16 Top Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal

west bengal tourist places list

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

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

Sundarbans National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shantiniketan

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dooars Region and Jaldapara National Park

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

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

Pandua and Gaur

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

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

Mandarmani Beach

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

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

Murshidabad

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

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

Barrackpore

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

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

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

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

Along the Hooghly River

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

Royal Rajbari Heritage Homes

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

Handicraft Villages

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Siddheswari ashram Pice Hotel

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!

Streets of Kolkata, India

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.

Dawn bari Kolkata: Bonedi Barir Durgapuja

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.

west bengal tourist places list

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!

Old Pictures of Toy Train

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!

west bengal tourist places list

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!

Rhino mother and calf at Kaziranga

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).

Jungle safari at kaziranga during Sunrise

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!

Basanta Utsav or Dol Utsab celebrated at at Shantiniketan

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.

Birding at Dandeli

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.

Best places to visit in West Bengal

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. 

west bengal tourist places list

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. 

west bengal tourist places list

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!

Bishnupur Travel Blog

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!

west bengal tourist places list

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 preparation of a war... Terracotta temples, Bishnupur.

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!

west bengal tourist places list

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!

west bengal tourist places list

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.

Tiger Royal bengal tiger at Chitwan national park

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.

west bengal tourist places list

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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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

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

Siliguri

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

Darjeeling

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

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

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 Mangrove

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

Digha

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

Dooars

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

Kurseong

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

Bishnupur

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

Bakkhali

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

Raichak

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 Fort

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

Tajpur

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

Kamarpukur

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

Howrah

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

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1. Darjeeling

west bengal tourist places list

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 ...

west bengal tourist places list

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

west bengal tourist places list

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, ...

west bengal tourist places list

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 ...

west bengal tourist places list

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 ...

west bengal tourist places list

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 ...

west bengal tourist places list

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

west bengal tourist places list

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 ...

west bengal tourist places list

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

10. Tingling Viewpoint (Near Mirik)

west bengal tourist places list

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

11. Simana Viewpoint (Near Mirik)

west bengal tourist places list

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

12. Pashupati Market (Near Mirik)

west bengal tourist places list

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

13. Teesta River Rafting - Melli (Near Kalimpong)

west bengal tourist places list

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

14. Lamahatta (Near Kalimpong)

west bengal tourist places list

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

15. Lolegaon (Near Kalimpong)

west bengal tourist places list

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

16. Teesta Valley Tea Estate (Near Darjeeling)

west bengal tourist places list

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

17. Ramitey Viewpoint (Near Pedong)

west bengal tourist places list

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

18. Aritar (Near Pedong)

west bengal tourist places list

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

19. Changey Waterfall (Near Lava)

west bengal tourist places list

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

20. Susunia Hill (Near Bishnupur)

west bengal tourist places list

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

21. Jhilimili (Near Bishnupur)

west bengal tourist places list

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

22. Jayrambati (Near Bishnupur)

west bengal tourist places list

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

23. Hadal-Narayanpur (Near Bishnupur)

west bengal tourist places list

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

24. Tajpur Beach (Near Digha)

west bengal tourist places list

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

25. Mandarmani (Near Digha)

west bengal tourist places list

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

26. Baba Taraknath Temple (Near Hooghly)

west bengal tourist places list

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

27. Singalila National Park (Near Darjeeling)

west bengal tourist places list

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

28. Radha-Govind-Jiu Mandir / Antpur Temple (Near Hooghly)

west bengal tourist places list

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

29. Kamarpukur (Near Hooghly)

west bengal tourist places list

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

30. Sandakphu & Phalut Trek (Near Darjeeling)

west bengal tourist places list

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

31. Senchal Lake & Wildlife Sanctuary (Near Darjeeling)

west bengal tourist places list

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

32. Neora Valley National Park (Near Darjeeling)

west bengal tourist places list

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

33. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary (Near Darjeeling)

west bengal tourist places list

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

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

west bengal tourist places list

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

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

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

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

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

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

west bengal tourist places list

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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States › West Bengal

WEST BENGAL TRAVEL GUIDE

West Bengal offers a colorful variety of experiences to the tourist. Its capital, Kolkata, is as cosmopolitan a city as any. In close proximity lie the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger. Coastal areas like Digha and Mandarmani are popular tourism places in this state which attract their fair share of beach lovers. A different travel experience awaits you in places like Bishnupur, Bankura and Shantiniketan, which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the state. Hill stations like Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Labha are exciting getaways from the plains and are known for their distinct culture and lifestyle. Wildlife sanctuaries like Jaldapara and Gorumara draw your attention to its rich wildlife. In pilgrimage destinations like Dakshineswar and Kalighat, you undergo a profound spiritual experience.

Capital: Kolkata Location: East India

Best Time to Visit West Bengal:

The best time to visit West Bengal is from the months of October to March.

Why Visit West Bengal?

You should plan a trip to West Bengal for its colonial era monuments, temples, hill stations, cuisine, beaches, wildlife, trekking, jungle safari, sightseeing, spirituality, Toy Train, arts & crafts, heritage and culture.

Temperature

30°c to 43°c.

Summer March to May

28°C to 38°C

Monsoon June to October

10°C to 19°C

Winter November to February

west bengal tourist places list

Popular Tourist Destinations in West Bengal

west bengal tourist places list

Sunderban National Park

west bengal tourist places list

An Insight into West Bengal Tourism

West Bengal is an enormous state, and the experience offered by it are in proportion to its size. It is dotted with heritage destinations and offers its fair share of adventure tourism. While Kolkata, its capital city, is rich in culture and boasts monuments dating back to the colonial era, there are other places which you must see if you want to enjoy the different colours of this state. You come across cities which are cultural hotspots and once served as capital of different kings and dynasties. Watching a Baul performance is as intoxicating as gorging on the sweetmeats that it is famous for.

In the northern part of the state, Duars with its tea gardens and wide open plains, appears like a well written poetry by nature. In Darjeeling, you find out the reasons behind its being called the “queen of the hills”, and as you go further up, a world symbolizing purity opens itself before your eyes. Arts and crafts, dance, music and theatre are pursed with a passion, as you find out after staying a while here. A family vacation is as appealing as a honeymoon gateway, as there are enough places catering to both. What is certain is, visiting West Bengal endows you with a rich travel experience.

Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, is a cultural potpourri, dotted with museums, art galleries, temples and colonial era buildings. One of the most famous of the latter is the Victoria Memorial. Recognisable from a distance by its Angel of Victory which sits atop the structure and blows with the wind, it consists of 25 galleries housing a remarkable collection of paintings, artefacts, textiles, coins and possessions belonging to the Queen. Other structures reminding you of the British presence are Bow Barracks, Calcutta High Court and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Those possessing an interest in science should head towards Birla Industrial & Technological Museum, and Science City. A day of fun and entertainment is best spent at Nicco Park and Aquatica, where the water rides, swings, rain disco and other attractions make your day. Visit the Academy of Fine Arts to enjoy a theatre performance or admire paintings displayed by famous painters.

There are coastal areas in West Bengal which are blessed with gorgeous beaches, and make for a great family outing. The most popular of these is Digha. This beach extends upto 7 km and its beauty is enhanced by the presence of casuarina plantations along the bay. Tajpur is another wonderful beach located in the Purba Medinipur district of South Bengal, just 16 km before Bigha. You can spot seagulls as well as red crabs, besides enjoying the spectacular views greeting your eyes.

Mandarmani, located in the East Midnapore district, is another beach popular for its 13 km long motorable beach road. Other famous beaches are Junput, Shankarpur and New Digha. Arrive at some of these beaches in the early morning, and you will see fishermen setting off for an early morning catch. You can also buy some freshly caught fish from the stalls set up by the fishermen if you choose to. A variety of water sports activities are also available at Digha, with two of them being parasailing and water zorbing.

An exciting travel experience awaits visitors at the several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in West Bengal. All of these are located in the region known as Duars. It is also called Doors because it serves as the gateway to Bhutan from India. Its economy is mainly dependent on tea and wildlife sanctuaries. The most famous of these is Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary which is home to the one-horned rhinoceros. It also boasts the highest rhino population in India after Kaziranga National Park in Assam. A special attraction here is the Bengal Florican, which is one of the least sighted birds in India. The topography of the park is characterized by grasslands, river banks, tall grasses covering extensive areas and streams which flow throughout the year.

Gorumara National Park is also famous for its rich collection of fauna and flora. Situated about 80 km from Jaldapara, it is famous for Asian elephants, peacocks and bisons. Wildlife in the park can be observed from the numerous watchtowers located inside the park. Some of these are Jatraprasad Watch Tower, Rhino Observation Point and Chandrachur Watch Tower. Other famous wildlife areas are Chilapata forest and Khairbari.

The sightseeing tourist attractions in West Bengal also include its wonderful hill stations. The most famous of these is Darjeeling, also known as the Queen of Hill Stations. Just being in this place is a treat in itself, what with its incredible scenery and pleasing weather.

Overlooked by eastern Himalayan ranges, it offers breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Taking a toy train ride (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) as it gracefully makes its way through sharp bends and turns, is the way to ultimate bliss, as is watching the sunrise from Tiger Hill. You can enjoy a stroll in The Mall area or visit other tourist attractions like Shanti Stupa, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda, Bhutia Busty Monastery and the Darjeeling Himalayan Zoo, where you can spot the playful Red Panda. The perfect way to start a day is a breakfast at Keventers.

After Darjeeling, make your way to Kalimpong, a quiet little town situated at an altitude of almost 1200m. The natural scenery of this place along with the dominant Tibetan Buddhist culture makes it a fascination for tourists. The famous attractions here are Kalimpong Arts & Crafts Center, Tharpa Choling Monastery, Thongsa Monastery, Durpin Dhanda and Mangal Dham. At Durpin Dhanda, you can view several mountain ranges of Sikkim along with the confluence of several rivers like Relli, Riang and Teesta. At Kalimpong, you can also enjoy white water rafting along the Teesta and Rangit rivers. If you love photography, make your way to the Army Golf Club.  Lolegaon, a small village in Kalimpong, is a must see tourist spot famous for a heritage forest and observation point called Jhandi Dara.

About 3 hours away from Darjeeling is Mirik, a place where you can enjoy a picnic, go boating, horse riding and explore the tea plantations. Sandakphu deserves a special mention, as it is the highest peak of West Bengal. Located at a height of 3,636 m above sea level, it is the place to come to if adventure tourism is what you are after. Trekking is the rage here, and it’s only when you reach the summit you realize what the hoopla is all about. From there, you are treated to unbelievable views of the Himalayan range. It is also famous for being the only place in the world home to rhododendron and silver fir forests. Trekking to Sandakphu starts from Manebhanjan, and covers a distance of almost 12 km. Other famous places in this region are Chitrey, Phalut, Tumling and Tonglu.

West Bengal also offers a spiritual experience as it is home to several pilgrimage destinations. One amongst them is Gangasagar. It is visited by thousands of pilgrims and visitors, as it is believed that taking a dip here cleanses one of all sins. Belur Math is also a famous place for seekers of spiritualism, and is mostly associated with Swami Vivekananda and Ramakrishna Paramhansa. It is the headquarters of Ramakrishna Math and Ramakrishna Mission. Among other things, you can see the room where Swamiji lived and worked. Dakshineswar and Kalighat are also famous pilgrimage destinations.

There are several churches which you can visit in this state, and many of them are famous for their history and heritage value. The most famous of these is St. Paul’s Cathedral in Kolkata, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. St. James Church in Kolkata is another famous church whose main attraction is the black mahogany wood work adorning the ceiling. Jewish synagogues are also a part of the pilgrimage destinations in West Bengal, with some of the oldest ones in the state being Maghen David Synagogue, Neveh Shalome and Magen Aboth.

West Bengal is as much a historical destination as a cultural one, and there are several cities where you can observe its fascinating past. The various structures dotting these towns and cities trace their origins to the medieval and colonial era. One of these is Murshidabad, a city famous for its silk and its opulence. There are several places of historical interest like Hazarduari Palace, Nasipur Palace, Nizamat Imambara, Jahankosha Cannon and Khosh Bagh.

Bishnupur is a place not to be missed if you are an art lover. It is famous for its terracotta work, many of which depict scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The places of tourist interest here are Jorebangla Temple, Madan Mohan Temple and Dalmadal Cannon, which was built by the Malla kings to fight various invasions. If you wish to explore historical places, then Malda is the right place. It boasts a rich history and heritage, with the two most famous places being Gaur and Pandua. Historical monuments in Gaur include Bara Sona Mosque, Dakhil Darwaza, Gomit Gate and Firoz Minar. Your cultural tour in West Bengal is incomplete without visiting Cooch Behar in North Bengal. The most famous attraction is the Cooch Behar Palace, Madan Mohan Bari, Kamteswari Temple, Baneshwar Shiva Temple and Madhupur Dham Temple.

Popular Tour Packages for West Bengal

Plan a trip with our amazing West Bengal tour packages and have a memorable travel experience with your family and friends. Check out our holiday packages which come with the best deals and offers and offer you the best of sightseeing and exploration. Our package tours also come with unbeatable prices.

west bengal tourist places list

Heritage Kolkata with Serene Gangasagar

04 NIGHTS/05 DAYS

west bengal tourist places list

Royal Sunderban With Exotic Kolkata

03 NIGHTS/04 DAYS

west bengal tourist places list

Darjeeling - The Queen of Hills

west bengal tourist places list

Best of West Bengal and Sikkim Tour

12 NIGHTS/13 DAYS

west bengal tourist places list

Popular Tourist Attractions in West Bengal

You can visit the colonial era monuments in Kolkata, or enjoy a day of fun at Nicco Park and Science City. In close proximity to it are cities which are dotted with religious and cultural structures, each of which reflect their glorious past. There are many wildlife sanctuaries in the state where you can enjoy a jungle safari. A cultural tour to the state lets you visit the various pilgrimage destinations. You can visit the colonial era structures, go trekking and enjoy the panoramic views in its gorgeous hill stations.

west bengal tourist places list

Kalighat Kali Temple

west bengal tourist places list

Sunderban Safari

west bengal tourist places list

Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Top hotels in west bengal.

West Bengal boasts every kind of accommodation based on your preferences and catering to your tastes. There are several five and four star hotels in the best along with other luxury hotels. If you prefer, you can also go for budget hotels which offer excellent services and hospitality. The state also boasts four heritage hotels, each of which are built in colonial era style architecture.

west bengal tourist places list

The Oberoi Grand Hotel, Kolkata

west bengal tourist places list

Hotel Taj Bengal, Kolkata

west bengal tourist places list

The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata

west bengal tourist places list

The Park Kolkata

Top things to do on your holiday to west bengal.

There are many things to make your holiday to West Bengal exciting and unforgettable. Explore the city of Kolkata with its colonial structures or experience its cultural side in places like Bishnupur, Murshidabad and Shantiniketan. Enjoy a safari in the wildlife sanctuaries like Gorumara or enjoy the spellbinding beauty along with trekking and other adventurous activities in its hill stations. Seek blessings at its pilgrimage destinations and enjoy a day out on the beaches in its coastal areas.

adventure

Arts & Crafts

beaches

Hill Stations

folk-music-dance

Folk Music Dance

west bengal tourist places list

Pilgrimages

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West Bengal Travel Information

This West Bengal travel guide contains every kind of information you need for an enjoyable holiday. Inside it, you will find various kind of travel related information like the best time to visit, popular tourist attractions, things to do, best accommodation facilities and why you should visit it. It also contains additional information on the places which are a must visit during your vacation.

  • About West Bengal
  • Top Things to Do
  • Top Tourist Places
  • How to Reach West Bengal
  • Best Time to Visit
  • Summer Weather
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  • Winter Weather
  • West Bengal Travel by Road
  • West Bengal Travel by Train
  • West Bengal Travel by Air
  • Holiday Packages
  • Culture & People
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Places to Visit in West Bengal

  • West Bengal
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Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal

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

Amazing journey toward Darjeeling

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

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

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Best of Bihar

 Places to Visit in Bihar, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

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

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

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Best of Darjeeling

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

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

Kolkata

Best of Kolkata

 Places to Visit in Kolkata, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

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

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

Assam

Best of Assam

 Places to Visit in Assam, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

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

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

Orissa

Best of Orissa

 Places to Visit in Orissa, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

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

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

Sundarban

Best of Sundarban

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

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

Jharkhand

Best of Jharkhand

 Places to Visit in Jharkhand, Tourist Places & Attractions

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

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

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Shantiniketan

Murshidabad.

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

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west bengal tourist places list

Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal

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Tourist places in West Bengal

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

west bengal tourist places list

43 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

44. Rishyap

44 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

45. Sandakphu Trek

45 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

46. Buxa Tiger Reserve

46 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

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Darjeeling and Pelling Tour Package - Tiger Hill

7-day adventure in darjeeling, kalimpong, and dooars, dooars & kalimpong tour package with jungle safari, sikkim holiday package - 5 nights 6 days, sikkim bhutan bike trip - an adventurous journey through the himalayas, darjeeling kalimpong tour package, 47. surulia.

47 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

48. Buxa Duar Trek

48 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

49 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

50. Jayrambati

50 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

51. Tinchuley

51 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

52. Sonajhuri Forest

52 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

53. Barrackpore

53 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

54. Jhargram

54 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

55. Baabur Haat

55 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

56. Kamarpukur

56 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

57 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

58. Bakreswar

58 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

59. Machranga Dwip

59 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

60 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

61 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

62 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

63. Chinsurah

63 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

64. Piyali Island

64 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

65. Samsing

65 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

66. Rishikhola

66 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

67. Ramdhura

67 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

68. Kakdwip

68 out of 68 Places to visit in West Bengal

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

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What is not so good about west bengal, how much does a package cost for west bengal, what are the top places to visit in west bengal, who should visit west bengal, what is the best time to visit west bengal, what is the local food in west bengal, related posts.

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Top 15 Historical Places to Visit in West Bengal

Historical Places to Visit in West Bengal

by Indiator

February 16, 2018, in tour and travels india , wildlife & nature, no comments.

Eastern India is rich in culture & diversity, the state of West Bengali should definitely be your list when planning a trip to East India. You will be enthralled to see the places, stretching from the great Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal. West Bengal has a great cultural heritage, including folk traditions & literature.

Here are 15 historical places that you must visit, when in West Bengal:

1. Kolkata:

Kolkata is the famous city in West Bengal and is one of the finest places that should be visited. It is also known as the cultural capital of India and is famous for giving birth to many poets, writes & film producers.

The city has remnants of Victorian style architecture & modern amusement houses. It has many places that can be explored that includes the Indian Museum, Eden Gardens, Aurobindo Ashram, Birla Planetarium, Marble Palace, Howrah Bridge, Nicco Park and much more.

2. Bishnupur:

Bishnupur has great historical significance and is famous for Terracotta Temples & Balucheri Saree industry. Other temples like Shyam Ray Temple, Jor Bangla & Rasmancha are also picturesque temples. You can enjoy the Bengali food served in the eateries near the temples.

3. Mandarmani:

It is the drivable beach in India and gives you a break from routine life. One can watch the sunrise on the Mandarmani beach and indulge in water sports such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, ATV bikes & bungee trampoline.

4. Sunderbans National Park

Sunderbans , the largest delta in Kolkata boasts of mangrove forests & snakes, crocodiles & Royal Bengal Tiger. Also recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Site, Sunderbans National Park is famous for its orange black striped Royal Bengal Tigers.

You will crocodiles farms, turtle farms, wildlife museums in the park. Sundarbans has a network of channels & mangroves, you will get to cruise along the rivers & island amidst the forest.

5. Darjeeling:

Darjeeling offers stunning views of the Himalayas with snow-capped mountains & greenery. You will find tea plantations & different species of birds. The major attractions in Darjeeling include Batasia Loop, Everest Museum, Neora National Park, Tiger Park, Champramari wildlife sanctuary & Peace Pagoda.

6. Bankura:

Bangura is famous for its rich history, Bankura attracts a lot of tourists. There are tourist attractions such as Susunia Hills, Garh Darwaja, Ganesh and Nandi statues, Rasmancha, Mukutmonipur dam and others.

7. Siliguri:

Famous for its tea gardens & spectacular Himalayan view, Siliguri is a small hill station with thick forest cover. Tourist attractions here include Chilapta Forest, Isckon Temple, Fulbari barrage, Surya Sen Park, Sevoke, Kanchenjunga Stadium, Jaldapara Wildlife sanctuary.

8. Hooghly:

A pilgrim spot in West Bengal, Hooghly gives a glimpse of European style. It is recognized as the place where Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa & Sarada Devi.

Top tourist destinations are Chandannagar Museum, Serampore, Bhadreswar, Tarakeshwar Temple, Imambara, Hangseshwari Temple, Deer Park, Sri Ramakrishna Math & Garh Mandarin.

9. Kalimpong:

A beautiful hill station in the lower Himalayas, Kalimpong has Teesta river on the sides. It offers great views, clean air & a serene atmosphere. You will find a variety of orchids & handicrafts here in the market.

10. Jalpaiguri:

Easily accessible from Sikkim & Darjeeling, it’s a heavenly place. There are many places to visit, including Dooars, National Park, Buxa Tiger Reserve, Mendabari Fort, The Baptist Church & Panjhora River.

Located at the meeting point of river Mahananda & Kalindi, Malda has great historical significance. There are a lot of places that need to be visited in Malda, some are Bara Sona Mosque, Dakhil Darwaza, Lattan Mosque, Adina Mosque, Firoz Minar Tomb, Maa Johura Temple, Baisgazi Wall, Eklakhi Mausoleum & Malda Museum.

12. Kurseong:

The hill station is less discovered and is 30 km from Darjeeling. The place is magnificent and is magical that attracts a lot of tourists.

Top tourist attractions are Makaibari Tea Estate, Eagle’s Crag, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum, Tea Estate, Gidhapahar Mandir Temple, Deer Park, Shiva Mandir Temple, Bhangzang Salamander Lake, Sitong & Kettle Valley.

13. Barrackpore:

Famous for its natural beauty & ancient history, it is recognized as the origin place of the Sepoy Mutiny. The places that can be visited are Mangal Pandey Park, Gandhi Museum, Jawahar Kunj Garden, Gandhi Ghat, Bartholomew Cathedral, Kali Temple, Indira Gandhi Water Treatment Plant & Tarkeswar Temple.

14. Cooch Behar:

Famous for its Mughal influenced monuments, Cooch Behar has the remnant of royal heritage. It houses the beautiful Cooch Behar Palace, designed in Classical Western / Italian Renaissance. Architectural style. Other attractions include Madan Mohan Bari, Bangar Ayee Temple & Chilapara forest.

15. Birbhum:

Famous for Shantiniketan, the abode of poet Rabindranath Tagore & red soil houses, Birbhum holds great historical importance. Also, you can visit Hetampur, Dubrajpur, Fullara & Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary.

santinikatan

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Tusk Travel Blog

10 Most Beautiful Places To Visit in West Bengal

Tusk Travel Team

  • Updated on November 28, 2023
  • Places to Visit , West Bengal

Kalimpong

West Bengal is a state that has everything in it. You will find busy metropolitans, historical towns, wavy beach towns, or jungles at one go. To get mesmerized by the stunning places in West Bengal, you have to have time on your hand.

The state will open its bits and parts slowly to amaze you and your trip is going to be happening. These are some of the best places we have discussed below that you should visit when you are in West Bengal. Read on to know more-

In This Article:

Check Out These 10 Incredible Places To Visit In West Bengal:

Kolkata, West Bengal

To begin the list of the best places to visit in West Bengal, we didn’t find anything better than the capital city. ‘The City of Joy’ can wipe off all your boringness of life and can fill it with life and vibrancy. If you have never been to Kolkata before, you won’t understand how the city is different than any other metropolitan of the country. A 350-year-old city will give you the perfect vibe of historical tours along with modern and young nightlife.

You can taste authentic Bengali foods at the 5-star restaurants while the street food junctions will take much of your time. From being your shopping destination to getting engulfed in the nostalgic waves, Kolkata can be your best friend and compel you to never say goodbye to it. Want to enjoy the different sides of this city? Visit it at any season and it will appear new to you.

2. Darjeeling

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Siliguri, West Bengal

Let’s head north to witness the snowy Kanchenjunga with all its beauty. Yes, we are talking about the famous hill station of West Bengal, Darjeeling. When people of this state get agitated with the scorching sun and hot and humid summer, the first destination they can think of is Darjeeling. This hill station still has colonial charm while the natural beauty is mind-blowing.

The lush green tea garden, the colorful rhododendrons, and the cloudy pine forest can create the perfect ambiance for tourists. Once you are here, you should not miss riding on the toy train, the glory of Darjeeling. You can visit plenty of waterfalls, astounding view of the Himalayas, Buddhist monasteries, museums, and many other places. The captivating natural beauty and the Tibetan food give you a perfect vacation.

  • 4 Days Darjeeling Tour Package
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  • 2 Nights 3 Days Sundarban Tour

Radha Govinda Temple Bishnupur, Bankura, West Bengal

Each district of West Bengal has its own charm. Located on the west side of West Bengal, Bankura is a perfect destination for history buffs and artistic minds. First of all, you can make your trip adventurous as Bankura has hills to trek and hike. Trek to Susunia Hills and Biharinath Hills from where you can enjoy a great view of the area. These hills are full of rough terrain and cliffs that will make your trip more adventurous.

Arrange a trip near Mukutmonipur Dam and have a great picnic there. The Terracotta temples of Bankura are not only historical documents to tourists, but they are the epitome of the astounding architecture of Bengal. Visit the Rasmancha, Krishna-Balaram Temple, or Gokul Chand Temple and you will be astonished by seeing the intricate work of architecture.

4. Kalimpong

Kalimpong, West Bengal

Kalimpong is another hill station in West Bengal which has not lost its glory under the glamour of Darjeeling. Not only in West Bengal, but this place is one of the most beautiful hill stations in north-eastern India . With mighty hills, lush green vegetation, thick bamboo groves, long meadows, beautiful hamlets, and green pastures, Kalimpong will make you fall in love with it instantly.

Once you are here, you should visit the 18 th Century Dharmodaya Vihar Nepalese Temple, the heritage landmark of this place. Also, visit the highest points of Kalimpong, the Deolo Hills, and the 8-acre garden where you can visit the huge Buddha idol, and enjoy local foods, and pony rides. You can also visit other local attractions, like Galingka, Morgan House, Dr. Graham’s House, etc.

5. Siliguri

Siliguri, West Bengal

The North Bengal has its own charm and it won’t let you go that easily. Known as the ‘Gateway to North-east India’, Siliguri is one of the most beautiful hilly towns with lots of beauty. The city is serene and famous for tea, music scenes in movies, timber, and wildlife. You should not miss visiting the Jaldapara National Park, located on the banks of the Torsa River.

If you are lucky, you can get to see the giant elephants, one-horned rhinoceros, several species of deer, and obviously, the Royal Bengal Tiger. Another wildlife park you can visit in Siliguri is the North Bengal Wild Animals Park. It is part of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and stretched more than 300 hectares. This place is exclusive for the unique flora and fauna you can visit here.

  • North East India Package for 10 Days
  • 12 Nights 13 Days North East Tour
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6. Sunderbans

Sunderbans National Park, West Bengal

You are in West Bengal and how can you miss the dwelling ground of the most ferocious and royal animal of India, the Royal Bengal Tiger? Yes, to visit the ‘royalty’ you need to head south and visit Sunderbans. Apart from the tiger, this place is also on the map of the world for housing the largest mangrove forest in the world.

Spread around 102 islands, this place has its extended part in the neighboring country, Bangladesh. You need to hire a boat and can explore the canals and rivers here. Apart from tigers, you can visit various species of birds, deer, monkeys, and crocodiles. Read Also: How to Reach Sundarban from Kolkata .

7. Shantiniketan

Shantiniketan, West Bengal

You are in West Bengal and leaving the state without visiting Shantiniketan will be a great mistake. Entangled with the memories of Rabindranath Tagore, this place is still encouraging the culture and heritage that the world-famous poet had incorporated here.

Visit Viswa Bharati and you can feel the charm of Tagore throughout. Shantiniketan, the abode of peace as it says, is the place where you can find the peacefulness of mind along with the wilderness of the Santhal tribes in their music, dance, and food.

To grab a completely different experience away from the hustle-bustle of the city, you can arrange a trip for a day or two to Shantiniketan. To get the festivity of this place, you can visit it here during Holi when the Basanta Utsav is celebrated in March or in December when the ‘Poush Mela’ (a large fair) is organized.

  • Shantiniketan

Digha, West Bengal

This is one of the most popular beach towns in West Bengal that you must visit. You don’t need to plan much, need a long holiday, or anything. Just look for a weekend, hire a car, and set on a journey. The magical beaches, the amazing museums, and the religious temples wait for you to visit Digha whenever you want.

Play with the waves of the Bay of Bengal in New Digha or sit on the boulders of Old Digha, this entire beach town is charming and wonderful. There are exotic beaches, like Talsari Beach, Udaipur Beach, Shankarpur Beach, etc. are wonderful destinations in Digha.

9. Mandarmani

Mandarmani, West Bengal

If you want to avoid the crowd of tourists in Digha, Mandarmani is another seaside village that will enchant you. Located on the northern end of the Bay of Bengal, this place is free from crowds and also you will find solitude to spend your time here.

Relax on the seashore, swim in the water, or walk along the shoreline alone or with your partner, it is only the music of the waves and the calls of the seagulls that will charm your ears. Take a break from your busy schedule of weekdays and have a nice weekend trip at Mandarmani.

10. Murshidabad

Nizamat Imambara Murshidabad

Murshidabad once the capital of West Bengal was transferred to Kolkata by the British rulers. But, this place still has the essence of the nawabs of the Bengals in its buildings, mosques, museums, etc.

Throbbing with the memories of Nawab Siraj-Ud-Doula, Murshidabad will welcome you with historical essence. When you are here, visit Hajar Duari Palace, Nasipur Palace, Wasef Manzil, Katra Mosque, Jahankosha Canon, Imambara, and many other attractions.

11. Navadvipa

Navadvipa, West Bengal

If you are a devotee of Lord Krishna, this pilgrimage is for you. If not, it is the stunning beauty of the village in West Bengal that will keep you attached to this place. Located on the western bank of River Hooghly, this place is pious because it is the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in the 10 th Century. The historical significance of this place is very high while it has also religious importance in the state.

So, these are the top 10 places in West Bengal that you can visit on your next trip. The state has gems in its sleeves that can’t be explored in one go. So, make your itinerary carefully and cover as much as you can.

Also, check more details on West Bengal:

  • West Bengal Top 11 Destinations to Visit in Monsoon
  • 17 Most Famous Honeymoon Places in West Bengal
  • West Bengal 9 Popular Historical Destinations
  • 5 Most Beautiful Lakes in West Bengal
  • West Bengal 6 Famous Hill Stations to Visit

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel is dedicated to delivering precise, genuine, and reliable travel guides through a dynamic team of writers, editors, and destination experts. We aim to provide comprehensive information in its simplest form, sharing insights to influence perspectives nationwide.

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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 tourist places list

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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

  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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

  • 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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

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.

Best tourist places of West Bengal

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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  • 9 Ideal Places To Visit In West Bengal In June Which Will Complete Your Bucket List For 2024!

23 Mar 2023

Situated in eastern India, West Bengal is a cultural cauldron that is the perfect combination of the arts, culture, history and nature. A land offering rich diversity, the state is a home to distinct civilizations and of a strong historical significance as well. Thanks to the geographical locations that stretch from the Himalayas to Bay of Bengal, the eastern state offers spectacular landscapes that captivate the soul. The state has a lot of interesting places for tourists to explore in June and visiting Bengal is an interesting way to enjoy a fun filled adventure holiday. Let us explore a number of places to visit in West Bengal in June.

9 Best Places To Visit In Meghalaya In June

Here is a list of the best places to visit in Meghalaya in June which one must definitely visit to enjoy a vacation amidst the nature and wildlife.  

1. Sunderbans 2. Darjeeling 3. Kolkata 4. Mandarmani 5. Shantiniketan 6. Kalimpong 7. Taki 8. Dooars 9. Bishnupur

1. Sunderbans

Sunderbans National Park

Image Source The Sundarbans is one of the most popular national parks in India. The magnificent mangrove jungle is the largest in the world and also the only one comprise tigers. Spread over a sprawling 102 islands, the land extends into the neighbouring Bangladesh. The Sundarbans is accessible by boat and exploring it is a unique experience which should not be missed anyhow. Refrain from the hope of viewing tigers as they are quite shy and usually remain hidden in the reserve.

Location: 100 Kms southeast of Kolkata Things to do: Visit Sundarban National Park, sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary, go on a cruise Trip Duration: 2 nights 3 days

Best Time To Visit: Sep-Mar

Suggested Read: 43 Outstanding Tourist Places To Visit In West Bengal

2. Darjeeling

Darjeeling Tea Estates

Image Source A popular British habitat of the past, Darjeeling is a famous hill station of the eastern India. Standing tall amongst the top 10 hill stations, Darjeeling is indeed a must visit destination. The town is blessed with the most stunning view of Mount Kanchenjunga and offers the most interesting monasteries, handicrafts, local markets, and local food. Toy train is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Darjeeling and offers a distinctive culture as compared to any other tourist places in West Bengal.

Location: About 600Kms north of Kolkata, at the base of Eastern Himalayas Things to do: Visit Ghoom Monastery, Tiger Hill, Peace Pagoda, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Japanese Temple, ride toy train, eat local Tibetan cuisine Trip Duration: 3 nights 4 days

Best Time To Visit: Feb-Mar, Sep-Dec

Suggested Read: 7 Amazing Places To Visit In Summer In West Bengal That No Traveler Would Want To Miss

Beautiful Kolkata

Image Source The capital of West Bengal, Kolkata is also the largest metropolitan city in India. This city was the former capital of India and is inhabited for a period of more than two thousand years. Evident from the rich cultural background and diverse ethnicity, the city offers a number of popular attractions in the state. Some of the popular destinations include Howrah Bridge, park street, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kalighat Kali Temple, Science City, Victoria Memorial, Indian Museum and many others.

Location: Along the Hooghly river bank Things to do: Visit Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, ride on the popular local cab , boat ride in Princep Ghat, Dakshineswar Kali Temple Trip Duration: 3 nights 4 days

Best Time To Visit:  Oct-Mar

Suggested Read: Top 9 Hill Stations Near Siliguri To Spend A Relaxing Time In West Bengal

4. Mandarmani

Mandarmani Beach in West Bengal

Image Source Popular as the longest drivable beach in India, Mandarmani is one of the popular weekend beach destinations in West Bengal. Located at a distance of 14Kms s from Chaulkhola in East Midnapore District, the beach destination is the fastest growing tourist spot in West Bengal.

The place is also called Mandarboni locally is a village that offers a tranquil atmosphere and pristine clear blue waves. For those of you who prefer solitude and peaceful retreat, this destination is the perfect place to experience a peaceful retreat. The place also offers a number of water sports including bungee trampoline, ATV bikes, banana boat rides, skiing and so on.

Location: East Midnapore district Things to do: stroll around Mandarmani Beach, visit Mohona, indulge in water activities such as skiing, banana boat ride, and others Trip Duration: 2 nights 3 days

Suggested Read: Singalila National Park: Home To The Red Pandas And West Bengal’s Highest Peak!

5. Shantiniketan

Shantiniketan in West Bengal

Image Source A small town situated near Bolpur in the Birbhum district, Shantiniketan is popularly known for being the Treasure Trove of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Offering a peaceful and quaint atmosphere, the small town is adorned for its splendid sculpture, murals, frescos, paintings, literature and rich history.

The Shantiniketan campus is located here and is popular for the Baul singers and famous festivals and fairs such as Joydev Mela, Poush Mela, Basanta Utsav and so on. The destination is also regarded as a popular centre for traditional handicrafts including pottery, weaving, batik and embroidery. Wandering Baul singers are also a popular feature similar to the handicrafts.

Location: About 160 Kms North West of Kolkata Things to do: Visit Chhatim Tala, Uttarayana, Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary, Biswa Bharati campus, explore Basanta Utsav during Holi Trip Duration: 2 nights 3 days

Best Time To Visit: Mid Aug-Mar

Suggested Read: Jigme Dorji National Park: The Abode Of Snow Leopards And Bengal Tigers

6. Kalimpong

Kalimpong View

Image Source Kalimpong is a less-touristy alternative located under three hours drive from Darjeeling. The town is located on a ridge and overlooks the Teesta River and separates it from Sikkim. It was initially ruled by the Sikkimese until the early 1700s and was taken over by the King of Bhutan. It is also a popular summer destination among the locals and Indians all over the country. Some of the popular attractions include adventure activities, Buddhist monasteries, trekking and nature walks. A plenty of villages and hills are located in the vicinity for one to explore.

Location: At the Himalayan foothills Things to do: Visit Delo Park, Phodong Monastery, Mangal Dham Pranami Temple Trip Duration: 3 nights 4 days

Best Time To Visit:  Mar-Jun, Sep-Dec

Suggested Read: Top 5 Wildlife Sanctuaries In West Bengal That Are Home To Some Of The Most Exotic Species!

Taki Railway Station

Image Source A sere place to beat the bustling crowd of the city, Taki is a beautiful place on the banks of Ichamati River in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. A municipality under Basirhat subdivision, the place offers a unique mid-river experience of meeting countrymen of Bangladesh on the river. This is a popular attraction among the tourists who wish to explore the experience on wooden boats to avail a closer view of the other side. Visitors can take a boat ride to Machranga Island. Some of the eminent places include ruins of zamindar houses, General Shankar Roy Chowdhury’s Adi Bari, Golpatar jungle and others.

Location: Basirhat division Things to do: Visit Machranga island, General Shankar Roy Chowdhury’s Adi Bari, Ramkrishna Missions, Kuleshwari Kali Temple, Golpatar Jungle and others, indulge in the sweetness of local jiggery Trip Duration: 2 nights 3 days

Suggested Read: 7 Best Homestays In Siliguri For A Blissful Staycation In West Bengal

Dooars in West Bengal

Image Source Considered as the gateway to the hill stations of Darjeeling, the word is derived from ‘doors’ meaning gateway. A virgin hill station in West Bengal is highly popular for the panoramic valley view. The place is greatly visited for its churches, Tibetan handicrafts and churches. Popular for the rich forests and biodiversity, some of the prominent places in the area include Gorumara National Park, Buxa Tiger Reserve, Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary and others.

Location: Darjeeling district Things to do: Visit Jaldapara National Park, book a resort amidst the jungle, ride on elephant safari Trip Duration: 3 nights 4 days

Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year

Suggested Read: Sariska National Park: The Lush Abode Of Royal Bengal Tigers

9. Bishnupur

Bishnupur in West Bengal

Image Source Renowned for being the birthplace of terracotta, Bishnupur is remarkable for the terracotta temples and terracotta potteries are the popular attractions. The temples were essentially built during the 17th and 18th centuries by Malla dynasty rulers. The revival of Hinduism witnessed the construction of temple architecture. Blended in a Bengali style curved roof offering Islamic arches and domes along with the Odia-style duel, Bishnupur offers a number of spectacular terracotta temples in the district.

Location: About 40Kms northwest of Kolkata Things to do: Visit Jor Bangla temple, Madan Mohan temple, Lalji Temple, Rasmancha Hindu temple Trip Duration: 2 nights 3 days

Best Time To Visit: Oct-Mar

Further Read: Tadoba Andhari National Park: A Detailed Guide To The Home Of The Royal Bengal Tigers

West Bengal, the land of culture and diversity hence is a must visit land by one and all. Book your holiday to experience the best of the views at these places to visit in West Bengal in June. Apart from the ones mentioned above, there are many other places that are a must to explore. So if you have plans to visit West Bengal anytime in the month of June, make sure to explore these places and have a great time in this state.

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In West Bengal In June

What is the best time to visit West Bengal?

The best time to visit West Bengal is during the winter months, that comprises the months of December to February. This is when the weather of West Bengal is pleasant and offers a great time for everybody to explore.

What are the prominent tourist places in West Bengal?

Some of the most popular tourist places in West Bengal include Darjeeling, Kurseong, Shantiniketan, Digha, Mandarmani, Kolkata, Sunderbans and many others.

How can I reach Darjeeling?

You can reach Darjeeling by air, train or by road. The closest airport is Bagdogra International airport, and New Jalpaiguri Railway Station being the closest railway station to Darjeeling. Alternatively, you can also reach by road with your private vehicle or a shuttle car.

How far is Digha from Kolkata?

Digha, a popular beach destination is West Bengal is located at a distance of 183.0Kms from Kolkata and can be accessed with the help of car or bus. Alternatively, a train route has also been incorporated for easier access.

Which is the best hill station in West Bengal?

The best hill station in West Bengal is Darjeeling and has been a tourist favourite since forever.

What is the popular local food in West Bengal?

Some of the most popular local foods in West Bengal include fish curry and rice, poppy seeds with potato (‘alu posto’), puffed rice (‘muri’), and a few more.

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  1. 16 Top Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal

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  2. 15 Best Tourist Places In West Bengal To Visit

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  3. Road Trips to Visit Historical Places in West Bengal

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  5. Joychandi pahar mandir# Purulia# vlog video # West Bengal tourist places #beautiful tourist place #🙏

  6. TOP 5 Best Places For Visit In West Bengal 2023

COMMENTS

  1. 42 Tourist Places in West Bengal > Top Places to Visit

    2. Darjeeling. 4.3 /5. 2 out of 68. Places to visit in West Bengal 30. Tourist attractions. Darjeeling, the former summer capital of India under the British Raj, has evolved into one of India's most sought-after hill stations. This picturesque hill destination in West Bengal is ideal for a romantic honeymoon.

  2. List of tourist attractions in West Bengal

    Tourist attractions in West Bengal refers to the tourist attractions in the Indian state of West Bengal.West Bengal is a state in the eastern] region of India and is the nation's fourth-most populous. It is also the seventh-most populous sub-national entity in the world, with over 91 million inhabitants. It is bordered by the countries of Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, and the Indian states of ...

  3. 16 Top Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal

    Pandua and Gaur. Amitabha Gupta/Getty Images. 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.

  4. Places to Visit in West Bengal

    Places to Visit in West Bengal. Explore popular experiences. See what other travellers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings. See All. Bus Tours (187) Cultural Tours (127) Islands (8) Private Sightseeing Tours (200) City Tours (50) National Parks (7) Full-day Tours (90)

  5. Places To Visit In West Bengal In 2024: A Haven For All

    The following list comprises the 43 finest tourist places to visit in West Bengal. All of these places have something or the other for each and every kind of traveler. Take a look at this list of all the top places that one should not miss out on! Kolkata: City Of Joy. Darjeeling: Himalayan Jewel.

  6. Things to Do in West Bengal

    Things to Do in West Bengal, India: See Tripadvisor's 347,972 traveler reviews and photos of West Bengal tourist attractions. Find what to do today or anytime in March. We have reviews of the best places to see in West Bengal. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

  7. 25 Best Places to Visit in West Bengal

    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. Highlights: Shantiniketan.

  8. 20+ Top Rated Tourist Attractions in West Bengal: A Local's Guide

    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.

  9. 48 Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal with How to Reach Info

    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.

  10. 8 Best Places to Visit in West Bengal

    Bishnupur. Tourist Places. Discover best tourist places to visit in West Bengal state - travel guide, sightseeing attractions with itineraries, trip duration, weather, season & route map. West Bengal is among most top visited states in India with very famous tourist destinations like Darjeeling, Kolkata, Kalimpong, Sundarbans, Digah, etc.

  11. 33 Popular Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal (2024)

    Discover popular tourist places to visit in West Bengal state - travel guide, sightseeing attractions with itineraries, trip duration, weather, season & route map. West Bengal has several famous tourist destinations like Darjeeling, Kolkata, Kalimpong, Sundarbans, Digah, etc.

  12. Top 15 Places To Visit In West Bengal

    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.

  13. West Bengal Tourism

    West Bengal Travel Information. This West Bengal travel guide contains every kind of information you need for an enjoyable holiday. Inside it, you will find various kind of travel related information like the best time to visit, popular tourist attractions, things to do, best accommodation facilities and why you should visit it.

  14. Places to Visit in West Bengal

    Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal. Darjeeling, Kolkata, Jalpaiguri, Siliguri, Kalimpong, Bagdogra, New Digha, Yambong, Hooghly, Bishnupur, Birbhum, Sundarban, Bankura, Midnapore, Murshidabad, and many more. Places to visit in West Bengal are considered to be the favourite haunt of the globetrotters all across the world due to its famous ...

  15. Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal

    This includes tourist attractions in West Bengal like Kolkata's Victoria Memorial Hall, the Sunderbans Mangroves, the Howrah Bridge, Tiger Hill and more. A guide to over 80 places to visit in West Bengal to plan a trip as per your interest. This includes tourist attractions in West Bengal like Kolkata's Victoria Memorial Hall, the Sunderbans ...

  16. 42 Tourist Places in West Bengal > Top Places to Visit

    43. Mandarmani Beach. Next. 4.1 /5. 43 out of 68. Places to visit in West Bengal. Mandarmani is a small and upcoming beach resort town near Kolkata, West Bengal. Due to its top-notch facilities and luxuries, it has a tremendous potential of becoming a world-class destination. With great scenery, sandy beaches and an amazing aura of luxury about ...

  17. West Bengal Tourism

    The Mountains. Cultural Tourism. West Bengal has always been giving amazing cultural tourism moments to travelers, both domestic and international. West Bengal offers a wide range of cultural experiences for tourists including history, art, music, dance and handicrafts. There are multiple destinations in West Bengal that offers unique cultural ...

  18. 10 Top Places To Visit In West Bengal

    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.

  19. Top 15 Historical Places to Visit in West Bengal

    West Bengal has a great cultural heritage, including folk traditions & literature. Here are 15 historical places that you must visit, when in West Bengal: 1. Kolkata: Kolkata is the famous city in West Bengal and is one of the finest places that should be visited. It is also known as the cultural capital of India and is famous for giving birth ...

  20. 10 Most Beautiful Places To Visit in West Bengal

    10. Murshidabad. Murshidabad once the capital of West Bengal was transferred to Kolkata by the British rulers. But, this place still has the essence of the nawabs of the Bengals in its buildings, mosques, museums, etc. Throbbing with the memories of Nawab Siraj-Ud-Doula, Murshidabad will welcome you with historical essence.

  21. 13 Top Tourist Places of West Bengal: Famous Tourist Destinations

    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.

  22. 15 Best Tourist Places In West Bengal To Visit

    Top Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal: Here we have a list of 15 famous tourist destinations in West Bengal that people of all ages can enjoy a lot. 1. Kolkata: Save. Kolkata is located on the eastern side of the bank of river Hooghly. There are over 4.5 million people residing in the city and is a metropolis in the country.

  23. 9 Best Places To Visit In West Bengal In June One Cannot Miss!

    Suggested Read: 43 Outstanding Tourist Places To Visit In West Bengal. 2. Darjeeling. Image Source. A popular British habitat of the past, Darjeeling is a famous hill station of the eastern India. Standing tall amongst the top 10 hill stations, Darjeeling is indeed a must visit destination.

  24. 2024 Lok Sabha polls

    The West Bengal government had on Monday commenced the payment of dues to approximately 30 lakh MGNREGA workers, amounting to Rs 2,700 crore, which was pending since March 2022. The alleged withholding of the MGNREGA funds by the Centre has been a focal point in the state's political discourse for the past year.