West Bengal River Map

Bengal Basin Banglapedia from en.banglapedia.org

Introduction

West Bengal is a state in eastern India, situated on the Bay of Bengal. It is known for its diverse landscape, including the Himalayan foothills, dense forests, and numerous rivers. The state is home to a rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and unique cuisine that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures that West Bengal has to offer.

Top Attractions

Kolkata

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a bustling metropolis that is steeped in history and culture. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and architectural marvels. Some of the must-visit attractions in Kolkata include the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Indian Museum.

Sundarbans

The Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to the world’s largest mangrove forest. It is also home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, which can be spotted on a guided tour. The Sundarbans is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Shantiniketan

Shantiniketan is a small town in Birbhum district that is famous for its association with Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel laureate poet, and philosopher. The town is home to the Visva Bharati University, which was founded by Tagore. It is a great place to soak in some culture and learn about Tagore’s vision of education.

Hidden Gems

Bishnupur

Bishnupur is a small town in Bankura district that is famous for its terracotta temples. The town was once the capital of the Malla dynasty and is home to some of the finest examples of terracotta art in India. It is a great place to visit if you are interested in history and architecture.

Dooars

Dooars is a region in northern West Bengal that is known for its tea estates, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries. The region is home to the Gorumara National Park, which is famous for its one-horned rhinoceros. Dooars is a great place to visit if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and spend some time in the lap of nature.

Kurseong

Kurseong is a small hill station in Darjeeling district that is known for its tea gardens and scenic beauty. The town is home to the Makaibari tea estate, which is one of the oldest and most renowned tea estates in the region. Kurseong is a great place to visit if you want to escape the heat and enjoy some fresh mountain air.

Food Scene

West Bengal is famous for its unique cuisine, which is a blend of Bengali, British, and Mughal influences. Some of the must-try dishes in West Bengal include fish curry, cholar dal, kosha mangsho, and rosogolla. The street food scene in Kolkata is also worth exploring and includes favorites like phuchka, kathi rolls, and jhal muri.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you are traveling on a budget, there are plenty of ways to save money in West Bengal. Some tips include staying in budget hotels or hostels, eating at local eateries, using public transport instead of taxis, and bargaining at local markets. It is also a good idea to plan your itinerary in advance to avoid overspending.

Outdoor Adventures

Trekking in Sandakphu

Sandakphu is the highest peak in West Bengal and is a popular trekking destination. The trek takes you through scenic landscapes and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. It is a great way to experience the natural beauty of West Bengal.

White Water Rafting in Teesta

The Teesta River is one of the most popular white water rafting destinations in India. The river offers a range of rapids suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. It is a great way to experience the thrill of adventure sports in West Bengal.

Paragliding in Kalimpong

Kalimpong is a small town in Darjeeling district that is known for its scenic beauty. It is also a great place for paragliding, with several operators offering tandem flights. It is a great way to experience the beauty of West Bengal from a different perspective.

Historical Landmarks

The Hazarduari Palace

The Hazarduari Palace is a magnificent palace in Murshidabad that was built by Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah of Bengal. The palace has 1,000 doors, but only 900 of them are real. The palace is now a museum and houses a collection of artifacts from the Nawabi period.

The Cooch Behar Palace

The Cooch Behar Palace is a beautiful palace in Cooch Behar that was built by Maharaja Nripendra Narayan in 1887. The palace is a perfect example of classical European architecture and is now a museum.

The Bari Kothi

The Bari Kothi is a heritage hotel in Azimganj that was built in the 18th century. The hotel is a great example of colonial architecture and is a must-visit destination for history buffs.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Science City

The Science City in Kolkata is a great place for kids to learn about science and technology. The museum has a range of interactive exhibits and shows that are sure to keep kids entertained.

The Eco Park

The Eco Park in Kolkata is a great place to spend a day with the family. The park has a range of activities, including boating, cycling, and a butterfly garden. It is a great place to relax and unwind.

The Nicco Park

The Nicco Park in Kolkata is an amusement park that is perfect for kids and adults alike. The park has a range of rides and attractions, including a water park, roller coasters, and a 7D cinema.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Chhau Dance

The Chhau dance is a traditional dance form that is performed in the Purulia district of West Bengal. The dance is a blend of martial arts, acrobatics, and folk dance and is a must-see for anyone interested in traditional Indian art forms.

The Jatra Festival

The Jatra Festival is a popular folk festival that is celebrated in various parts of West Bengal. The festival includes street plays, music, and dance and is a great way to experience the vibrancy of rural Bengal.

The Baul Music Festival

The Baul Music Festival is a music festival that is dedicated to the Bauls, a group of wandering minstrels who sing and perform in rural Bengal. The festival is a great way to experience the unique music and culture of rural Bengal.

Natural Wonders

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a narrow-gauge railway that runs from New Jalpaiguri to Darjeeling. The railway is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscapes.

The Singalila National Park

The Singalila National Park is a national park that is situated on the Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district. The park is home to a range of flora and fauna, including the red panda and the Himalayan black bear. It is a great place to experience the natural beauty of West Bengal.

The Jaldapara National Park

The Jaldapara National Park is a national park that is situated in the Alipurduar district of West Bengal. The park is home to the Indian one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, tigers, and a range of other wildlife. It is a great place to experience the natural beauty of West Bengal.

Vibrant Nightlife

Kolkata has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from. Some of the must-visit destinations include the Park Street area, which is known for its pubs and bars, and the Salt Lake area, which is home to several nightclubs.

Local Markets

West Bengal is known for its vibrant markets, which offer a range of products, including handicrafts, textiles, and spices. Some of the must-visit markets in West Bengal include the New Market in Kolkata, the Mall Road Market in Darjeeling, and the Boro Bazaar in Siliguri.