Top 10 Travel Destinations in West Bengal, India

West Bengal, located in the eastern part of India, is a state rich in cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance. With diverse landscapes that encompass mountains, beaches, forests, and bustling cities, West Bengal offers a wide array of travel destinations for every kind of traveller. From the bustling streets of Kolkata to the serene tea gardens of Darjeeling, the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans, and the historic temples of Bishnupur, this state is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be explored. In this list, we'll take you on a journey through the "Top 10 Travel Destinations in West Bengal, India," offering a glimpse of the state's unique charm and captivating attractions. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, West Bengal has something to offer for everyone. Here's the list. 

Sunset vibes in Howrah Bridge, Kolkata, West Bengal (Source: Trans India Travels) 

1) Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station located in the Indian state of West Bengal. Darjeeling is known as the "Queen of the Himalayas" and is famous for its Darjeeling tea, which is among the finest in the world. It is renowned for its stunning tea gardens, panoramic views of the Himalayas, and a pleasant climate.

Tourists visiting a Toy train standing at the railway station (Source: iStock)

 

Weather in Darjeeling: The weather in Darjeeling varies throughout the year. Summers (March to June) are mild with temperatures ranging from 11°C to 20°C, making it a popular time to visit. Monsoons (July to September) bring heavy rainfall. The best time to witness the snow-capped peaks is during the winter months (November to February) when temperatures can drop to as low as -2°C.

 

Tourist Spots in Darjeeling:

 

1. Tiger Hill: A famous viewpoint to watch the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga and the Eastern Himalayas.
2. Batasia Loop: A unique railway loop with a garden and a War Memorial.
3. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this narrow-gauge railway offers a charming ride through the hills.
4. Tea Gardens: Visit tea estates like the Happy Valley Tea Estate to learn about tea production and enjoy some of the finest Darjeeling tea.
5. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Home to the endangered Red Panda and Snow Leopard.
6. Peace Pagoda: A Buddhist stupa offering tranquility and panoramic views.
7. Darjeeling Mall: A bustling market area with shops and restaurants.
8. Rock Garden and Ganga Maya Park: Beautifully landscaped gardens with waterfalls.

 

Getting from Kolkata to Darjeeling: The distance between Kolkata and Darjeeling is approximately 600 kilometers. Here's how you can get there:

 

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Darjeeling is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), which is well-connected to Kolkata. After landing at Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Darjeeling, which is about a 3-4 hour drive.
2. By Train: There is no direct train route from Kolkata to Darjeeling. However, you can take a train from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Siliguri, which are the nearest major railheads to Darjeeling. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to Darjeeling, which is around a 3-4 hour drive.
3. By Road: You can also opt for a road trip from Kolkata to Darjeeling. The journey takes approximately 12-14 hours by car. You can rent a private vehicle or use a long-distance bus service. The road trip offers scenic views, but the route includes winding mountain roads, so it's advisable to have an experienced driver.

 

Remember to check the latest travel information and weather conditions before planning your trip, as they can vary seasonally and due to unforeseen circumstances.

 

2) Sundarbans

Sundarbans, the ecological hotspot (Source: iStock)

 

Sundarbans is a unique and ecologically significant mangrove forest area located in the delta region of the Bay of Bengal, straddling India and Bangladesh. It's renowned for its rich biodiversity, including the Bengal tiger, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Weather in Sundarbans: The climate in Sundarbans is tropical and experiences distinct wet and dry seasons. The weather is hot and humid for most of the year. The monsoon season lasts from June to September, bringing heavy rainfall. The best time to visit is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is more pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.

 

Tourist Spots in Sundarbans:

 

1. Sundarbans National Park: The core area of the Sundarbans is home to the famous Bengal tigers, saltwater crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
2. Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for its watchtower and a small museum showcasing the flora and fauna of the region.
3. Sundarbans Tiger Reserve: A part of the Sundarbans designated for the protection of the Bengal tiger.
4. Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve: Encompasses a larger area and includes several protected zones and buffer areas.
5. Hiron Point: A popular tourist spot for spotting wildlife, especially the Royal Bengal Tiger.
6. Dobanki Jungle Camp: Offers eco-tourism experiences, including canopy walks.
7. Netidhopani: Known for its ancient temple ruins and a watchtower for wildlife viewing.
8. Matla River: Offers boat safaris to explore the mangrove ecosystem.

 

Getting from Kolkata to Sundarbans: To reach Sundarbans from Kolkata, you can follow these steps:

 

1. By Train: Take a train from Kolkata to Canning, which is the nearest railhead to the Sundarbans. From Canning, you can hire a local vehicle or take a ferry to reach the Sundarbans area.
2. By Road: You can drive from Kolkata to Godkhali, which is a gateway to the Sundarbans. It's about a 3-4 hour drive from Kolkata. From Godkhali, you can arrange for a boat or ferry to explore the Sundarbans.
3. By Water: Another way to reach the Sundarbans is by taking a boat or ferry from Kolkata's Babughat or other designated ferry terminals. This option offers a unique and scenic journey through the river delta.

 

Please check the latest travel information and weather conditions before planning your trip to the Sundarbans, as accessibility and routes may vary depending on the season and local conditions.

 

3) Digha

 

Digha is a popular beach town located in the East Midnapore district of West Bengal, India. It is known for its beautiful beaches and a laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Weather in Digha: Digha experiences a tropical climate. Summers (March to June) are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 37°C. Monsoons (June to September) bring heavy rainfall. The best time to visit Digha is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is more pleasant with temperatures between 14°C to 25°C.

 

Tourist Spots in Digha:

 

1. Digha Beach: The primary attraction, offering sandy shores and calm waters for relaxation and water activities.
2. Mandarmani Beach: Located nearby, it's known for its long stretch of beach and water sports.
3. Marine Aquarium and Research Centre: A place to explore marine life and marine research activities.
4. Amarabati Park: A well-maintained park with manicured gardens, fountains, and walking paths.
5. New Digha Beach: A less crowded beach with a modern sea-facing promenade.
6. Talsari Beach: A serene and less-visited beach near Digha with tidal rivers and casuarina trees.
7. Digha Science Center: An educational center with interactive exhibits.

 

Getting from Kolkata to Digha: Digha is conveniently accessible from Kolkata, and there are several ways to reach it:

 

1. By Train: The most popular option is to take a train from Kolkata to Digha. The Digha Flag Station is well-connected to Kolkata and is a convenient choice.
2. By Bus: There are regular bus services from Kolkata to Digha. You can take a state-run or private bus to reach Digha. The journey by bus usually takes around 4-5 hours.
3. By Car: If you prefer to drive, you can take your own vehicle or rent one and drive to Digha from Kolkata. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours.

 

Digha is a perfect weekend getaway from Kolkata, offering a chance to relax by the sea and enjoy the coastal surroundings.

 

4) Ayodhya hills

Ayodhya Hills is a scenic hill station in Purulia district (Source: Eoitravel)

 

Ayodhya Hills is a scenic hill station located in the Purulia district of West Bengal, India. It's known for its lush greenery, rugged terrain, and pleasant climate.

Weather in Ayodhya Hills: The weather in Ayodhya Hills is quite pleasant throughout the year. Summers (March to June) are mild with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Monsoons (June to September) bring moderate rainfall, making the region lush and vibrant. Winters (November to February) are cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C, making it an ideal time to visit.

 

Tourist Spots in Ayodhya Hills:

 

1. Upper Dam: A serene reservoir offering boating and picnic opportunities.
2. Lower Dam: Another beautiful reservoir surrounded by lush forests.
3. Purulia Bazar: A local market where you can shop for handicrafts and traditional products.
4. Matha and Bamni Falls: Two stunning waterfalls nestled in the hills.
5. Turga Dam: A picturesque spot for boating and bird watching.
6. Pakhi Pahar: A small hill with a picturesque view of the surrounding landscape.
7. Garpanchkot: A nearby historical site with a ruined fort and ancient temples.

 

Getting from Kolkata to Ayodhya Hills: To reach Ayodhya Hills from Kolkata, you can follow these steps:

 

1. By Train: Take a train from Kolkata to Purulia Junction, the nearest major railway station. From Purulia, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Ayodhya Hills, which is about a 2-3 hour drive.
2. By Road: You can drive from Kolkata to Ayodhya Hills, which is approximately 300 kilometers away. The journey takes around 6-7 hours by car. It's advisable to have an experienced driver for the hilly terrain.
3. By Bus: There are bus services from Kolkata to Purulia, and from there, you can continue to Ayodhya Hills by taxi or local bus.

 

Ayodhya Hills is a serene and offbeat destination for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet escape in the lap of nature.

 

5) Kurseong and Mirik

Experience the Life of Kurseong Town (Source: Aama Homestay)

 

Kurseong: Kurseong is a charming hill station in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. It's known for its tea gardens, serene atmosphere, and stunning mountain views. 

Weather in Kurseong: Kurseong experiences a temperate climate. Summers (March to June) are mild with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Monsoons (June to September) bring moderate to heavy rainfall. The best time to visit Kurseong is during the autumn and winter months (October to February) when the weather is cool and pleasant.

 

Tourist Spots in Kurseong:

 

1. Eagle's Crag: A viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
2. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Museum: A museum dedicated to the life and times of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
3. Ambootia Tea Estate: A tea garden where you can take guided tours and taste fresh tea.
4. Kurseong Dow Hill: Forests, a cemetery, and the Victoria Boys' School, known for its haunted stories.
5. Deer Park: A small park with deer and other animals.

 

Mirik: Mirik is another picturesque hill town in the Darjeeling district, known for its serene lakes, tea gardens, and a pleasant climate. 

Weather in Mirik: Mirik has a temperate climate similar to Kurseong. Summers (March to June) are mild with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Monsoons (June to September) bring moderate to heavy rainfall. The best time to visit Mirik is during the autumn and winter months (October to February) when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Beautiful tea garden in Mirik, Darjeeling (Source: Craze Galore)

 

Tourist Spots in Mirik:

 

1. Sumendu Lake: A serene lake surrounded by a forested area and a walking path.
2. Bokar Monastery: A serene Tibetan Buddhist monastery with a beautiful garden.
3. Tea Gardens: Visit Thurbo Tea Estate and others to explore tea plantations and taste fresh tea.
4. Bokar Stupa: A peaceful stupa with stunning views of the Himalayas.
5. Orange Orchards: Mirik is known for its orange orchards; you can visit them during the fruiting season.

 

Getting from Kolkata to Kurseong and Mirik: To reach Kurseong and Mirik from Kolkata:

 

1. By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) near Siliguri. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Kurseong or Mirik, which is approximately a 2-3 hour drive.
2. By Train: You can take a train from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Siliguri, the nearest major railheads. From there, hire a taxi or take a local bus to Kurseong or Mirik, which is a 2-3 hour drive from both NJP and Siliguri.

 

These hill stations offer a tranquil and scenic escape from the city, making them popular among nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.

 

6) Dooars

The natural landscape of Dooars (Source: Bon Voyagers)

 

Dooars, also known as the Dooars region, is a vast and picturesque area located in the northeastern part of West Bengal, India. It's famous for its lush tea gardens, diverse wildlife, and scenic landscapes.

Weather in Dooars: Dooars experiences a tropical climate. Summers (March to June) are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Monsoons (June to September) bring heavy rainfall, making the region verdant and lively. Winters (November to February) are cool and comfortable with temperatures between 7°C to 23°C, making it the ideal time to visit.

 

Tourist Spots in Dooars:

 

1. Gorumara National Park: Known for its rich biodiversity and elephant safaris.
2. Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to the Indian one-horned rhinoceros and diverse wildlife.
3. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary: Offers an opportunity to spot elephants, leopards, and various bird species.
4. Buxa Tiger Reserve: A protected area with dense forests and wildlife.
5. Bhutia Busty Monastery: A serene Buddhist monastery with beautiful architecture.
6. Tea Gardens: Dooars is dotted with tea estates, and you can take guided tours to explore tea plantations.

 

Getting from Kolkata to Dooars: To reach Dooars from Kolkata:

 

1. By Train: Take a train from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Siliguri, which are the nearest major railheads. From NJP or Siliguri, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Dooars, as it's a 2-3 hour drive from both places.
2. By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) near Siliguri. From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Dooars, which is approximately a 2-3 hour drive.
3. By Road: You can drive from Kolkata to Dooars, which is around 700 kilometers away. The journey takes approximately 12-14 hours by car.

 

Dooars is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers, offering opportunities for jungle safaris, bird watching, and experiencing the rich culture of the region.

 

7) Murshidabad

Hazarduari Palace Museum in Murshidabad (Source: Tripoto)

 

Murshidabad is a historic city in West Bengal, India, known for its significant role in the history of Bengal and its architectural heritage. 

Weather in Murshidabad: Murshidabad experiences a tropical climate. Summers (March to June) are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 42°C. Monsoons (June to September) bring heavy rainfall. The best time to visit Murshidabad is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is cooler, with temperatures between 12°C to 25°C.

 

Tourist Spots in Murshidabad:

 

1. Hazarduari Palace: A grand 18th-century palace with a thousand doors, now a museum showcasing historical artifacts.
2. Nizamat Imambara: An impressive mosque with a massive hall and a serene garden.
3. Katra Masjid: A stunning mosque with intricate terracotta artwork.
4. Nashipur Rajbari: A historic palace known for its architectural beauty.
5. Kathgola Gardens: A serene garden with a beautiful Jain temple.
6. Khusbagh: Historic gardens with the tombs of Siraj-ud-Daula and his family.
7. Jahankosha Canon: An ancient cannon with inscriptions.
8. Khoshbag Cemetry: The final resting place of many notable historical figures.

 

Getting from Kolkata to Murshidabad: To reach Murshidabad from Kolkata:

 

1. By Train: Take a train from Kolkata to Murshidabad's nearest railway station, which is Berhampore Court. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a local transport to reach Murshidabad, which is approximately 10-15 kilometers away.
2. By Road: You can drive from Kolkata to Murshidabad, which is about 200 kilometers away. The journey takes around 5-6 hours by car.

 

Murshidabad is a historical gem, offering insights into the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Bengal. It's a great destination for history enthusiasts and those looking to explore the past of the region.

 

8) Santiniketan

 

Santiniketan is a cultural and educational hub located in West Bengal, India. It's famous for its association with Rabindranath Tagore and the Visva Bharati University.

Weather in Santiniketan: Santiniketan experiences a tropical climate. Summers (March to June) are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C. Monsoons (June to September) bring moderate to heavy rainfall. The best time to visit Santiniketan is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is pleasant with temperatures between 10°C to 25°C.

 

Tourist Spots in Santiniketan:

 

1. Visva Bharati University: Founded by Rabindranath Tagore, it's a major attraction with its unique educational and cultural environment.
2. Kala Bhavana: The university's fine arts faculty, known for its creative ambiance and art collections.
3. Sangeet Bhavana: The university's music department, where students are trained in Indian classical music.
4. Cheena Bhavana: The Chinese department of Visva Bharati, promoting Chinese culture and studies.
5. Amar Kutir: A cooperative society promoting handicrafts and rural development.
6. Rabindra Bhavan: A museum dedicated to Rabindranath Tagore, displaying his personal belongings and memorabilia.
7. Sonajhuri Market: Popularly known as the Sonajhuri haat, it's a shopping heaven every Saturday on the banks of the Khoai River. It’s an open-air market where you can buy tribal items and many more stuffs while listening to wonderful baul songs, sung by some local bauls sitting aside.

 

Getting from Kolkata to Santiniketan: To reach Santiniketan from Kolkata:

 

1. By Train: You can take a train from Kolkata to Bolpur, which is the nearest railway station to Santiniketan. Bolpur is well-connected with Kolkata by train, and Santiniketan is just a short drive from there.
2. By Road: You can drive from Kolkata to Santiniketan, which is approximately 160 kilometers away. The journey takes around 3-4 hours by car.

 

Santiniketan offers a unique blend of art, culture, and education, making it a popular destination for those interested in the legacy of Rabindranath Tagore and Indian art and music.

 

9) Bishnupur

Rasmancha, a famous terracotta ancient temple at Bishnupur, Bankura (Source: iStock)

 

Bishnupur is a historic town in the Bankura district of West Bengal, India, known for its terracotta temples, unique crafts, and classical music.

Weather in Bishnupur: Bishnupur experiences a tropical climate. Summers (March to June) are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C. Monsoons (June to September) bring moderate to heavy rainfall. The best time to visit Bishnupur is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is pleasant with temperatures between 10°C to 25°C.

 

Tourist Spots in Bishnupur:

 

1. Terracotta Temples: Bishnupur is famous for its intricate terracotta temples, including Jorbangla Temple, Rasmancha, and Shyamrai Temple.
2. Bishnupur Museum: A repository of historical artifacts and terracotta artworks.
3. Stone Chariot: A stone structure with artistic carvings, resembling a chariot.
4. Dalmadal Cannon: An ancient cannon with historical significance.
5. Gumghar: A traditional village house, showcasing the local lifestyle.
6. Chhinnamasta Temple: A unique temple dedicated to the goddess Chhinnamasta.

 

Getting from Kolkata to Bishnupur: To reach Bishnupur from Kolkata:

 

1. By Train: You can take a train from Kolkata to Bishnupur. Bishnupur has a railway station, and several trains connect the two cities.
2. By Road: You can drive from Kolkata to Bishnupur, which is approximately 150 kilometers away. The journey takes around 4-5 hours by car.

 

Bishnupur is a cultural and historical treasure, offering insights into the architectural and artistic heritage of Bengal, and it's a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.

 

10) Kolkata

Howrah Bridge and Ganga River in Kolkata (Source: iStock)

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a vibrant and historic city in eastern India known for its rich cultural heritage, art, literature, and cuisine 

Weather in Kolkata: Kolkata experiences a tropical wet-and-dry climate. Summers (March to June) are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 40°C. Monsoons (June to September) bring heavy rainfall. Winters (November to February) are mild and pleasant, with temperatures between 12°C to 27°C.

 

Tourist Spots in Kolkata:

 

1. Victoria Memorial: A majestic white marble monument that is an icon of the city.
2. Howrah Bridge: An iconic cantilever bridge over the Hooghly River.
3. Indian Museum: One of the oldest and largest museums in India, known for its diverse collections.
4. Dakshineswar Kali Temple: A revered Hindu temple with stunning architecture.
5. Belur Math: The headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, reflecting the philosophy of Swami Vivekananda.
6. Kali Ghat: A famous Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali.
7. Science City: An interactive science museum and educational center.
8. Mother House: The former residence of Mother Teresa, now a museum and place of reflection.
9. Park Street: A popular thoroughfare known for its restaurants, cafes, and nightlife.
10. Kolkata's Literary Heritage: Explore the birthplaces and former residences of renowned authors like Rabindranath Tagore and Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.

11. Marble Palace: A stunning 19th-century mansion with impressive marble walls and a rich art collection.
12. Botanical Gardens: Home to the Great Banyan Tree and a wide variety of plants and trees.
13. St. Paul's Cathedral: An iconic Anglican cathedral with beautiful Gothic architecture.
14. Eco Tourism Park: A modern urban park with water bodies and eco-friendly attractions.
15. Prinsep Ghat: A historical riverside promenade with a monument and stunning views of the Hooghly River.
16. Nicco Park: An amusement park offering various rides and entertainment options.
17. Rabindra Sarobar: A man-made lake surrounded by a peaceful park, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.
18. Shobhabazar Rajbari: A historic royal mansion known for its Durga Puja celebrations and architectural charm.
19. Alipore Zoo: Also known as the Alipore Zoological Gardens, it's one of India's oldest and most renowned zoos.
20. Birla Mandir: Also known as the Lakshmi-Narayan Temple is a renowned Hindu temple in Kolkata, West Bengal. It's an architectural marvel and an important religious site in the city

 

Kolkata is a city that beautifully blends tradition and modernity, making it a captivating destination for history, culture, and food enthusiasts.