West Bengal is known for its rich culture and heritage in India. There are numerous tourist places in West Bengal, Kolkata being the most famous. It is the capital city and the cultural capital of West Bengal. In addition, it is a treasure trove of a lot of exciting places, including the Victoria Memorial, the Indian Museum, the Birla Planetarium, and lots more!
Tourist attractions in West Bengal highlight geographical distinctions like the north’s mountain ranges and the south’s maritime climate. The land speaks about the golden era of trade and commerce, rich culture, and a land torn by betrayal, partition, poverty, and famine. Amongst the other West Bengal tourist attractions are the historical remains of Malda, buildings during the British era, and monuments of Kolkata, Nawab’s city Murshidabad, or Rabindranath Tagore’s Shanti Niketan gives the depiction of the beautiful past of the state.
Here Are the Best Tourist Places to Visit in West Bengal
Kolkata
From the flourishing art scene to the unique food experiences, Kolkata will make your visit to West Bengal worthwhile. As the famous quote for Kolkata goes, “If you want a city with a soul, come to Calcutta.” West Bengal’s capital and cultural city, Kolkata, is one of the most visited places in India. Famous for its nightlife, cultural activities, historic buildings, and, of course, the Howrah Bridge, the city invites history buffs, families, culture admirers, food lovers, and more in large numbers annually. In addition, the old colonial charm is evident throughout the city. Kolkata is a 350-year-old metropolis called “The City of Joy.” In every sense, it is India’s cultural, artistic, and intellectual capital. Kolkata is one of those destinations where you can get the best historical places in West Bengal.
Darjeeling
“Queen of the Himalayas,” Darjeeling is one of the West Bengal famous places and an ideal destination for summer vacation. Many couples and families visit Darjeeling annually to enjoy its pleasant weather, misty skies, and renowned Himalayan toy train ride. Once the summer capital of India under British rule, this hill station is tucked away in the north of the state amidst acres of tea plantations. Darjeeling has over 86 tea estates, making ‘Darjeeling Tea famous worldwide. You can buy tea from here and sip locally brewed tea. The toy train is the highlight of Darjeeling, set up in 1881, and now is under the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The highest peak in India, Kanchenjunga, is visible from Darjeeling’s Tiger Hill, a significant attraction.
Sundarbans National Park
The best tourist place in West Bengal for nature and wildlife lovers, Sundarbans National Park houses the most extensive mangrove forests in the world. Located 110 km (approx.) from Kolkata’s south, this national park is also a tiger reserve, and you will see the Royal Bengal Tigers here. It is called the “home of the tigers.” Roaring rivers and estuaries are also present inside the park. The national park is a part of the Sundarban Delta and was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1984. Numerous birds and animals are sheltering here, including reptiles like saltwater crocodiles. The ecological balance provides a habitat for the most vibrant flora and fauna.
Kalimpong
Kalimpong is a popular West Bengal tourist spot that promises a great holiday with friends, family, or even solo. Plan a trip to Kalimpong if you wish to spend a holiday amidst serenity, as Kalimpong is one of the most beautiful places in West Bengal. It is a hill station offering mesmerizing views of the valley. Kalimpong is also an attraction for Buddhist followers, as a few Buddhist monasteries exist here. Churches and Tibetan handicrafts are also famous. Locals say Bhutanese kings ruled this place, which was also a forward post of the Bhutan army until the 19th century. Some famous attractions in Kalimpong include Jang Dong Palriffo Brang (Monastery), Thongsa Gompa (Bhutanese Monastery), and more.
Siliguri
Siliguri is the major junction connecting the North East to the rest of India; therefore, it is called the “Gateway to the North East.” Situated in the Jalpaiguri and Siliguri districts, it has an international airport that operates as a base for travelers who wish to explore Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Bhutan. Siliguri is a small city and one of the hill places in West Bengal to visit on your tour. It has also become famous for tea and timber. The Jaldapara National Park is a significant sightseeing place for wildlife and nature lovers. It houses Royal Bengal Tigers, one-horned rhinos, and species of deer you can spot on an elephant ride.
Santiniketan
Santiniketan is the “Eternal Abode of Rabindranath Tagore,” a Bengali polymath poet, playwright, writer, composer, philosopher, social reformer, and painter. It is a small town in the Birbhum district with Visva Bharati University, teaching hundreds of students. The father of Rabindranath Tagore built this university, and later, Rabindranath Tagore popularized it to change the Indian education concept. Today, Santiniketan is a peaceful place to visit in West Bengal with loved ones and explore the university where lines of knowledge and brilliance come together.
Digha
Digha is starting to get noticed by tourists around the country. It is a blissful and untouched beach town, ideal for taking your loved ones for a weekend getaway from Kolkata. Located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, Digha has stunning beaches offering mesmerizing sunset views. Also, it features diverse tourist attractions, including the Aquarium of the Zoological Survey of India, Digha Beach, Udaipur Beach, and Amarabati Park. From beaches to temples to research centers and museums, there is a lot to visit in this beach town. Digha also takes pride in having a minimal human impact.
Durgapur
If you want a small-town vibe, Durgapur is one of the best places to visit in West Bengal. Touted as the “Steel Capital of West Bengal,” Durgapur offers more than that. The town houses temples, old markets, and parks where you can spend time and relax. Located in the middle of West Bengal, this industrial town also offers great gastronomical experiences. For a fun weekend getaway, plan a visit to Durgapur. Bhabani Pathak’s Tilla, Durgapur Barrage, Deul Park, Kumaramangalam Park, Troika Park, and Garh Jungle are some of the best tourist attractions in Durgapur.
With this list of tourist places to visit in West Bengal, plan a visit to this state with our West Bengal tour packages, which are customizable. Connect with us by dropping a query and embark on a culturally rich trip to West Bengal.
