west bengal top tourist places

16 Top Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal

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

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

Sundarbans National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shantiniketan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dooars Region and Jaldapara National Park

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

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

Pandua and Gaur

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

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

Mandarmani Beach

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

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

Murshidabad

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

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

Barrackpore

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

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

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

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

Along the Hooghly River

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

Royal Rajbari Heritage Homes

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

Handicraft Villages

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

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19 Best Places to visit in West Bengal

Last Updated on May 9, 2024

Donning the snow-capped crown of Eastern Himalayas, draped in fertile green lands separated from the vast sea by sparkling golden beaches is the Indian state, West Bengal. The state that I call home,  boasts of an unparalleled cultural heritage, lip-smacking delicacies and diverse landscape. It’s hard to pick the best among so many places to visit in this large, densely populated state. But that’s where the amazing travel bloggers came to my rescue. In this post I bring to you the Best places to visit in West Bengal, with the help of travel bloggers all over the world.

Best places to visit in West Bengal – The Popular Destinations

Let's begin with the popular destinations of West Bengal. Yes, they are crowded, but there's a reason why people flock to these places. They will never disappoint you.

Kolkata – The Capital

Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal, and is home to one of the largest and busiest international airport in India. The Kolkata International airport or Howrah railway station is your gateway to the East India. Your “Bengal Experience” will begin from the airport itself which is beautifully decorated with paintings and models that are iconic to the state. The blue-white themed road lead to the famous architectural marvels like Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Vidyasagar Setu, St. Paul’s Church, Birla Mandir among others.

Enjoy the world’s best street food at Dalhousie, marvel at the colonial buildings of BBD Bagh, visit the Jorasanko , the ancestral home of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore and fine-dine in Park street. If you have more time, a day-trip to Dakshineshwar and Belur Math is a must. They are technically located in Howrah, but I can’t draw a Kolkata Skyline without including the iconic Dakshineshwar Temple. For a great family time visit Science City or the latest addition – Eco Park, India’s largest theme park.

Check out the 3-day travel guide to Kolkata .

Search and book your transport to various places in West Bengal from Kolkata below.

Shantiniketan – An UNESCO Heritage Site

Bolpur is a city in the Birbhum district of West Bengal, often referred to as “ranga matir desh”. This is the place where “Gurudev” Rabindranath Tagore set-up the experimental village called Shantiniketan. Shantiniketan is home to Vishwa-Bharti university, which is the alma mater of several luminaries – film-maker Satyajit Ray, Nobel laureate economist Amartya Sen among others. True to its name, Shantiniketan is the abode of peace which offers you an unique immersive cultural experience like no other place.

If you visit Shantiniketan on Saturday, head straight to the “Khoai Shonibarer haat”, which is the Saturday market in Sonajhuri. “Sonajhuri” is the poetic name of a forest of Saal trees, which itself is a dreamy place. Just 3km away from Shantiniketan is the Ballavpur wildlife sanctuary – the deer park. You can also visit a quaint little village named “Babli” , 10 km away from Shantiniketan.

Learn more about this latest addition to the UNESCO heritage site here .

Darjeeling – Bengali's Favorite Hill station

Writes Mohana and Aninda from Two Together

Darjeeling holds a special place in the hearts of us, Bengalis. Waking up at 3 am to catch the sun rise at Tiger Hill, enjoying breakfast at Glenary’s or Keventers are memories to cherish. Before the English chose to turn it into a summer retreat to escape the sweltering heat of Calcutta in the 1840s, Darjeeling was part of the Sikkimese kingdom. By 1852, more than 70 European-style villas had been built and experimental plantations of tea and fruit was started. In a few decades, Darjeeling became one of the subcontinent’s most beautiful hill stations.

To reach Darjeeling, take the UNESCO heritage Darjeeling Himalayan Railways. The slow train chugs up the wooded mountainside, through hamlets and little hill towns, from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling via Kurseong. Spend your days idling in this idyllic town, ambling around, tasting Darjeeling’s finest teas at tea stores like Nathmulls, marvelling at antiques in curio shops, and people watching on the mall.

And, of course, eating in Darjeeling . For a local feast, head to Kunga, Sonam’s Kitchen, or Singalila. Eat your weight in momos doused in mouth-numbing chilli sauce at hawker stalls, and in the evening, go to Joey’s pub for a tipple. Visit the Tibetan Museum for a lesson in Darjeeling’s history. Explore the botanical gardens and the shrubbery, climb observatory hill, and if time permits, trek to Sandakphu.

Kalimpong – an escapade from city-life

Suggested by Sundeep and Bedabrata from  DelhiFunDos

A relatively lesser known Himalayan town Kalimpong is also becoming a favorite among lovers of slow-travel. It is the administrative town of the eponymous district Kalimpong. You can reach here from Siliguri train station or Bagdogra Airport. Kalimpong is a convenient two hours’ drive from here. For people who want to escape the city-life, it is a great choice. You can spend your time here doing nothing but absorbing the mountains and the beautiful trees and wildflowers and orchids one sees even on roadsides. You get excellent views of various snow-capped Himalayan peaks from Kalimpong.

However, if you want to engage in some sight-seeing, there are many options for that as well. The stately Graham’s Church, the gorgeous Zang Dhok Palri Phodang or Durpin Buddhist Monastery, the sparkling temple – Mangal Dham and Gauripur House, Rabindranath Tagore’s home for some time, are worthy of a visit. We particularly recommend the Durpin Monastery since you get excellent views of the city from here.

Also, must-tries would include thickened milk Kalimpong lollipops and Kalimpong cheese. This rare variety of Gouda like cheese is not available anywhere outside Kalimpong. In fact, the nutty and rich Kalimpong cheese drew us all the way from Delhi to Kalimpong. And it was so worth it.

Sinjana’s tip: For an adrenaline rush, try river-rafting in the chilling waters of Teesta river in Kalimpong.

Mandarmani – The breathtaking beaches

By Jayashree from DoiBeduin

In our very own heart, there is a place, where the sky meets the water, the water meets the land and the land meets the soul. Mandarmani is one such place. A quaint resort village, by the sea, right from the pages of a novel. A rightly put place, where you can leave the troubles and tensions of the city, way behind. And here, your bathtub is infinitely wide!

To convince you more, this seaside village offers you variety of sea foods. Often you would find yourself in a dilemma over what to eat next. Seaside Bengal does have a gastronomy of its own and Mandarmani is no exception. Besides the usual sea food, Mandarmani also offers a number of activities like paragliding, banana boating, jet-skiing etc. and an indefinite sea is always at your closure. The sea here is calm and also the beach is less crowded, if compared to Digha.

Sundarban Tiger Reserve – UNESCO Heritage Site

By Camilla from Tigers in the Wild

The biggest mangrove in the world, Sunderbans’ protected area lies for 1/3 in India and 2/3 in Bangladesh, on the Ganges Delta. Famous for its incredible biodiversity, the Sunderbans’ intricate system of channels and islands is home to many different animal species. According to the latest census, about 80 Royal Bengal Tigers roam its thick forest. Spotting one of them is a matter of patience and luck, but one can also hope to see other types of wild cats, saltwater crocodiles, different species of river dolphins, otters as well as an impressive variety of birds here.

You can visit the forest upon obtaining a permit for one or several days. Unlike any other Tiger Reserve, here safaris are on boat rather than jeep. The tide is very important in tracking the magnificent striped cat. Exceptional swimmers, tigers can sometimes be spotted while crossing the channels, preferably in low tide conditions.

Open throughout the year, the best place to visit Sunderbans is from December to the end of February. At this time of the year loads of migratory birds reach the area and many animals get out of the thick mangrove to bask in the sun on the islands’ shores.

Bankura – the land of Terracotta and Baluchuri

By Madhurima from Orange Wayfarer

Bankura is a district in Bengal around 200 kilometres away from Downtown Kolkata. With the Durgapur Expressway, connecting parts of Bengal to Kolkata, Bankura is just 4 hours a road trip. And what a rewarding trip it is, especially with the pit stop en-route at Shaktigar, serving sumptuous Lyangchas ! Bankura is from the Rarh region of West Bengal. Unlike the Ganges delta and its alluvial soil, Bankura is rich in Iron ore as a part of Chotanagpur plateau and hence flaunts a red colored Earth. Bankura is also known as “Lalmati Desh”, the country of red Earth.

Famous for Terracotta artwork, Bankura horses (also the symbol of Indian handicraft ) and the ancient Bishnupur temples (on the tentative list of UNESCO Heritage site) Bankura will astound you with splendors of nature. Bankura is also famous for Christian College dating back to the time of British Raj. While in Bankura do not forget to gorge on famous chicken cutlets at College More , fuchka from the stall opposite Christian College and buy gorgeous Baluchari sarees , one of the heritage Indian saree weaves .

Here, you also get a sweet named Chitranjan, inherently suitable for diabetic patients with low sugar count. If you do not mind sugar try out Myacha Sandesh. Try various sweets at century-old Guiram, the sweet shop.  Susunia and the forest of Jhilimili can easily be a part of a day trip from Bankura town. The nearest airport to Bankura is operating from Andal, Durgapur.

Digha – Bengali's favorite Beach Holiday

Besides, you can visit the Amaravati Park, Dheusagar Park, Marine Aquarium and the nearby offbeat beaches like Shankarpur and Tajpur.

Gangasagar – The religious pilgrimage

By Ruma from The Holiday Story

Sagardwip covers an area of 560 sq km with 51 small and large islands. This pilgrimage site is built around the mythology of “Sagar Raja” and story of the arrival of  Devi “Ganga”. Although Kapil Muni's ashram was submerged in the sea, devotees gathered around the Kapil Munir temple which was built later. Millions of people flock to this gathering on the auspicious date of Makar Sankranti. A Bengali proverb says, “Sab tirtha bar bar gangasagar ek baar”. It means every person should visit this pilgrimage site once in a lifetime.

A three-hour bus ride from Esplanade, Kolkata will take you to Kakdwip. You can also reach Kakdwip or Namkhana by train. After, take a van or toto car to reach lot no 8.  From there cross the Ganges in a ferry vessel to Kachuberia. Sagar is 30 km away from Kachuberia by bus or trekker. Reserve a van or Toto car for sightseeing. Come to the ashram and lighthouse of Ramakrishna Mission, Bharat Seba Asram and Mansadwip. Once again in the afternoon go to the beach and see the sunset.

The Gangasagar Mela is the second most popular fair after Kumbh Mela. Gangasagar celebrates the fair every year with great pomp. It begins one week before “Poush Sankranti” .Pilgrims come from every corner of India. One of the main attractions of this fair is the Naga monks. Last year about 31 lakh pilgrims take the holy bath in the Ganges.

Mayapur and Nabadwip – Vaishnavite history

Mayapur and Nabadwip are the twin cities of Nadia district which is where the Vaishnavite movement started. It is of great historic importance, not just for Hindus but for everyone with keen interest in architecture and spirituality. Mayapur is the headquarters of ISCKON and is home to some spectacular temples. Besides ISCKON, Shri Mayapur Dham, Srila Prabhupada Mandir, Sri Mayapur Chandrodiya Madnir are some notable monuments here.

The newest addition to the skyline of Mayapur is the Temple of the Vedic Planetarium. It is probably the largest temple in India, certainly will be one of the largest. The construction is not complete, but part of it is open for visitors to see. The neighboring city Nabadwip is also dotted with beautiful temples, mostly of Vaishnavite theme.

Best offbeat places to visit in West Bengal

Many historic and natural gems of West Bengal remain hidden from sight. For a touristy Kalimpong you have an offbeat village of Ecche Gaon, for a crowded beach of Digha you have a pristine Henry's island. You can find the tales of such places in my book Postcards from India , published on Amazon. I love exploring offbeat destinations in India . The surreal beauty of these places more than compensate for the lack of “touristy” activities.

Purulia – The cultural hotspot

Purulia is famous, yet off-beat for any regular traveler. When people visit West Bengal, they either head north to the Himalayan hill stations, or head south to the beaches and islands and the Sundarbans. This culturally diverse place with outstanding natural beauty has for long been infamous for the Naxal agitation. Lying at the border of West Bengal and Jharkhand, Purulia boasts of rich cultural heritage and verdant vistas against the backdrop of Ajodhya Pahaar (hills).

Chhau, an old tribal martial art-form which is performed by wearing large masks has now become one of the symbols of West Bengal's cultural heritage. Not many people know that it has its origins in Purulia. Besides Chhau Dance, the tribes here celebrate many vibrant festivals like Tusu Parab, Chhata Parab Bhadu Parab etc. The cultural dance forms are truly mesmerising here.

Mirik – the mini-Darjeeling

Remembers Mayura from Fernwehrahee

Mirik is located somewhere halfway along Siliguri/NJP and Darjeeling. If you take alternate route to reach Popular hill station Darjeeling, Mirik will be on the way to scenic tea gardens route. If you don’t like touristy Darjeeling, Mirik is perfect Place to unwind yourself- a small town with pleasant climate. Mirik is surrounded by tea estates and major attractions in Mirik includes Mirik Lake.  Dhupi trees and Gardens surround the Mirik Lake. The boating facility is available on the lake. It is a perfect place to have picnic with your family.

One of the must do activity in Mirik includes visit to tea estates. There are so many tea estates on Siliguri-Mirik road like Gyanbari,Thurbo etc. I visited Gopaldhara tea estate, full of beauty and views of fascinating tea estate. You can taste finest tea from the Garden at shop of Gopaldhara tea estate and visit a tea factory to learn how it is produced. Shop the different variety of tea and colorful crockery from the shop.

The peaks of Kanchenjunga are visible from vantage viewpoints of Mirik. If you are adventure enthusiastic, Mirik is perfect place to do trekking. It is starting point for famous Sandaphu trek, Popular trek to witness Kanchenjunga peaks. Apart from this, Mirik is famous for its orange orchards as it is largest exporter of oranges.

Buxa Jayanti – Discover Wilderness in the Hills

Writes Trijit from Budget Travel Buff

Located on the Eastern Side of Dooars, is a paradise for nature-lovers at the foothills of Himalayas. It’s called Buxa Jayanti, after the Buxa tiger reserve and the Jayanti river. The best thing about  a Buxa Jayanti trip , is that the place is not crowded with tourists.

Alipurduar Junction railway station is the nearest railway station of Jayanti. You can board to Kanchankanya Express to reach Alipurduar if you come from Kolkata, else you have to take a train that goes to New Jalpaiguri. Cars and trains are available from New Jalpaiguri to Alipurduar.

Winter is the best time to visit Buxa-Jayanti when the sky is clear and you will get a better chance to see wildlife. However, Buxa Tiger Reserve and other popular tourist spots remain closed from 15 th June to 15 th September due to monsoon.

Jayanti boasts a wildlife sanctuary, lush green tea garden, magnificent hills and lively mountain rivers. You must go for Choto Mahakal temple hike. It’s an easy hike and the entire trail is very scenic. You can’t afford to miss the Core Jungle Safari in Buxa Tiger Reserve which is the main highlight of Buxa. It is a thrilling journey when the gypsy car goes through the dense forest. Keep calm and stay alert as spotting the wild animals is very common here, although it all depends on your luck. Visit Chunia Watch Tower, Pokhari Lake and historic Buxa Fort which are other remarkable tourist attractions in Buxa Jayanti.

Also Read: The most beautiful forts of India

Jaldapara National Park – Wildlife paradise

Describes Mun Ray from Nomadic Mun

If you are a true Nature and Wildlife lover, Jaldapara National Park is a must visit in North Bengal. This 216.51 Sq.km National Park resides in eastern foothills of Himalayas on the bank of river Torsha in Alipurduar district. The park is best known for its population of one horned Asian Rihnos which is the second largest in the world. You can encounter elephants, spotted deer, barking deer, sambar, bison, wild boars, hog deer and even Bengal Tigers.  This place is heaven for bird- watcher. More than 240 species of birds are found in sort of habitat- Grassland, water bodies, woodland.

Hollong Bungalow of WBFDC is one of the best places to stay in Jaldapara. Due to its popularity, you need to book it beforehand. The bungalow is about 7kms inside the forest from the main entrance. Elephant safaris, operated by Forest department from the lodge, is considered the best way to explore the sanctuary. Residents of Hollong Bungalow have advantage on safari booking during busy days. An alternate option to explore the park is jeep safari.

The Jaldapara National park is open to visitor from mid-September to mid-June. Nearest Railway Station is Madarihat which is 7km away from Jaldapara. You can either take train from NJP to Madarihat or hire car from New Jalpaiguri station. The distance between NJP and Madarihat is 115 km.

Kalna – Bengal's finest architecture

Notes Alex from Lost With Purpose

The warm, earthen hues of Bengal’s terracotta temples prevail all across the region, but if we’re talking accessibility, the town of Kalna is one of the best places to feast your eyes on some of West Bengal’s finest architecture. Sitting on the banks of the Bhagirathi, Kalna was at peak power in the 18th century. These days, it has been consumed by urbanization—like many towns in India—but many of its stunning temple complexes remain.

One of the most unique is the Naba Kailash, also known as 108 Shiv Mandir: two large concentric rings of tiny temples. 74 temples make up the outer ring, each containing one white marble Shivlinga. Black Shivlingas sit inside the 34 temples of the inner ring. Most impressive of all: you can see all of them at once when you stand in the center of the ringed complex.

Right across the street is the equally impressive Rajbari temple complex, filled with terracotta mandirs of all shapes and sizes primarily from the 18th century. If you want to feast your eyes in person, Kalna is only 2-3 hours’ drive from Kolkata. No car? No problem: you can also catch a 1.5 hour suburban train from Howrah to Ambika Kalna.

Coochbehar – Experience the Rajbangshi flairs

Says Jayashree from DoiBeduin

Consider yourself lucky if you get a glimpse of the Kanchendzonga range right from the train while traveling to Coochbehar. Believe it or not, the tea garden against the backdrop of the scenic mountains is just the eye candy you need for a train journey. And on a clear, unpolluted air, which is quite ensured post-lockdown, you would be this lucky for sure! The ride to Coochbehar in itself is thus full of nature-filled vibes, embracing and welcoming you right into the city.

Brace yourself for a little slice of the “Rajbangshi” flairs, Nature’s goodness and a whole lot of smiles when you are here. By the end of your short trip, the place will definitely make its imprint.

Home to a princely Palace, Coochbehar is foremost known for the Coochbehar Rajbari. A red bricked marvel of architectural glamour, full of history and artefacts. If you the religious buff, visit the Madan Mohan temple, the well-known city temple grounds, illustrious mainly for the Ras Mela. Not too keen on the revering? No worries. Sagar Dighi is just the place for spending an idyllic evening. A doted select for the local “love-birds”, yet the sine qua non for the travelers.

The colonial architectures, the now executives, encircles the lake, along with the finest samples of street foods. Literally, Sagar Dighi is to Coochbehar is what Dalhousie Square is to Kolkata.

Have a ride through the Tea Gardens of Mathura, paving way to the Buxa Reserve (Dooars) of Alipurduar. Or, merge in the culture and witness the weaving of Shiltalpati mats at the Ghughumari Village. UNESCO has declared it to be a “intangible cultural heritage”. Or, pay a visit to the Gosanimari Rajpath, an archaeological footprint of the ancient Kamata Kingdom preceding the Sultanate era in Bengal.

Purbasthali – The Birding Destination

By Debjani from The Vagabong

Purbasthali is a famous birding destination which is one of the best places to visit in West Bengal. Located about 120 km north from Kolkata in Purba Burdhaman district. The Ox-Bow Lake formed from the mighty Ganges is a home to thousands of migratory birds. The best time to visit here is during winter. The lake also gives an ethereal view of various flora and fauna around.

Once you reach the lake, I recommended you to hire a local boat and explore around the lake for hour and a half in order to capture various birds in motion.  Definitely a photographers delight to capture birding shots. Apart from being a birdwatcher’s paradise, the whole of Purbasthali region is steeped in history and religion. With towns like Nabadwip and Mayapur within 15 km.

Murshidabad – Historic Hub

Says Tanayesh from Shoestring Travel

The best way to reach Murshidabad is from Kolkata by train , distance is about 200 km by road. There are a number of trains available from Howrah, Sealdah and Kolkata Station. By road is also a wonderful idea. There are a couple of hotels in Lalbagh area of Murshidabad as well as near Murshidabad Railway Station. These hotels are in the budget category and do not expect proper service in these hotels. The best budget option to stay is the Bahrampur Tourist Lodge by the WB Tourism wherein you need to book well in advance

Siliguri – Gateway to the North-East

By Athul from Our Backpack Tales

Surrounded by beautiful tea gardens,  Siliguri is located by the banks of the Mahananda river at the foothills of the Himalayas. The word ‘Siliguri' means ‘stack of pebbles'. It can also be considered as a gateway to four neighboring countries and also the beautiful North-Eastern states of India. The main things to do near Siliguri includes visiting the Coronation Bridge across the Teesta river, taking the Bengal Safari at the Mahananda Wildlife  Sanctuary where you can spot the Bengal tiger and rhinoceros and the Darjeeling Himalayan railway which connects New Jalpaiguri,  Siliguri and Darjeeling.

These are the top gems of West Bengal which my blogger friends and I have mined for you to virtually experience Bengal. What do you think? Will you consider this cultural hub as your next holiday destination? I can promise that you will take home fond memories for a lifetime. Here's a map of all the destinations included in the list.

FAQs about West Bengal

What are the biggest festivals in West Bengal?

There is a common saying in Bengali – “baaro mashe tero parbon”. Its literal translation “13 festivals in 12 months” is a joke about the obsession with festivities on he state. Christmas, Diwali, Kali Puja, Saraswati Puja, Eid -the list goes on. But the queen of all is of course Durga Puja – the world's biggest carnival of art and creativity.

What is the best time to visit West Bengal?

Most people aim to visit West Bengal during Durga Puja. However, I'd normally recommend winter which begins in December and ends in early February. In fact it is one of the best places to visit in winter in India . Rest of the year, the weather is quite hot and humid except North Bengal. So you can visit places like Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Coochbehar in summer. If visiting during Holi (around March), you can experience the unique “Dol Utsav” in Shantiniketan.

What are the essentials to pack for a trip to West Bengal?

If you are visiting any time other than the winter just carry cotton tops, shirts and kurtas. I also recommend an anti-fungal powder because of the high humidity. For trips to the hill stations of North Bengal , first check the news and weather reports. Many places are closed due to landslides in the Eastern Himalayas during monsoon. Pack warm clothes for trips to the Himalayan destinations.

What food to try in West Bengal?

One post is not enough to write about all the must-taste delicacies of West Bengal. But I will certainly give it a try. Till then, here's my top 5 recommendations for you. Misthi doi and rosogolla in Kolkata, momo in Kalimpong, luchi – alur dom for breakfast, mochar ghonto or mochar chop . If you eat non-vegetarian food, then don't miss the variety of sea-food delicacies and the famous Kolkata Biriyani .

Want to cook the delicious Bengali food at home? Check out the Calcutta Cookbook or the OPOS cookbook online.

Disclaimer: Some pictures in this post including pins and cover-image are from Pixabay and Unsplash.

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13 Comments

Wow this is so cool. I would love to explore West Bengal more. Even though I have been to Calcutta, Mayapur and Siliguri, I still feel I have not even touched West Bengal. I would love to travel here once all the virus thing is over.

Thanks a lot Raksha. Hope the situation gets better soon.

What a lovely compilation of post ..Now that travel has come for a hault I would like to check out these backyard travel by the end of this year by exploring my state Bengal ..Thanks for bringing this up

Thanks Debjani!

Bengal looks so interesting to visit! I love the architecture you have showed us! And I didn’t know that there was some wildlife to admire in this region. Thank you for all the info!

Thanks for reading and spending time on knowing this beautiful state

What a fabulous roundup of very different aspects of Bengal!

What a great collection of sights and activities for Bengal! Hope to visit next year!

Despite having spent a few years of my life in Kolkata (then known as Calcutta) during 1988-1992, I haven’t been to most of the places covered in this article. That’s quite a useful and fascinating article which deserves a lot of praise and gratitude as well (from the side of the prospective visitors including me).

Thanks a lot. Depsite growing up in Kolkata I havent visited most of these. Thanks to all the fellow bloggers who helped me compile this bucketlist.

Your photos and way of describing West Bengal makes me want to pack my bags now! Beautiful and interesting.

Been in Kolkatta for over a month, but since my father was in hospital could not really see anything except the visit famous Kali Temple and some places near the hospital 🙂 this time have a lot to visit after seeing your post ! 🙂 have been to Siliguri for a short visit, a wonderful place.

I have only been to Kolkata and loved the vibe of the city. Darjeeling is one place I want to explore.

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Culturally Immersive & Responsible Travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kolkata… Calcutta… City of Love!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Darjeeling… the Queen of Hills!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kalimpong: A Sleepy Tourist Destination in North Bengal

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

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

Sonada, lesser known mountains of North Bengal!

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

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

Cooch Behar: Abode of the Erstwhile King

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

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

Dooars… The Forests of the Himalayan Foothills!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Also read: The best places to visit in Karnataka!

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

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

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

Mayapur, Nabadwip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hangseshwari Temple, Bengal’s Real Hogwarts!

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

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

Bandel Church, a stronghold of Portuguese Days

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

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

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

Gadiara, the Obscure village on the confluence of major rivers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gongoni, West Midnapur: Stunning Tourist attraction in West bengal

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

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

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

Also read: Complete guide to traveling to Hampi!

Purulia, The True Surprise of Rarh Bangla!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Maldah, the Mango basket of India

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

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

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

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

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

Mandarmoni: A romantic Escape in West Bengal!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tajpur, the lure of stunning sunset sky!

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

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

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

Sundorbon, Mangrove Kingdom & the Royal Bengal Tiger

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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8 Best Places to Visit in West Bengal

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1. Darjeeling

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

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

3. Kalimpong

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

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

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

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

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

8. Bishnupur

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

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West Bengal Tourism

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Ideal duration: 4 - 12 days

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"Beautiful Bengal"

West bengal, india.

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

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

Top Places to Visit In West Bengal

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Darjeeling and Pelling Tour Package - Tiger Hill

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

Victoria Memorial

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

Fort William Kolkata

Howrah Bridge

Birla Planetarium

Top Stories about West Bengal Tourism

Fairs & Festivals

Durga Puja 2024 - One Month Gap Between Mahalaya and Shashti

Food & Drink

28 Bengali Sweets That You Must Try At Least Once

Food of West Bengal- Delectable Bengali Cuisines That You Must Try!

Airports in West Bengal

Wildlife & Nature

National Parks in West Bengal For The Wildlife Enthusiasts

Art & Culture

West Bengal Dress - Traditional Dress of West Bengal That Are Every Collector's Pride!

Holidify's opinion on Travel to West Bengal

What's great about travelling to west bengal.

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

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

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

Who should Travel to West Bengal?

West bengal photos.

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West Bengal Reviews

Rupkatha Chakraborty

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Places To Visit In West Bengal

The land of lush greenery and delectable cuisine beckons you, best time to visit.

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• West Bengal
• Places To Visit

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

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

Historical Places in West Bengal

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

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

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

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

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

Shopping Places in West Bengal

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

Top Stay Areas For Tourists

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

Art & Culture

Tiger Hill in Darjeeling

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

• Sightseeing

Ghoom Monastery in Darjeeling

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

• Ideal for families

Mahakaleshwar Temple in Darjeeling

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

• Religious Tour

Tea Garden in Darjeeling

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

• Tea plantations

Batasia Loop in Darjeeling

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

• Toy Train ride

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling

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

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25 best places to visit in west bengal.

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

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

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

Must-visit Places in West Bengal at A Glance:

Also Check Out: Popular Tour Packages for West Bengal

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

Highlights:

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

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

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

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

• Mandarmani Beach
• The Delta or Mohana

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Murshidabad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Pashupati Nagar
• Bokar Monastery
• Rameetay Dara

Cooch Behar

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

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

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

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

Barrackpore

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lava and Lolegaon

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

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

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

• Baranti Reservoir or Murardi Lake
• Gajaburu Hills
• Garpanchkot

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

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

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

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

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

What are the top tourist destinations in West Bengal?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are the popular hill stations in West Bengal?

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

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

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

What are popular historical and architectural sites in West Bengal?

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

Which are the top wildlife destinations in West Bengal?

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

What are popular religious places to visit in West Bengal?

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

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

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

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

What are popular adventure activities to enjoy in West Bengal?

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

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

Published: 10 Jan, 2024

About the author

Nidhi Singh

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

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Best Time To Visit West Bengal

October to March is the best time to be a part of West Bengal tourism. October also sees the beginning of autumn in Kolkata, which apart from ushering in the festival season, makes for pleasant weather and is the perfect time for a West Bengal tour. In winters, temperatures drop to as low as 9°C with occasional rainfall. 

June to September are the months when the state ushers in monsoon, transforming its cities into a lush green haven. For travellers who don’t mind the rain, this is the best time to get a taste of West Bengal tourism. 

The off-season in West Bengal begins in April and lasts till May, which is the time when the state is scorching hot, but still bearable after sundown. Hotel prices and airfares drop during these months, and so does the number of tourists.

Top Attractions In West Bengal

From the cities that never seem to sleep to hill stations that can slow down time, West Bengal tourism offers diverse landscapes to visitors. Whether you like to explore the rich past of India through its architectural wonders and age-old buildings or you are a backpacker who enjoys the cold winds of the mountains, West Bengal tourism has something for everyone. Here are some of the best tourist places in West Bengal, included in our West Bengal travel guide :

Kolkata West Bengal is home to some of the most scenic landscapes and monuments of India. Include Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, while exploring West Bengal tourism and witness the art galleries and historical monuments of this spellbinding city. Visit the lush green Sundarbans that West Bengal tourism offers, and spot the popular Bengal tigers. Spend an afternoon exploring the mangrove forest where you can find approximately 260 species of birds. 

Another popular monument that you should not miss while experiencing West Bengal tourism is the magnificent Victoria Memorial Hall. The white marble gem is inspired by Indo-Saracenic style and has been turned into a museum for visitors. If you are searching for peace in the bustling streets of Kolkata, then you can catch the sunrise at Howrah Bridge, the best of what West Bengal tourism offers. The 20th-century bridge spans over the Hooghly River and links Kolkata with Howrah. West Bengal tourism also allows you a chance to embark on a spiritual excursion. Dakshineswar Kali Temple, St. Paul's Cathedral and Nakhoda Masjid are among the most popular religious destinations in Kolkata that can be included in your West Bengal tourism itinerary. 

The vintage ambience of Kolkata is the perfect retreat for old souls exploring West Bengal tourism. The city might have changed its name from Calcutta to Kolkata, but you can still revel in its past.  To make the most of West Bengal tourism, literature geeks can head to College Street and buy some old books and history lovers can explore Fort William, where no bullet has ever been fired. 

Darjeeling Darjeeling offers you a chance to slow down and revel in nature. While exploring the lanes of this bustling hill station, you will find the soothing aroma of freshly brewed tea. The lush green tea gardens are spanned across acres of land. You can also book a stay at one of the tea estates of Darjeeling such as Makaibari Tea Estate and Singtom Tea Estate Resort. Enjoy a tranquil stay while indulging in West Bengal tourism and witness some mesmerising views of the surrounding hills as you sip on the golden liquid. 

You will find wisps of Buddhist chants booming across the streets and colourful prayer flags adorning the winding trails. You can include a visit to one of the Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling as part of your West Bengal tourism itinerary and marvel at its intricate Tibetan architecture. Ghum Monastery, Bhutia Busty Monastery and Dali Monastery are amongst the most popular Buddhist shrines where you can find a few moments of peace. 

Other famous destinations of Darjeeling that can be included in your West Bengal tourism itinerary are Tiger Hill, Observatory Hill and Singalila National Park.

Siliguri In the chase after popular hill stations such as Darjeeling and Sikkim, Siliguri often gets overlooked, serving only as a gateway to other towns and countries. But if you are looking for a town where you can relax in a cosy resort surrounded by emerald trees, then Siliguri is the perfect destination. 

You can book a safari at North Bengal Wild Animals Park and spot tigers, Asiatic black bears, rhinoceros and red jungle fowls amongst other wild creatures. Siliguri is also home to other parks such as Sukna Madhuban Park and Surya Sen Park where you can have a relaxing picnic with your loved ones. And if you are in search of spiritual peace, you can include Salugara Monastery in your West Bengal tourism itinerary, that boasts of a 100-foot stupa.

Kalimpong The laid back city of Kalimpong is perched on a ridge and offers mesmerising views of the magnificent Khangchendzonga. The city overlooks the turquoise Teesta river and offers plenty of scenic hiking trails. Horticulture is one of the main activities followed by the local community of Kalimpong, and its flower market exports a wide variety of flowers.  

Kalimpong is largely influenced by Buddhism. You can visit monasteries such as Phodong Monastery, Zang Dhok Palri Phodang, Zang Dhok Palri Phodang and Durpin Monastery as part of West Bengal tourism to get in touch with your roots with a spiritual experience.

West Bengal tourism allows you to visit the untouched Neora Valley National Park, which is home to black bears, wild boars and leopards. You can even spot the rare red panda here. 

Sundarbans A UNESCO world heritage site, Sundarbans National Park is a mangrove forest area located in the delta formed by the convergence of three rivers - Ganges, Meghna and Brahmaputra. Sundarbans is shared by India and Bangladesh as it spans over Hooghly river of West Bengal and Baleswar river of Bangladesh. It is an emerald wonderland and the entire area is dotted with Sundari trees with crystal-clear streams flowing through the entire forest. 

Sundarbans is among the most popular tourist places in West Bengal and is home to the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger. Other animals that can be found roaming freely across the Sundarbans include wild boars, mongooses, flying foxes and fishing cats. You can also spot marine creatures in Sundarbans such as sawfish, electric ray and Gangetic dolphins. 

Shantiniketan A progressive neighbourhood located in Bolpur city, Shantiniketan was founded by the Tagore family and expanded by the Nobel laureate, Rabindranath Tagore. He set up Visva-Bharati University and transformed Shantiniketan into a cultural hub. The education institutes of Shantiniketan are constantly breaking barriers and establishing an artistic environment where pursuing dance, music, arts and language is encouraged.

Besides enjoying some solitary time and gaining creative inspiration, you can attend the famous Poush Mela of Shantiniketan where artists from various fields gather for three days. You can also include Uttarayan Complex located on the aesthetic campus of Visva-Bharati in your West Bengal tourism itinerary, where you can find a museum dedicated to Rabindranath Tagore. 

Almost every tourist spot in Shantiniketan is carrying imprints of history. You can include ChhatimTala in your West Bengal tourism itinerary, which used to be the meditation site of Rabindranath Tagore's father, Maharishi Devendranath Tagore. This lush green site offers a perfect retreat, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can also head to Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary on your West Bengal tourism trip and enjoy spotting wild animals such as jackals and blackbucks.

Mandarmani Mandarmani is a seaside resort village, located along the coastline of the Bay of Bengal. The most convenient way to reach Mandarmani is by road. It takes around 4 hours to reach Mandarmani from Kolkata. If you'd like to spend a relaxing break in a cosy resort packed with all the amenities, then you should include Mandarmani in your West Bengal tourism itinerary. 

West Bengal tourism offers one of the luxurious resorts of Mandarmani such as The Candlewood Park Beach Resort, Viceroy Beach and Spa Resort and Victoria Beach Resort. 

Besides strolling along the sandy beaches of Mandarmani, you can try out various adventure activities such as banana boating, jet skiing and beach biking and end your day with a shopping spree. The beach is fringed by little stalls where you can shop for handicrafts and handmade jewellery. 

Lava One of the most underrated destinations in West Bengal, Lolegaon is a tiny hamlet located at a distance of 55 km from Kalimpong. The village is home to the Lepcha community and offers some of the clearest views of the glorious  Kanchenjunga. One of the biggest attractions of Lolegaon is its close proximity to other hill stations such as Rishyap and Lava, that makes it easier for tourists to access three destinations in one trip. 

Lolegaon is covered with lush green forests where you can find hanging bridges and enjoy a canopy walk surrounded by oak and cypress trees. The meandering routes, thick vegetation and pleasant weather makes it the perfect escape from the monotony of skyscrapers and bustling streets. Other tourist destinations in Loleygaon that you can include in your West Bengal tourism itinerary are Jhandi Dara Viewpoint, Lolegaon hilltop and Eco Park.

Activities And Things to Do In West Bengal

West Bengal tourism offers a plethora of breathtaking adventure activities, allowing you to fulfil your desire of embarking on a daring escapade and living life to the fullest. Here are some of the activities included in our West Bengal travel guide :

Trekking to Sandakphu The pristine Sandakphu Peak is located in Singalila National Park on the West Bengal-Nepal border. Include this 7-day trek in your on your West Bengal tourism itinerary, that will take you through some of the most scenic Himalayan villages such as Samaden and Gorkhey. The trekking trail offers the views of some lush green meadows and villages with snow-clad peaks forming the backdrop of the landscape. 

This strenuous trek tests your limits, as the steep trail constantly challenges your physical strength. The summit of Sandakphu offers panoramic views of some of the highest Himalayan peaks such as Mount Everest, Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Lhotse. The best time to undertake this trek on your West Bengal tourism trip is from April to May when the weather is pleasant. It will cost you between Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,0000.  

Toy train ride in Darjeeling There are two things that define Darjeeling - its aromatic tea and its exciting toy train ride which offers panoramic views of lush green hills and misty forests. The journey begins from Darjeeling and takes you to the small hamlet of Ghum. It’s a round trip that covers 14 km of distance in two hours. While you can enjoy diesel engine rides for around Rs 800, you’d have to pay around Rs 1,400 for steam engine rides.

Cycling in Kalimpong Cycling in Kalimpong is a feast for the eyes. Include this in your West Bengal tourism itinerary and enjoy biking on the meandering trails of Kalimpong while the lush green hills form a beautiful backdrop. The cool breeze and smooth ride makes it a must-try activity in Kalimpong. The cycling tour will help you slow down and enjoy the serene surroundings of Kalimpong and notice the Buddhist influence on the region, as the routes are decorated with prayer wheels and you can also try out Tibetan cuisine on the way. If you’d like to challenge yourself further, embark on a cycling tour from Kalimpong to Siliguri which will cost you around Rs 5,000.

Where to Stay In West Bengal

Luxury hotels in West Bengal

On your West Bengal tourism trip, you can choose to stay at luxurious hotels where you can enjoy a unique blend of affluent lifestyle and traditional experience. Some of the best luxury hotels included in our West Bengal travel guide are:

• Hotel Swissôtel, Kolkata
• The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata
• Ging Tea House, Darjeeling
• MAYFAIR Himalayan Spa Resort, Kalimpong
• ITC Sonar, Kolkata

Mid-budget hotels in West Bengal

You can choose accommodation options on your West Bengal tourism trip which are not only easy on pockets but also offer all the amenities required for a comfortable experience. Some of the best mid-budget hotels included in our West Bengal  travel guide are:

• Park Prime, Kolkata
• Resort Tree-Fern, Loleygaon
• Hotel Palbheu, Darjeeling
• Treebo Trend Hoops, Kolkata
• Summit Barsana Resort & Spa, Kalimpong

Budget hotels in West Bengal

If you want to keep the cost low and travel on a shoestring budget, you can find plenty of accommodation options in our West Bengal travel guide. Here are some of the best budget hotels for your West Bengal tourism trip:

• Orbit Hotel, Kolkata
• Mystic Orchid Retreat, Kalimpong
• Bubble Beds Hostel, Kolkata
• Treebo Trip GD Hotel, Siliguri

Cuisine And Best Places To Eat

West Bengal tourism is known for its lip-smacking cuisine with an extensive use of fish, vegetables and spices, meant to offer a wholesome flavour. An extensive variety of dishes is available for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.

Vegetarians can enjoy shukto on your West Bengal tourism trip, which is made up of vegetables such as gourds and potatoes. Baingan bhaja is another popular dish in West Bengal which is cooked by frying brinjals. Other dishes such as aloo posto and labra are among the most popular dishes that you must try out on your West Bengal tourism trip. You can also savour Doi potol which is a gravy item made up of curd. During summers, lau ghonto is a frequently eaten dish, and it is cooked by using gourds and coconut.

West Bengal tourism offers non-vegetarians, chicken rezala, a popularly served dishe in the Islamic restaurants of West Bengal. Other dishes that you can try are kochi pathar jhol , which is a kind of mutton, chicken chaap and  dimer dalna , which is made up of boiled eggs. You can find a huge variety of fish items as part of West Bengal tourism such as doi ilish, ilish bhapa, katla kalia and tel koi.

West Bengal's desserts are as sweet as their language. One of the most popular sweet dishes that you can try on your West Bengal tourism trip is sandesh , which is made up of milk and paneer. Another sweet dish item that you must try out is mishti doi , prepared with yoghurt and milk. And you can definitely not miss the lip-smacking rasgullas dipped in sugar syrup.

How To Travel In West Bengal

As per our West Bengal travel guide, the quickest way to reach West Bengal is by taking a flight to one of the major airports of West Bengal such as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata and Bagdogra International Airport in Siliguri. You can also take interstate flights such as from Kolkata to Siliguri or from Kolkata to Darjeeling. The cheapest way to travel in West Bengal is by train. There are 172 railway stations in West Bengal, connecting all the major cities of West Bengal.  You can find cab services within the state, but it is suggested that you should know the rates of taxis beforehand. WBTC bus service is also available in West Bengal to travel from one part of the state to another.

Typical Costs In West Bengal

Regardless of your budget and travel style, West Bengal tourism can prove to be the perfect experience for all kinds of travellers. While luxury travellers can relax in five-star hotels and pamper themselves, backpackers can hike on the winding trails of West Bengal's lush green hill stations and enjoy some solitary moments of peace. You can reduce the cost by choosing cheaper means of transport and accommodation options in West Bengal. Here are the per day costs that you might incur while experiencing West Bengal tourism:

As per our West Bengal travel guide , a luxury traveller can expect to spend around Rs 6,000 to Rs 15,000 per day while exploring West Bengal. The cost includes accommodation in five-star hotels, eating at premium restaurants and exploring the museums and hill stations of West Bengal.

Mid-budget travellers can expect to spend around Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000 per day on their West Bengal tourism trip. To keep the cost low, it is suggested that you should stay in a three-star hotel and travel via train from one city to another. 

Budget travellers can explore West Bengal in Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 per day. It is suggested that budget travellers should stay in hostels and travel in buses to keep the costs low.

Which are the best tourist spots in Kolkata that should be included in your West Bengal tourism itinerary? Kolkata is a concoction of destinations, festivals and arts. As per our West Bengal travel guide, you can include Victoria Memorial in your West Bengal tourism itinerary, which is among the most famous landmarks of Kolkata and is home to some of the most ancient relics and paintings. You can also visit Howrah Bridge for enjoying a serene sunset. Kolkata is the land of goddesses as is reflected by the magnificent way in which Durga Puja is celebrated here. You can also visit temples such as the 19th-century Dakshineswar Kali Temple and Kalighat Temple dedicated to Goddess Kali during your West Bengal tourism trip. Sports lovers can visit Brigade Parade Ground which is home to the famous Eden Gardens and Kolkata Race Course.

Which hill stations should be included in your West Bengal tourism itinerary? 

Tucked away from the bustling cities, hill stations in West Bengal offer the perfect getaway to tourists. You can include Darjeeling in your West Bengal tourism itinerary which is known for its expansive tea estates and incredible tea. You can also catch the spellbinding views of Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjunga from Darjeeling’s Tiger Hill. Another scenic hamlet in the lap of the Himalayas is Dooars which offers some grand views of the gurgling Teesta river and is also known to be the gateway to Bhutan. You can include Siliguri in your West Bengal tourism itinerary for a short staycation. Other lush green hill stations that can be included in your West Bengal tourism itinerary are Kurseong, Mirik and Kalimpong.

Name the national parks that can be included in your West Bengal tourism itinerary. 

You can include some scenic national parks in your West Bengal tourism itinerary where you can spot wild animals, gaze at different species of birds and enjoy seeing a healthy floral life. To make the most of West Bengal tourism, you can visit Sunderbans National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the endangered Bengal tigers. You can visit this mangrove area from September to March. Gorumara National Park is another popular tourist attraction where you can spot Asian elephant, sloth bear and sambar deer. This lush green park is dotted with Sal trees and bamboo groves. Other national parks on offer by West Bengal tourism are Neora Valley National Park and Singalila National Park.

Is West Bengal Safe for solo women travellers? 

West bengal is a progressive state with stringent rules to deal with crimes against women. So, women can have a safe time exploring the nooks and corners of West Bengal. In fact, the local community of West Bengal is known to be quite friendly, so you can have a good time under their vigilance. However, it is still suggested that one should be acutely aware of their surroundings, especially while travelling at night. You should also avoid exploring lonely areas especially during wee hours.

What should be the duration of an ideal West Bengal tourism experience?

West Bengal tour offers quite diverse landscapes to visitors. A quick trip won’t be enough to take in everything that this gorgeous state has to offer. From national parks and hill stations to historical forts and museums, there is a lot to discover in West Bengal. It is suggested that you should plan a trip of around 7 to 10 days in order to make the most of West Bengal tourism.

What is the easiest way to reach West Bengal?  

You can reach West Bengal via airways, roadways and railways. As per West Bengal travel guide, the quickest way to reach West Bengal is by booking a flight to one of the major airports of West Bengal such as Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata and Bagdogra International Airport in Siliguri. Economy flight tickets to West Bengal from major cities such as Delhi and Mumbai can cost you anywhere between  Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000.

West Bengal is connected to all the major states of India via an extensive network of railways. The cheapest way to reach West Bengal is by train with Kolkata Railway station being one of the busiest stations all year round.  Another way of reaching West Bengal is via car. The well-maintained national highways form the nexus between West Bengal and other major cities of India. There are 15 state highways in West Bengal, allowing a smooth ride to drivers.

Suggest three tips for planning a West Bengal trip. 

While making a West Bengal tourism itinerary, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Although West Bengal witnesses pleasant weather throughout the year, it is suggested that one should pack light cotton clothes while visiting the state in summers. 2. During the peak season, book your hotels beforehand, especially while visiting popular cities such as Kolkata, Darjeeling and Howrah. 3. To avoid getting duped, get some idea about the transportation charges from the internet and other resources to save money.

 Are there ATMs all across West Bengal? Do digital payments work?

Yes, ATMs are available in all the major cities of West Bengal such as Kolkata, Howrah and Darjeeling. Although online payments and usage of plastic money has become quite common, it is still suggested that you should carry some cash on your West Bengal tourism trip, especially for transportation purposes.

Written by Shivani Vohra, an in-house writer at Tripoto. She is a storyteller, dreaming of living on the hills someday. 

Best Places in West Bengal – Complete Guide

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

Best Places in West Bengal

Attractions, best time to visit, how to reach.

• Sundarbans National Park

Shantiniketan

Digha & mandarmani, murshidabad, frequently asked questions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Sajnekhali Watch Tower
• Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary 
• Netidhopani

Sundarban could be visited at all times of the year.

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

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

Darjeeling has the largest ropeway in Asia.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All around the year.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

September to March is the best time to visit Kalimpong.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• ISKCON Chandrodaya Temple
• Shri Chaitanya Math

All over the year.

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

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

• Coronation Bridge
• Chilapata Forest
• Latpanchere

September to March is the ideal time to visit Dooars. 

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

Q: What is the famous in West Bengal?

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

Q: What is West Bengal famous food?

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

Q: Is West Bengal safe for travelers?

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

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

You can visit West Bengal any time in the year. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Kolkata, West Bengal

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

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

Read more about:

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

2. Siliguri, West Bengal

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

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

3. Darjeeling, West Bengal

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

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

4. Bagdogra, West Bengal

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

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

5. Jalpaiguri, West Bengal

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

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

6. Kalimpong, West Bengal

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

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

7. Mirik, West Bengal

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

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

8. Sundarbans, West Bengal

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

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

9. New Digha, West Bengal

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

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

10. Durgapur, West Bengal

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

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

11. Dooars, West Bengal

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

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

12. Kurseong, West Bengal

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

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

13. Birbhum, West Bengal

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

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

14. Bishnupur, West Bengal

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

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

15. Murshidabad, West Bengal

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

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

16. Bankura, West Bengal

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

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

17. Midnapore, West Bengal

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

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

18. Nabadwip, West Bengal

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

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

19. Mandarmani, West Bengal

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

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

20. Santiniketan, West Bengal

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

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

21. Haldia, West Bengal

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

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

22. Bakkhali, West Bengal

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

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

23. Lataguri, West Bengal

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

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

24. Raichak, West Bengal

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

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

25. Cooch Behar, West Bengal

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

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

26. Bardhaman, West Bengal

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

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

27. Malda, West Bengal

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

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

28. Mukutmanipur, West Bengal

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

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

29. Mayapur, West Bengal

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

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

30. Purulia, West Bengal

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

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

31. Shankarpur, West Bengal

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

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

32. Jaldhaka, West Bengal

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

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

33. Jaldapara National Park, West Bengal

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

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

34. Chandannagar, West Bengal

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

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

35. Rajabhatkhawa, West Bengal

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

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

36. Gorumara National Park, West Bengal

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

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

37. Chapramari Sanctuary, West Bengal

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

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

38. Rishyap, West Bengal

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

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

39. Buxa Tiger Reserve, West Bengal

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

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

40. Tajpur, West Bengal

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

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

41. Sonajhuri Forest, West Bengal

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

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

42. Barrackpore, West Bengal

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

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

43. Jhargram, West Bengal

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

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

44. Kamarpukur, West Bengal

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

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

45. Bakreshwar, West Bengal

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

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

46. Falta, West Bengal

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

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

47. Hugli Chinsurah, West Bengal

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

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

48. Howrah, West Bengal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kolkata – The Cultural Capital

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

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

Why should you visit Kolkata?

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

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

What are the main attractions of Kolkata?

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

Darjeeling – The Queen of Hill Stations

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

Why should you visit Darjeeling?

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

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

What are the main attractions of Darjeeling?

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

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

Sundarbans – Where the Delta Meets the Ocean

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

Why should you visit the Sundarbans?

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

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

What are the main attractions of Sundarbans?

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

Digha and Mandarmani – Beach Retreats

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

Why should you visit Digha and Mandarmani?

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

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

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

What are the main attractions of Digha and Mandarmani?

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

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

Shantiniketan – Abode of Art and Culture

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

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

Why should you visit Shantiniketan?

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

What are the main attractions of Shantiniketan?

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

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

Bishnupur – Temples and Terracotta Treasures

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

Why should you visit Bishnupur?

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

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

What are the main attractions of Bishnupur?

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

Siliguri – Gateway to the Northeast

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

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

Why should you visit Siliguri?

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

What are the main attractions of Siliguri?

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

Kalimpong – Offbeat Beauty

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

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

Why should you visit Kalimpong?

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

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

What are the main attractions of Kalimpong?

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

Murshidabad – A Glimpse into History

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

Why should you visit Murshidabad?

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

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

What are the main attractions of Murshidabad?

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

Durgapur – An Important Place

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

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

Why should you visit Durgapur?

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

What are the attractions of Durgapur?

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

Conclusion: Top 10 Tourist Places in West Bengal

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

Top 15 Places To Visit In West Bengal

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

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

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

2. Darjeeling

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

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

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

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

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

4. Midnapore

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

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

5. Siliguri

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

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

6. Murshidabad

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

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

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

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

8. Kalimpong

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

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

9. Kamarpukur

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

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

10. Bishnupur

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

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

11. Jalpaiguri

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

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

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

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

13. Cooch Behar

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

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

14. Birbhum

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

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

15. Barrackpore

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

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

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

About Rohit

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

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

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

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

Thanks for this lot of information.

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

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

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

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

Excellent and very informative article.

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

Great information sharing in article.

Thanks, for your important information

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A perfect amalgamation of rich diversity, spectacular locations, breathtaking natural wonders, and crazy city life, Rabindranath Tagore's West Bengal is definitely one of the top destinations in India for peace lovers. Right from the cosmopolitan culture of the capital city Kolkata to the spectacular landscape of Darjeeling, there are many gorgeous tourist places in West Bengal. If you are planning to explore this side of the country, here is the list of best tourist places in West Bengal that can amaze you with their exceptional beauty.

15 Best Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal

Here's the list of the best places to visit in West Bengal. Enjoy!

• Shantiniketan
• Sundarbans National Park
• Murshidabad
• Cooch Behar

Known for its vibrant culture, the city of Kolkata has grown exponentially from a British colony to the cultural capital of India. Formerly known as Calcutta, the city is the third-most populous metropolitan city of India. Educationally, commercially and culturally ahead, Kolkata is a leading hub in the field of drama, arts, theatre, and literature. Being the only city in India with network trams or streetcars, the city has old-world charm alive despite all the development. 

2. Shantiniketan

The place where the spirit of poet Rabindranath Tagore is still alive, Shantiniketan or Visva Bharati University is an abode of peace, unlike other ordinary universities. To develop a relationship of nature with nature, this university offers the best platform to people. The magnificent beauty of Shantiniketan gets glorified even more with its art gallery, museum, and mostly by the Upasna Griha where people meditate. Also, the place serves as a platform for various handicrafts, wall paintings, sculptures, and other artistic representations.

Highly influenced by the Portuguese, French and Dutch cultures, Hooghly gets an overwhelming response from tourists for several reasons. The place also has sacred significance being a residence for Devi Sarada and Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. This tourist place in West Bengal also opens to a lot of interesting destinations such as Deer Park, Shri Ramakrishna Math, Hooghly Imambara, Bhadreswar, Hangseshwari Temple, and Serampore. 

4. Sundarbans National Park

Reserving its seat as one of the most famous West Bengal tourist spots for a long time, Sundarbans National Park's largest mangrove forest across the globe is gaining popularity amongst wildlife enthusiasts day by day. Also listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India , the park is home to about 400 Royal Bengal tigers along with other endangered species such as the estuarine crocodile and Ganges River dolphin. A paradise for wildlife lovers, people can grab a view of tigers sunbathing near the banks of a river that extends to Bangladesh.  

5. Kalimpong

Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Kalimpong is a quaint town in West Bengal that offers relaxing nature walks, adventurous activities, and a peaceful atmosphere. This town lies at an elevation of 4100 ft overlooking the majestic Himalayas and breathtaking Teesta River. This tourist place in West Bengal has recently gained popularity among tourists due to stunning vistas along with bird watching, exploring beautiful monasteries, and taking enduring treks. 

Also Read:  10 Best & Affordable Hotels In Kalimpong For Making Your Stay Comfortable

6. Darjeeling

One of the top hill stations to visit in West Bengal, Darjeeling secures its position right at the top. From the splendid view of Kanchenjunga to exploring expansive tea gardens, everything in Darjeeling is ethereal and exceptionally stunning. The mountain railway toy train adds more fun as it opens the door to various other tourist destinations of the state. Moreover, Tibetan-Nepalese food, interesting monasteries, and exquisite handicrafts by locals are a treat for travelers. 

The western city of West Bengal, Bankura is known for its artistic features. For trekkers and hikers, it offers loads of exciting trails and is considered the best tourist place in West Bengal. Moreover, one can also enjoy discovering hidden gems, historical monuments along with the spectacular view of hills. The famous places here include Ganesh and Nandi statues, Garh Darwaja, Krishna-Balaram temple, Susunia Hills, Biharinath Hill, and Rasmancha which add more charm to the trip to Bankura.   

8. Midnapore

Popular with the name Medinipur, Midnapore is one of the popular tourist places in West Bengal. While the western part of the city is dotted with ancient temples and forts, the eastern side of Midnapore endows the visitors with the pristine coastline of beaches like Digha and Mandarmani. Known for its natural beauty, historical significance, and amazing landscape, Midnapore is a great place to pay a visit. Some of the famous attractions of Midnapore are Chandrakona, Jora Masjid, John's Church, Chilkigarh Raj Palace, Jhargram Royal Palace, and Karnagarh.

9. Siliguri

A splendid location to visit in West Bengal, Siliguri offers a divine side of the Himalayas. With lush gardens of tea and timber, Siliguri becomes a heavenly place for nature lovers. Consisting of tourist destinations including Coronation bridge, Salugara Monastery, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Chilapata Forests, Kali Mandir, HongKong Market, etc, Siliguri is totally worth visiting. 

10. Bishnupur

The birthplace of terracotta, Bishnupur is one of the most famous places to visit in West Bengal. The terracotta temples in Bishnupur elevate the beauty of this heritage town even more. In the 17th and 18th centuries, Malla dynasty rulers built many beautiful temples here which are a perfect amalgamation of Bengali-style architecture and Islamic-style domes and arches making it a must-visit place in West Bengal. Not too far from Kolkata, Bishnupur is marked as a landmark for art and architecture lovers who visit here from different parts of the world. 

Also Read: 12 Authentic Dishes Of West Bengal That Are Fingerlickin’ Delicious

11. Mayapur

A heavenly location for devotees of Lord Krishna, Mayapur is known for its pilgrimage significance. The Vedic spiritual leader Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu who is considered as an avatar of Lord Krishna also took birth on this land. The teachings of the leader were revived in the 20th Century by Krishna Srila Prabhupada who laid the foundation of ISKCON, which is the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. Typically, the headquarters of ISKCON are present in Mayapur and it is considered the vital reason behind the Hare Krishna Movement. So, the devotees of Krishna must visit this place once in their lifetime.

12. Murshidabad

Located on the eastern banks of River Hooghly, Murshidabad offers a vibrant view of diversity to travelers from all over the world. The erstwhile capital city of West Bengal, Murshidabad’s glorifying history dates back to ancient times of the prehistoric era. Home to many exciting tourist destinations, Murshidabad is known for its iconic Imambara, Kathgola, Katra Mosque, Hazarduari Palace Museum, Jalangi River, and Nasipur Palace.

13. Kamarpukur

A typical Bengali village located in Hooghly district, Kamarpukur is a land full of ancient buildings, tanks as well as temples. To get a glimpse of the past glory, this beautiful village is a remarkable place to pay a visit. Also considered as sacred, the village is dotted with Yogi Shiva Temple, Gopeshwar Temple, Matri Mandir, Mukandpur Temple as well as Jairambati temple. One of the best places to visit in West Bengal, this place never ceases to amaze the visitors with its fascinating charm.

14. Jalpaiguri

The place with topographical constructive upshots, Jalpaiguri entices a lot of tourists who seek the bliss of nature. Situated in the Bhaktinagar area in Siliguri, it's amazing to see tourism flourishing at this place as it is easily accessible from Sikkim and Darjeeling. Dooars, Buxa Tiger Reserve, Jubilee Park, Gorumara National Park, Mendabari Fort, Panjhora River, and the Baptist Church are the most exciting places to visit here. 

15. Cooch Behar

A district in Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar lies in the north-eastern region of West Bengal. It shares the boundary with Bangladesh on the western and southern sides. Known for its rich heritage, one can find evidence of the Mughal reign here by exploring the ancient monuments built during their rule. The huge water bodies present in the territory of Cooch Behar add more charm to the glory of this place. Some of the major tourist attractions of this place are Cooch Behar Palace, Rasik Bil, Danger Ayee Temple, Chilapata Forest Range, and Madan Mohar Bari which must be on your wishlist.

Also Read: 6 Famous Festivals Of West Bengal To Celebrate Eternal Spirit Of Togetherness

Best Time To Visit West Bengal

You can consider visiting West Bengal during the months of October to March as the weather in these months is extremely pleasant and appropriate for excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In West Bengal

Q1. What is famous in West Bengal? Ans. The cultural capital of India, West Bengal is known for its vibrant diversity which can be seen in its culture, festivals, cuisines, and terracotta temples. West Bengal is also known for having the largest staircase and the second-largest Chandelier in India. 

Q2. How many famous places are there in West Bengal? Ans. Being home to several famous places, West Bengal does not have a specific count of tourist destinations. But most famous among them are Kolkata, Shantiniketan, Darjeeling, Sunderbans, and Kalimpong.

Q3. What is the most important place in West Bengal? Ans. Being the cultural capital, Kolkata is an important place not only in West Bengal but also in our country.

Q4. Is West Bengal a tourist destination? Ans. Yes, West Bengal surely is a favorite place for travelers as it offers the best tourism in religious, adventurous, cultural, and historical aspects.

Q5. Why visit West Bengal? Ans. You should plan a trip to West Bengal for its colonial-era monuments, temples, hill stations, cuisines, beaches, wildlife, trekking, jungle safaris, sightseeing, spirituality, Toy Train, arts & crafts, heritage, and culture.

Q6. Which is the best way to plan your trip to West Bengal? Ans. You can either use an AI-Driven Trip planner AI tool by Adotrip if you believe in self-planning or simply get in touch with our customer care executive who will help you get the best deals on flights, hotels, and tour packages. 

Q 7: What are some tourist places in West Bengal to visit with friends? A 7: Some tourist places in West Bengal to visit with friends include Darjeeling

Q 8: What are some places to visit in West Bengal with family? A 8: Some places to visit in West Bengal with family include

• Victoria Memorial

Q 9: What are some tourist places in West Bengal for kids? A 9: Some tourist places in West Bengal for kids include

• Science City
• Indian Museum
• Alipore Zoo

Q 10: What are some tourist spots in West Bengal for solo trip? A 10: Some tourist spots in West Bengal for solo trip include

• Gorumara National Park

Q 11: What are some of the best tourist places in West Bengal for honeymoon? A 11: Some of the best tourist places in West Bengal for honeymoon include Darjeeling

Q 12: What are some of the famous places for one day trip in West Bengal? A 12: Some of the famous places for one day trip in West Bengal include Digha

• Diamond Harbour

Q 13: What is a tourist place in West Bengal to visit in summer? A 13: Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Dooars, Sunderbans, and Mirik are some of the tourist places in West Bengal to visit in summer.

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Tourist Places To Visit In West Bengal

West Bengal, also known as Paschimbanga, is India 's fourth most populous state, and is located in the eastern region. With Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) as its capital, Paschimbanga is home to the ferocious Bengal Tiger, the famous mishti doi and roshogolla, and the world renowned Durga Pooja. Exquisitely slow-paced and bursting-at-the-seams with people, West Bengal is also known for its sweetness and poise, qualities that make it a place one must surely visit. Here are the top tourist places to visit in West Bengal for you, from Kolkata to Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling to Mirik .

The capital of West Bengal with a name that rolls beautifully on the tongue, Kolkata is a place you just cannot afford to miss. Most cricket fanatics might know Kolkata for the famous cricket stadium, Eden Gardens. But Kolkata is much more than that; it houses honey-tongued people, nostalgia inducing streets and a vintage aura that will take your breath away. And if you are the romantic kind, a walk along the Hooghly river, a boat cruise under the starlit sky at Outram Ghat or a ride in a tuk tuk will make Kolkata all the more memorable for you.

• 4 Top Tourist Places To Visit In Kolkata

The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Darjeeling is the region's wonderful tea. A quaint little mountain city in West Bengal, Darjeeling is all they make it out to be in the movies - nippy, picturesque and home to the world's best tea! Internationally known for its cultural diversity and the elegant Buddhist monasteries, Darjeeling will fill you with an awe that you will not be able to shake off for a long time. Do not conclude your West Bengal trip without visiting this neat little Himalayan city.

• Darjeeling Tourism And Travel Guide

A scenic city nestled at the Himalayan foothills; Siliguri is a contemporary town showing off a number of gorgeous condominiums lined along the landscape. Widely known for its lush tea gardens and the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Siliguri will take your breath away with its prominent old-world charm blooming into something modern and cosmopolitan. Take in the fresh air and sumptuous greenery in and around this town for your West Bengal trip to really feel complete.

A large, plush mangrove forest spread across Bangladesh and West Bengal in India , the Sundarbans also enjoy pride of place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to Bengal Tigers and Spotted Deer, the Sundarbans are everything you imagined and much more. Bask in the pristine air while being cocooned in the lushness of this forest, and go for a wildlife safari for your most impressive West Bengal experience.

• Sundarbans Tiger Reserve Tourism And Travel Guide

An official city all on its own, Howrah is obviously known for the Howrah Bridge on the river Hooghly. Located on the western bank of the river, Howrah is known for its olden aura despite being a twin city to Kolkata . This vintage appeal is a very distinguishing quality that separates it from the rest of the Paschimbanga cities.

A coastal town in West Bengal, Digha is the refreshing getaway any state needs. With its stunning beaches and a chill out vibe, the resort town attracts visitors from far and wide, especially in hot summer months. Some of its highlight tourist places include the Old Digha Sea Beach by the Bay of Bengal, New Digha Sea Beach, Chandaneswar Shiv Temple and the Amarabati Park. Also, do visit the Marine Aquarium and Regional Centre (MARC) that houses some sea snakes, rays and even sharks.

Kalimpong is a quiet hill town, with its Himalayan foothill-type of climate and the British era houses, roads and churches. A definite summer destination to escape the heat of plains, Kalimpong fascinates travellers with its mix of sights; from the Teesta River to the Durpin Monastery, MacFarlane Memorial Church to the lush and beautiful Deolo Park. There are bazars here as well as fruits orchards, nurseries with blooms in every season and quaint hillocks to picnic. It is an all-round hill station spot.

Cooch Behar

Cooch Behar draws its massive popularity from its royal family, and the fact that it is the hometown of Gayathri Devi, the most beautiful princess India has ever known, who married into the royal family of Sawai Madhopur. Cooch Behar is a mix of traditional Bengali lifestyle and royal remnants, from palaces to summer houses, temples to royal courts. Visit Rajbari, which is the royal palace of the Kings of Cooch Behar, surrounded by royal buildings. There are also a few temples of devi and Madan Mohan (Krishna) for you to explore.

A district in West Bengal, Jalpaiguri lies on the border of India with Bhutan and Bangladesh. A part of this district went to East Bengal during partition, which later became Bangladesh. Jalpaiguri is famous for its wildlife sanctuaries (Chapramari and Gorumara), forests and elephants, villages that resemble paintings and river-filled valleys. Winter is the best season to visit Jalpaiguri and you can enjoy the tea gardens, forests and safaris here to your heart’s content.

Bagdogra, a hill-station in the Himalayas is located in its fragrant verdant foothills. It is around 11 km from Siliguri and makes for an offbeat location as most tourists prefer the famous Darjeeling . Clouds engulf the peaks here and tea estates sprawl as far as the eye can see. The Teesta River makes its way through the hills of Bagdogra and tourists enjoy a session or two of river rafting on it. Toy train rides and hikes fill other outdoorsy days here as places like Jorpokhri Wildlife Sanctuary and Himalaya World Museum beckon travellers.

Mirik , better known as the valley of the sun, is a town located atop a hill, by a lake. Now isn’t that the description of a fairytale town? Some would say this is exactly that — a fairytale town. With its romantic mountains and meadows, boating on lakes and treks up hills, temples and gardens, Mirik is best visited for a relaxing chill holiday when in West Bengal.

Murshidabad

The erstwhile seat of Bengal’s Nawab, Murshidabad is quaint in its own sweet way. Located on the free-flowing Hooghly’s bank, this town was the capital of erstwhile Bengal Presidency before Calcutta. The sericulture industry here is thriving and hence you get great silks. Sightseeing-wise, there are streams, bird-watching spots, palaces, gardens and much more. Do visit the Hazarduari Palace, Nizamat Imambara and Nasirpur Palace.

Also known as Hooghly-Chinsura, this is a good place to enjoy the enriching experience of Bengal’s history, culture and tradition. The city lies on western side of Hoogly river and tucks around the five river tributaries. While there are cascading waterfalls and lush forests here, there are also colonial buildings that look right out of Victorian England . Do visit the Bandel Church, Tarakeswar, Banabithi Park, Shandeswar Siva temple and Hooghly Mohsin College. Adventure sports like kayaking, canoeing and trekking are famous in monsoon around here.

Jaldapara National Park

If you are excited about Bengal’s wildlife then Jaldapara National Park is the stop for you. Home to some exotic animals like the Royal Bengal tiger, cobras, spotted deer, geckos, wild boars, crested eagle and the elusive one-horned rhinos, this park is nestled in the foothills of Eastern Himalayas. The thick woods, gurgling streams and animals sounds make your safari a memorable one. Elephant safaris are allowed, and are a better experience than car safaris. Except the months between June and September, the national park is open all year round.

Once the hub of Malla kings, Bishnupur today is the trade centre of Bengali artisanship, pottery and terracotta. The temples, monuments and verdant views only add to the charm. Winter vacation to spend some quiet idyllic time here is perfect. Do visit Rasmancha, the oldest building around here. Explore Madanmohan Temple and Jorbangla Temple, take heritage walks down its ancient streets and trek through the beautiful Susania Hillocks. There is much to do and it all encompasses rich history and nature.

Another east-Himalayan hill station, Dooars is actually a flood-plain. With its Savanna grasslands and rivers, Dooars makes for a complete eco-tourism delight. Wildlife sanctuaries home to tigers, cheetals, leopards and one-horned rhinos, coupled with quaint village life, tea gardens and betel nut orchards — Dooars is your perfect eastern holiday. This town is bordered on Bhutan and makes a gateway of sorts. Winter is best to visit, but monsoons are quite fun.

Digha is a beach town, with its sandy shores and temples, sea resorts and untouched sunset spots. Located on the shore of Bay of Bengal, Digha offers you a beach holiday without you having to shell much in terms of heavy money. Its solitude and virgin beaches come to you without the bustle of too many tourists, while family weekends here prove a great reboot to your fast life.

Kurseong is a hill station that is home to white orchids, hence famous for them. Other than these flowers, Kurseong also houses some of the most gorgeous temples and Buddhist gompas along with waterfalls and streams on the side. The weather here is mild almost all through the year, with some days in the monsoon being extra rainy. But even they are beautiful. You are bound to enjoy the hills of Kurseong, populated with white orchids through and through, tea estates fragrant enough to make your skin catch the scent, and churches that look right out of the British colonial era.

Mukutmanipur

Mukutmanipur , literally means the town of crown’s gemstone, and is located in lush forests that sit at the confluence of river Kangsabati and Kumari. The Mukutmanipur dam here is worth visiting, the second largest in the whole of India . The rivers that pass through this dam supply water for irrigation and livelihood to all nearby towns and villages, a feat that is well and truly commendable. Peace and serenity is what people come here for, and peace and serenity is what they get here in spades.

Santiniketan

Santiniketan, the house of peace, is Rabindranath Tagore’s abode, university and hermitage. The beautiful campus, now a town of its own, is located in Birbhum and houses the Visva Bharati University. Established by Tagore’s father, the University here radicalised the Indian education system under the British rule. Nowadays Santiniketan is the hub of art, culture, history and Indian freedom movement memorabilia, all living among the precious bougainvillea-filled walls of the campus.

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

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

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

Table of Contents

The best time to visit West Bengal

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

How to reach West Bengal?

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

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

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

13 best tourist places in West Bengal

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

Source: Pinterest 

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

Source: Pinterest

Darjeeling 

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

  Source: Pinterest 

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Murshidabad

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

Shantiniketan

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

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

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

Is a trip to West Bengal expensive?

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

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