West Bengal
( India )
Introduction
West Bengal — a land of culture, history, mountains, beaches, spirituality, literature, and vibrant traditions.
From the snow-clad peaks of Darjeeling, the colonial charm of Kolkata, the sacred temples of Kalighat & Dakshineswar, the mangrove mysteries of Sundarbans, to the quiet beauty of Digha and Shantiniketan, West Bengal is one of India’s most diverse and soulful destinations.
The state’s heritage is shaped by poets, revolutionaries, artists, and spiritual masters, making it a perfect blend of nature, culture, history, and emotion.
Whether you want mountains, seas, temples, wildlife, food, or festivals — West Bengal offers an unforgettable experience.
Quick Info Box
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Region | Eastern India |
| Capital | Kolkata |
| Best Time to Visit | October – March |
| Ideal Duration | 6–10 Days |
| Famous For | Culture, Mountains, Temples, Beaches, Sundarbans |
| Major Airports | Kolkata, Bagdogra |
| Languages | Bengali, Hindi, English |
| State Identity | Culture + Mountains + Heritage + Wildlife |
State Overview
West Bengal is a state of beauty and intellect — known for its rich literature, classical music, art, temples, nature, and history. It offers:
• Kolkata – Cultural capital of India
• Darjeeling – Queen of the Himalayas
• Kalimpong & Kurseong – Peaceful mountain retreats
• Sundarbans – Largest mangrove forest on Earth
• Digha & Mandarmani – Popular beach destinations
• Shantiniketan – Home of Rabindranath Tagore
• Murshidabad – Historic palaces & Nawabi era
• Bankura & Bishnupur – Terracotta temples
From the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal — West Bengal is a world within a state.
Top 11 Destinations in West Bengal
1. Kolkata
Famous For: Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial
Expanded Description:
A city of art, culture, riverside ghats, trams, British architecture, temples & legendary street food.
2. Darjeeling
Famous For: Tea gardens & Kanchenjunga views
Expanded Description:
A dreamy hill station with toy trains, monasteries, viewpoints & Himalayan landscapes.
3. Sundarbans
Famous For: Royal Bengal Tigers
Expanded Description:
World’s largest mangrove forest — scenic boat safaris, wildlife & unique ecosystem.
4. Kalimpong
Famous For: Monasteries & scenic beauty
Expanded Description:
Quiet hill town offering Himalayan views, flower nurseries & Buddhist culture.
5. Digha
Famous For: Beaches
Expanded Description:
Popular coastal escape from Kolkata — clean beaches, seafood & resorts.
6. Mandarmani
Famous For: Drive-in beach
Expanded Description:
One of India’s longest motorable beaches with watersports & peaceful ambience.
7. Shantiniketan
Famous For: Tagore’s heritage
Expanded Description:
Cultural land of Rabindranath Tagore with art, poetry, festivals & university life.
8. Murshidabad
Famous For: Nawabi palaces
Expanded Description:
Historic city with Hazarduari Palace, mosques & Mughal-era architecture.
9. Bishnupur
Famous For: Terracotta temples
Expanded Description:
Ancient town known for its temples, silk sarees & traditional art.
10. Kurseong
Famous For: White Orchids
Expanded Description:
A peaceful hill station perfect for nature lovers and tea garden walks.
11. Dooars
Famous For: Forests & wildlife
Expanded Description:
Gateway to Bhutan with national parks, tea gardens & safaris.
Budget Breakdown (Approx.)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 800–2500/night |
| Food | 250–600/day |
| Transport | 300–800/day |
| Entry Tickets | ₹10 – ₹300 |
| Safari | 1000–2500 |
| Misc | 200–400 |