West Bengal- A Cultural Bonanza

Lofty mountains, swampy mangroves, tea draped slopes, heritage buildings and roaring tigers- the magical allure of West Bengal is sure to charm you! An intricate pattern of various cultures & civilizations, this beautiful state boasts of rich culture, a lively art scene and irresistible cuisine. A mish-mash of misty hills destinations, sunny beaches, colonial monuments, and cultural galas- West Bengal packs a power punch of destinations & attractions.

Major Destinations in West Bengal

Kolkata- Enveloped in the Old-World Charm

A charismatic city, that was once the cradle of colonialism, Kolkata, aka Calcutta, has now emerged as the proud capital of West Bengal. Though the city is making strides towards modernity, its charm lies in its nostalgic past of jazz bars, Raj-era buildings, chaotic bazaars, city tram and its super-proud & ever-bantering inhabitants.

Major Attractions of Kolkata

• Victoria Memorial- Showcasing colonial keepsakes
• Birla Temple- Dedicated to Lakshmi Narayana
• Kali Ghat Temple- Dedicated to Goddess Kali.
• Marble Palace- Royal Palace showcasing Indian & European artwork
• Indian Museum- the oldest and the largest museum in the country
• Botanical Gardens

Bishnupur- Architecture in Red Clay

The gorgeous terracotta temples of Bishnupur are a seamless blend of Bengali & Islamic architecture. Built by Malla dynasty in the 17th &18th century, the temples of Bishnupur area are fine specimens of cultures that influenced this region.

• JorBangla Temple
• Rasmancha- A place for public celebrations during the rule of Malla Kings.
• Madan Mohan Temple
• Dalmadal Kaman Canon- Royal canon of the Malla dynasty
• Radhe Govind Temple- Dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha

Darjeeling- The Tea Capital of India

This tiny town, located on the Himalayan foothills &carpeted with emerald tea plantations, is a picture of beauty and tranquility. Visit the stunning monasteries, walk the mountain trails, ride a century-old toy train and have a steaming cuppa of fine Darjeeling Tea- Darjeeling has it all!

Major Attractions of Darjeeling

• Singalila National Park- Spot wildlife amidst Rhododendron jungles.
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
• Tiger Hill
• Observatory Hill & Mahakal Temple
• Darjeeling Toy Train- A UNESCO World Heritage
• Japanese Peace Pagoda

Kalimpong- Nature at its Best

Darjeeling’s equally pretty cousin, Kalimpong, sits perched on a ridge with the majestic Kanchenjunga towering over it and roaring Teesta at its foot. Stunning Himalayan views, pretty monasteries, charming Georgian bungalows and fascinating orchids lure to Kalimpong.

Major Attractions of Kalimpong

• Deolo Hill- Try your hand at horse riding, trekking and paragliding on this picturesque hill.
• Kalimpong Cactus Nursery
• Zong Dog Palri Fo Brang Gompa- Buddhist Monastery
• Crockety- An elegant colonial bungalow

Sunderbans National Park- Tiger Territory

These sweltering mangrove jungles, a UNESCO-listed heritage, are home to the Royal Bengal Tigers. Exotic boat safaris in crocodile infested waters make for a thrilling adventure.

Fairs & Festivals of West Bengal

• Durga Puja- Worshipping the many forms of Goddess Durga. A religious & culture celebration.
• Rash Mela- Dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha
• Vasantotsav- Spring festival in Shanti Niketan
• Teesta Tea & Tourism Festival
• Kolkata Rath Yatra- Temple Chariot Festival
• Gangasagar Mela- Dedicated to Mother Ganges

Food in West Bengal

Traditional fish curry, mutton curry, Chelo Kebabas, Kolkathi Kathi Rolls, and Puchkas are some of the traditional Bengali delicacies. Its hills however, influenced by Nepal & Tibet, bring out flavors of Momos, Thupkas and Gundruk. And don’t miss its sweet & juicy Roshogulla!

Shopping in West Bengal

A range of sarees including Kantha, Tant and Baluchari sarees, sugar-white SolaPith artifacts, terracotta images, Dokra handicrafts, Kalighat Paintings, Putul Dolls (puppet) and Darjeeling Tea are some of the must-buy souvenirs from West Bengal.

Best Time to Visit

West Bengal is best visited in winters from October to March. However, October is the best month to visit when the state gears up for Durga Puja celebrations.
Check out our Tour Packages for a wonderful experience in this Cultural Capital of India where monuments, heritage, ruins, culture and art create a beautiful web that is sure to capture your heart. Do reach us for custom made packages for your travel group.