West Bengal Is In Which Direction
Introduction
Located in the eastern part of India, West Bengal is a state that offers a diverse range of experiences to travelers. Whether you’re looking for historical landmarks, natural wonders or a vibrant nightlife scene, West Bengal has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, and more that this state has to offer.
Top Attractions
Kolkata
Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, is known for its rich history and culture. The city is home to several iconic landmarks such as the Victoria Memorial, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Howrah Bridge. You can also explore the local markets of Kolkata, such as the New Market and the Gariahat Market, to get a taste of the local life.
Darjeeling
Darjeeling is a picturesque hill station in West Bengal that is known for its tea plantations and stunning views of the Himalayas. Take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the ‘Toy Train,’ to experience the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. You can also visit the Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga Peak, the third highest mountain in the world.
Hidden Gems
Shantiniketan
Shantiniketan is a small town in West Bengal that is known for its association with Rabindranath Tagore, a famous poet and writer. The town is home to the Visva-Bharati University, which was founded by Tagore himself. You can visit the university to explore the campus and learn more about Tagore’s life and works.
Bishnupur
Bishnupur is a town in West Bengal that is known for its terracotta temples. These temples were built during the 17th and 18th centuries and are a fine example of the region’s architecture. You can also visit the Bishnupur Mela, a fair that is held every year and showcases the local art and culture.
Food Scene
West Bengal is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of Bengali, Mughlai and British influences. Some of the must-try dishes include the famous Kolkata biryani, fish curry, roshogolla, and sandesh. You can also explore the street food scene in Kolkata, which offers a variety of snacks and sweets.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, there are several ways to save money in West Bengal. You can opt for homestays or budget hotels instead of luxury accommodations, use public transport instead of taxis, and eat at local eateries instead of fancy restaurants. You can also explore the free attractions and walking tours that are available in several cities.
Outdoor Adventures
Sunderbans
The Sunderbans is a mangrove forest in West Bengal that is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger. You can take a boat safari to explore the forest and spot the tigers, as well as other wildlife such as crocodiles and birds.
Dooars
Dooars is a region in West Bengal that is known for its tea gardens and national parks. You can go on a jeep safari in the Gorumara National Park to spot elephants, rhinos, and other animals. You can also visit the tea gardens to learn more about the tea-making process and sample some of the local tea.
Historical Landmarks
Kalighat Temple
The Kalighat Temple is a famous temple in Kolkata that is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali. The temple is believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, or holy abodes of the goddess, and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
Murshidabad
Murshidabad is a historical city in West Bengal that was once the capital of the Bengal region. The city is home to several historical landmarks such as the Hazarduari Palace, the Katra Mosque, and the Nizamat Imambara. You can also visit the nearby village of Azimganj to see the beautiful terracotta temples.
Family-Friendly Activities
Nicco Park
Nicco Park is an amusement park in Kolkata that offers a variety of rides and attractions for children and adults alike. The park is home to several water rides, roller coasters, and a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city.
Aquatica
Aquatica is a water park in Kolkata that is ideal for families with children. The park offers a variety of water rides and attractions such as wave pools, lazy rivers, and water slides. You can also relax on the artificial beach or enjoy a meal at one of the park’s restaurants.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Jairambati
Jairambati is a small town in West Bengal that is known for its association with the saint Ramakrishna. You can visit the Ramakrishna Math and the Sarada Devi Temple to learn more about the saint and his teachings. You can also explore the nearby village of Kamarpukur to see the birthplace of Ramakrishna.
Taki
Taki is a small town in West Bengal that is located on the border of India and Bangladesh. You can take a boat ride on the Ichamati River to explore the town and enjoy the scenic views. You can also visit the Taki Rajbari, a historical palace that was once the residence of the local king.
Natural Wonders
Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary
The Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Sunderbans that is home to a variety of wildlife such as tigers, crocodiles, and dolphins. You can take a boat safari to explore the sanctuary and spot the animals in their natural habitat.
Mangalajodi Wetlands
The Mangalajodi Wetlands are located in the outskirts of Kolkata and are home to a variety of birds such as egrets, herons, and kingfishers. You can take a boat ride to explore the wetlands and watch the birds in their natural habitat.
Vibrant Nightlife
Kolkata is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, which offers a variety of options such as bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Some of the popular nightlife spots in the city include Park Street, Camac Street, and Salt Lake City.
Local Markets
West Bengal is home to several local markets that offer a variety of products such as handicrafts, textiles, and spices. Some of the popular markets include the New Market and the Gariahat Market in Kolkata, the Malda Silk Market in Malda, and the Darjeeling Tea Market in Darjeeling.
Beaches and Mountains
Digha Beach
Digha Beach is a popular beach destination in West Bengal that is known for its scenic views and water sports activities. You can go for a swim, take a stroll on the beach, or enjoy some of the local seafood dishes at the nearby restaurants.
Sandakphu
Sandakphu is a trekking destination in West Bengal that offers stunning views of the Himalayas. The trek takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region and offers a glimpse into the local life of the people living in the Himalayan villages.
Cultural Immersion
West Bengal is known for its rich culture, which is reflected in its art, music, and literature. You can attend the local festivals and fairs, such as the Durga Puja and the Kolkata Book Fair, to experience the local culture first-hand. You can also visit the local museums and galleries to learn more about the region’s history and art.
Art and Music Scene
West Bengal is home to several art and music festivals, which showcase the local talent and culture. Some of the popular festivals include the Kolkata International Film Festival, the Dover Lane Music Conference, and the Kolkata Art Festival. You can also visit the local theaters and musical venues to enjoy the performances by the local artists.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore the cities of West Bengal and learn more about their history and culture. You can take a walking tour of Kolkata to explore the local markets, historical landmarks, and street food scene. You can also take a walking tour of Darjeeling to explore the tea gardens and learn more about the tea-making process.
Architectural Marvels
Victoria Memorial
The Victoria Memorial is an iconic landmark in Kolkata that was built in memory of Queen Victoria. The monument is a fine example of the Indo-Saracenic architecture and is surrounded by beautiful