode of transport.

34. Chandannagar, West Bengal

It is West  Bengal’s  Little France and a preferred location for shooting a large number of Bengali movies. In the past, Chandannagar shared an erstwhile connection with France. The presence of French-style architecture in tourist spots such as French Cemetery, Sacred Heart Church, French Governor House, makes Chandannagar, the Pondicherry of East.

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (47.3 km) to Chandannagar.
• By Train: The nearest station (41.7 km) to Chandannagar is Kolkata.
• By Road: One can take a private cab to Chandannagar (48.9 km) from Kolkata as well.

35. Rajabhatkhawa, West Bengal

Rajabhatkhawa is a compact town outside Buxa Tiger Reserve in Alipurduar district. Bordered by forests, it is reputed for its natural habitat. However, the forest remains closed to visitors from mid-June to mid-September. The small town is free from the hustle bustle of any trademark tourist centres, making it an ideal choice for those who like to explore places in a quiet setting.

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (729.4 km) to Rajbhatkhawa.
• By Train: New Jalpaiguri (175.1 km) is the nearest station to Rajbhatkhawa.
• By Road: Alternatively, one can get down at Alipurduar Junction and reach Rajbharkhawa via Damanpur (14.8 km).

36. Gorumara National Park, West Bengal

Gorumara National Park is among the prominent national parks of West Bengal. Known for a sizeable population of Indian rhinoceros, it is a medium-sized park with grasslands and forests. In 2009, it was declared one of the best national parks by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, hence it is a highly sought after wildlife safari destination.

• Best time to visit – November-March
• By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport (72.5 km) to Gorumara National Park.
• By Train: New Jalpaiguri (57.3 km) is the nearest station to Gorumara National Park.
• By Road: As it is near The Dooars, (73 km) one can embark on a road trip from there.

37. Chapramari Sanctuary, West Bengal

Close to Gorumara National Park is Chapramari Sanctuary, famous for being home to elephants among other interesting species of wildlife. A visit to Chapramari Sanctuary is no less than a tete-a-tete with nature at the finest form. The two parks are divided by the Murti River and are full of Himalayan flora and fauna of different kinds.

• By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport (84 km) to Chapramari Sanctuary.
• By Train: The nearest station to Chapramari is Malbazar (13.8 km).
• By Road: As it is near The Dooars, one can go by road from there. It is a two and a half journey from Siliguri.

38. Rishyap, West Bengal

Rishyap  is a small tourist village nestled in the Kalimpong Hills. With an altitude of over 8,100-feet, it offers views of Nathula Pass, the famous Indo-Chinese Border. Lepchas, an indigenous group of people reside predominantly in Rishyap village. The pleasant and inviting climate make it a perfect spot for a traveller seeking some adventure.

• By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport (120.4 km) to Rishyap.
• By Train: NJP is the nearest station to Rishyap (105.7 km).
• By Road: One can take a taxi from NJP to Kalimpong (72.2 km), and then change to other transportation from there.

39. Buxa Tiger Reserve, West Bengal

Buxa Tiger Reserve is home to India’s national animal. While there, one can take a detour to Lepchaka, a homely village and experience rural hospitality at its best. Buxa Fort is another attraction to consider. This one is for those who like to feast their eyes on the sight of rugged hills and an enriching bio-diversity on the horizon.

• By Air: Bagdogra is the nearest airport (195.2 km) to Buxa.
• By Train: Alipurdar is the nearest station (26.5 km) to Buxa.
• By Road: One can take a bus from Kolkata till Hasimara (709 km), and change to a private vehicle for the rest of the leg of the journey (37.2 km).

40. Tajpur, West Bengal

A popular beach town in West Bengal, Tajpur is known for its 16-km long beach that lies on the Digha route. Tajpur, being one of the virgin beaches of the country, provides a noise-free tranquil experience for those seeking a moment of bliss. One can take a leisurely stroll with the waves touching their feet or relive their childhood by making sandcastles; the possibilities are many.

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (180.7 km) to Tajpur.
• By Train: Digha is the nearest station (18.4 km) to Tajpur.
• By Road: One can take a private vehicle from Kolkata (173 km) to Tajpur.

41. Sonajhuri Forest, West Bengal

Close to Santiniketan is the lush Sonajhuri Forest, which is a great place to spend some priceless moments in the wilderness. The forest is also a venue for the Sonajhuri Forest Fair organised every Saturday. Tourists deem Sonajhuri as one of the safest forests in the country.

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (162 km) to Sonajhuri Forest.
• By Train: Bolpur is the nearest station (162 km) to Sonajhuri Forest.
• By Road: Sonajhuri Forest enjoys good connectivity by road from Kolkata (162 km).

42. Barrackpore, West Bengal

Previously known as Chanak and Barbuckpur, Barrackpore was the administrative and military base during the British Raj. Besides containing the cantonment, Barrackpore doubled up as a vacation spot for the British. All in all, this destination is a perfect blend of history and geography.

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (31.6 km) from Barrackpore.
• By Train: Take a train from Sealdah Station (31.6 km) to Barrackpore.
• By Road: You can take private transport from Kolkata through Barrackpore Trunk Road (31.6 km).

43. Jhargram, West Bengal

Jhargram has all the ingredients of a tourist destination be it forest, historical temples and royal palaces. Lose yourself in the vistas of Jhargram Royal Palace, Kanak Durga Temple, Jhili Lake, and Rameswar Temple or learn more about the tribes at the Bandarvula Tribal Interpretation Centre.

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (173.7 km) to Jhargram.
• By Train: Take a train from Kolkata station to Jhargram (178 km).
• By Road: You can hire a cab from Kolkata (178 km).

44. Kamarpukur, West Bengal

Sandwiched between Vishnupur and Tarakeshwar, Kamarpukur is the birthplace of a noted religious figure, Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa. The place is ideal for those seeking a complete pastoral experience. It has a Ramkrishna Temple constructed by using organic Dheki fibres. In its heydays, Kamarpukur was the production hub of Bengali sweets of various kinds.

• Best time to visit – November-December
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (97.3 km) to Kamarpukur.
• By Train: Take a train from Kolkata Station to Tarakeshwar Station, located 50 km from Kamarpukur.
• By Road: You can take a state-run bus from Kolkata (97 km).

45. Bakreshwar, West Bengal

Bakreshwar is a village in the Birbhum district. The place is blessed with natural hot springs that are known to have healing properties. It is one of the fifty-one Shakti Peeth across the country (a pilgrimage destination in Shaktism). Because of its religious significance, the Bakreshwar Temple here (dedicated to Lord Shiva) attracts hordes of tourists from near and far.

• Best time to visit – July-December
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport to Bakreswar (216.9 km).
• By Train: Birbhum is the nearest station (34.2 km) to Bakreswar.
• By Road: There are a lot of transportation options available from Kolkata (216.9 km) to reach Bakreswar by road.

46. Falta, West Bengal

Falta is an out and out river town. It also houses the farmhouse of famous Bengali botanist, Jagdish Chandra Bose, The Bose Bigyan Mandir. The other nearby places you can go includes Raichak, Haldia, Tamluk and Diamond Harbor. Remember to try some authentic seafood once you are here.

• Best time to visit – Anytime
• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (50.2 km) to Falta.
• By Train: Kolkata is the nearest station (58.3 km) to Falta.
• By Road: One can take a bus from Esplanade (52 km) to reach Falta.

47. Hugli Chinsurah, West Bengal

Here, one can find an old Hindu Temple and the country’s oldest Armenian Church in existence. Counted among the top places to visit in West Bengal , Hugli Chinsurah has played a pivotal role in the Bengal Renaissance Movement. Developed by Portuguese and Dutch, one can relish in its architecture style by visiting the Dutch Cemetery, Susana Anna Maria Tomb, The Basilica of the Holy Rosary. The Hooghly Imambara is another piece of wonder you should try not to miss.

• By Air: Kolkata is the nearest airport (53 km) to Hugli Chinsurah.
• By Train: Kolkata is the nearest station (50.7 km) to Hugli Chinsurah.
• By Road: You can take a private taxi from Kolkata (50 km) to reach Hugli Chinsurah.

48. Howrah, West Bengal

Any itinerary to Kolkata is incomplete without a visit to Howrah. A major tourist attraction, Howrah is famed for its cantilever bridge that took a whopping eight years to complete and proximity to the scenic ghats and Dakshineshwar Temple. One can also marvel at the resplendence of nearby attractions such as Belur Math, Garchumuk and Gadiara. Many hotels in Kolkata can be found in and around Howrah.

• Best time to visit – During Durga Puja/Christmas (October-December)
• By Air: Kolkata Airport is at a short distance (26 km) from Howrah.
• By Train: One can travel by train to the Howrah Junction, and take a cab from there.
• By Road: One can also book a private mode of transport from Kolkata.

The many marvels of West Bengal are a sight to behold. They have the rustic charm of the countryside, a whiff of the era gone by and a mingling of various timelines – often blurring into one onto your memory for a long, long time.

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Best Places in West Bengal – Complete Guide

West Bengal is known as the most cultural state of India. However, tourism is another best thing about this state. From amazing sea beaches to splendid hill stations, this state is very diverse when it comes to tourism. If you are searching for the best places in West Bengal for your next trip, then we are here to help you out. 

Best Places in West Bengal

Attractions, best time to visit, how to reach.

• Sundarbans National Park

Shantiniketan

Digha & mandarmani, murshidabad, frequently asked questions.

Besides Kolkata, this state has some amazing travel destinations. In the following, we are covering ten best places in West Bengal that can make your visit more magical. 

Popularly known as ‘The City of Joy’ , Kolkata is the heart of Bengal. Without any doubt, Kolkata holds the #1 position on this list. If you are a city lover and finding a place that can give you both classic and futuristic vibes, then Kolkata is the ideal place. 

From beautiful travel hotspots to mouthwatering cuisines , Kolkata is the heaven for travel buffs. Moreover, the intellectuality of the city enriches the cultural value, and you will witness it every single corner. 

Kolkata is also known as the festive hub of India. You may know what Durga Puja means for this city. However, it would be better if you witness this magical experience during your visit in October. Additionally, this city also celebrates festivals like Holi, Christmas, and Rabindra Jayanti with full passion and dedication.

• Victoria Memorial 
• Indian Museum
• Science City 
• Dakshineswar Temple

You can visit Kolkata any time. Although many visitors travel Kolkata during Durga Puja. On the other hand, you can also visit during winter. 

Being the biggest city in eastern India, Kolkata is easily reachable by air, rail, and road. Both Howrah and Sealdah railway stations are located in Kolkata. So, you can easily reach this place by rail.

Alternatively, the air is another good option as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose airport in Kolkata handles both international and domestic flights. By road could be a great option too as many government and private agencies run buses to connect Kolkata with all other major cities across India. 

Sundarban Tiger Reserve has the world’s highest tiger population.

World’s largest delta Sundarban enriches the beauty of West Bengal. Sundarban is also the largest Mangrove Forest in the world. Sundarban National Park is popular as a tiger reserve for Royal Bengal Tiger . Many people add this national park to their bucket list. Sundarban earned the World Heritage Site title by UNESCO in 1987.

• Sajnekhali Watch Tower
• Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary 
• Netidhopani

Sundarban could be visited at all times of the year.

Sundarban is only reachable by riverine waterways. The distance between Kolkata to Sundarban is around 130 km, so you can reach the place by bus. 

The nearest railway station is Canning which is located around 48 km away. Then, you have to get a motor launch to reach Sundarban.

Darjeeling has the largest ropeway in Asia.

When we are talking about the best places in West Bengal, Darjeeling is another most visited place in this state. From tea gardens to heritage Toy Train, Darjeeling could be the perfect destination for your holidays. Besides these, Darjeeling is blessed with the picturesque natural views of Himalayan mountains. Plus, don’t forget to taste mouthwatering Tibetian and Nepalese cuisines here.

• Peace Pagoda
• Kanchenjunga
• Batasia Loop
• Barbotey Rock Garden
• Neora National Park

All around the year. However, you should avoid visiting Darjeeling during Moonsoon as landslide events are common during this time.

The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) which is located around 72 km away from Darjeeling. Get a train from Sealdah railway station to NJP, and then hire a cab to reach Darjeeling. 

There are also bus services available from Kolkata to reach this place. On the other hand, Bagdogra is the nearest domestic airport which is located at a distance of 68 km away from Darjeeling. Cab service is also available from there.

Known as the Treasure Trove of famous Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore, Shantiniketan is one of the best places in West Bengal. This little town is located near Bolpur where the Visva Bharati University is located.

From Kala Bhavan to Uttarayan, Shantiniketan could be the favourite place for history and culture enthusiasts. Santiniketan also arranges many popular festivals like Pouse Mela and Holi. 

• Tagore’s Ashram
• Kala Bhavan
• Patha Bhavan
• Prakriti Bhabhan
• Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary

October to April is the ideal time to reach Shantiniketan. Many tourists visit this place during ‘Pouse Mela’ and Holi. However, due to the unbearable heat, you should avoid this place during summer. 

The nearest railway station of Santiniketan in Bolpur (nearly 2 km away). Alternatively, you can reach this place by road. The nearest airport is Netaji Shubhash Chandra Bose, Kolkata. 

If you are finding a historic place in West Bengal, then Bishnupur could be a perfect destination. Crafted with beautiful Terracotta design, Bishnupur is has various temples and forts. Plus, the famous Balucheri saree is very popular here. 

• Jorebangla Temple
• Madan Mohan Temple
• Radha Gobinda Temple
• Gate of Old Fort
• Dalmadal Kaman Canon

All around the year.

The best way to reach Bishnupur is by road. You will easily get a cab from Kolkata. If you are not a West Bengal native, you should avoid local trains.  

Digha is one of the most popular places in West Bengal. This place is more popular as a weekend destination among locals. Just like Digha, Mandermani is also an amazing seaside holiday destination. If you are finding a less-crowded seaside place, Mandarmani is the perfect one. 

• New and Old Digha Beach
• Shankarpur Beach
• Digha Mohona
• Mandarmani Beach
• Marine Aquarium 

Because of the pleasant weather and good transportation, both Digha and Mandarmani welcome tourists throughout the year. So, you can visit any time.

The distance between Digha and Kolkata is around 190 km. Many people visit Digha and Mandarmani from Kolkata by car. However, there are also government and private bus services available from Kolkata.

You can also reach Digha by train from Howrah Station. However, these places don’t have airports. 

If you think Himachal Pradesh or Uttarakhand only have the most beautiful hill stations, then you are wrong. Darjeeling is not only hill station that West Bengal have, and Kalimpong could clear your doubt. Besides the Kalimpong town, this little district has some picturesque villages that can steal your heart. 

• Kalimpong Science Centre
• Pine View Nursery
• Durpin Dara Hill
• 7th Mile View Point

September to March is the best time to visit Kalimpong.

The nearest airport to Kalimpong is Bagdogra which is located around 77 km away. You can hire a cab from there to reach Kalimpong. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, around 73 km away. Most people reach Kalimpong by hiring a cab from NJP.

Alternatively, you can also get a bus from Kolkata and reach Siliguri. Then, get a cab and reach Kalimpong.

Murshidabad was the capital of Bengal until the East India Company came here.

The city of Nawab is another most visited historical place in West Bengal. Located around 200 km from Kolkata, Murshidabad is famous for the history of Nawab. Hazarduari Palace is the main attraction here and you should not miss this place. 

• Hazarduari Palace
• Motijheel Park
• Kathgola Gardens
• Char Bangla Temple
• Katra Masjid

You can visit Murshidabad throughout the year. However, because of the unbearable weather, many people avoid this place during summer.

The nearest airport is Netaji Shubhash Chandra Bose airport. However, it’s located around 195 km from Murshidabad. The best way to reach this place is from Kolkata. Then, you can hire a cab to reach there. 

Mayapur is also famous as the birthplace of Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a spiritual leader from the 15th century. 

The headquarter of ISKCON is a well-deserved destination in this best places in West Bengal list. Mayapur is a famous pilgrim city in this state that is popular among followers of Lord Krishna. 

• ISKCON Chandrodaya Temple
• Shri Chaitanya Math

All over the year.

You can easily reach Mayapur by road from Kolkata. The distance is around 110 km. Alternatively, Kolkata ISKCON Temple provides a bus at 6 am daily. Plus, many private agencies run buses from Esplanade.

Last but not least, Dooars is probably an hidden beauty of West Bengal. Situated at the foothill of Himalayan mountains, Jaldapara National Park can give an incomparable experience, especially you are having an Elephant Safari. 

• Coronation Bridge
• Chilapata Forest
• Latpanchere

September to March is the ideal time to visit Dooars. 

Madarihat is the nearest railway station to Dooars. You can also reach this place from NJP railway station. On the other hand, Bagdogra is also a good option to reach Dooars. 

Q: What is the famous in West Bengal?

West Bengal is famous for the natural and historical beauty. Plus, the Bengali cuisines of this state is quite popular throughout India.

Q: What is West Bengal famous food?

There are various veg and non-veg Bengali foods available in this state. Moreover, this state is famous for mouthwatering sweets.

Q: Is West Bengal safe for travelers?

West Bengal is completely safe for travelers. Kolkata is very safe compared to other cities in India. 

Q: What is the best time to visit West Bengal?

You can visit West Bengal any time in the year. 

These are the most popular places to visit in West Bengal. We hope this guide was helpful for you. If you have selected your favorite places, then get ready to have an unforgettable experience.

Ruchira is the founder of India Travelpedia, a writer by passion and profession. Besides writing, she’s a travel buff, foodie, and culture enthusiast.

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10 Best Places to Visit in West Bengal (In 2024)

Here in this article, we are going to introduce you to some of the most famous places to see in West Bengal.

Situated in Eastern India, West Bengal, the fourth most populated state in the country is a place where diverse cultures and origins exist together harmoniously. With its combination of many languages, religions, cultures, traditions, cuisines, and lifestyles, West Bengal adds a distinct taste to India’s richness while providing numerous travel spots. 

There are several popular travel locations where you can go exploring West Bengal and gain local experiences.

Here are some of the 10 best places to visit in West Bengal.

Kolkata – The Cultural Capital

Kolkata , previously Calcutta, the city in West Bengal state and former capital of British India (1772-1911) is one of the largest cities in India and a significant port. The city is located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River. Kolkata, the primary urban hub of eastern India, is a metropolis of commerce, manufacturing, and transport.

Kolkata, also referred to as the City of Joy, is the country’s artistic, cultural, and intellectual hub that makes it one of the must-visit places in West Bengal.

Why should you visit Kolkata?

Kolkata’s streets are vibrant, crowded, and chaotic, yet they are equally energetic and full of creativity. The city has developed a stunning combination of historical colonial-era elegance with the growing trendy culture that flourishes among the city’s younger generations, powered by the tenacious spirit of the citizens.

Kolkata’s historic past is reflected in its numerous magnificent buildings, structures, and architectural marvels.

What are the main attractions of Kolkata?

Be sure to explore the historical sites that bear proof of Kolkata’s age-old tradition and heritage. Some of these sites include the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Jorasanko Thakur Bari (Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore’s home) and more.

Darjeeling – The Queen of Hill Stations

Darjeeling, India’s former summer capital during the British Raj, has grown into one of the top travel destinations in West Bengal.

Why should you visit Darjeeling?

Darjeeling, also known as the “Queen of the Hills,” is nestled amid the undulating slopes, with the gleaming Mt Kanchenjunga reaching over the expanse of sky. 

This is the home of the world-famous muscatel-flavored Darjeeling tea and the renowned Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, with an age-old tiny steam engine that travels upwards along with speedy Land Rovers.

What are the main attractions of Darjeeling?

Here, you will be able to enjoy a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga Peak, the world’s third-highest mountain and the tallest in India which is visible from here. 

Botanical gardens, monasteries, a zoo, riding the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway extending to Batasia Loop and the Darjeeling-Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway cable car, the longest Asian cable car, are among the most prominent tourist hotspots in Darjeeling . Additionally, Tiger Hill is one of the excellent natural beauty spots for viewing the flaming sunrise over the mountains.

Sundarbans – Where the Delta Meets the Ocean

Sundarbans National Park, known for having the world’s largest mangrove forests, is located around 110 kilometers south of Kolkata in West Bengal, India.

Why should you visit the Sundarbans?

This destination is both a Tiger Reserve as well as a Biosphere Reserve known for its Royal Bengal tigers, alongside its rushing rivers and stunning estuaries. 

Sundarbans National Park is situated in the Sundarban delta, which stretches into Bangladesh. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site having a wide range of bird and wildlife species, including reptile species like salt-water crocodiles.

What are the main attractions of Sundarbans?

Tiger spotting is the most popular enjoyment in the Sundarbans. There are many more things to experience and see like touring the mangrove forests, spotting crocodiles, bird watching, climbing the watchtower and enjoying the splendor of the Sundarbans by taking a boat ride around the rivers and canals.

Digha and Mandarmani – Beach Retreats

Digha is a beach vacation town in West Bengal. And around 29 km from Digha, Mandarmani is a pristine seaside leisure village in West Bengal. It’s an excellent spot to unwind and get away from city life.

Why should you visit Digha and Mandarmani?

Digha is a renowned tourist attraction noted for its untamed beaches and gorgeous landscapes, particularly among people from West Bengal. This renowned location offers a lot to tourists of all ages, with its stunning beaches, high-tech research centers, religious temples, and museums.

Mandarmani is one of the best tourist destinations to spend time leisurely, unwind and get away from city life.

These top West Bengal sites are well-known for their relaxed beaches, scenic panoramas, and rich marine life.

What are the main attractions of Digha and Mandarmani?

There are several things you can do in these locations, starting from enjoying adventurous water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, quad bike riding, snorkeling, and more to relaxing on the beach while hearing and watching the sea waves. 

While you are there, you won’t want to miss out on their delicious local seafood cuisine including prawns, crabs, lobsters, and more.

Shantiniketan – Abode of Art and Culture

Shantiniketan, previously a town in the state of West Bengal in northeastern India is currently a region of Bolpur, Birbhum district.

Shantiniketan originated as Shantiniketan Ashram, a meditation institution founded and funded in 1863 by Maharishi Debendranath, the father of world-renowned Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore.

Why should you visit Shantiniketan?

Santiniketan means “abode of peace,” and it was here that art bloomed in various forms, ultimately becoming a cultural symbol. Rabindranath Tagore composed many of his literary masterpieces here at Santiniketan.

What are the main attractions of Shantiniketan?

Visva Bharati University, founded by Rabindranath Tagore’s father and afterward popularised by him, dominates the town. Today, this wonderfully designed institution and tranquil town has earned the distinction of being one of the most popular heritage sites, where paths of knowledge and artistic brilliance intersect. 

Other places you can visit there are Tagore’s Ashram, the Poush Mela festival, Rabindra Bhaban Museum which holds a lot of historical information, and more.

Bishnupur – Temples and Terracotta Treasures

Bishnupur in West Bengal’s Bankura district is named after Lord Vishnu, who was the deity of the Vaishnavite Malla Kings who reigned there. Traditional architecture, handicrafts like pottery, weaving and such along with their music reflect Bishnupur’s magnificent history and rich culture.

Why should you visit Bishnupur?

This is another art and culture hub of West Bengal because it is famous for the terracotta temples developed by Malla rulers, ancient Radha Krishna temples constructed between 1600 and 1800 CE and Baluchari sarees. 

Bishnupur’s past and ornate culture translates into several tourist attractions, highlighted by the area’s fondness for classical music, art, and handicrafts.

What are the main attractions of Bishnupur?

Some of the sightseeing places include Rasmancha Temple, Madan Mohan Temple, Susunia Hill, Jorebangla Temple, Mukutmonipur and others.

Siliguri – Gateway to the Northeast

Siliguri is another one of the tourist places in West Bengal. It is a city in the northern West Bengal state in northeastern India. It is located to the west of the Mahananda River.

Siliguri is the terminal of highways from Kalimpong and Sikkim, as well as road and rail links to Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri, and it serves as an important trading hub for Darjiling, Sikkim, and Tibet.

Why should you visit Siliguri?

Siliguri is referred to as the “Gateway to Northeast India” because of its tea, tourism, and timber. It is situated on the banks of the Mahananda and Teesta rivers in the Himalayan foothills, where you can experience the grandeur of such surroundings. Siliguri is also famous for being an important connecting and commercial hub.

What are the main attractions of Siliguri?

You can add Siliguri to your West Bengal exploration list as it is an excellent tourist spot with enough sights to see and experience. Some of the top places to visit there are Surya Sen Park and Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary, enjoy fishing and boat rides while admiring the spectacular surroundings, go on a souvenir shopping spree at numerous unique markets and more.

Kalimpong – Offbeat Beauty

Kalimpong is located in the east of Darjeeling, on the Shivalik mountains’ foothills at an elevation of 1250 meters, overlooking the Teesta Valley. 

The tourist destination is a West Bengal hill station known for its breathtaking landscape views, Buddhist monasteries and churches, Tibetan handicrafts, and so on.

Why should you visit Kalimpong?

The tourist destination is a West Bengal hill station known for its breathtaking landscape views, Buddhist monasteries and churches, Tibetan handicrafts, and so on. 

Kalimpong is a nature lover’s dream and a hidden gem, surrounded by breathtaking mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and rich tropical gardens.

What are the main attractions of Kalimpong?

Kalimpong has everything whether you would like to go on an adventure, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Alps, eat delicious local cuisine, or explore gorgeous temples and monasteries. Some of the notable spots include Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, Deolo Hill, Teesta Bazaar and more.

Murshidabad – A Glimpse into History

Murshidabad is a town in the state of West Bengal in northeastern India. The town is an agricultural trading and silk-weaving centre, located eastward of the Bhagirathi River.

Why should you visit Murshidabad?

Murshidabad has witnessed it all starting from pre-British Nawabs to English Lords. This little attraction in West Bengal combines the enchantment of history with the values of the present. 

Previously known as Makhsudabad, is said to have been established in the 16th century by Mughal Emperor Akbar. The ruler Murshid Qul Khan moved the capital from Dacca (now Dhaka, Bangladesh) and renamed the place Murshidabad in 1704.

What are the main attractions of Murshidabad?

Murshidabad offers many places that you can add to your Bengal tourism package, starting from Hazarduari Palace, Imambara, and the Katra Mosque to going shopping in the bazaars where you can find almost anything handcrafted and more. The city will take you to history and fill you with amazement and relaxation.

Durgapur – An Important Place

Last, but not the least, Durgapur is another one of the famous travel spots in West Bengal. It is located in the district of Burdwan, in the Indian state of West Bengal. 

It is a traditional Bengali town and is sometimes referred to be the Steel Capital of East India. This location combines the vibrancy of a metropolis with the charm of a small village.

Why should you visit Durgapur?

Durgapur is the place to go if you want to experience a real Indian retreat because it is filled with temples, old-world marketplaces, parks, and even a barrage. This industrial town in the heart of West Bengal has more to offer than simply traditional food and a few tourist attractions.

What are the attractions of Durgapur?

Durgapur offers several exploration spots including Durgapur Barrage and Rahreswar Shibtola, you can go shopping at the Junction Mall, have a nice picnic at Deul Park and more.

Conclusion: Top 10 Tourist Places in West Bengal

Several iconic landmarks in West Bengal offer tourists diverse adventure opportunities and getaway spots, the above-mentioned are just a few of them. It is a place where you will be able to experience diverse cultures, history and cuisine so be sure to add these amazing destinations to your list of West Bengal vacations.

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Ideal duration, starting from, http://wbtourismgov.in/, best places to visit in west bengal (2020).

A lush green paradise, a little rustic sometimes, West Bengal is a great place for a vacation. West Bengal points of interest are many, and needless to say each one is more beautiful than the other. There is a myriad of places to visit in West Bengal such as Darjeeling, The Sundarbans National Park, Mirik, Jaldapara National Park, Bankura, Siliguri, the Buxa Hills and many others. Of all these famous places in West Bengal , the most famous ones probably are Darjeeling. Every year tourists from all over the country flock to it, to see the snow covered hills from up close and enjoy the much talked about sunrises. Other hill stations in West Bengal include places such as Pedong, Sandakphu, Kurseong, Dooars Valley and a few others.

Historical Places in West Bengal

There are several historical places in West Bengal that tell the stories of its glorious past, be it the time of the larger than life kings who ruled the land or when the British architects were at their prime. The state of West Bengal is full of behemoth buildings and monuments, palaces and temples; some of which have been turned into museums and heritage houses for people to enjoy and learn from, while still others have been allowed to run dilapidated. Kolkata itself houses many museums and ancient monuments that are a major throwback to the British era, making it another must visit the city when in West Bengal.

Sunderbans, Darjeeling tea plantations, Mandarmani Beach, Diamond Harbour, and Bakkhali are some of the places to visit in West Bengal in monsoon. Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Siliguri, and Lava are most visited tourist places in North Bengal . The Great Banyan Tree, Cooch Behar Palace, Hazarduari Palace, Bishnupur Terracotta Temples, and Belur Math are popular historical places in West Bengal worth visiting.

The most important part about the state and the best places to visit in West Bengal is that it has something or the other to offer to people from all walks of life, all ages and of varied interests. In a state famed for its natural greenery, lakes in the backyards of every home, rich historical heritage and so much more, West Bengal welcomes all with open arms. Come here for the natural beauty, and you might end up staying longer than you intended for it's simple, down to earth way of living and absolutely decadent cuisine.

A majorly popular West Bengal tourist spot, Jalpaiguri is also a must-visit if you are touring the state in its entirety. Jalpaiguri gives easy access to Kalimpong and Gangtok in Sikkim , Shillong in Meghalaya, Pokhara in Nepal and is a favorite stopover for those looking to cover these attractions near the state of West Bengal. There are a plethora of places to visit near West Bengal, such as Gaya in Bihar and Ranchi in Jharkhand, both places of historical and religious importance.

Some of the other famous places to visit in West Bengal include Malda for its mosques and mausoleums, Cooch Behar for its dense forestlands and palaces, Birbhum for Shantiniketan and other temples , and Taki for its beaches and proximity to the Bangladesh border. Make sure that you plan your trip for long enough to cover all of these attractions, and spend enough time to explore this beautiful state to your heart’s content.

Shopping Places in West Bengal

The best shopping places to visit in West Bengal are Hatibagan Market, Mallickghat Flower Market, New Market, Chandni Chowk, South City Mall, Esplanade, Burrabazaar Market, Gariahat Market, Quest Mall, City Center 1, Mani Square, and Bowbazar Market. The best buy from these places are sarees, jewelry, handicrafts, and paintings.

Top Stay Areas For Tourists

The best areas to stay for tourists in West Bengal are Kolkata, Shantiniketan, Bishnpur, Digha, Darjeeling, Sunderbans, Bankura, Midnapore, Siliguri, and Murshidabad.

Art & Culture

Tiger Hill in Darjeeling

The majestic view of the Kangchenjunga peaks and the warmth of the sunlight make Tiger Hill in Darjeeling a perfect holiday destination. Everest looks at you from far away and enhances the picturesque beauty of the location. At the highest point of Tiger Hill , the summit Ghoom awaits to introduce you to the beautiful views ...

• Sightseeing

Ghoom Monastery in Darjeeling

India is one of the most visited countries in Asia. It has endless tourism objects enriched with original culture and friendly people. If you happen to visit India, you would never want to skip visiting Darjeeling. It is located in West Bengal, India. Darjeeling is well known as the largest tea Industry in West Bengal. One ...

• Ideal for families

Mahakaleshwar Temple in Darjeeling

The Mahakal Temple in Darjeeling is located on the summit of the observatory hill and hence it offers scenic views of the city from the top. The deity of Lord Shiva is the main deity here that is worshipped. As per the history of the place, it is said that the place where the temple has been built today was earlier a place ...

• Religious Tour

Tea Garden in Darjeeling

The Tea garden in Darjeeling has gained much fame over the years for its serenity and beauty. And so of all the things to do, visits to the tea gardens are considered to be a must-do! It not only lets you experience the breathtaking beauty of the gardens but also offers the much-needed refreshing experience that you may nee...

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Batasia Loop in Darjeeling

The Batasia Loop located in Darjeeling is located on Hill Cart Road (National Highway 55) of West Bengal, India. This Batasia Loop in Darjeeling was created in order to alleviate the steep gradient in the hills. It was engineered by the British in 1919 to negotiate the 140 ft drastic fall of the train.  The track wraps arou...

• Toy Train ride

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling

With an average elevation of 7,000 feet,  Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling  offers an exciting trip experience for the visitors. The park was opened in 1958 and has been a home to different kinds of animals since. The park is popular as the breeding center for the animals that are adapted to live in alpin...

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West Bengal Tourism

West bengal travel essentials.

Ideal duration: 4 - 12 days

Best Time: October to March Read More

Major Airports: Kolkata, Bagdogra Read more about Airports in West Bengal

"Beautiful Bengal"

West bengal, india.

West Bengal boasts of different ethnicities, cultures, religions, people and languages which add to its beautiful landscapes, forests, coastal beauty as well as its heritage.

The beautiful state of West Bengal attracts a significant number of tourists every year as the state is jewelled with mesmerising landscapes, snow-clad mountains, gushing sea, blossoming tea gardens, enormous deltas, lush green forests, plentiful wildlife, ancient temples and magnificent British monuments. The Tiger Hill, the Howrah Bridge, the Tea Gardens are some of the famous tourist spots which offer an insight into the vast culture and history of the West Bengal. The culture of the state is adorned by colourful fairs and festivals every month. A vast number of famous pilgrimages also attract a large number of tourists of all faiths and beliefs.

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Darjeeling and Pelling Tour Package - Tiger Hill

7-day adventure in darjeeling, kalimpong, and dooars, dooars & kalimpong tour package with jungle safari, sikkim holiday package - 5 nights 6 days, sikkim bhutan bike trip - an adventurous journey through the himalayas, darjeeling kalimpong tour package, top attractions in west bengal.

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What's great about travelling to west bengal.

Darjeeling in the northern part of West Bengal is an extension of the Himalayan range while Dooars in the foothills is covered with thick forests. River Ganga which flows through the state between the Himalayan and delta region marks the fertile Gangetic plains. West Bengal's rich physical diversity and old world charm is very attractive for tourists.

What's Not So Great about Travelling to West Bengal?

While the capital is well connected through air and railways, the absence of direct flights and trains to places like Darjeeling and Kalimpong for tourists may cause some hassle.

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• West bengal
• Places to visit in West Bengal

Places To Visit in West Bengal

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157 Best Places to visit in West Bengal

Darjeeling is a mesmerising hill station located in West Bengal and is a divine amalgamation of lush green hills, beautiful serene monasteries, tea plantations and the amazing toy train. The city is also known as the Queen of Hill Stations

Sagar Island

Sagar island is an island in the Ganges delta, lying on the mainland rack of Bay of Bengal around 100 km 54 nautical miles south of Kolkata.This island frames the Sagar CD Block in Kakdwip subdivision of South 24 Parganas

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Established in 1690 as the trading post for the English East India Company by Job Charnock, Kolkata, or Calcutta as it was formerly called, is the present capital of the eastern state of West Bengal and one of the largest

Siliguri is a city in the upper east Indian province of West Bengal. It sits in the lower regions of the Himalayas, encompassed by tea gardens. Appropriately named as the passage of North East India, it is the travel city

Immerse yourself in India’s religious heritage and humanitarian culture on this full-day private tour to Ganga Sagar, an important Hindu pilgrimage site on Sagar Island for travelers from all over the world. With your expert and passionate guide, visit ious

Right at the foothills of Himalayas lies this place called Bagdogra. The beauty of Bagdogra becomes even more mesmerizing during the monsoon time as one can see the clouds hovering on top of the mountains. If you want to stay

Kalimpong, a pristine hill station in West Bengal, is located about 50 km east of the famous tourist destination Darjeeling. This hill town, overlooking the beautiful Teesta valley, is at an altitude of 1250 m above the sea level and

Jalpaiguri is a city in the Indian province of West Bengal. It is the biggest city and the base camp of the Jalpaiguri locale, and the divisional home office of the area. The city is situated on the banks of

Digha is a town that is situated in the state of West Bengal, in the district of East Midnapore. It is a popular beach town and there are different activities that you can engage in the area. Many tourists from

Mayapur is a city in West Bengal, India. It is seen as a hallowed place by devout diverse traditions inside Hinduism, yet is of one of a kind criticalness to enthusiasts of Gaudiya Vaishnavism as the inception of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu,

The Sundarbans is a mangrove area inside the delta fashioned through the confluence of Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna Rivers inside the Bay of Bengal. It spans from the Hooghly River in India's kingdom of West Bengal to the Baleswar River

Murshidabad

Murshidabad is a town in Murshidabad area of West Bengal state in India. The city of Murshidabad is situated on the eastern bank of the Bhagirathi, a distributary of the Ganges River. Murshidabad was a town and locale of British

The sight of Howarah Bridge against a backdrop of the setting sun is a sight that reamains etched in the mind for a long time.What makes Howrah unique is its bristling romance with Kolkata , connected by four bridges namely

Santiniketan

It is a residential area close Bolpur in the Birbhum region of West Bengal, India, roughly 180 km north of Kolkata once in the past Calcutta. It was set up by Maharshi Devendranath Tagore, and later extended by his child

It is coastline village in Namkhana people group improvement obstruct in Kakdwip subdivision of South 24 Parganas locale of West Bengal, India. It is situated on one of the numerous deltaic islands spread crosswise over southern Bengal. The vast majority

Dooars is the passage to the slope stations of North Bengal and Bhutan. Renowned for its tea greenery enclosures, backwoods and the River Teesta, it is perfect for nature devotees and experience searchers. The district is known for its natural

Purulia City also known as "Manbhum City", is a city located in West Bengal state, India, and was constituted in 1876. It is the area of the locale home office of Purulia region. Purulia is situated on the north of

Mandarmani is a small beach town that is located in the state of West Bengal. It is situated along the Southern regions of the state. The place is famous its long stretches of virgin beaches that are yet to be

olpur is a Municipality city in region of Birbhum, West Bengal. The Bolpur city is partitioned into 18 wards for which races are held at regular intervals. The Bolpur Municipality has populace of 80,210 of which 40,468 are guys while

Phalut or Falut is the second highest peak of West Bengal. The place is located at the border of West Bengal and Sikkim and Nepal. The place is surrounded by primitive tribe which is commonly known as Falutians who used

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Top 15 Places To Visit In West Bengal

West Bengal , situated in eastern India, is a land with a rich diversity. Home to different civilizations and known for its cultural diversity, West Bengal has a great history too. Bengal is mentioned in the epic Mahabharata. Thanks to its geographical location stretching from the great Himalayas to Bay of Bengal, the state has spectacular landscapes to captivate your souls. Here are the top 15 destinations in West Bengal .

Kolkata , the capital of West Bengal, is the largest metropolitan city in India. This ancient city is considered to be inhabited for more than two thousand years and it is evident from its rich cultural background and diverse ethnicity. Here are some important tourist attractions in Kolkata.

• Howrah Bridge
• Jorasanko Thakurbari
• Park Street
• Indian Museum
• Victoria Memorial
• Dakshineswar Kali Temple
• St. Paul’s Cathedral, Kolkata
• Kalighat Kali Temple
• Science City Kolkata
• Mother House

2. Darjeeling

Darjeeling is the most perfect place to unwind on your holiday. Snow clad mountains, lush greenery and the stunning views of Himalayas make the place a heaven on earth. The entire land is colorful and picture perfect with green tea leaves, red rhododendrons, white magnolias, birds of different species and snow-covered peak of Kanchenjunga. Here are the top destinations in Darjeeling.

• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
• Singalila National Park
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
• Observatory Hill
• Happy Valley Tea Estate
• Japanese Peace Pagoda
• Neora Valley National Park
• Rock Garden

Trekking, water rafting and bird watching are some of the activities you can involve yourself in on your tour to Darjeeling.

Bankura is on the west of the state of West Bengal. Apart from the historic side, Bankura has an artistic face too. It has tourist attractions that boast of its historical importance and destinations that challenge you to trek and hike. Here are some leading destinations in Bankura.

• Biharinath Hill
• Susunia Hills
• Mukutmonipur Dam
• Garh Darwaja
• Krishna-Balaram Temple
• Ganesh and Nandi Statue

4. Midnapore

The town Midnapore , also called as Medinipur , is situated in the west of Medinipur District. It is a famous pilgrim centers as it is home to some ancient temples and mosques. Having contributed many freedom fighters for independence, the land has monuments built in memory of the war heroes. Here are some attractions in Midnapore.

• Jora Masjid
• John’s Church
• Kali Temple
• Chandrakona

5. Siliguri

Siliguri is a picturesque location that offers spectacular views of Himalayas. It is famous for tea and timber. Thick forest on the foothills and the tea gardens offer amazing views of the land. Given below are some important tourist attractions in Siliguri.

• Kali Mandir
• Chilapata Forests
• Salugara Monastery
•  Coronation Bridge
• Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary

6. Murshidabad

Murshidabad is home to various races and religions. It is located on River Bhagirathi banks. The history of the city dates back to pre-historic times. The city was at its height of glory in the past and it was Bengal’s capital in before the British rulers shifted the capital to Kolkata. Given below are the important tourist places in Murshidabad.

• Hazarduari Palace Museum
• Wasef Manzil
• Jalangi River
• Nasipur Palace
• Katra Mosque
• Jahankosha Canon

Hooghly is an interesting tourist destination for various reasons. It is considered sacred as it is where Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Sarada Devi stayed for many years; it has historic significance as it bears the influences of Portuguese, French and the Dutch. Here are some important tourist destinations in Hooghly.

• Chandannagar Museum
• Tarakeshwar Temple
• Hooghly Imambara
• Hangseshwari Temple
• Sri Ramakrishna Math
• Garh Mandaran

8. Kalimpong

Kalimpong , the hill station in lower Himalayas, is situated at an altitude of 1250 meters. The view of Himalayas from Kalimpong is amazing. The tranquility of the land attracts tourists in great numbers. It is famous for traditional handicrafts, orchids and nurseries. The tourist attractions in Kalimpong include the following.

• Dr. Graham’s Home
• Kalimpong Cactus Nursery
• Pine View Nursery
• Jaldhaka River Valley
• Tharpa Choeling Gompa
• Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Gompa
• Tongsa Gompa

9. Kamarpukur

Kamarpukur , a village in Hooghly district, bears evidences of ancient elements. A visit to the land with ancient buildings, temples and tanks will give you an insight into its glorious past. This beautiful village is considered sacred as it was where Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was born. Here Jaare some important tourist destinations in Kamarpukur.

• Jairambati Math
• Mukundapur Temple
• Yogi Shiva Temple
• Gopeshwar Temple
• Matri Mandir

10. Bishnupur

Bishnupur is famous for ancient temples belonging to the 15th century. Art and culture flourished here; particularly, the Malla rulers were great patronizers of paintings and music. The temples here stand proof of the rich architecture of the past. Here are some top destinations in Bishnupur.

• Jorebangla Temple
• Pancha Ratna Temple
• Radha Govinda Temple
• Gate of Old Fort
• Keibul Lamjao National Park
• Loukoipat Ecological Park
• Sarbamangala Temple

11. Jalpaiguri

Jalpaiguri enjoys excellent topographical advantage that it receives many tourists who are passionate about enjoying the bliss of nature. Since it is easy to access Darjeeling and Sikkim Himalayas from here, you can find tourism flourishing here. Given below are important tourist destinations in Jalpaiguri.

• Gorumara National Park
• Buxa Tiger Reserve
• Mendabari Fort
• The Baptist Church
• Panjhora River

Malda lies at the confluence of River Mahananda and Kalindi. Like many other places in West Bengal, this town too has its share in history. Called as English Bazaar in the past, Malda gives you a clear picture of its architectural splendor in the past. Here are the tourist destinations in Malda.

• Bara Sona Mosque
• Dakhil Darwaza
• Lattan Mosque
• Adina Mosque
• Firoz Minar Tomb
• Maa Johura Temple
• Baisgazi Wall
• Eklakhi Mausoleum
• Malda Museum

13. Cooch Behar

Cooch Behar , a district in Jalpaiguri, is situated in the north-eastern part of West Bengal. To its south and west lies the Indo-Bangladesh border. The land still has the rich influences of the Mughal era. It is not only famous for the ancient monuments but it is also known for huge water bodies. Here are some important destinations in Cooch Behar.

• Cooch Behar Palace
• Chilapata Forest Range
• Madan Mohan Bari
• Dangar Ayee Temple

14. Birbhum

Called as the ‘ Land of the brave ’, Birbhum was a land where many brave kings ruled. The historical importance of the place is evident from the remnants of the civilizations that lived here. The land of red soil houses some of the famous tourist destinations.

• Shantiniketan
• Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary
• Temple of Nandikeswari
• Kankali Pith

15. Barrackpore

Barrackpore , the land rich in natural beauty, is of high historical importance too. It was here where the famous Sepoy Mutiny originated. Its prominent role in freedom fight has earned Barrackpore a special place and it is frequented by tourists in great numbers. Here are the top destinations in the land.

• Mangal Pandey Park
• Gandhi Museum
• Jawahar Kunj Garden
• Gandhi Ghat
• Bartholomew Cathedral
• Indira Gandhi Water Treatment Plant
• Tarakeswar Temple

The attractions of West Bengal are more, there are more beautiful towns like Mirik in West Bengal. Be it the natural beauty or the rich history, the state has more to offer. I would be glad to have information on other tourist attractions in West Bengal to update my humble attempt.

About Rohit

20 thoughts on “Top 15 Places To Visit In West Bengal”

Really you’ve covered most of the places. I too am a writer but I promote places under sustainable livelihood, so rural tourism is my niche..you can certainly take a look at my blog for sch rural destination and some of the most innovative travel plans of North Bengal.

Awesome Information. I am planning to visit WestBengal very soon and I will visit each and every place mention in this blog. Great work by the the blogger.

It’s a pity that you left places like Digha, Mandarmani which are the biggest crowd pullers in Bengal. There are lots of places that you have listed might seek attention of historians, but i doubt how many people might get interested in. Anyways, you have done a great job in listing all these places.

Thanks for this lot of information.

Great job done..! I am a travel and tourism student and keep searching on internet on different places for making itineraries when I visited your page I got all I wanted in one place and that’s very good for me thanks a lot . This help me a lot.

You should include the best period to visit these places as well as majority of the people are not familiar with weather conditions and best time to visit these beautiful places.

Can I have the tour operators list for covering the places from Kolkata to Darjeeling. Kalimpong bagdogra shilling and soliciting. The best period to visit west Bengal may also be intimated My age is 64 and hence a reliable tour operator will be of immense help to me.

Thanks for describing different places to visit in West Bengal but absence of some places having visited by most of Bengalies more than thrice as Digha ,in spite of that thanks given to you hearty.

Excellent and very informative article.

Your information are very exiting but by mistake you have mixed the tourist spots of Bishnupur town in West Bengal with the Bishnupur situated in Manipur because keibul lamjao national park is located in Manipur.

Great information sharing in article.

Thanks, for your important information

To visit the above 15 places, please give me recognised tour conductors or your own conducting tour programme.

Nice Aritcle. BUT, You didn’t mention in “Top 15 Places To Visit In West Bengal” some important tourist attractions like Digha, Mandarmani, Talsari beach.

And Asia’s largest delta Sundarban, where River Ganga submerge itself into the Bay of Bengal …

Just one correction needed. Kanchenjunga is not a tourist destination in Darjeeling. Instead of that, you could add Chowrasta to the list. Thank you.

I am not going to say about destinations. I just wanna say that, those images, describing the places, were fabulous. Awesome.

Very good article admin. This article helps me to better understand about travel and tourist places because I am doing study regarding tourism. I hope you will keep adding something new even further about tourism.

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• Cooch Behar
• Barrackpore
• Murshidabad
• Mindapore (Medinipur)
• Sunderbans Wildlife Sanctuary
• Beaches in West Bengal
• National Parks in West Bengal
• Hill Stations in West Bengal

• Group Enquiry? NEW

Places to Visit in West Bengal

• West Bengal
• Places To Visit

Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal

Here is the list of best places to visit in west bengal:.

On a summer day, the fragrance of tea leaves lifts off the hills and hover over Darjeeling like a hat and the wonderful things breathes unsaid inside that, like the bent trees, the happy earthworms, the reluctant tea-colored puddles, flowering Rhododendrons and Magnolia plants and the wild garden flowers blooming in different colors of rainbow and a British bungalow growing a fragile façade of greenery for ages amidst a sprawling tea garden. The tourist places in Darjeeling will leave a traveler mesmerized and awed with the beauty that the place offers. And when the heavens’ open up to hammer the water down, the grass looks wet-green and pleased, loose earth shapes off its edges, the washed off dust-green trees smiles afresh and the green countryside glitters in the traces of sunshine.Covered with the dense evergreen forests of Sal and Oak, with ducks and teals creating waves in water, and with rare breeds of orchid spreading colors on a moist soil, Darjeeling, a previous summer capital of India under the British Raj holds the incredible panoramic views of Kanchenjunga snow peaks, beautiful colonial architecture including mansions and churches, an influence of diverse cultures in the majestic craft and cuisine, a beautiful women, the taker of the seeds with a yellow scarf on her head and tea-bag on her shoulders, and a vast expanse of Tea estates in its root. This “Mecca of Tea” with over 80 operational tea gardens spread across acres of land, writes on a foggy day sitting inside a vintage Toy Train from 1880s, a whimsical poem, of what is delightfully read as the "Champagne of tea". The northwest winds visit Darjeeling to tear it full of holes but the new beautiful things come in the first spit of spring on the northwest wind, and the old leaves go, not one lasts but the beauty stays with the new and lasts for eternity. Darjeeling is a beauty that won’t let your heart stop, from beating in ecstasy, and the tourist places in Darjeeling shall always ensure that!

Kolkata, The City of Joy, the cultural hub of India, this particular city has been called by so many names by people who have come and fallen in love with the place. Kolkata is known for its history and for being the city of Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray, and many more legends who have put India on the world map. If you are visiting India and touring the country then this is one city that you must include in your plan. Kolkata is also comparatively more affordable than most big cities of the world. It has no shortage of joy, warmth, and peace to embrace you with; and there is no dearth of tourist places in Kolkata, thanks to its rich history and culture. Kolkata is one of the most populated cities of India, but that’s a good thing for you as a traveler. Diversity is Kolkata’s finest characteristics; hence, you will get to meet people from different culture and with different stories. Food, music, culture, literature, everything about this city is so rich and intellectually fulfilling. The city so perfectly combines the comfort of a metropolitan and the nostalgia of a place that has been through multiple cultural and social revolutions. It has the country’s oldest museum where you can see, among other things, the only mummy in India. Kolkata used to be one of the most important cities politically during the British rule, which has resulted in architectural influences. You can experience them with The Victoria Memorial, Fort William, Writer's, and many more such historical buildings. If you are a religious person then Kolkata has a lot to offer you too. Some of the world’s oldest and most popular temples, churches, and masjids are located in and around this city which are some of the most important tourist places in Kolkata. You can go on a day tour of all the religious places while enjoying the street food during your breaks. Include a visit to the Ganges River in the plan to complete the tour.

Best of Bihar

Located near Darjeeling in West Bengal, Kalimpong is an erstwhile royal hill station that was ruled by the kingdoms of Sikkim and Bhutan until as late as the mid of the 19th-century. The historical place has been an important landmark on the ancient Silk Route due to its proximity to the Nathu La and Jelep La passes. Kalimpong is one of the most beautiful places in not only West Bengal but in entire Eastern India known for its stunning countryside comprising hills, lush terrace fields, pastures, hamlets, thick bamboo groves, etc. The native settlers like Lepchas, Nepalese, Sherpas, and Tibetan people have left an indelible mark on its charming monasteries, churches, and temples. The  One of the best heritage landmarks here is the 18th-century Dharmodaya Vihar Nepalese temple that houses rare Buddhism books. Visit Deolo Hill, which is Kalimpong’s highest point, and enjoy the beauty of the 8-acre garden here where you can also try local food & pony rides & see the huge Buddha statue. Other beautiful attractions include heritage bungalows like Pratima Tagore House, Galingka, Dr. Graham’s House, Morgan House, etc. Spot leopards, Asiatic black bear, Asian golden cat, etc. at the Neora Valley National Park. Experience the rustic way of life as you trek amidst the forests, stay at homestays, and interact with the locals at villages like Bindu and Jhalong. Enjoy white water rafting and camping at Teesta and Rangeet rivers and the surrounding valleys. Spend a serene day at the Nature Interpretation Centre surrounded by tranquil greenery. Kalimpong is counted amongst the best tourist places in West Bengal due to its pleasant weather throughout the year. The summers here are cool with temperatures averaging around 20°C. Wintertime sees temperatures dipping to around 7°C and the place shrouded in mist. The monsoon season is also a beautiful time to experience the gorgeous lush green landscape.

A quaint town at the foothills of the Himalayan ranges, Siliguri is a postcard-perfect amalgamation of urban culture and natural beauty. The picturesque city is endowed with the best of nature, full to the brim with its rolling green tea gardens and the snow-clad Himalayan mountaintops peeking into the horizon at a distance. Owing to its rich wildlife population, tourism in Siliguri is synonymous with its wildlife safari facilities. The vast Mahananda Wildlife sanctuary, sprawling between the banks of Teesta and Mahananda, is home to a number of species of animals and birds, and also provides its guests ample opportunities for trekking and bird watching. The sanctuary also houses the North Bengal Wild Animals Park, where tourists can avail jeep rides to watch the animals play and be in their natural habitats. A major tourist attraction in Siliguri is the Salugara Monastery, famous for its 100-feet stupa built by Tibetan Buddhist Monks. The monastery, known as The Great International Tashi Gomang Stupa, is situated only 6 kms away from the main town and houses five major Buddhist relics, making it one of the most popular Buddhist monasteries in the world. Siliguri, however, is not negligent to other faiths. One can also find here the magnificent ISKCON temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, and Kali Mandir which welcomes a number of pilgrims each year. If one is looking to shop in Siliguri, the Hong Kong market on Hill Cart Road is the place to go. A flea market selling goods at a fairly cheap rate, the Hong Kong market is a popular go-to place for tourists and is thronged by shoppers throughout the year. The best time to visit Siliguri would be during the winter months between November and February when the weather is fairly cold and outdoor activities such as trekking, safaris, and bird-watching can be enjoyed in a humidity-free atmosphere. Siliguri is well connected to all nearby cities in West Bengal by road and rail. The Siliguri railway station is the main junction of the town. The Darjeeling-Himalayan toy train, a world-famous attraction, can be availed from Siliguri junction if one desires to travel to Darjeeling from here. The nearest airport to Siliguri is the Bagdogra airport, from whence one may avail buses or cars to reach the place.

Best of Darjeeling

Jalpaiguri is a district in the northern part of West Bengal which shares its borders with two countries, namely Bhutan in the north and Bangladesh in the south. During the partition of India, after independence, a part of Jalpaiguri district went into East Pakistan, now Bangladesh. Jalpaiguri also has a significant Nepalese population being very close to the country. Jalpaiguri experiences a huge exodus of tourists each year owing to its exquisite landscapes, serene river banks, rolling tea gardens and for housing two of India's popular wildlife sanctuaries - Gorumara National Park and the Chapramari wildlife sanctuary. Several tourists come to Jalpaiguri just to wade through the dense forested lands on elephant back and view the wide variety of flora and fauna here.  In fact, Jalpaiguri ranks second in the list of popular places to visit in West Bengal. This picturesque place has small villages which offer unique scenery depending on their strategic location. Chalsa is one such village which is ethereal and looks like a painting on canvas. It is the place from where the beautiful tea gardens in Dooars can be viewed. In order to enjoy sightseeing in Jalpaiguri, winters are the best time. Between October to March the temperature is pleasant, slightly on the cooler side but that makes it ideal for trekking, do a safari, or simply to rest in the river-studded valley. Temperatures here rarely drop below 5 degrees and it is also the best time to view the animals in the wilderness. Those who come to Jalpaiguri to view several exotic species of birds, must not miss these months, as the winged friends are at their resplendent best in the season. Bagdogra International Airport is the closest airport to Jalpaiguri and there are a number of taxis and reserved cars available from the airport to reach Jalpaiguri. There are multiple trains from Kolkata and other nearby cities which run daily to the Jalpaiguri Road Station. Siliguri, also an important city in North Bengal, is well connected to Jalpaiguri through multiple buses plying at regular intervals in the day between them.

Situated at the foothills of Himalayas in Darjeeling is a small hill station called Bagdogra. Just 11 km away from Siliguri, it is one of the most peaceful and untouched places in West Bengal. Often regarded as the gateway town to North-East India and the Himalayas, it is one of the most desired hill stations in the state. ‘It is better to explore the beauty of the same place once than hear about it a thousand times,’ Bagdogra  is one of those places for sure. The hovering clouds on top of mountains, lushy tea estates and gardens and uninfluenced from human pollution adds on to the beauty of this hill station. The blissful Teesta river will make you stop frequently to behold her calmness and solace. The place is blessed with floral beauty with a blend of greenery and serenity which makes it an ideal destination to travel, especially in the monsoon. Bagdogra is a base for the tourists travelling to Darjeeling, Siliguri, Sikkim and Bhutan. This North-Eastern beauty packs a trip full of thrill and adventure from breathtaking river rafting in Teesta to the astonishing North Bengal Science Center. Walk through beautiful mountain slopes over the rising sun, relish the town in rambling toy trains and savour delicious Tibetian food around every corner of this station. Himalaya World Museum, Dreamland Amusement Park, Jorpokhri Wildlife Sanctuary are some other famous places to visit in and around the city. The average temperature in Bagdogra stands between 10°C to 35°C throughout the year. Summer season experiences the peak of tourism in this town, with not so heavy rainfall and springy weather. The quiet and chilly weather during winters also marks a good time for travelers. The refreshing winter mist in the air gives a sign of natural purity with dazzling sunrise view in the cold morning. At sunset, you can see a combination of the most beautiful colors in the sky, which you don’t want to miss.

Best of Kolkata

Digha is a famous coastal resort town that is touted to be one of the best places to visit in West Bengal. It is highly renowned for its untouched shallow sand beaches and religious temples. It is situated only one eighty-seven kilometres away from Kolkata and is touted to be the most famous weekend getaway for families. This lively town is untouched by commercial exploitation and helps you enjoy the joy of nature in the best way possible.  The tall palm trees and exquisite flora and fauna of this region make it a genuine wonderland. The vast stretch of the beaches of Digha will leave you rejuvenated at just one site. Thousands of tourists visit this town every year due to its lush greenery and verdant allure of nature.  Digha is the favourite destination for the beach lovers as it is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in India. New Digha Beach is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Digha with swinging palm trees and a long stretch of sandy beaches. Talsari Beach and Shankarpur Beach are also the other famous beaches in Digha, where tourists flock in a vast number to relax and unwind from the grind of life. Chandeshwar Temple is another popular tourist destination over here that is a sanctum of spiritual belief and divinity. There are ample of things that you can do in Digha for a fun-filled vacation. From having delicious seafood at the beach shacks near the beaches to enjoying boating and ropeway riding at Amaravati Park, there are tons of things that you can try at Digha. You can even enjoy a scenic trail at the forests and gaze into the underwater beauties at the marine aquarium. Digha experiences a scorching and uncomfortable temperature during summers. The average temperature during summer ranges up to 37 degrees Celsius. Winter is the best time to visit Digha, and the average temperature reaches up to 20.4 degrees Celsius. Monsoon season ranges from July to September, and during this season, Digha receives 59.8 inches of average rainfall per year.

Sundarban is a cluster of most extensive estuarine forests and is considered to be one of the best tourist attractions in West Bengal. It spans from the river Hooghly in West Bengal to the Baleswar river in Bangladesh. It is the part of the world’s largest delta that is formed by river Ganges, and it has got its name from the mangrove plants known as the Sundari over here. It is the largest biosphere reserve and National Park in India.  Sundarban boasts of awe-inspiring water bodies and breathtaking landscapes. The thick blanket of greenery that envelops this region makes it a delight for the starved souls craving for a rejuvenating journey. Wherever your sight goes over here you’ll be greeted with the endless vistas of nature and scenic beauty. Sunderban is a treasure trove for the tourists who wish to have an unadulterated view of nature. Netidhopani is a popular tourist destination in Sunderban, and you can find here centuries-old ruins of Shiva temple. You can also visit Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary at Sundarban, which is home to some of the rarest bird species such as herons, egrets, etc.  If you wish to indulge in an offbeat adventure, then Sunderban should be your best resort. It is the place where you can spot the tiger species, crocodiles, and Olive Ridley turtles. You can also take a holy dip at Gangasagar during Maha Sankranti. You can also try camping over here for a rejuvenating experience. Sunderban experiences a tropical climate with cold winters and hot summers. During Summer (April-June), the temperature ranges from 30 to 42 degrees Celsius, and the temperature is scorching and humid during this season. September to March is the ideal time to visit Sundarban as the weather remains quite pleasant during this time in this area.

Best of Assam

Hooghly, formerly known as Hooghly-Chinsurah, is one of the best places to visit in West Bengal, and you can witness here a great confluence of tradition, culture, and history. The Hooghly city lies on the west bank of Hoogly river and at a distance of 40 Km north of Kolkata. Hooghly has five main rivers, including Hooghly (Ganga), Damodar, Dwarkeswar, Mundeswari, and Saraswati.  Tucked away in the inviting blanket of earthly glory Hooghly is a dreamy paradise for every traveler. From lush green forests to cascading waterfalls and beautiful meadows Hooghly is bound to cast a spell on your senses with its natural beauty.   From colonial artefacts to historical buildings and the religious centres, there are many essential attractions in Hooghly. It has some of the famous shopping lanes from where you can buy the best clothes and jewellery items. The city has multiple tourist spots, including Bandel Church, Hooghly Mohsin College, Shandeswar Siva temple, Imam-bara building, Tarakeswar, Banabithi Park, and several others. You can indulge in multiple activities at Hooghly for a fun-filled experience. From cruising the great Hooghly river to having a historical tour of this city, there are tons of activities that you can try over here. You can also try adrenaline rushing adventure sports activities here like kayaking and canoeing.  Hooghly experiences calm and pleasant weather at most times of the year. It has two seasons, dry and wet. The wet season initiates from July month and ends in September. The dry season lies from October to June, and its temperature ranges from 25 to 34-degree Celsius. The best time to visit Hooghly is in February and December.

Located on the banks of the Damodar River, this coalfield surrounded place is situated in the Paschim Bardhaman district. Durgapur is amongst the largest industrial centres, often referred to as the ‘Steel City of Bengal’ and the second planned city in the country and amongst the most offbeat places to visit in West Bengal. The beauty of Durgapur lies in the charming juxtaposition of the old and the new here in its architecture, atmosphere, food, and culture. Lush forests of eucalyptus & sal, ancient temples, rivers, and beautiful gardens make the landscape of Durgapur extremely scenic, making it one of the best places to see in West Bengal. One of the major attractions here is the Durgapur Barrage built over the Damodar River perfect for watching a beautiful sunset, boating, or simply spending time at shores. No trip here is complete without seeing the massive Durgapur Steel Plant and Bhabani Pathak’s Tilla that is a protected monument housing a maze of caves. Visit the Garh Jungle to see native flora and fauna and the riverside Deul Park to spend time at the luxuriant creek and the surrounding forests. One of the best activities to do here is to experience the vibrant buzz of Benachity as you pick up local handicrafts and try Bengali cuisine like chicken kasha, Aloo Posto, Macher Jhol, and varieties of sandesh. Enjoy boating in the serene and lush Kumaramangalam Park and try cable car rides and water sports at Troika Park. Spend serene time in the pious atmosphere of the Ram Mandir here that is famous for its green surroundings and carved architecture. Durgapur is hot and humid in the summers with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. Monsoons, though pleasant, bring a heavy barrage of rains and flooding risks. Winter months are cool & dry, with temperatures hovering around 15°C, making it quite pleasant to be outdoors and enjoying the local attractions.

Best of Orissa

This is a beautiful town located in the Bankura district of West Bengal, and it offers many facets for the travellers to explore. It is widely reckoned for its pottery items made of terracotta work that reflect the craftsmanship of the artisans over here. The town was earlier the administrative capital under the reign of the Malla kings, but now it has transformed into a thriving centre for cultural activities, spirituality, and entertainment. Bishnupur is one of the best places to visit in West Bengal and is known for its quaint environment and surreal views. It is considered to be the true splendour of nature, and you can find here a wide range of flora and fauna. It is a bustling hub of culture, tradition, and rich history and caters to the discerning taste of the travellers with its unique offerings.  Bishnupur is considered to be the hotspot of temples and ancient monuments. Rasmancha is the oldest building over here that has large pyramidal structures and unique architecture. Jorbangla Temple is the most famous religious spot over here that is reckoned for its terracotta structure and delicate carving on the walls. Madanmohan Temple and Radhe Govind Temple are other famous attractions over here.  There are tons of enthralling activities that you can try at Bishnupur for a memorable experience. You can have a heritage walk through the narrow lanes and crowded markets of this city, or you can trek to the Susania hills for an awe-inspiring experience over here. The tourists can also try the exceptional local cuisines of Bishnupur to satisfy their hunger pangs. Bishnupur experiences tropical weather, which means you can visit this place all around the year. It experiences extreme humidity during monsoon along with constant rainfall, which can ruin the joy of your trip. Winters over here are quite pleasant, and it experiences an average of 26 degrees Celsius during winters. Summers are relatively warm over here, and it experiences 32-42 degrees Celsius during this time of the year.

Birbhum is the most popular tourist attractions in West Bengal and is known to be the seat of Rabindranath Tagore as Visva Bharati University was established by him over here. It shares its border with the state of Jharkhand and is renowned all over the world as the land of red soil. It is also known to be the religious hub of West Bengal as it houses some of the most sacred places in India.  It has vast farmlands and lush green gardens that seem to be a scene straight out of a fairytale. You can also spot here some of the rarest species of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Birbhum is interspersed with cascading waterfalls and scenic forests that make it one of the most beautiful destinations in India.  There are many splendid attractions in Birbhum that should be in the bucket list of every traveller. From the Ballabhpur wildlife sanctuary that houses diverse species of flora and fauna to the Tarapith Shakti Peeth, which is a sanctum of spiritual belief, you’ll never be short of the places to explore in Birbhum. It also houses the Santiniketan University that is an epitome of cultural heritage.  Danguli is the most popular sports activity which you must try at Birbhum. You can also try the local cuisines at the most renowned local restaurants and cafes interspersed over here. If you love collecting souvenirs, then Birbhum has some of the best local shops where you can buy leather goods, bamboo crafts, and Kantha stitched sarees. Birbhum experiences a tropical climate where the days are hot and the nights are relatively more relaxed. Winter(December-February) season is considered to be the best time to visit Birbhum as the weather remains pleasant during this time. The average temperature during winter is around 10 degrees Celsius at Birbhum. The average rainfall in monsoon is about 125 cm in Birbhum.

Best of Sundarban

This 18th-century British-era summer retreat is located in the Darjeeling district close to Siliguri. Located at around 4,864 ft., it is an equally charming name translating to ‘Land of White Orchids’ due to the presence of thousands of these flowers in its meadows and valleys. At different points in time, Kurseong has been the home to people like Rabindranath Tagore, Mark Twain, Sister Nivedita, etc. Kurseong, one of the most beautiful places to visit in West Bengal, has an unimaginable natural beauty that attracts people from all over the country. Colourful houses that seem to tumble downhill slopes, lush tea gardens and coffee plantations, verdant forests, and miles of flowering white orchids, make it an extremely scenic place to be in. One of the best places to visit here is Eagle’s Craig vantage point that offers beautiful views of a mountainside sunrise and sunset and the expanses of Siliguri. Head over to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum to see rare documents and pictures. The old churches here, with their vintage charm, like St. Mary’s Hill and St Andrews are a must-visit. Dow Hill, the nearby Deer Park, and the museum are also great attractions. No trip to Kurseong is complete without spending serene time in the fragrant tea gardens, tasting the delicious brews, and meeting the natives. Enjoy the tranquillity at the Amobotia Shiva Temple that is located at the tea estate by the same name amidst lush orange orchards. One of the best things to do here is trying out a variety of authentic Tibetan food and drinks including steamed dumplings, thukpa, chhang, and of course Darjeeling tea. Don’t miss to enjoy the heritage toy train journey from Kurseong to Darjeeling. The place enjoys a salubrious climate throughout the year. Summers are super pleasant with a cool breeze. Monsoons turn the place lush but also bring the risk of landslides. Winters are harsh but enjoyable and shroud the place in a cosy mist lending it a beautiful appearance.

Situated on the banks of the magnificent Kangsabati River, this quaint little town is one of the best tourist attractions in West Bengal. The city is a fine example of religious harmony and eco-tourism. It has few famous temples and masjids, and lush green gardens and parks. The essence of the whole town lies in the many nature parks and virgin forests scattered in and around it!  All these forests are untouched gems which have a dense cover and beautiful canopies! Most of these are erstwhile palace compounds which have fallen to ruins! These nature parks and forest have tiny blue lakes, rare trees of different varieties and colourful birds with their singsong chirping! This makes Midnapore the idle place for a short vacation outside the city, away from the pollution and blocks of concrete! The town is also home to quite a few temples, each built for different deities. There is a Kali temple, a Jagannath temple, and a Kanak Durga temple in Midnapore. Maa Kali is the main deity in this area, and as such, there are temples dedicated to different forms of the goddess, such as the Devi Bargabhima temple. There are also the ruins of the erstwhile Brahmosamaj Temple, built by the Brahmos, a religious sect in West Bengal who refused to worship any idols. Apart from that, the harmonious town has Jora Masjid and St John’s church. There are so many activities you could do here- like having a picnic by the river or go bird watching in the Khudiram Bose Ecopark. You could also visit the Jhargram Palace or even stay there as it has recently been turned into a hotel.  Midnapore has sultry summers from April to June, wet monsoons from July to September, and very pleasant winters from November to February. The end of December and early January can get very chilly, but apart from that, winter is the time to visit this haven.

Best of Jharkhand

This city of Bankura is considered to be one of the best tourist attractions in West Bengal due to its untouched vistas of nature and scenic trails. Though not very popular before, the city is now emerging as a place of interest and attraction in the area of its rich cultural heritage. The city has given birth to beautiful forms of art and music and is home to age-old revered temples like Jor Mandir and Gokulchand Temple. When it comes to natural beauty, Bankura is blessed with all- terracotta temples, lush green forest, rivers roaring, and streams trickling about. It houses the tiny, virgin hills of Biharinath and Sisunia, which are still safe from tourist rampage and retain their natural glory. But the top attraction of Bankura is the Mukutmanipur dam, situated at the confluence of the mighty rivers Kangsabati and Kumari.  Apart from Mukutmanipur, the top attractions of Bankura are the unique temples situated here. The Bishnupur district houses 16 terracotta temples, of which Jor Mandir and Radhamadhab temple usually hog the limelight. Then there is also Joyrambati, the revered birthplace of Sri Maa Sarada Devi, which has attained the status of a pilgrimage almost. Since Bankura is the hometown of the elegant Baluchari saree, you should buy this item over here in the local shops. You could also purchase beautiful terracotta pots and tiles from the local artisans. You could attend music festivals at the Bishnupur school of music, which keeps alive a unique form of Hindustani classical music. And if you want a calm day off, go for a walk by the Kangsabati river. Bankura has a long summer(March to May), with the temperature reaching up to 40 degrees some days. The monsoon(June to September) season lasts for a good three months. But the best time to go would be winter(November to January), when the weather will be pleasant- sunny and with a hint of cool breeze!

Located between the Damodar and Ajay rivers in the Paschim Bardhaman District, Asansol is West Bengal’s second-largest city. It is an important industrial centre primarily due to its coal mines and coal industries due to its mineral-rich soil. One of the best offbeat destinations to take a quick break from the city, Asansol is known for its rich and varied landscape comprising beautiful gardens, temples, museums, and vast lush pastures.  One of the most major heritage attractions here is the 500-year-old Kalyaneshwari Temple that’s known to fulfil the wishes of whoever visits it. Another great heritage site is the Ghagar Buri Chandi Temple located on the Nunia riverside. The mid-18th-century Sacred Heart Church here is quite a majestic sight due to its massive red brick structure, stained glass paintings, and a stunning ‘Our Lady of Lourdes' grotto. Spend serene and quiet time at the beautifully lush gardens like Satabdi Park and Nehru Park and enjoy boating, musical fountains, or simply just taking long walks in the beautiful environs. Soak yourself in the rich literary atmosphere of Churulia as you celebrate the life of the legendary poet, Kazi Nazrul Islam. Escape into the stunning beauty of the Maithon Dam and enjoy nature trails and sunrise & sunset views over the vast waters. This is a great place to spot huge herds of deer that use this dam as a watering hole. No trip here is complete without trying authentic Bengali fare consisting of luchis, bhajas, macher jhol, chingri malaikari, and of course rosogulla. Asansol experiences hot summers with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. The monsoons season sees heavy torrential rains that bring relief from the heat but also cause extreme humidity making it difficult to be outdoors. The best season to visit here is the winters when the temperatures drop to around 15°C accompanied by a cool breeze and balmy sunshine, perfect to enjoy all the outdoor attractions.

Shantiniketan

Murshidabad.

Once the seat of the Nawab of Bengal, this quaint town located on the banks of the Hooghly is one of the best places to visit in West Bengal. It served as the capital of Bengal before Calcutta, and several arts and crafts were born here. Not only that, but it was also famous for the sericulture, producing world-class silk. The beauty of the town is unparalleled. It is home to tiny  jheels , which become  hotspots in winter when the migratory birds arrive. The pristine blue lakes with colourful, exotic birds at its edges is a sight to behold! It is also home to several gardens, which have rows of colorful and fragrant flowers. The gardens are all adorned by meticulously sculpted statues and fountains! This is the perfect place for a short trip amidst the lap of nature.  The Hazarduari Palace, located on the banks of the River Bhagirathi, is the prime attraction here. Apart from that, there are a handful of beautiful mosques which you must include in your itinerary- Nizamat Imambara, Footi Masjid, Madina, and Katra Mosque. Apart from these, it has many palaces among which Wasif Manzil and Nasirpur Palace are worth mentioning. Apart from gazing at the various forms of architecture and the massive palaces, there are other things you can do in Murshidabad. You could go shopping because the local artisans are pretty much the authority on ivory and woodcraft. You could also drop into the Belampore market to pick out a few intricately designed Murshidabad silk sarees for yourself or family members. The weather is usually too extreme- too hot in summer and too chilly in winter. So the best time to visit would be the early winter months of October and November when it is pleasant- sunny and breezy!

Other Attractions

Gurdum west bengal.

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of West Bengal, Gurdum is a serene hamlet that offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Sumendu Lake West Bengal

Sumendu Lake, nestled in the hill station of Mirik in West Bengal, India, is a picturesque water body enveloped by lush greenery.

Gorkhey Khola Village

Gorkhey Khola Village, tucked away in the green hills of West Bengal near Darjeeling, is a peaceful spot for nature lovers. The village gets its name from the gentle Gorkhey Khola River that flows through it, adding to its serene atmosphere.

Here, you can enjoy leisurely walks by the riverside, surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests. It's a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of nature.

For those who love adventure, Gorkhey Khola Village is a starting point for treks to nearby attractions like Singalila National Park and Sandakphu. You can see stunning views of the Himalayas and maybe even spot some rare wildlife.

Tonglu West Bengal

Tonglu, nestled in the scenic Darjeeling district of West Bengal, offers a serene escape for nature lovers. Surrounded by lush forests and tea gardens, it's a paradise for trekking enthusiasts. The trek to Tonglu rewards visitors with panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including the majestic Kanchenjunga. Its peaceful ambiance and stunning vistas make it a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility amidst nature.

Meghma Village is nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of West Bengal, India, captivating visitors with its serene charm and natural beauty. Situated in the Darjeeling district, Meghma enjoys a tranquil ambiance, surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains. The village is renowned for its panoramic views of the majestic Himalayas, offering a breathtaking backdrop for travelers seeking solace in nature's embrace.

Tonglu Trek Viewpoint

Tonglu Trek Viewpoint in West Bengal is a wonderful spot for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Situated in the Singalila National Park, it offers stunning views of the Himalayas and lush forests.

One of the best parts of Tonglu Trek Viewpoint is the amazing views. From here, you can see famous peaks like Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga. It's like being surrounded by a sea of majestic mountains, and the sight is truly breathtaking.

The trek to Tonglu is also a chance to explore the beautiful wilderness of the Himalayas. You'll walk through forests filled with colorful flowers and tall trees, and you might even spot some wildlife along the way, like birds and monkeys.

Reaching the top of Tonglu is a rewarding experience. It takes effort and determination, but the views from the summit make it all worth it. Standing there, surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayas, you can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such natural wonder.

Jaldapara National Park

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Home » Lifestyle » Travel » 13 top tourist places of West Bengal, famous tourist destinations and attractions

13 top tourist places of West Bengal, famous tourist destinations and attractions

West Bengal is a state in eastern India that shares its boundary with Bangladesh.  The state has plenty of places to explore. With an abundance of possible options, it may become difficult to find your way around the edges. Here is a compact list of the best of what West Bengal has to offer.

Table of Contents

The best time to visit West Bengal

West Bengal faces intense heat waves during the summers. Additionally, the monsoon is also really heavy in the region, which may result in difficulty in travelling across the state. Therefore, visiting West Bengal in the winter is generally recommended, i.e., between October and March.

How to reach West Bengal?

By air: The major airports in West Bengal are Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata and Bagdogra International Airport (IXB) in Siliguri. Both these airports have international flight connectivity. There are also many airports in West Bengal with domestic flight connectivity only, like, Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport (RDP) in Durgapur and Balurghat Airport (RGH) in Balurghat.

By train: West Bengal is very well connected via rail from the railway stations such as Howrah Junction (HWH) in Howrah, Sealdah junction (SDAH) in Sealdah and Kharagpur Junction (KGP) in Kharagpur.

By road: You can also travel to West Bengal via road from the neighbouring states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa and Assam.

13 best tourist places in West Bengal

The metropolitan capital city of Kolkata has a lot to offer in terms of hospitality and exploration. The city has a vibrant history. You can visit popular places like The Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge. All of these points come together to make Kolkata one of the most prominent tourist places in West Bengal. You can reach Kolkata via air at the CCU airport, which is located about 15 km from the city centre. There are cabs and buses available from the airport.

Source: Pinterest 

Renowned as the “Gateway to the North-East,” the hilly city of Siliguri is a major travel destination in West Bengal. In Siliguri, you can spend your time exploring Mahananda Weir Wildlife Sanctuary and The Science City. You can also go sightseeing at Dudhia or Salugara Monastery. You can reach Siliguri from Kolkata, about 460 km from the city. You can take the road or travel by the well-connected railway system of the state.

Source: Pinterest

Darjeeling 

Darjeeling was the summer capital of India at the time when it was ruled and governed by the British. Darjeeling offers scenic, romantic views surrounded by tea plantations. You can take a ropeway ride and enjoy Darjeeling from a once-in-a-lifetime perspective. You can explore the snow-covered hilltops and relish the delicious street food. The way to reach Darjeeling is via train from Kolkata, travelling 497 km from Kolkata Junction to Darjeeling. If you travel by road, you will have to cover 625 km.

  Source: Pinterest 

The mangrove forests of Sundarban are famous for making the world’s biggest tiger reserve for the Royal Bengal Tiger, the Sundarbans National Park. You can also visit the nearby Ghoramara Island and Marichjhapi island during your time in Sunderbans. The exotic wildlife makes the Sundarbans one of the most exciting tourist places in West Bengal. You can travel to Sundarbans from Kolkata via road by bus or cab to cover a distance of about 440 km.

Mirik is a quaint town situated along the shores of a freshwater lake between the mountains. The town is full of Orange Orchids that you can explore along with famous spots of the town like Mirik Lake and Bokar monastery. Mirik is located at a distance of about 481 km via road from the capital city of Kolkata, which you can cover by bus or cab.

If you are looking to go to a hill station that hasn’t yet reached the travel lists of everyone in the country, Kalimpong is a must-visit for you. The small yet beautiful hilly town of Kalimpong is a traveller’s dream because of amazing hospitality yet exceptionally low footfall from general tourists of the state.  Kalimpong is situated at a distance of 646 km from the capital city of Kolkata that can be covered by roadways or private buses.

The coastal town of Digha is a lesser-known travel destination in West Bengal. You can spend your time in Digha strolling across the many gorgeous beaches like New Digha Beach, Talsari Beach, and Shankarpur Beach. To reach Digha, you can take a taxi or bus from Kolkata, which are located at a distance of about 184 km from each other.

Dooars, another hidden gem of West Bengal, is probably the state’s best-kept secret. In Dooars, you will be able to reconnect with nature and learn more about flora and fauna of the region at Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and also enjoy the magnificent views the town has to offer in Latpanchore or Sumsing and Suntalekhola. If you want to reach Dooars, you can do so by taking a bus or taxi from Kolkata. It is at a distance of 632 km from Kolkata.

If you want to experience authentic Bengali culture, Durgapur is the place to be. From the Durgapur steel plant to Deul park, you can find the meaning of being ‘Bengali’ in the essence of these places. Moreover, you can discover authentic traditional Bengali food to please your taste buds in Durgapur. You can travel about 170 km from Kolkata to Durgapur via road by taking a bus or a taxi.

• Murshidabad

If you are a connoisseur of the arts and history, Murshidabad is the perfect spot to visit in West Bengal due to its prominence in the region’s historical conflicts. While in Murshidabad, you can visit places like Wasif Manzil or Hazarduari Palace to quench your thirst for generational art and cultural heritage. You can reach Murshidabad by road from Kolkata, which is located at a distance of 209 km, by a bus or a shared/private taxi.

Shantiniketan

Speaking of art transcending time, one of India’s most celebrated writers and poets and a Nobel prize Winner, Rabindranath Tagore, was born in Shantiniketan, West Bengal. You can explore Tagore’s ashram and Rabindra Bhavan Museum built to honour the legacy of Rabindranath Tagore.  To reach Shantiniketan from Kolkata by road, you can cover the distance of 160 km by a roadways bus or a private taxi service.

Haldia is often overlooked as just an extension of Kolkata, but it has so much more to offer. Haldia is a gorgeous town situated on the coast with fascinating marine drives and stunning views. You can visit places like Marine Drive and the docks for a true experience of Haldia. Reaching Haldia from Kolkata is an easy task by road because Haldia is located at a distance of only 118 km, which can be covered easily in 2 hours by a taxi or bus.

Lataguri has been preserved over time as one of the most splendid hilly towns of West Bengal, hidden away among lush mangrove forests and lakes. You can set your wildlife explorer streak-free and experience the many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Lataguri is located at a distance of 563 km from Kolkata, which can be covered by bus or taxi easily.

Is a trip to West Bengal expensive?

You can enjoy most travel spots in West Bengal for a trip of two days in under 10000 INR, which makes the state a tourist destination pretty moderate for most Indian citizens.

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Top 10 Tourist Places in West Bengal

Welcome to West Bengal, a land of rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and vibrant traditions! Nestled in the eastern part of India, West Bengal is a treasure trove of diverse experiences waiting to be discovered. From the bustling metropolis of Kolkata to the serene hills of Darjeeling, this state offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and spirituality. Whether you are a history buff, an adventure enthusiast, or a nature lover, West Bengal has something to offer to every traveler. Let’s embark on a virtual journey to some of the best places to visit in West Bengal!

Also Read: Top 7 Places to Visit in Manipur

1. Kolkata: City of Joy

The vibrant capital city of West Bengal, Kolkata, is a cultural melting pot with a rich history dating back to the British colonial era. Begin your exploration at the iconic Victoria Memorial, a majestic white-marble monument showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture. Take a leisurely stroll along the Hooghly River at the picturesque Princep Ghat. Don’t forget to delve into the city’s cultural heart, Kumartuli, where skilled artisans create beautiful clay idols for festivals.

2. Sundarbans: A Mangrove Wilderness

Venture south to witness one of the world’s most unique ecosystems, the Sundarbans. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sprawling mangrove forest and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Take a thrilling boat safari to catch glimpses of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger and other wildlife like crocodiles, spotted deer, and exotic bird species. Sundarbans is an ecological wonder that will leave you awestruck with its raw beauty and biodiversity.

Also Read: Tips for Choosing the Best Taxi Service in Gurgaon

3. Darjeeling: The Queen of Hills

Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station renowned for its tea gardens, toy train, and panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga peak. Take a joy ride on the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the “Toy Train,” to experience the stunning landscapes and charming villages along the way. Sip on a cup of freshly brewed Darjeeling tea as you soak in the serene ambiance of this hilltop paradise.

4. Shantiniketan: Tagore’s Abode of Peace

If you seek artistic and intellectual inspiration, a visit to Shantiniketan is a must. Founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, this quaint town is home to Visva Bharati University and the annual Poush Mela. Embrace the essence of Tagore’s vision through the vibrant cultural performances and the unique lifestyle of the locals. Shantiniketan is a serene escape where creativity and nature coexist harmoniously.

5. Kalimpong: The Hillside Serenity

Tucked away in the lesser-explored corners of West Bengal, Kalimpong is a charming hill station known for its tranquility and stunning vistas. Visit the Durpin Monastery for spiritual solace and catch panoramic views of the mountains from the Deolo Hill . Explore the bustling Kalimpong Market for exquisite handicrafts and traditional artifacts.

Also Read: Best Travel Destinations in the World

6. Digha: The Beach Paradise

If you are a beach lover, head to Digha , one of West Bengal’s most popular beach destinations. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the sandy shores of Old Digha and take in the beautiful sunset views. The Marine Aquarium and Research Centre is a fascinating place to explore marine life.

7. Bishnupur: The Terracotta Town

Unveil the historical marvels of Bishnupur , a town known for its exquisite terracotta temples. Visit the Rasmancha and the Jor Bangla Temple to witness the intricate terracotta carvings. Don’t miss the Bishnupur Mela , a vibrant fair celebrating local art and crafts.

8. Jaldapara: A Wildlife Haven

For wildlife enthusiasts, Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit destination. Home to the rare one-horned Indian rhinoceros and numerous other wildlife species, this sanctuary offers exciting jungle safaris to explore the wilderness.

Also Read: Travel guidelines for Uttarakhand

9. Murshidabad: The Historical Gem

Discover the historical splendor of Murshidabad , once the capital of Bengal during the Mughal era. Visit the Hazarduari Palace , an imposing structure with a thousand doors, and explore the Nizamat Imambara and Katgola Palace , reflecting the grandeur of the bygone era.

10. Mandarmani: Serenity by the Sea

Experience tranquility at the pristine Mandarmani Beach , a hidden gem on the eastern coastline. Bask in the golden sunsets and indulge in water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides. Relish fresh seafood delicacies at the shacks lining the beach.

Also Read: Must visit Tourist Places in Himachal Pradesh

West Bengal is a kaleidoscope of diverse experiences, each place a testament to the state’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Whether you seek culture, spirituality, adventure, or relaxation, West Bengal has the perfect destination for you. So, pack your bags and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of West Bengal’s top tourist destinations. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q. what is the best time to visit west bengal.

The ideal time to visit West Bengal is during the winter months, from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities.

Q. How can I reach Darjeeling?

To reach Darjeeling, you can fly to Bagdogra Airport, located near Siliguri, and then take a picturesque drive through tea gardens and hills to reach Darjeeling.

Q. Are the Sunderbans safe for tourists?

Yes, the Sunderbans are generally safe for tourists. However, it’s advisable to take a guided boat safari and follow all safety instructions given by the authorities.

Q. Is Kolkata well-connected to other parts of India?

Yes, Kolkata is well-connected by air, rail, and road to major cities in India and serves as a gateway to the northeastern states.

Q . Can I buy souvenirs in Shantiniketan?

Yes, Shantiniketan is famous for its handicrafts and artistic creations, and you can purchase unique souvenirs like Kantha embroidery, terracotta items, and Batik textiles.

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10 Best cold places to visit in India during summer 2024

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Severe heatwave conditions likely for 5 days in parts of Bengal

Severe heatwave conditions are likely in south west bengal for the next five days, predicted the india meteorological department..

Listen to Story

• Hot and humid conditions likely in southern Bengal till April 25
• Severe heatwave in Paschim Medinipur, Bankura, Hooghly districts
• Relief in North Bengal with light showers in some areas

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday predicted that heatwave conditions are likely to remain over South Bengal for the next several days under the influence of dry winds coming from the northwest.

The weather office forecast heatwave conditions over many parts of South West Bengal, with a severe heatwave in isolated pockets for the next five days.

It said that heatwave to severe heatwave conditions prevailed at a few places in Paschim Medinipur, Bankura, Hooghly, Paschim Bardhaman and North 24 Parganas districts on Sunday.

While parts of North Bengal like Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Jalpaiguri districts witnessed light showers, the rest of the northern districts had dry and uncomfortable weather on Monday.

Heatwave conditions prevailed at isolated pockets in Kolkata, Howrah, Nadia, Birbhum, South 24 Parganas, Purba Bardhaman and Purulia districts, the Met department added. Published By: Vadapalli Nithin Kumar Published On: Apr 22, 2024 ALSO READ | Case against BJP's Amit Malviya for 'offensive remark' against Mamata Banerjee

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