West Bengal Travel Guide

Overview

Nestled between the Himalayas and the Bay of Bengal, West Bengal is a land of contrasts — from snow-capped mountains in Darjeeling to sun-kissed beaches in Digha, and from colonial Kolkata to the mystical Sunderbans mangroves. Known for its rich cultural heritage, literature, art, music, and cuisine, Bengal truly embodies the essence of India’s soul.

Top Destinations

1. Kolkata – The City of Joy

  • Highlights: Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, Dakshineswar Temple, Marble Palace, Park Street.
  • Why Visit: The cultural capital of India, Kolkata blends colonial charm, art, literature, and modern vibrancy. Don’t miss the city’s street food and Durga Puja celebrations.

2. Darjeeling – The Queen of the Hills

  • Highlights: Tiger Hill sunrise, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), Peace Pagoda, Happy Valley Tea Estate.
  • Why Visit: Known for its world-famous tea, colonial-era architecture, and stunning views of Kanchenjunga.

3. Sunderbans National Park

  • Highlights: Mangrove forests, boat safaris, Royal Bengal Tiger sightings, exotic birds.
  • Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest delta, home to unique wildlife and a mesmerizing ecosystem.

4. Shantiniketan – Tagore’s Land

  • Highlights: Visva Bharati University, Tagore Museum, Poush Mela, traditional Baul music.
  • Why Visit: Founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, it’s a center for art, learning, and Bengali culture.

5. Digha & Mandarmani – Coastal Getaways

  • Highlights: Clean beaches, water sports, seafood, coastal drives.
  • Why Visit: Popular beach destinations offering a laid-back vibe and scenic sunsets on the Bay of Bengal.

6. Kalimpong & Lava-Loleygaon

  • Highlights: Monasteries, Orchid Nurseries, Deolo Hill, forest treks.
  • Why Visit: Ideal for peaceful hill stays, away from the bustle, with stunning Himalayan backdrops.

7. Dooars – The Gateway to Bhutan

  • Highlights: Gorumara National Park, Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary, tea gardens, elephant safaris.
  • Why Visit: Rich in flora and fauna, it’s a paradise for wildlife lovers and nature seekers.

8. Murshidabad – The Historical Gem

  • Highlights: Hazarduari Palace, Katra Mosque, Imambara, river cruises on Bhagirathi.
  • Why Visit: Once the capital of Bengal under Nawabs, it’s steeped in Mughal-era heritage and architecture.

Culture & Festivals

  • Durga Puja (Kolkata): The grandest celebration in Bengal — art, devotion, and creativity come alive.
  • Poush Mela (Shantiniketan): A festival of folk music and crafts.
  • Rath Yatra (Mahesh): Second only to Puri’s in scale.
  • Kolkata International Film Festival & Book Fair: Cultural highlights of the year.

Cuisine

West Bengal’s cuisine is a feast for the senses — subtle, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
Must-try dishes:

  • Macher Jhol: Traditional fish curry.
  • Kosha Mangsho: Spicy mutton curry.
  • Shorshe Ilish: Hilsa fish in mustard sauce.
  • Luchi & Aloo Dum: A classic breakfast combo.
  • Sweets: Rasgulla, Sandesh, Mishti Doi, Chhanar Payesh.

Shopping

  • Baluchari & Tant Sarees (Murshidabad, Fulia)
  • Dokra Art & Terracotta (Bishnupur)
  • Handcrafted Jewelry, Jute Products, and Tea (Darjeeling & Kolkata)

How to Reach

  • By Air: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata) connects globally.
  • By Rail: Kolkata, Siliguri, and New Jalpaiguri are major rail hubs.
  • By Road: National Highways link Bengal with all neighboring states.

Best Time to Visit

  • October to March: Ideal for most regions — pleasant and festive.
  • April to June: Good for hill stations like Darjeeling and Kalimpong.
  • July to September: Monsoon adds lush beauty but limits travel in coastal areas.

Travel Tips

  • Experience Durga Puja once in your lifetime — it’s unforgettable.
  • Avoid Sundarbans safaris during peak monsoon.
  • Carry light woollens for hill trips.
  • Don’t miss a tram ride or a boat cruise on the Hooghly River in Kolkata.