tourist map west bengal

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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33 Popular Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal (2024)

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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 ...

At a distance of 20 km from Barrackpore, 48 km from Howrah, 50 km from Kolkata, 150 km from Haldia, 155 km from Kharagpur, 158 km from Midnapore, 177 km from Murshidabad, 469 km from Bhubaneshwar, 478 km from Tatanagar, 526 km from Puri, 531 km from Siliguri, and 589 km from Darjeeling, Hooghly is a historical city & district located in the Indian state of West Bengal. Also known as Hugli or Hooghly-Chuchura, it is one of the popular places of heritage in India and among the must include tourist destinations in West Bengal Tour Packages. The town of Hooghly got its name from the famous river that flows through it. The name of the place is also spelt as Hugli & Hoogli. It shares its borders with Howrah in South, Bardhaman in North, River Hooghly flows in its East, and Medinipur in West. Between the 13th-15th centuries, the Hooghly town used to be an important sea route for the trade carried between India & other countries. Hooghly port was the place where the 1st cross-trade began between India & Portugal. Dotted with several small but important towns, the district of Hooghly is among the few places in India that features remnant culture-based influences of several civilizations like Portuguese, Dutch and British. The Portuguese were the first to settle here in 1537 but were defeated by the Mughal armies in 1632. Hooghly was regarded as the first English settlement in Lower Bengal after the British East India Company set up a factory here in 1651. Later, it was abandoned ...

10. Tingling Viewpoint

At a distance of 9 km from Mirik, Tingling Viewpoint is a vantage point situated at Sourenee village near Mirik. Surrounded by three tea gardens, the Tingling View Point is one of the popular tourist attractions and among the best places to experience Mirik Tourism. Also known as Kawlay Dara Viewpoint, Tingling Viewpoint gives an astounding view of the surrounding tea gardens, the Mirik Lake and also the beautiful Mirik Valley. The name Tingling comes from the nearby tea estate. The sprawling tea plantations form a stark contrast to the white snow and blue sky. It is an ideal place for both sunrise and sunset and also one can take some beautiful pictures of the plains as well as the snow-capped hills. The village Sourenee can be seen from this point, and the pleasant atmosphere of this region is quite satisfying to the mind. The tea gardens themselves are quite the attraction to tourists and locals alike. There is a stall at the base of the viewing gallery where one can buy fresh packaged tea from Sourenee tea estate. There is also an eatery where you can take light snacks and some tea. Sourenee is also known for its juicy oranges. Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

11. Simana Viewpoint

At a distance of 6 km from Pashupati Market, 20 km from Mirik and 24 km from Darjeeling, Simana is a viewpoint situated at Simana Basti on Darjeeling - Mirik Road in West Bengal. Situated on Indo - Nepal border, it is one of the popular viewpoints in Mirik and among the must visit Tourist Places in Mirik. Situated at an altitude of 7500 feet, Simana Viewpoint is a 60 feet by 40 feet plateau which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding plains, snow-capped peaks of Mount Kanchenjunga and the tiny hamlets of Nepal. Simana means border in Hindi. This is the Indo-Nepal border area, the road itself belongs to India and the viewing area falls in Nepal. But visitors can freely cross over to get the mesmerizing views. Simana Viewpoint is famous for offering a splendid view of Maneybhanjan, Sandakphu trail and the lofty mountainous valley with the backdrop of Mount Kanchenjunga. The view point has become a pit stop while traveling to Darjeeling from Mirik or vice versa. From Simana for a long way towards Mirik, the road acts as the divider between India and Nepal. They are all mostly Nepalese. At Simana, you will find several small stalls - some selling tea, snacks, and chocolates. Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

12. Pashupati Market

At a distance of 6 km from Simana Viewpoint, 15 km from Mirik and 29 km from Darjeeling, Pashupati Market is a market situated at Pashupati Nagar near Mirik. Located on Darjeeling - Mirik Road, it is one of the best places to visit in Mirik. Situated on the India-Nepal border, Pashupati Market is a bustling place with lines of shops and street vendors displaying their wares. It is specifically known for cheap imported electronic gadgets, jackets, perfumes, cosmetics and clothes that are imported from Thailand. One can get a variety of colorful woolen caps, gloves, socks, jackets, other woolen clothing, footwear, artifacts, and household items. Electronic items are also available at reasonable prices. Many items sold here are too cheap to be good. Be careful about the fakes. One can also visit Gopaldhara Tea Estate near Pashupati Nagar. It is one of the highest tea estates which spread over an area of 320 hectares. The market is about 1 km walk from the Darjeeling-Mirik Road and is in Nepal area. Visitors are required to show Photo ID card and enter the details in the register at the border Check Post in case you want to cross over the border and visit the shops. Note that only Indians and Nepalese are allowed to cross over the border area. Foreign nationals are not allowed to access the border. Cameras are not allowed inside. Timings: 9 AM - 6 PM

13. Teesta River Rafting - Melli

At a distance of 18 km from Kalimpong Bus Station, Teesta River Rafting is the most popular adventure sport activity in Kalimpong, West Bengal. Teesta River has become one of the most popular hotspots for White Water Rafting in eastern India and among the must include things during Kalimpong Tour. Teesta River with its green surroundings is the best choice for Rafting in Kalimpong. The Teesta river rafting has carved out deep ravines and gorges in Sikkim meandering through the hills with Kalimpong lying just off the river. This makes for quite an exciting and enthralling rafting experience. Ideally rafting can be done enroute, between Gangtok to Darjeeling, Gangtok to Kalimpong or Gangtok to Siliguri. The routes for non-swimmers are gentle and easy without much rapids involved. However for the swimmers and experienced clients, the routes are more adventurous with high grade rapids providing quite a thrill. The rafting trips for non-swimmers in Teesta River start mostly at Melli Bridge and culminate at Geil Khola in Kalimpong. This is a 12 km stretch which takes 1-2 hours. The rafting trip for Swimmers and experience clients starts at Tarkhola and ends at Melli. It is a 20 km stretch and takes 2-3 Hours. Another way is to go down to Teesta Bazaar, which is the main hub for rafting. Here you will find the River Rafting Center of GTA Tourism. They organize the rafting on Teesta River. The best time to raft on Teesta is from March to June and September ...

14. Lamahatta

At a distance of 30 km from Kalimpong Bus Station, Lamahatta is a calm and picturesque mountain village situated near Kalimpong in the state of West Bengal. Perched at an altitude of 6800 feet, it is one of the serene getaways in West Bengal and among the best places to visit near Kalimpong. Lamahatta is surrounded on all sides by pine forests and gardens with panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Lama in Lamahatta stands for Buddhist monk and Hatta for hut - a monk's hermitage. It is an ideal holiday destination for tourists who wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of urban life and enjoy natural solitude. The main inhabitants here are tribes like Sherpas, Yalmos, Tamangs, Bhutias and Dukpas. They have all come together to join hands with the government to create Lamahatta as an eco-tourism place. The major attraction is the Roadside Garden. This is an open garden surrounded by pine forests containing many seasonal flowers, as well as several rare and exotic species of orchids. Tourists can simply sit and relax in the wooden gazebos at the Roadside Garden and take in the view of the thick canopy and colorful prayer flags. There is also a wooden watch tower which helps visitors to enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga as well as the Sikkim Hills, the River Teesta and the River Rangeet. There are several tea estates to be visited in and around Lamahatta. Most famous among them is Runglee-Rungliot Tea Estate, world-famous for its fine blend, and awesome ...

15. Lolegaon

At a distance of 30 km from Kalimpong and 50 km from Lava, Lolegaon is a small Lepcha village in Kalimpong district of West Bengal. Surrounded by dhupi and cypress forests, it is considered to be the tourism mascot of West Bengal and also one of the best places to visit near Kalimpong. Nestled atop a flat hill on a forested ridge at an altitude of 5500 feet, Lolegaon or Loleygaon is a place of ethereal wilderness and tranquility. Basically a small Lepcha village also known as Kaffer, Lolegaon is a recent inclusion in tourism map of West Bengal for its magnificent view of Greater Himalayan snow ranges that spreads over the entire horizon. Viewing sunrise over the snow peaks from Jhandi Dara Viewpoint is perhaps the most treasured memory of being at Lolegaon. On a clear day all major peaks of Kanchenjunga massif can be seen from here. Even the glorious Mt Everest can be seen from Jhandi Dara. Lolegaon is a fabulous destination for the lovers of wildlife. The age-old forest of towering pine, cypress and oaks with their mossy trunk is an ideal place for watching endangered Himalayan species such as black bear, mountain goats, numerous birds and different varieties of species. The Heritage Forest at Lolegaon is the place to feel the exquisite wealth that nature has showered here. The hanging foot bridge over the canopy of huge trees is a special attraction. Popularly known as 'The Canopy Walk' it offers an unforgettable experience, which allows you to get close to the ...

16. Teesta Valley Tea Estate

At a distance of 32 km from Darjeeling, and 51 km from Kalimpong, Teesta Valley Tea Estate is a vast tea garden in Rangli Rangliot Tehsil of Darjeeling district in West Bengal, India. This is one of the popular tea estates in West Bengal and among the top places to experience Darjeeling Tourism. Teesta Valley Tea Estate derives its name from mighty river Teesta. Established in the year 1841, it is one of the oldest tea gardens in Darjeeling and one of the gold medal winner for the production of the world's finest tea. Spread over an area of 850 hectare, the tea garden is situated in the cold sunny slopes with a widened stretching of almost 2500 to 6500 feet above from the sea level, with selected China tea bushes highly planted with infinite care. These fertile slopes are blessed by cool mists, bright sunshine and crisp winds of the Kanchenjunga, where the legendary flavor of pure Darjeeling tea was conceived. This beautiful tea garden is capable to amuse the visitors by its magnificent scenery around. There is also a view point at Teesta from where one can get the mesmerizing views. One could easily be fascinated by the panoramic sight of the hills, mountains, forests and enchanting river Teesta in its serpentine form. On a clear day one can see some parts of Sikkim, Darjeeling, Kalimpong and the Siliguri. You can also visit the estate factory and watch the tea processing (in winters the factories usually remain closed). Teesta Valley Tea Company Limited ...

17. Ramitey Viewpoint

At a distance of 3 km walk by Sillery Gaon and 17 km from Pedong, Ramitey Viewpoint is a picturesque viewpoint situated at Sillery Gaon near Pedong in Kalimpong district of West Bengal. It is one of the stunning vantage points in Pedong and among the best places to experience Pedong Tourism. Situated at an altitude of about 6,400 feet, Ramitey Viewpoint offers some mesmerizing views of both Mount Kanchenjunga above and the Teesta River below. This viewpoint is also unique as it offers the longest view of river Teesta which is the biggest river of Sikkim & Darjeeling. Approximately 14 bends at a glance, this is by far the best view of the Teesta in this entire region. On a clear day the entire region from Teesta Bazar to Majhitar in Sikkim is clearly visible from Ramitey Viewpoint. Ramitey Viewpoint is just 3 km away from Sillery Gaon and can be accessed by trekking. One can also visit Sillery Gaon, an Ideal mountain village on the way side to Ramitey. Must stop and interact with the villagers to get an idea of their life style and of course their hospitality will touch you. Timings: 6 AM - 5 PM

At a distance of 30 km from Pedong, Aritar is a tiny hill town situated in Rongli Sub-Division of East Sikkim district. Known for its natural and landscaped beauty, Aritar is situated on the old silk route and is among the popular places to visit near Pedong. Isolated from the rest Sikkim, Aritar is characterized by lush green forests, sweeping hills of paddy fields and placid lakes. Lampokhari Lake and Kali Khola Falls are the two interesting places to visit in Aritar. Also known as Aritar Lake, Lampokhari Lake is one of the oldest lakes in Sikkim. It is a boot shaped lake where Pedal boating is the popular activity. At an altitude of 4600 feet, it is the only lake with boating facility in Sikkim. One can also visit a small shrine on the banks of the lake dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava. Also known as Kuikhola falls and Lonely falls, Kali Khola is a natural spring originated from the foothills of the Himalayas. Falling down from a height of 100 m, the waterfall is blessed with immense natural beauty which makes it one of the most attractive waterfalls in this region. The spectacular view of its crystal clear water, crackling from the lush green hills and falling over the rugged pieces of mountains allures large number of tourists. Mankhim Rai Temple is also known as Mankhim Dara and Maney Dara, is a famous temple in Aritar belonging to the Rai sect of Hindu origin. The most popular attraction of this temple is the celebration of Sakewa Puja, which starts ...

19. Changey Waterfall

At a distance of 4 km from Kolakham and 10 km from Lava, Changey Falls is a mesmerizing waterfall situated near Kolakham in Kalimpong district of West Bengal. It is one of the gorgeous waterfalls in Kalimpong region and among the best places to visit in Lava. Changey Falls is a small waterfall in the midst of hills and forests. Cascades down from a height of about 150 feet, the waterfall looks stunning with crystal clear water and thick green forest. Innumerous chirps of amazing Himalayan birds like White Capped Water Redstart, Verditer Flycatcher, Niltava, Blue Fronted Redstart, Grey Treepie, Indian Robin, Blue Whistling Thrush makes the atmosphere heaven like. A four wheel drive of 1 hour from Lava will take you to Changey Falls. The distance from Changey Falls to Kolakham is around 4 km. One needs to trek 900 m from the last motorable point in order to reach the falls. Extreme calmness with huge waterfall sound makes a wonderful contrast. There is no public or private buses ply through this route. So, visitors need to hire a cab to visit the falls. Timings: 6 AM - 5 PM

20. Susunia Hill

At a distance of 28 km from Bankura and 65 km from Bishnupur, Susunia hill is situated at Susunia village in Bankura district of West Bengal. It is one of the ideal picnic spots for the people residing in the surrounding areas. Placed at an altitude of 1442 feet, Susunia is a part of the Eastern Ghats. The entire hill is covered with a rich flora of beautiful shrubbery, majestic trees, and rare medicinal plants. The hill is famous for rock climbing and trekking. During winters, trekking and camping activities are arranged on the Susunia Hill. Enveloped in the ranges of the Eastern Ghats and resting amidst the lush greenery, spending a day on this hill is the perfect way to escape the loud and polluted airs of the city. Susunia hill is one of the well-known fossil and archaeological sites where thousands of years old fossils of animals like hyenas, Asiatic lions and giraffes have been found. Not just fossils, upon excavation, tools that were known to be used in the Stone Age were found here too. The history of Susunia hill dates back to the 4th century. The Stone inscriptions of King Chandravarman are found in the Susunia Hill, referring to the place was ancient Pushkarana, the modern-day Pakhanna. It is also believed that King Chandravarman had built a fort here but ruins could not be traced out. There also stands an ancient but impeccably carved monolith structure on the Susunia Hill named as the Narasimha Stone. The carvings on the monolith call it the oldest ...

21. Jhilimili

At a distance of 78 from Bankura and 95 km from Bishnupur, Jhilimili is a magnificent tourist place in Bankura district of West Bengal. Also known as Darjeeling of South Bengal, it is one of the unique spots in West Bengal and among the popular tourist places to experience Bishnupur tourism. Jhilimili is famous for its dense forests and natural beauty. Jhilimili, in Bengali, means 'sparkle' and is said that the place partially derives its name from the 'sparkle' of the soil. The place is situated on a hillock and amidst thick, dense forests of varying heights. The Kangsabati River flows right through this forest and its banks are a perfect spot to have a picnic. There is a watchtower which offers an amazing view of the surroundings, including that of the descending elephants from the Dalma Hill during winters. Jhilimili has a serene and peaceful climate, which makes it a perfect gateway for city dwellers in search of some peace from their hectic schedule. Small tribal villages are scattered in and around the forest. Those who wish to get a taste of tribal life can hike to one of the villages and spend some time with the inhabitants. The annual Tusu Parab, a tribal festival worshiping Goddess Tusu is a major attraction in the region. The tribes in Jhilimili celebrate Tusu Parab during mid- January. The tribes from various places flock here to sell different items and enjoy the music and dance celebrations.

22. Jayrambati

At a distance of 41 km from Bishnupur and 75 km from Bankura, Jayrambati is a religious and tourist destination located in Bankura district of West Bengal. It is one of the best places in West Bengal and among the important tourist places to visit near Bishnupur. Jayrambati is the birthplace of Ma Sarada Devi, wife of Ramakrishna Paramhansa. She is worshipped as the Holy Mother by the followers of Sri Ramakrishna. Surrounded by lush green trees and shrubs, it is an offbeat but stunning tourist destination. Jayrambati Math is the main attraction and a must-visit place, especially for the people who seek spirituality and wish to offer their prayers to Goddess. The other major attraction here is Matri Mandir, dedicated to Ma Sarada Devi. Built-in 1923, the temple houses a marble image of Sarada Devi along with the holy relics of Sarada Devi in the sanctum sanctorum. The place has few other attractions such as Dharma Thakur Temple dedicated to Sundara Narayana Dharma Thakur and Singhabahini Temple, where Sarada Devi has taken on fasting in order to get healing from an acute disease. One can also visit Puratan Bari, the house of Ma Sarada Devi.

23. Hadal-Narayanpur

At a distance of 47 km from Bishnupur and 59.5 km from Bankura, Hadal & Narayanpur are the twin villages located in Bankura district of West Bengal. Situated on the banks of the Bodai River, it is one of the famous places to visit near Bishnupur. Hadal and Narayanpur are situated side by side and belongs to the same administrative division. It is said that the village was first established by one 'Murokata' Chakraborty, who literally cut down trees to start up the village. The village is famous for the Mandal family terracotta temples that comprise of Barataraf, Mejotaraf, and the Chhototaraf temples. The first temple that houses the idol of Bramhani Devi is not like the traditional structure. It was a modern flat-roofed structure with the entrance displaying a painting of Lord Shiva dancing with the body of Sati on his shoulder. Made of black 'Kasti Pathar', the idol of the goddess has four hands and surprisingly has a strong resemblance to south Indian idols. There are small female figures at the foot of the main idol. This statue is said to be from the Pal era of Bengal. At Barataraf, there is a huge Rasmancha that resembles a 17 pinnacled terracotta structure near the entrance. One can find the sculptures depicting Durga and her family, Shiva's Marriage, Gaja Lakshmi and Lord Vishnu in Anantashyana pose here. The residence of the Barataraf of Mandal Family is painted yellow with a cylindrical shaped entrance. The windows at this entrance were like full-sized ...

24. Tajpur Beach

At a distance of 20 km from Digha Railway Station, Tajpur Beach is another beautiful beach located near Digha, West Bengal. Situated between Chandpur Beach and Mandarmani Beach, it is one of the less commercialized beaches in Digha and among the best Digha Tourist Places. Set on the tranquil shore of the Bay of Bengal, Tajpur Beach is one of the most hidden beaches in India. This virgin beach is still untouched by commercialization and tourism. Fringed by dense tamarisk, eucalyptus, and casuarina trees, the crescent shape of the beach here endows photographers an unusual panoramic view of the sea. The highlight of the pristine beach is the hundreds of red crabs that are found on the shores during the morning hours. With pristine sea beach and tranquil environs make Tajpur a popular weekend getaway for the traveler who wants to laze on a hammock and spend some time in solitude amidst the sun, sea, and sand. The road that takes you to the beach passes through marshy land, large fishing lakes, or 'Bheris' on one side and the sandbanks by the sea on the other side. The coconut-tree clad beach is a favorite habitat of sea-gulls who spread their wings to the wind at the break of dawn. Tajpur offers various adventure sports options like Surfing, Sun Bathing, Parasailing, Kayaking, Zorbing, Rock Climbing, Beach Football, Beach Volleyball, Beach Cricket, Long Drive, etc. The beach is also an ideal spot to watch sunrise and sunset. Timings: 6 AM - 7 PM Entry: ...

25. Mandarmani

At a distance of 15 km from Tajpur, and 28 km from Digha, Mandarmani is a large and rapidly developing seaside resort village in the East Midnapur district of West Bengal. Situated at the northern end of the Bay of Bengal, it is one of the popular weekend getaways from Kolkata and among the must-visit places during your Digha Tour. With great scenery, sandy beaches and an amazing aura of luxury, the coastal town of Mandarmani is a great place to relax, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Mandarmoni boasts of a 13 km long motorable beach, perhaps the longest motorable beach road in India. The drive-in beach is the primary attraction as a crazy high-speed ride on the beach at Mandarmani can give you the ultimate thrill. Red crabs crawling around the 13 km long beach is a special attraction of Mandarmani and the sight is incredible as the entire beach looks like it's filled with red crabs. The beach, one of the cleanest of its kind, has a lot of lodging options available for tourists, with plenty of hotels and resorts lined up along the beach. Due to its top-notch facilities and luxuries, Mandarmani has a tremendous potential of becoming a world-class destination. There is also a string of local shops selling shells, handmade jewelry, and handicrafts. A few locals also offer groups to take a trip towards the Mohana (Estuary) during sunset. Timing: 6 AM - 10 PM Entry: Free

26. Baba Taraknath Temple

At a distance of 49 km from Hooghly, Taraknath Temple is a famous Hindu shrine situated at Tarkeshwar in the Hooghly district of West Bengal. It is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in West Bengal and among the must-include places in Hooghly Tour Packages. Also known as Tarakeshwar Temple, the Taraknath Temple is dedicated to Lord Taraknath, a violent (Ugra) form of Lord Shiva who drank venom (Vish) during Samudra-Manthan. According to the legend, the temple was built after a dream which led the mendicant brother of Raja Vishnu Das to discover a Linga in the jungles near Tarakeswar. Later, a small temple was built around the swayambhu linga (self-manifested) by the villagers. The present structure of the temple was built in 1729 by Raja Bharamalla. The temple is built in central West Bengal style of temple architecture with features such as 'atchala' and 'natmandir'. The temple has four roofs above the sanctum sanctorum and extended galleries for the congregation of the devotees. This temple also has minor shrines dedicated to Goddess Kali and Lord Lakshmi-Narayan. Dudhpukur, a tank to the north of the Shiva temple is believed to fulfill the prayers of the devotees those taking a dip in it. Pilgrims visit the temple throughout the year, especially on Mondays. But thousands of pilgrims visit Tarakeswar on the occasions of 'Shivaratri' in Phalgun month and Gajan Mela in Chaitra (mid-April). Also, the month of Sravana (mid-July to mid-August) is auspicious ...

27. Singalila National Park

At a distance of 36 km from Darjeeling, Singalila National Park is a reserved forest area at the Singalila ridge in Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Situated at an altitude between 7900 feet to 12000 feet, it is the highest National Park in West Bengal and among the popular places to visit in Darjeeling. The park was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1986, and got national park status in 1992. The park derives its name from the Singalila spur, which runs through the park, descending from Mount Kanchenjunga in the north and running south to the northern fringe of the Gangetic Plains. The park makes the border line with Nepal to the west and Sikkim to the North. The two highest peaks of West Bengal, Sandakphu (3630 m) and Phalut (3600 m) are located inside the park and the region had long been used as the trekking route from Maneybhanjang to Sandakphu and Phalut. The park has an area of 78.60 Sq.km with mixed vegetation of Magnolia, Rhododendron, Oak, Pine Hemlock, Silver Fir, Juniper, Mailing Bamboo, Buk, Kawla, Bhujpatra etc. Singalila National Park is popular to the tourists from all over the world for its amazing flora and fauna. Exotic Red Panda and Himalayan Black Bear are the most important mammals found in Singalila National Park. Among the other major species found in the park are leopard, serow, pangolin, barking deer, boar etc. The park is also a delight for birdwatchers as more than 120 species of birds are seen, which includes many rare birds like ...

28. Radha-Govind-Jiu Mandir / Antpur Temple

At a distance of 22 km from Tarakeshwar, and 50 km from Hooghly, Radha-Govind-Jiu Mandir is an ancient temple located at Antpur in Hooghly district of West Bengal. It is one of the beautiful terracotta temples in West Bengal and among the well-known Hooghly Tourist Places. Sri Radhagovindjiu Temple is one of the Terracotta Temple in West Bengal and the most famous temple in Antpur. The temple was constructed in 1786 by Shri Krishna Ram Mitra, the Diwan of Bardhaman Raj. It has Chandi Mandap and Dol Mancha and both are beautifully crafted wood carvings and terracotta. The main sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses a black stone idol of Lord Krishna. This 100 feet high temple has exquisite terracotta carvings depicting stories from all the 18 Puranas. While Radha and Krishna are predominant in the carvings, there is also the goddess Durga, whose worship had been revived in a big way by Nabakrishna Deb of Shovabazar Rajbari in 1757. Besides the main temple of Radhagovindjiu are the temples of Gangadhara, Fuleswara, Rameswara, Jaleswara, and Baneswara. Antpur was the village home of Baburam Ghosh (later Swami Premananda). The Ramakrishna-Premananda Ashram of Antpur has built a temple on the birthplace of Swami Pramananda. Antpur is also the place where Swami Vivekananda and eight other disciples of Sri Ramakrishna took their vow of 'sannyasa' on 24 December 1886. Timings: 6 AM - 8 PM Entry: Free

29. Kamarpukur

At a distance of 49 km from Bishnupur, and 90 km from Hooghly, Kamarpukur is a small hamlet in the Hooghly district of West Bengal. It is one of the popular religious places in West Bengal and among the prominent places to visit near Hooghly. Kamarpukur is the birthplace of the great 19th-century Indian philosopher Sri Ramakrishna. He was born in 1836 in a poor Brahmin family. The holy hamlet attracts a massive number of devotees of Sri Ramakrishnan across the year and thus, over a period of time has become a site of pilgrimage. Kamarpukur Ramakrishna Math and temple was built in 1951 by the monks of Ramakrishna Mission and Ramakrishna Math. Designed by Nandala Basu, the opulent temple houses a marble statue of Sri Ramakrishna. Apart from being a pilgrimage, the natural beauty and calmness of Kamarpukur attract thousands of solitude seeking tourists to this place round the year. Besides Ramakrishna Math, there are also many attractions in this place including the ancestral home of Sri Ramakrishna, and Gopeshwar Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Shri Gopeshwar temple is an ancient temple located towards the east of the ancestral house of Sri Ramakrishna.

30. Sandakphu & Phalut Trek

At a distance of 83 km from Darjeeling, Sandakfu or Sandakphu is the highest peak of West Bengal situated on the border of West Bengal of India and Nepal. Sandakphu is one of the wonderful places to experience Darjeeling Tourism and also among the best trekking places in Eastern Himalayas. Situated at an altitude of 11,941 feet, Sandakphu is the summit or the highest point in Singalila range. Sandakphu means 'Height of the Poison Plant' derives its name from the poisonous plants that grow near the top. Popularly known as 'Trekkers Wonderland', the Sandakphu trek route goes all along the Singalila range and the border of India and Nepal. Also known as Singalila trek, it is considered as the highest trek in West Bengal. A trek to Sandakphu is actually considered a soft or a light trek in trekker's world. However the altitude, weather conditions and various other factors do require that take adequate preparations, particularly first time trekkers. The Sandakphu trek starts from an altitude of 1,524 m and gradually climbs up through forests of rhododendron, giant magnolias, spruce and other trees of sub-alpine region and more than 600 varieties of orchids. One can get the magnificent views of the Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu while trekking to Sandakphu. The trek route to Sandakphu starts from Maneybhanjang, a small township located at an altitude of 7,054 feet. This is virtually the gateway to Singalila and Sandakphu. The distance from Darjeeling ...

31. Senchal Lake & Wildlife Sanctuary

At a distance of 10 km from Darjeeling, Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected sanctuary in Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. It is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries of India and among the popular places to experience Darjeeling Tourism. Covers an area of 38.6 Sq. km, Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary was set up in 1915 CE and is the south east extension of Singalila National Park. The elevation ranges from 1,500 to 2,600 m. High-altitude animals like barking deer, wild pig, Himalayan black bear, leopard, jungle cat, common rhesus monkey, Assam macaque, Himalayan flying squirrel, etc. are found in their natural habitats. The sanctuary is also rich in bird life. Senchal wildlife sanctuary is a perfect combination of both man-made and natural jungles. The forest has different kinds of trees and plantation including oak, pines and birch. There are over 350 types of flowering plants in this area including Rhodendrons and Orchids. There are several villages surrounding the protected area. Senchal Lake is a part of the Senchal Sanctuary which supplies drinking water to the town of Darjeeling. The lake is fed by a mountain spring and the water of this lake is clean and potable. The narrow longish Senchal Lake is surrounded by thick vegetation on all sides. However the main forest area is a bit far from the lake. Colourful flowers like rhododendrons and orchids on the lakeside enhance the overall beauty. A 9-hole golf course and club house are also present ...

32. Neora Valley National Park

At a distance of 81 km from Darjeeling, Neora Valley National Park is a protected wildlife sanctuary located in Kalimpong district of West Bengal. It is one of the richest biological zones in the entire Eastern India and also one of the prominent places to visit in Darjeeling. Spread over an area of 88 sq. km, Neora Valley National Park was established in 1986 CE. The National Park enjoys the distinction of being situated over one of the oldest Reserve Forests in India. With an elevation of 10,600 feet, Rachela Pass is the highest point of this park, where it forms a boundary with Sikkim in the North and Bhutan in the North East. The forests of Jalpaiguri form its southern boundary connecting it with Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary and the Gorumara National Park. The name Neora Valley is given after the river Neora flowing through it and is the main source of water for Kalimpong town. Neora Valley National Park is situated in the foothill of the Himalayas, so it has craggy inaccessible hilly terrain which makes the park wilder and adventures than others. This national park has luxuriant foliage of rhododendrons, endemic orchids and a mixed variety of forests. Somewhere the forests are very deep, even sunlight does not touch the ground. The Neora Valley National Park is the land of the elegant red panda, one of the rare and endangered species in the world. The park is also home to Himalayan Tahr, Black Bear, Sambar, Barking Deer, Goral, Tiger, Leopard, Chinese ...

33. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary

At a distance of 97 km from Darjeeling, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the foothills of Eastern Himalayas of Jalpaiguri district. Situated close to Gorumara National Park, it is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in West Bengal and among the popular tourist places near Darjeeling. Covered with an area of 96 Sq.km, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1998. The name Chapramari derives from 'Chapra' means a variety of small fish and 'Mari' means abundant. According to history, in 1895, the area was declared as a reserve forest under the Indian Forest Act. Then, the Government of India declared it as a National Wildlife Sanctuary in 1998. The main attraction of the sanctuary is the elephants that are found here in large numbers. The place is also home to various other animals like Gaur, Wild boar, Leopards, Royal Bengal Tiger, Himalayan Langoor, deer, reptiles etc. Also regarded as a bird watchers paradise as one can spot variety of birds like Peafowl, Green pigeon, Roller, Florican, Flinch, Bee-eater, Hornbill, Black partridges and many more here. There are forest department cottages as well as private hotels available that provide food and accommodation. Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM

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West Bengal

• 1.1 North Bengal
• 1.2 South Bengal
• 3 Other destinations
• 4.2 History
• 4.3 Geography
• 4.4 Culture
• 4.5 Economy
• 4.6 Climate
• 6.1 By plane
• 6.2 By train
• 6.5 By boat
• 7.1 By train
• 7.2 By rickshaw
• 8.1 Historical attractions
• 8.2 Natural attractions
• 8.3 Itineraries
• 13.1 Natural disasters

A state in Eastern India , West Bengal ( Bengali : পশ্চিমবঙ্গ Paścimbaṅga ) presents some of the marvellous landscape features and natural scenic beauty, from the picturesque hills of Darjeeling to the mangrove rainforest of the Sundarbans . Here, you can also find man-made structures with varying tastes, from the terracotta temples of Bishnupur to the colonial structures of Kolkata .

Regions [ edit ]

There are 23 districts in West Bengal and they have been traditionally grouped into North Bengal and South Bengal. However, West Bengal is a diverse state with multiple travel regions.

North Bengal [ edit ]

South Bengal [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ].

• 22.572672 88.363882 1 Kolkata (Calcutta) — the "City of Palaces", the largest city in the state, the capital of West Bengal and the former capital of British India
• 24.1 88.25 2 Baharampur (Berhampore) — a fortified British cantonment with Dutch, French, Mughal and Portuguese architecture and reminiscences
• 23.25 87.85 3 Bardhaman (Burdwan) — a major agricultural city
• 22.867058 88.367411 4 Chandannagar (Chandernagore) — a former French colony
• 27.0375 88.263056 5 Darjeeling — a beautiful hill station and centre of a major tea growing area
• 23.55 87.32 6 Durgapur — an industrial city in the Rarh region
• 22.58 88.329444 7 Howrah — Kolkata's twin city, the second-largest in the state, with the largest railway complex in India
• 24.18 88.27 8 Murshidabad — former capital of Bengal under the Nawabs
• 26.72 88.42 9 Siliguri — a major business and shopping centre and gateway for travellers to Sikkim and North-Eastern India

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 23.28667 86.11556 1 Ajodhya Hill and Forest Reserve Area — a low-lying hill in the western Rarh region
• 26.65 89.58 2 Buxa Tiger Reserve — a forested area in Buxa and Jayanti Hills is a habitat for tigers, Asian elephants and other mammals plus a variety of birds, amphibians and reptiles
• 26.7 88.8 3 Gorumara National Park — rolling grasslands and forest is rich with herbivores such as the Indian rhinoceros and elephants birds, reptiles and amphibians
• 24.882881 88.128029 4 Gour — former capital of Bengal under the Sultans
• 26.628611 89.3775 5 Jaldapara National Park — a national park with wildlife including one-horned rhinos
• 21.726891 88.109612 6 Sagar Island — a Hindu pilgrimage site with unspoilt beaches
• 27.116667 88.066667 8 Singalila National Park — a popular trekking destination with Mt Sandakphu, the tallest peak of West Bengal

Understand [ edit ]

Name [ edit ].

The term "West Bengal" (পশ্চিমবঙ্গ POHSH-chihm-bawng-goh ) originated during the partition of India in 1947, as the name of the Indian state carved out of the western parts of the former Bengal province. The remaining eastern parts of Bengal joined with Pakistan from 1947 till 1971, when it became Bangladesh . However, the exact origin of the word "Bengal" is uncertain (see Bengal#Name ).

History [ edit ]

The history of West Bengal dates back to 20,000 years. The region that is now West Bengal was part of a number of empires and kingdoms during the past two thousand years, including the Vanga Kingdom, the kingdom of  Magadha . However, the first independent king of Bengal was Shashanka of the 6th century, with his capital at Karnasuvarna (near present-day Baharampur ). After Shashanka, Bengal was ruled by Pala and Sena dynasties. Bengal was later invaded by Rajendra Chola I of the Chola dynasty  between 1021 and 1023.

During the 12th century, Sufi missionaries arrived in Bengal, bringing along with them the message of Islam. Bakhtiar Khilji, a military commander from the  Delhi Sultanate, overran Bengal between 1202 and 1206, initiating the Bengal Sultanate that ran from 13th to 16th century, with the capital being Gour - Pandua . European traders arrived late in the 15th century and established settlements across the Hooghly River.

Bengal was later conquered by the Mughals in 1576. There were several independent Hindu states established in Bengal during the Mughal period like those of Maharaja Pratapaditya of Jessore  and Raja Sitaram Ray of  Bardhaman . The Koch Bihar Kingdom in North Bengal flourished during the 16th and 17th centuries. The Mughal Bengal was ruled by Nawabs in early 17th century, with the first Nawab of Bengal being Murshid Quli Khan.

The Battle of Plassey in 1757 saw the defeat of Siraj ud-Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal. Bengal Presidency was established by 1765, eventually including all British territories north of the Central Provinces (now  Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh ), from the mouths of the Ganges and the Brahmaputra to the Himalayas and the  Punjab region. Calcutta was named the capital of British India in 1772. The Bengal Renaissance and Brahmo Samaj movement had a great impact on the cultural and economic life of Bengal. The failed uprising against the British rule in 1857 resulted in the disbandment of the British East India Company.

Between 1905 and 1911, attempts were made to bifurcate Bengal to curb nationalism, but widespread protest forced the British to call it off. Bengal played a major role in the Indian independence movement, producing some of India's greatest revolutionaries including Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. At the independence of India in 1947, Bengal was partitioned along religious lines, with the western part remained in India as West Bengal while the eastern part joined Pakistan as East Bengal (present-day Bangladesh ). In 1950, the Cooch Behar State merged with West Bengal. In 1955, the former French enclave of  Chandannagar was integrated into West Bengal.

Incidents surrounding the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 caused millions of refugees to influx into West Bengal, most of them Hindus. The Left Front, led by the Communist Party of India (Marxist), governed the state for the subsequent three decades, making it the longest-serving democratically elected communist party in the world. Although they are no longer in power since 2011, the Communists' imprint remains powerful on the state, with many streets named after Marx and other local and foreign revolutionary figures.

Geography [ edit ]

West Bengal is diverse in terms of geography and is distinctively unique for being the only state in India with the Himalayas in the north and the Bay of Bengal in the south, with vast stretches of plains, plateaus and deltas between them.

The Eastern Himalayas range starts abruptly up from the Terai region near Siliguri . Sandakphu at 3,636 m (11,929 ft) is the highest point of West Bengal. Remnants of the Shivaliks can be seen on the northern plains , where they are known as the Buxa-Jayanti Hills. The Terai is a belt of marshy grasslands, savannas and forests at the base of the Himalayas range. The Dooars region stretching across the middle of the Terai belt are a conglomerate of tall grasslands, savannas and evergreen and deciduous forests.

The Rarh region lies south of the Ganges and east of the Chota Nagpur Plateau, the eastern part of which is in West Bengal. Part of the Sundarbans is in the vast deltaic region south of the state.

Culture [ edit ]

The culture of West Bengal attracts tourists from around the world. It has its roots in literature, music, fine arts, drama and cinema. Certain regions in the state are known for their folk cultures as well.

Economy [ edit ]

West Bengal is the economic and transport hub of Eastern India and it is the home to some of the busiest railway stations in India. The state also has river ports at Kolkata and Haldia . Kolkata is an information technology (IT) hub of the state, with several IT firms and companies having established their campuses in the city.

Climate [ edit ]

West Bengal experiences 5 seasons: spring, summer, monsoon, autumn and winter.

Spring is short and more dominant in the northern region. Summer commences from the first week of March and continues till June. The weather remains hot and humid during the day, accompanied by cool breezes at night. The western highlands will experience a hot dry climate. Thunderstorms locally called Kalbaishakhi , occur in late summer. Monsoon starts in July and ends in late September when torrential rainfall gives rise to severe floods in the south. Autumn is short, between October and mid-November. The retreating monsoon at this time may give rise to storms. Winter sets by late November and continues till Spring arrives in February, January being the coldest. The Himalayan region in the north experiences snowfall during winter, usually after mid-December.

In the plains, during summer the temperature ranges between 26 °C (79 °F) and 40 °C (104 °F) while winter experiences between 13 °C (55 °F) to 19 °C (66 °F). The Darjeeling Hills have an average temperature of about 15 °C (59 °F) during summer and 2 °C (36 °F) during winter.

North Bengal receives the highest rainfall, while Rarh receives the lowest rainfall. Coastal regions receive medium rainfall. Drought-like conditions may occur in Purulia .

Talk [ edit ]

The official languages of the state are Bengali and English .

Nepali is widely spoken in the Darjeeling Hills .

Hindi is spoken in major cities, and you're likely to find a Hindi speaker in Kolkata .

Other commonly spoken languages include Santali , Odia , and Urdu .

Get in [ edit ]

Kolkata is considered to be an ideal hub to cover all the destinations in West Bengal and there are several public transport services to and from the city.

By plane [ edit ]

Travellers from abroad might certainly come in via Kolkata. Besides, a few major cities have domestic airports.

• Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport ( CCU  IATA ), Dum Dum, Kolkata , ☏ +91 33 2511 8036 , ☏ +91 33 2511 8787 , ☏ +91 33 3987 4987
• Bagdogra International Airport ( IXB  IATA ), Bagdogra, Siliguri , ☏ +91 353 269 8431
• Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport ( RDP  IATA ), Andal, Durgapur , ☏ +91 99333 07863
• Cooch Behar Airport ( COH  IATA ), Cooch Behar

By train [ edit ]

Railways link it with other states from all sides. Major railway stations are in Asansol , Howrah , Kolkata and Siliguri .

By bus [ edit ]

Government-owned companies like NBSTC (North Bengal State Transport Corporation), SBSTC (South Bengal State Transport Corporation) and WBTC (West Bengal Transport Corporation) operate buses to and from various destinations within Eastern India. Several private players also operate air conditioned buses between most important destinations. You can book a bus tickets online for government buses via official websites of respective companies, and for private buses you have options like Redbus , Abhibus , MyTempoTraveller and Myticketbuddy [dead link] .

By car [ edit ]

Kolkata is one of the vertices of the Golden Quadrilateral project, a network of highways that connect the major cities of India. All other major cities are also well connected by national and state highways.

By boat [ edit ]

Major ports are Kolkata and Haldia, and there are some smaller ports.

Get around [ edit ]

Within the state, the main transport links are trains and buses. Taxis and hired cars are available in most places.

West Bengal has an extensive railway network and is part of the three zones of Indian Railways: Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), Eastern Railway (ER) and South Eastern Railway (SER). Apart from the mail and express trains coming from outside the state (they are generally very crowded), there are some fast trains within the state and a large number of passenger trains and locals.

The southern part of West Bengal is served by the Kolkata Suburban Railway (commonly referred to as "local trains"). Depending on the route, local trains can be extremely crowded. It is less expensive to travel around by train as compared to private cabs or taxis.

By rickshaw [ edit ]

Rickshaws are the most common mode of transport in West Bengal, especially for short and medium distances. There are three types of rickshaws operating throughout the state: cycle rickshaws, electric rickshaws (locally called totos ) and auto-rickshaws (locally called autos ). Electric rickshaw operators can charge huge fares on seeing a tourist. Usually, electric rickshaw rides are short and cost ₹10-15 per person (as of 2022).

There are highways and expressways connecting the cities and other adjacent states. There is almost no traffic except during the festival season, and even then traffic is reasonably light. All villages are connected via paved roads. You are required to pay toll taxes at various points on the expressways and national highways either through cash or FASTag . Charges may vary depending on the type of vehicle.

See [ edit ]

Historical attractions [ edit ]

West Bengal was the cultural centre of India during the British rule. Monuments and places of worship in the state had been influenced by several cultures and their distinct architecture also speaks of the time of their construction. British influence had led to the construction of many buildings featuring European style architecture, few noteworthy of them carries a Gothic influence.

Natural attractions [ edit ]

The natural beauty of West Bengal is diverse, from the snowy Darjeeling Hills at the north to the Bay of Bengal and the Sundarbans at the south. The coastal strip of West Bengal, from the Sundarbans to the border of Odisha , has some beautiful beach resorts, including Digha , Shankarpur , Mandarmani , Bakkhali and Sagar Island . The Chota Nagpur Plateau at the western fringe of the state is also incredible with low-lying hills and other picnic spots.

Itineraries [ edit ]

• Grand Trunk Road — its main route starts from Howrah and runs across the Hooghly River before turning northwest into the Rarh region.
• Sandakphu–Phalut Trek — Sandakphu (3,636 m) is the highest point in West Bengal and Phalut (3,600 m) is the northernmost point of West Bengal. The trek combines both these points offering great views of Kangchenjunga and several other snow peaks including Mount Everest .

Do [ edit ]

West Bengal has numerous independent theatre groups locally called yātrā dal (travelling group/band), who perform shows mostly in the rural areas. Foreigners not familiar with the dialect spoken can enjoy the atmosphere surrounding these events, as fairs organised by local inhabitants, merchants and craftsmen often accompany such gatherings.

Make an āḍḍā with people. āḍḍā is a term Bengalis use for freestyle intellectual verbal information sharing. It is a common sight in Bengal to find groups engaged in rigorous discussion and debates, though more notably in Kolkata. Such gathering always welcome anyone who wishes to join them. It offers a great opportunity to learn more about the local customs, the people and their views on different things and happenings in and around West Bengal. People from various age groups will happily invite foreign tourists to join their discussions and share thoughts, ideas and experience.

Take a boat ride across the Hooghly River, or hire a small boat and spend the evening discovering the banks of the river around Kolkata , Howrah , Diamond Harbour , Chandannagar or Murshidabad . Boatmen usually demand ₹500 for an hour. Price is negotiable through bargaining .

Events [ edit ]

Durga Puja (দুর্গাপূজা Durgāpūjā ) is the most celebrated festival in West Bengal. It takes place between September and October, depending on the Hindu lunisolar calendar. There are celebrations in every corner of the state. People are filled with joy and happiness. People distribute sweets and clothes to their loved ones, expressing love and joy. Durga Puja in Kolkata has been listed as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2021.

Celebrelated at the day of Diwali, Kali Puja (কালীপূজা Kālīpūjā ) is another major festival in West Bengal, worshipping the Goddess Kali.

Ras Mela (রাসমেলা Rāsmelā ) is one of the most famous and popular yearly fairs in the entire state of West Bengal. Ras Mela is hosted in the occasion of Ras Purnima and the city is fully decorated. Conducted in a huge open ground, it is full of people. You can enjoy food, rides, circuses and many more. There could be some issues entering the fair as the entry points are totally jampacked but once you are in the fair, you can enjoy the rest of your night. There are singers and performers coming from different parts of India. There is an atmosphere of enjoyment and craziness in this time of the year. It's like a winter carnival. Mostly organised in late November or early December. Dates can change each year as it is organised on the basis of a Hindu astronomical event, Ras Purnima or Shakta Rash .

Beside religious festivals, Poila Boishakh (পয়লা বৈশাখ Paẏlā Baiśākh ; Bengali New Year) is also celebrated in West Bengal. However, unlike Bangladesh , the Poila Boishakh celebration takes place in 15 April. Here people from all walks of life participate in various cultural shows, called Boishakhi Mela, wearing the national attire (Punjabi or sari), eating Bengali sweets and wishing everyone a happy Bengali New Year.

Eat [ edit ]

West Bengal is famous for fish preparations and sweet meat but some of the vegetarian dishes are also a speciality. In earlier centuries widows were prohibited from taking anything other than vegetarian food (predominantly they still are but now rules are being broken) and they were principal chefs in large homes. They developed vegetarian dishes extensively.

Bengali cuisine is centred around fish. Machher jhol , fish in curry gravy, is a watery fish curry available everywhere and goes well with rice. However, Bengalis everywhere swear by ilish (aka hilsa, a variant of shad), which is lightly marinaded in mustard and steamed is up there with the best fish dishes in the world.

West Bengal is known to make distinctive sweetmeats from milk products, including rôsogolla (aka rasgulla , cheese balls dipped in a sugary syrup), pantua (a fried variant of rôsogolla ) rôsomalai (aka rasmalai , cheese balls dipped in creamy sweetened milk), chômchôm , kalojam , mishti doi (sweet yoghurt) and several kinds of sôndesh . These sweets are also famous all over India. Pitha , a kind of sweet cake, bread or dimsum are specialties of winter season. Sweets like narkel-naru , til-naru , moa and payesh are prepared during the Lakshmi Puja. Popular street food includes alur chôp , begunī , jhal muri (similar to the bhel puri of Mumbai ) and phuchka (aka golgappa ).

In cities like Kolkata, one can get all types of food from any part of the country. Even one can get Chinese, Thai and continental. In most of the other towns, one can mostly find Bengali hotel and restaurants, though Punjabi, North Indian and South Indian outlets are also available. Mughlai dishes are very popular.

Drink [ edit ]

There are plenty of bars across the state. You might expect nightlife in major cities like Kolkata and Siliguri .

Sleep [ edit ]

Like the rest of India, there are both government and private accommodations. Most of the government lodges are run by the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation ( WBTDC or West Bengal Tourism ) and can be booked from the tourism centres in Kolkata and Siliguri .

Stay safe [ edit ]

West Bengal is very safe for foreigners. People are friendly and accept people of different cultures warmly. As a foreigner you might find people staring at you but they are just curious. But if you notice anything objectionable in their behaviour with you, face them boldly and ask for help. People are helpful and you will have them coming to your rescue. You may also call the police. But people on the roads are helpful to foreigners and they can be relied upon.

West Bengal is a very politically active state. You may witness clashes, which most often occur between students of fronts affiliated to the ruling party and the opposition parties. It is better to stay out of the matter and leave the area, as even the police sometimes get involved.

You should take extra precautions while travelling closer to the India–Bangladesh border . There have been cases of illegal migration of people from Bangladesh and drug dealings along the border are fairly common. You might take the assistance of the Border Security Force (BSF) if necessary.

Natural disasters [ edit ]

The southern parts of West Bengal are prone to flooding , since the areas are composed mainly out of silt, a material which is carried down by the rivers and tributaries comprising the Ganges Delta. The rivers would overflow or burst their banks after heavy rainfall. Also, beware of the cyclones occurring at the coastal areas of the state.

The Darjeeling Hills experience heavy rainfall as well, with moderate snowfall in winter. Altitude sickness is another problem in the region.

Respect [ edit ]

Although West Bengal has a lot in common with Bangladesh , don't treat it as a part of Bangladesh.

The Indian rupee is commonly called taka in West Bengal. You must not confuse it with the Bangladeshi taka.

The various respect tips in the Bangladesh article apply here, except that the state is Hindu-majority.

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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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Must-see attractions in West Bengal

West Bengal

If you like tea, you should visit this celebrated organic and biodynamic Darjeeling tea estate. Walk-in visits to the processing factory, with huge…

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, known affectionately as the toy train, made its first journey along its precipice-topping, 2ft-wide tracks in 1881 and…

Singalila National Park

Singalila National Park covers the Indian side of the scenic Singalila Ridge, the Darjeeling region's finest trekking area, along the India–Nepal border…

Sundarbans Tiger Reserve

The 2585-sq-km Sundarbans Tiger Reserve has 100-plus Royal Bengal tigers lurking in its impenetrable mangrove forests and sometimes swimming its delta…

Literally meaning 'house of 1000 doors', the Hazarduari was built in very English Neoclassical style for Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah in 1829–37. Not all of…

Uttarayan Complex

Shantiniketan

Ranged around tree-lined avenues, gravelled courtyards and exotic gardens, the Uttarayan Complex, in the heart of the Visva-Bharati campus, includes five…

Eklakhi Mausoleum

The large, beautiful Eklakhi Mausoleum at Pandua gets its name from the reputed ₹1 lakh (₹100,000) cost of building it back in 1431. It's a domed brick…

Adina Masjid

The vast Adina Masjid, just west off NH12 (old NH34), 19km north of Malda, was India’s largest mosque when constructed by Sikandar Shah in the 14th…

Jor Bangla Temple

The 'twin hut' structure of Jor Bangla is covered in particularly exquisite terracotta ornamentation.

Observatory Hill

The hill rising above Chowrasta is home to several much-visited temples, approached through a flurry of colourful prayer flags and hanging bells. The main…

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute

Within the zoo precinct, the prestigious HMI was founded in 1954 and has provided training for some of India’s leading mountaineers. Its fascinating…

Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre

Established in 1959, this refugee centre includes a Tibetan Buddhist temple, workshops producing carpets, woodcarvings, wool and woollen items, plus a…

Durpin Gompa

Kalimpong’s largest monastery, formally known as Zangtok Pelri Phodang, sits atop panoramic Durpin Hill (1372m) and was consecrated by the Dalai Lama in…

On a clear day, the morning views of Khangchendzonga from this hilltop park, about 500m higher than the town centre, are simply superb. After savouring…

Japanese Peace Pagoda

Perched on a hillside 2km south of the town centre, the gleaming white, 28m-high Peace Pagoda is one of more than 70 pagodas built around the world by the…

Sajnekhali Ecotourism Centre

This tree-shaded complex on the northern edge of the tiger reserve acts as the reserve's official gateway and contains the forest range office (where park…

Yiga Choeling Gompa

Yiga Choeling Gompa, the Darjeeling area's most famous monastery, founded in 1850, houses up to 40 monks of the Gelugpa school. The serene temple has…

Himalayan Tibet Museum

This well-thought-out museum (one large room) is a good, colourful introduction to Tibet and its culture. The attractive displays introduce the Dalai Lama…

Hanseswari Temple

About 6km north of Bandel, Bansberia is home to the imposing Hanseswari Temple, devoted to an avatar of the goddess Kali. With 13 pinnacled sikharas …

Hooghly Imambara

Between Chinsurah and Bandel, you can climb the lofty clock tower of the romantically crumbling Imambara, which has breathtaking views of the Hooghly…

Katra Mosque

On the east side of Murshidabad, the handsome, pink-brick Katra Mosque features two tall corner towers and multiple domes (some now fallen in)…

Institut de Chandernagor

In the old French governor's mansion on Chandannagar's riverfront road, the Institut has an interesting museum telling the story of colonial history on…

House of Jagat Seth

The extensive mansion of a Jain family that achieved high influence under both the nawabs and the British, the House of Jagat Seth is home to an eclectic…

Baradwari Mosque

Built by Sultan Nasrat Shah in 1526, the Baradwari Mosque once had 44 golden domes. The dignified stone arcade of its eastern corridor is still intact.

District Museum

Bishnupur's small museum is worth a look for its collection of painted manuscript covers, stone friezes, musical instruments and folk art.

Dakhil Darwaza

The fortress-like Dakhil Darwaza gate, constructed in 1425, was the northern entrance to the fortified citadel at the heart of old Gaur.

Rasmancha Temple

The squat, square Rasmancha has an unusual plan of three concentric arched galleries surrounding the inner shrine.

Shyamrai Temple

The elaborately decorated Shyamrai is topped by five sikhara domes.

To watch the dawn light break over a spectacular 250km stretch of Himalayan horizon, including Everest (8848m), Khangchendzonga (8598m) and two more of…

Happy Valley Tea Estate

This 1854 estate on the northwest edge of town is a good place to learn about tea, especially when plucking and processing are in progress (March to…

St Teresa’s Church

A fascinating missionary church built in 1929 by Swiss Jesuits, St Teresa's was constructed to incorporate designs from a Bhutanese gompa. The 12 wooden…

Bandel Basilica

The chief reminder of the Portuguese presence on the Hooghly River is the Bandel Basilica, Bengal's oldest and perhaps most loved church, built in 1599…

Himalayan Handmade Paper Industry

Visitors are welcome to drop into this small workshop to see traditional paper-making processes, from boiling and pulping of the local argayli (daphne)…

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

This zoo, one of India’s better ones, was established in 1958 to study, conserve and preserve Himalayan fauna. Housed within its rocky and forested…

Tharpa Choling Gompa

Built from 1912 to 1922, the main temple of this Gelugpa-school Tibetan monastery of 50 monks contains statues of past, present and future Buddhas. Don't…

Neora Valley National Park

This birding haven lies east of Lava, a town 30km east of Kalimpong, and its luxuriant forests are home to a few red pandas and leopard cats and countless…

Bhutia Busty Gompa

This temple originally stood on Observatory Hill, but was rebuilt in its present location in the 19th century. It houses fine murals depicting the life of…

Rangit Valley Ropeway

The scenic Rangit Valley cable car was out of action at research time due to maintenance and an administrative/legal hiatus. Ask at your accommodation…

Lepcha Heritage Museum

This offbeat collection of Lepcha treasures could be likened to rummaging through the attic of your grandfather’s house (if he were a Lepcha elder). A…

Batasia Loop

If you’re travelling on the toy train, look out for this famous railway loop that goes around an open-air war memorial, erected in honour of the brave…

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Tourist places in West Bengal

Here are the top 68 places to visit in west bengal in 2024:, 43. mandarmani beach.

43 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Mandarmani is a small and upcoming beach resort town near Kolkata, West Bengal. Due to its top-notch facilities and luxuries, it has a tremendous potential of becoming a world-class destination. With great scenery, sandy beaches and an amazing aura of luxury about itself, Mandarmani is a great place...

44. Rishyap

44 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Rishyap is a quaint, romantic village located in the pristine Neora Valley in northern West Bengal. Also known as Rishop, it is essentially a picturesque hill station situated just 4 km uphill of Lava. Although there are paved roads, it is recommended that you trek upwards as the roads, currently, a...

45. Sandakphu Trek

45 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Sandakphu Peak (11,941 Feet) is the highest peak in West Bengal. The highest peak of Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district, almost near the border of Nepal, it is located very close to Singalila National Park. Sandakphu, the highest peak in West Bengal, gives you a spectacular view of four out of f...

46. Buxa Tiger Reserve

46 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Adorning the northeastern corner of West Bengal, bordering Bhutan and Assam, Buxa Tiger Reserve was set up at on 16th February 1983 and was then, the 15th tiger reserve of the country. The forest constituting the Buxa Tiger Reserve is the largest in the Dooars - the Alluvial floodplains of Northeast...

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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, 47. surulia.

47 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

A popular picnic spot for travellers, Surulia has been developed by the forest department and is popular amongst eco tourists.

48. Buxa Duar Trek

48 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

The Buxa Duar Trek, cradled in the Jalpaiguri District of West Bengal, offers an opportunity to peek into the mysteries of the wild jungles of the Buxa Tiger Reserve. It is a densely forested reserve boasting of being the only tiger reserve in the entire Kanchenjunga circuit.

49 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Tucked between Mandarmani and Shankarpur, Tajpur is a small town set on the Bay of Bengal's tranquil shore, just 170 kms from Kolkata. Considered to be a serene secret of West Bengal, the virgin beach is hidden away from view and is still untouched by commercialization and tourism. The highlight of ...

50. Jayrambati

50 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Jayrambati is a quaint village in the Bankura district, popularised as an important pilgrimage point among followers of Sri Ramakrishna for being the place of residence of the Holy Mother Sri Sharada Devi. The village has a certain old-world charm to it and has several small temples all across the v...

51. Tinchuley

51 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

At a distance of about 32 km from Darjeeling, Tinchuley is an offbeat hamlet situated close to the West Bengal-Sikkim border. With an altitude of 5550 ft, the name of the place derives from the words ‘tin’ and ‘chula’, which translates as ‘three ovens’ because the trio of hills constituting the hill...

52. Sonajhuri Forest

52 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Away from the mell pell of the city lies a hidden gem in the state of West Bengal. Considered to be one of the most clean forests in India, Sonajhuri Forest is a great retreat to be close to nature. The Sonajhuri Forest is replete with lush green trees that has blooming flowers. This place is pictur...

53. Barrackpore

53 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Barrackpore was the first place where Britishers set up their cantonment and later spread their rules in India. This place is of great historical significance as it was also the first place where the spark to attain I from Britishers was lit. Not to stop at that, this place is also home to some of t...

54. Jhargram

54 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Jhargram is small city located in the state of West Bengal with a rich historical and cultural background. Surrounded by dense forests this place is mystical. A perfect place to spend few days in the lap of nature surrounded by friendly tribal population, you are bound to be mesmerized not only by i...

55. Baabur Haat

55 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Babur haat is the perfect weekend destination for you and your loved ones if you do wish to take a break from the hectic city life and spend some time close to rustic Bengali rural life. Dominated by natural fishing lakes or bheris, responsible for producing some of the tastiest fish in West Bengal,...

56. Kamarpukur

56 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

A cluster of small villages, Kamarpukur is nestled between Vishnupur and Tarakeshwar. Birthplace of a pious and sagacious saint, Sri Ramkrishna Paramhansa, this village is perfect getaway from the pell-mell of the cities. In this village you will be able to enjoy the pleasures of simple rural life. ...

57 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Situated on the bank of river Roopnarayan, Deulti provides for an ideal picnic spot. This small village picnic destination is also accompanied by a handful of tourist attractions, like Samtaber, the hometown of renowned Bengali author Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay and the temples of Madangopal and Rad...

58. Bakreswar

58 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

If you have been fascinated by delightful and thrilling stories about religious deities tussling with one another, or find yourself intrigued by learning about ancient temples, or even have an all-around interest in mythology, and you would like to cultivate this interest further by visiting attract...

59. Machranga Dwip

59 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Also known as Kingfisher island, this little known day trip destination is situated in the middle of river Ichamati, with India on one side and Bangladesh on the other. Covered by trees, this little island is perfect for nature lovers, as they can walk through the green fields and observe distant Ba...

60 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

If you wish to spend some time in peace and tranquillity, then Junput is your place. This sea beach adorned with casuarina groves, accompanied by the rhythmic sound of sea waves and gentle breeze form a breathtaking experience. The most famous attraction is the convergence point of rivers Rasulpur a...

61 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

The river town of Falta is what constitutes your ideal picnic destination or weekend gateway. Marked by the confluence of river Hoogly and Damodar on the south and river Rupnarayan and Hoogly on the north, this place has developed entirely on the banks of river Hoogly. Known for the beautiful farmho...

62 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

The small town of Taki, on the banks of river Ichamati, provides an experience like no other. Apart from being a favourite picnic spot, a boat ride on the river will give you a chance to get a closer view of Bangladesh. In fact, tourists of both India and Bangladesh embark on this journey, thus givi...

63. Chinsurah

63 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Chinsurah or Chuchura (as it is called) is a town in the district of Hooghly, West Bengal. Situated on the bank of the Hooghly river, Chinsurah was once considered as the most beautiful city of West Bengal. Today, this town stands as an example of elegant architecture, with a plethora of architectur...

64. Piyali Island

64 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Situated at a distance of 72 kms from Kolkata, Piyali is a pristine island in West Bengal. Covered in lush greenery and boasting of surreal natural beauty, the island is an ideal weekend getaway and is a haven for birdwatchers. Nestled at the confluence of the rivers Matla and Piyali, the mangroves ...

65. Samsing

65 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Nestled at the foothills of Eastern Himalayas at an elevation of 3000 ft in Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, Samsing is a quaint hill town popular for its serene landscape, orange orchards, verdant green tea gardens, foggy climate and its picture - perfect setting. Known to be one of the most bea...

66. Rishikhola

66 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Rishikhola or Reshi Khola is a riverside camp site that lies between Kalimpong, West Bengal and the Sikkim border. The main Kalimpong town is 36km from here. River Reshi meanders through this picturesque spot where the Himalayan Bulbul and White Capped Water Redstart are often spotted. It is also a ...

67. Ramdhura

67 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Ramdhura is a small village around 15km from Kalimpong, West Bengal. A scenic getaway, one can see the Kanchenjunga peaks, the Teesta River, pine foresrs and Cinconha plantations here. There is also a large variety of birds and butterflies that engulf this mesmerising town. Known for its tranquility...

68. Kakdwip

68 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

Kakdwip is a city in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. The place finds a special mention in the history of the state as it was here that the peasant movement during Tehbaga movement in 1946 centred around. While it is a historically significant place, the city, located on the Ganges del...

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West Bengal is a state which is located in eastern India. The state extends from Bay of Bengal in the south to the Himalayan mountain ranges in the north. The capital of the state of West Bengal is Kolkata and it is the biggest city of the state as well. In Bengali language, it is referred to as Paschim Banga.

How to Reach West Bengal

West Bengal represents a panorama of majestic hills, dense jungle replete in wild lives, undulating green plains, beautiful breaches, historical monuments and a tremendously rich culture. Strategically located at the eastern part of Indian peninsula, the state has a very smooth communication network. It is often referred to as the gateway of the eastern India. How to Reach West Bengal is, therefore, not an issue. How to Reach Punjab you with information to reach the state with convenience. replicas de relojes By Air : Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar Sahnewal Airport in Ludhiana replique rolex Pathankot Airport in Pathankot Almost all important airlines like Spicejet, Air India, Jet Airways and JetKonnect operate flights to these airports connecting them to major Indian cities. https://www.iwatchs.es/ replicas de relojes By Train : The state also boasts of a good rail network. Almost all cities of the state are linked together with railways. Main Railway Stations in the state are: Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Ferozepur, Jalandhar, Amritsar and Bhatinda. fausse rolex By Road : Punjab has an extensive road network which links the state directly to most of the significant places in northern and eastern India. National Highways 1 (Grand Trunk Road or G.T. Road), 15, 19, 20, 21, 71, 54 and 1A and numerous of state highways literally crisscross the state making road travel an easy affair. The National Highways in the state are ranked among the best in India with good road infrastructure. https://www.watchsupergirlonline.com/ replicas relojes

Shopping in West Bengal

Fine arts also have a rich tradition in West Bengal. In fact the state has produced a number of celebrated painters. Painting is also a worth buying item in West Bengal. Last but not the important to mention is that Darjeeling in West Bengal produces the finest quality of tea in the world. Places for Shopping in West Bengal : The ace artisans of the sate make exquisite items out of clay, conch, shoal. In some places of West Bengal, the craftsmen weave superb silk saris, which is a popular item for those who wish to do some shopping in West Bengal.

Best Hotels In West Bengal

Temples in west bengal.

Hanseswari temple is a Hindu Temple of goddess Kali in the town of Banshberia at Hooghly District, Indian state of West Bengal. Banshberia is an industrial town positioned in between Bandel and Tribeni. The temple complex has another temple — Ananta Basudeba temple — besides the main temple. Also near is the Swanbhaba Kali temple built by Raja Nrisinha Deb Mahasay in 1788.

Lalji Temple is the oldest temple among the group of terracotta temples of Kalna. It was built by Braja Kishori Devi, the wife of Maharaja Jagat Ram in 1739. It is built of bricks, and the walls covered with terracotta figures. Most of it has worn off with time, but what remains never fails to amaze the viewer.

In the 18th Century A.D the Mahatab Family ruled over Bardhaman with Ambika Kalna as its capital. The history dates back to the year 1752 A.D, during the reign of Maharaj Kirtichandra Mahatab. One day after a bath in the river Bhagirathi at Kalna the Rajmaata saw an old lady sitting and crying on the banks of the river. Out of curiosity Rajmaata asked the lady about her problem. The lady replied that she was a maithili widow out on pilgrimage, she had a daughter and no one else in her life, neither a place to settle down.

Named after King Pratap Chand and built in 1849 in the‘rekh-deul’ style of temple architecture, the temple has rich terracotta ornamentation. It contains terracotta plaques depicting themes of Hindu epic, mythical life of Sree Chaitanya, images of Durga and Ravana and various aspects of day to day life.

West Bengal is famous for its scrumptious cuisines. Though the staple food of the state revolves around fish and rice, there are so many varieties of the same that you will feel like having a different dish every time. You can have the fish steamed, fried, stewed with vegetables and sausages or boiled in spices, with different flavors.

Characteristics of Bengali cuisine

The traditional society of Bengal has always been heavily agrarian; hunting, except by some local clansmen, was uncommon. Rice is the staple, with many regions growing speciality rice varieties. Domestic cattle (especially the water buffalo) are common, more for agriculture than large scale dairy farming. Milk is an important source of nutrition, and also a key ingredient in Bengal’s plethora of desserts. Also, as one would expect, ordinary food served at home is different from that served during social functions and festivals, and again very different from what might be served at a larger gathering (e.g., a marriage feast).

Bengali meals

The Bengalis are great food lovers and take pride in their cuisine. The medium of cooking is mustard oil which adds on its own pungency. Another very important item of Bengali cuisine is the variety of sweets or mishti as they call them. Most of them are milk based and are prepared from chana (ponir as it is popularly known). The most popular among the Bengali sweets are the Roshogolla, Shondesh, Pantua and Mishti Doi and these four sweets are a must at every wedding besides some other sweets, which may vary as per individual choice. A meal, for the Bengali, is a ritual in itself even if it only boiled rice and lentils (dal bhat), with of course a little fish.

Common Bengali recipe styles

You can note the Chinese, Southeast Asian, and Burmese influences in the food of Bengal, not to mention some British influence, because of the formation of Kolkata during the 1700s. Each entry here is actually a class of recipes, producing different dishes depending on the choice of ingredients. There are six different tastes to which the Bengali palate caters to, sweet, sour, salty, bitter, hot and koshay.s

Historical Places In West Bengal

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Tourist Places in West Bengal

The City of Joy – West Bengal

The city of Kolkata is an apparent emphasize to the complete state of West Bengal. With an extremely long series of restaurants and malls, life can be as exciting as ever and travelers find the city to be the liveliest city ever. Kolkata takes pride in being the country’s capital previous to New Delhi that means the state is nearly packed with places of tradition and rich mores. Like any other urban city, Kolkata has significantly a high amount of libraries all over the place and educational establishments of high norms. A chief sector of tourists in Kolkata is fascinated by the abundant museums that are sited all over the city. The oldest in Asia is the Indian Museum which is located in Kolkata and it is also the biggest in the continent.  The entire city rejoices festivals in coming together with ultimate liveliness and hence precisely called as the “City of Joy”. It is a just the right option for customers from any part of the country since there are many bazaars, for instance, the Treasure Island Market that imbibes shopping a ultimate experience. The city is no where short of sacred sites that are worth visiting, like the Birla Temple that conserves the asceticism since ages is prominent.  Darjeeling is one such place in West Bengal where there is totally a lot to experience than to holiday. The ropeway for tourists in particular is tremendously remarkable and the journey starts from a few kilometers away from the township to a place in the southern province of the town called Singla Bazaar. And to mention, Darjeeling is an appropriate option for trekkers too because of its scenic beauty and the Mountain ranges around. The toy train carries the commuters on an incredible voyage through imperative sites to see, and through malls and bazaars of the town. The height of exhilaration it brings makes it all worth striving for every visitor in Darjeeling.  Apart from these, it also has quite many renowned temples like the Kali Temple. The Observatory Hill, where Mahakal temple is situated, is considered extremely important by Buddhists as well, since a popular Buddhist monastery was formerly situated here. The Kanchenjunga mountain, which can be viewed from the Observatory Hills, is recognized as the third highest of all the mountains all over the world. Siliguri is one more city of West Bengal that has a huge horde of tourists teeming in for the picturesque beauty, godliness of its temples, flora and fauna. Sevoke Coronation Bridge, near the well-known Kali Mandir is constructed amid Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri and is just the right spot for a day outing.  With forests being exhausted and mammals being vanished all over the country these days, Sundarbans with its intense forests and wildlife conservation is certainly a unique heritage. It is acknowledged to be the biggest mangrove and it is unbelievable that a high amount of plant and animal species that makes Sundarbans National Park sensible for tourists, particularly for those who adore photography as there is the whole lot of exceptionally beautiful things out there to snap.

Apart from all the natural and religious riches, the state also boasts for the owning an International University established by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore where the cultures of the East & the West could convene and blend. Coroneted as Vishva-Bharati, the academia symbolizes Indian mores while integrating the finest of other ethnicities. Shantiniketan, the abode of tranquility, was originally an Ashram or hermitage founded in 1863 by Maharishi Devendranath Tagore. In 1901 his son, Rabindranath renewed it into an experimental open-air small school with just five students. It proved successfully. He broadened the compass of studies which progressively created the nucleus of a University.

6 Best Tourist Places in West Bengal

Best Time to Visit West Bengal

The Teesta tea and tourism festival is celebrated to mainly promote tourism. This tourism is jointly organized by the West Bengal Tourism, Sikkim Tourism and the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council. This tourism is supp...

Ganga Sagar is a renowned Place of Pilgrimage on the western part of the Sunderban Delta in West Bengal. This place is considered to be Holy because here the River Ganga has a confluence with the Bay Of Bengal Sea....

West Bengal Tourism

West Bengal Tourist Map

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Map of West Bengal with state capital, district head quarters, taluk head quarters, boundaries, national highways, railway lines and other roads. It has all travel destinations, districts, cities, towns, road routes of places in West Bengal.

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Home » Uncategorised » Explore West Bengal’s culinary delights: A food tourism guide

Explore West Bengal’s culinary delights: A food tourism guide

West Bengal, a state nestled in eastern India, beckons not just with its rich history and cultural tapestry, but also with an unforgettable food scene. Bengali cuisine is a symphony of flavours, influenced by Mughal and British eras, offering a delightful mix of sweet and savoury dishes. Through this article embark on a food tourism adventure in West Bengal and tantalise your taste buds with these must-try delicacies and hidden culinary gems.

Table of Contents

See also: Top tourism companies in India

Food that satiates

This melt-in-your-mouth Bengali sweet is a national treasure. Made with milk solids and sugar, it comes in a variety of flavours, from rosewater to saffron. A trip to West Bengal is incomplete without indulging in this creamy delight.

Luchi-Alur Dom

This vegetarian combo is a street food staple. Luchi, a fluffy puffed bread, is perfectly paired with Alur Dom, a rich potato curry flavoured with mustard oil and panch phoron (five spice blend). It’s a simple yet satisfying explosion of textures and tastes.

Kosha Mangsho

This Bengali mutton curry is a slow-cooked masterpiece. Succulent lamb pieces are simmered in a creamy yoghurt gravy infused with aromatic spices like cloves and bay leaves. Be prepared to lick your plate clean!

Chingri Malai Curry

Seafood lovers, rejoice! This fragrant prawn curry is a coastal delight. Fresh prawns are cooked in a rich coconut milk gravy flavoured with ginger, green chilies, and a touch of sweetness. Every bite is a burst of coastal flavours.

No exploration of Bengali street food is complete without Phuchka, also known as Pani Puri. These crispy hollow spheres are filled with a tangy potato mixture and dipped in a sweet and spicy tamarind water. It’s a delightful explosion of textures and flavours in every bite.

5 must-visit food places

College street (kolkata).

Immerse yourself in the vibrant street food scene of College Street in Kolkata. From steaming hot Phuchkas to crispy Kathi Rolls (skewered meat or vegetables rolled in paratha), this area is a haven for budget-friendly, delicious bites.

Balaram Mullick Radhagopal Sweets (Kolkata)

Established in 1863, this iconic sweet shop is a must-visit for Shondesh lovers. Witness the age-old art of sweet making and indulge in their melt-in-your-mouth creations.

Machher Jhol (Kolkata)

This Bengali restaurant specialises in all things fish. From delectable Hilsa (a type of herring) preparations to quintessential Chingri Malai Curry, Machher Jhol offers a delightful seafood odyssey.

Bhojohari Manna (Kolkata)

Experience the grandeur of Bengali royalty through their cuisine. Bhojohari Manna offers a multi-course Bengali meal served on a banana leaf, transporting you back to a bygone era.

Darjeeling Tea Gardens

Nestled in the Himalayas, Darjeeling is synonymous with its world-famous tea. Visit a tea plantation, witness the harvesting process, and indulge in a cup of freshly brewed Darjeeling tea, a perfect end to your West Bengal food adventure.

West Bengal’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavours, traditions and culinary delights. So, pack your bags, embrace your inner foodie and embark on a delicious journey through West Bengal!

What is the best time to visit West Bengal for food tourism?

West Bengal offers a delightful culinary experience year-round. However, the winter months (October to February) are considered ideal. The weather is pleasant, and several seasonal specialties like Nolen Gur (date palm jaggery) sweets become available.

Is Bengali food vegetarian-friendly?

While Bengali cuisine boasts a vast array of meat and seafood dishes, there are plenty of vegetarian options as well. From Luchi-Alur Dom and Chana Masala (chickpea curry) to Posto Bora (poppy seed fritters) and Daal (lentil stew), vegetarians will find a plethora of delicious choices.

What are some Bengali drinks I should try?

Amm Panna, Lassi, cha, are the specialities when it comes to drinks in Bengal.

Are there any Bengali cooking classes available for tourists?

Yes, there are several cooking classes offered in Kolkata and other major cities in West Bengal. These classes provide hands-on experience in learning Bengali culinary techniques and preparing popular dishes.

What are some Bengali food souvenirs I can take back home?

If you are a foodie and have a sweet tooth, getting some of the best shondesh back from bengal is the best souvenir you could get.

What are some Bengali dining etiquettes I should be aware of?

Meals are traditionally eaten with hands; however, utensils are readily available upon request. Bengalis also consider it polite to wait for the eldest person at the table to begin eating. Alongside this, shoes are typically removed before entering someone's home for a meal.

I have dietary restrictions. Can I still enjoy Bengali food?

While Bengali cuisine has a strong meat and fish presence, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Inform restaurants about your dietary restrictions, and they can often tailor dishes to accommodate your needs.

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Safeguarding West Bengal's Intangible Cultural Heritage

The Rural Craft and Cultural Hubs (RCCH) initiative is a decade long partnership between UNESCO New Delhi and the Department of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises & Textiles (MSME&T), Government of West Bengal to build sustainable livelihoods in village industries through enhancement of rural Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) elements. 

Currently the project reaches out to nearly

through its 35 ICH value chains across 20 districts.

Driven by UNESCO’s 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage , the project is an unprecedented effort at scale to test, create and showcase a demonstrable model around the framework laid out in the convention that upholds ICH as a “mainspring of cultural diversity and a guarantee of sustainable development”. 

West Bengal, like all the other states in India, is home to some of the greatest repositories of living cultural practices and indigenous knowledge systems. These include a broad range of sub-sectors including handicrafts, handlooms, folk and performing arts, khadi and village industries. Their geographical spread across rural areas, indigenous knowhow, cooperative nature and demographic dividend makes them a key structural unit to enable localized sustainable development. 

To fulfil this potential, the project introduces and implements need based measures from the 2003 Convention aimed at ensuring the viability of the selected ICH value chains in rural West Bengal, including “the identification, documentation, research, preservation, protection, promotion, enhancement, transmission, particularly through formal and non-formal education, as well as the revitalization of the various aspects of such heritage” .

Through its initiatives, the Rural Craft and Cultural Hubs project addresses the need for safeguarding West Bengal’s living heritage, by ensuring that the associated skills and knowledge are transmitted to future generations so that it can be a vector of sustainable development, in line with the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

Until 2023, the project had successfully launched safeguarding initiatives for more than 25 ICH elements through design-led capacity building and cross-generational transmission, the establishment of 14 rural ICH centers and community museums with convergence based investment from the Government of West Bengal and enabled the setting up of over 50 new rural enterprises, owned and operated by community members through systemic institution building, running sustainable and creative commercial micro-businesses.

Additionally, several benefits were evidenced at the local ecosystem level in the villages of the project intervention such as improvement in village infrastructure, reduction in income inequalities, production of new designs, access to technology, creation of new markets, increase in tourist footfall, and international exposure. There was also increase in awareness and recognition for ICH forms including accreditation of six Geographic Indications namely Patachitra, Dokra, Chau Mask, Wooden Mask, Madur Weaving and Terracotta. 

The Rural Craft and Cultural Hubs project, currently in its tenth year, has demonstrated that when traditional ICH is appropriately interfaced with technical, capacity market and entrepreneurship-led intervention, it can become a potent and sustainable tool for poverty alleviation and employment generation amongst the vulnerable rural communities of ICH bearers. It is aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and serves as a model for leveraging intangible cultural heritage for inclusive growth and community empowerment.

The Rural Craft and Cultural Hubs initiative has transformed the landscape of our creative economy and steered grass-root dynamics for empowering marginalized communities in a holistic way. This project has created a unique model in leveraging cultural heritage for local development and professionalizing traditional skills for livelihood generation.

The project has also taken initiatives towards environmental sustainability by adopting ethical production methods and developing utility-based products made from natural fibres and other eco-friendly materials, setting a precedent for an eco-friendly approach to safeguarding heritage. 

Significantly, women have become more involved in traditional arts and crafts, with increased recognition being given to their important contributions to these fields, which was previously disregarded. With 58% of the project beneficiaries being women, there is a strong focus on women empowerment by developing their entrepreneurial skills. The project also emphasises international exposure visits, through which performing artists have been able to showcase their talents not only at the district and state level, but also on international platforms.

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Notice details, management trainee-bengal airlift.

Bengal Airlift Group, a diversified business conglomerate, engaged in the Logistics Industry as Freight Forwarders having local and international partnerships; best airline partners as the General Sales Agents (GSA); Travel and Tours; Medical Tourism, Buying and Sourcing House, Textiles, Garments, and Agro Business. The company believes in striving to expand its business horizon with more professionals who can share their vision and commitment and want to excel in their professional services at the global level.

They are pleased to announce the launch of a Management Trainee Program 2024 for their organization. 

Please find herewith the attached file Job Ad for the particular position.

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02-55046678 --> 02-55046678, 09666775577, 01755587224, 01851933094

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