West Bengal, the “land of Rasgulla”, as it’s fondly called, is the most important state of Eastern India. Home to some of the most diverse Indian cultures, West Bengal boasts a great history with reference to the great Indian epic Mahabharata. West Bengal is a highly pluralistic, secular, inclusive and rationalist society. Geographically, it stretches from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal, with several impressive landscapes that could enchant your soul. This week’s blog will deal with some of the best tourist places in West Bengal. 

Though there are several best places to visit in West Bengal, some of them include Kolkata, Darjeeling, Shantiniketan, Kalimpong, Sundarbans, Mandarmani, Murshidabad, Dooars, Digha, among others. These are also some of the best places to travel in west Bengal any time of the year. 

Kolkata:

The capital city of West Bengal and an important metropolitan city. Considered to be historically at least 2000 years old, it oozes rich cultural diversity and assorted cultural backgrounds that would even put the cities of California or London to shame. Kolkata also played a significant role in the history of India’s freedom struggle with some of India’s most celebrated nationalists including Subhash Chandra Bose, Rabindranath Tagore, Khudiram Bose, and social reformers such as Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Mother Teresa, among others. While in Kolkata, don’t miss out in visiting historical structures including Fort Williams, the Victoria Memorial, the National Museum and the St. Paul Cathedrals to bring out the history buff within. If you’re a foodie, then food delicacies from the Bengali-style Biryani, mouth-watering Rasogollas to the sweet and spicy golgappas are sure to titillate your taste buds. Interestingly, the city of Kolkata, also popular for its traditional Pooja celebrations that honour the Hindu deity Kali, houses the famous Dakshineswar Temple. When the sun goes down, the “City of Joy” never misses viewing the spectacular Hooghly bridge, while you can also book a seat in a boat, and enjoy the ride along the banks of the river Ganges.

Darjeeling

We’ve been discussing the best visiting places in West Bengal, and you simply can’t ignore the lush green fields of Darjeeling set against the background of the snow-clad Himalayas. Many blockbuster Bollywood movies take pride in the ‘shot in Darjeeling’ tag.  The unique aroma of Darjeeling tea leaves, the famous toy train, the splendid sights offered by the Kanchenjunga peaks, the amazing colonial mansions, and the prospects of clicking cinematic photos in the verdant tea gardens make Darjeeling one of the best places to visit near West Bengal.

Shantiniketan

Shantiniketan, which is a crude translation of ‘an abode of peace, is one of West Bengal’s best tourist spots. But why? One, it was established by the Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, one of India’s tallest literary figures. Two, you can time travel to the bygone era of Kobiguru Rabindranath, and witness all his prized possessions in the Rabindra Bhavan Museum and Tagore’s Ashram. Third, you can still find students at Shantiniketan taking lessons under the trees in an old-fashioned way. If these aren’t enough, why not check the exclusive range of jewellery and handicraft decors in the local bazaars? Enjoy Holi or the festival of colours during Basanta Utsav in the month of March, as well as the popular Poush Mela during December.

Kalimpong

A haven for adventure buffs, Kalimpong can be easily the best tourist place in West Bengal for two days as it has a multitude of touring destinations including Pratima Tagore House, Deolo Hill, Neora Valley National Park, Morgan House and lots more. Kalimpong’s native and exotic flora and fauna is another highlight. Why not embark on a safari into the Neora National Park, one of the famous tourist places in West Bengal, where you’ll be able to spot a leopard or two, and if you’re lucky, maybe the Asiatic black bear and Asian golden cat, both endangered species?

Activities to explore: Trekking in the mountainous terrains, water rafting at River Teesta in Kalimpong

Sundarbans

Rated as West Bengal’s best tourist spot, the world-famous Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove ecosystem, is the home to the rare Royal Bengal tiger. Sail along the river Ganges when on your trip to the Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary, whilst also enjoying the long and somewhat wide wilderness of the region.

Activities to explore: Spend a night in a treehouse, and get intimate with the marvels of nature.

Mandarmani

One of the most beautiful places in West Bengal, Mandarmani is a village nestled in the midst of breath-taking beaches, charming sea and deluxe resorts. Mandarmani has something for everyone and keeps travellers engaged with a range of sea activities and adventure sports. 

Activities to explore: Speed boating, snorkelling, jet-skiing and sea surfing. Perfect for the sea-side honeymoon experience. 

Murshidabad

Murshidabad is the imperial face of the Bengalis. Visit the famous residence of the erstwhile Nawabs of Bengal, with the Hazarduari Palace housing the personal royal artefacts of their day. Also famous for its pristine lakes and sericulture activities, Murshidabad encloses touring destinations such as Katra Mosque, Madina and Nasirpur Palace, Nizamat Imambara and many more.

Activities to explore: Shopping for woodcraft, ivory, etc.

Dooars

Dooras is dotted with free-flowing rivers, majestic hills, rich flora and fauna and expansive tea gardens, making it the best tourist place in West Bengal, never failing to enchant domestic and foreign tourists. The delightfully clear and bright streams, densely populated forests and antiquated villages add to the attraction of visiting Dooars.

Activities to explore: Visit the Mahananda Sanctuary, home to rare wild animals including cheetahs, leopards, tigers and one-horned rhinos.

Digha

Still, searching for the best picnic spot in West Bengal? Your search ends right at Digha. Full of captivating beaches, spoil yourself with the multitude of water sports including swimming, casual playing in the waters, diving, parasailing, quad biking and speed boating. And as if these aren’t just enough, you can try the scrumptious local seafood and chicken fries along the beach and the surrounding resorts. The beaches in Digha are both lively and invigorating, and the landscapes too gorgeous.

Places to explore: Digha Gate, Mohona Watch Point, Amravati Park and Digha Science Centre