West Bengal is a state that has everything in it. You will find busy metropolitans, historical towns, wavy beach towns, or jungles in one go. To get mesmerized by the stunning places in West Bengal, you have to have time on your hands.
The state will open its bits and parts slowly to amaze you and your trip is going to happen. These are some of the best places we have discussed below that you should visit when you are in West Bengal. Read on to know more-
Check Out These 10 Incredible Places To Visit In West Bengal:
1. Kolkata
To begin the list of the best places to visit in West Bengal, we didn’t find anything better than the capital city. ‘The City of Joy’ can wipe off all your boringness of life and fill it with life and vibrancy. If you have never been to Kolkata before, you won’t understand how the city is different than any other metropolitan of the country. A 350-year-old city will give you the perfect vibe of historical tours along with modern and young nightlife.
You can taste authentic Bengali foods at the 5-star restaurants while the street food junctions will take much of your time. From being your shopping destination to getting engulfed in the nostalgic waves, Kolkata can be your best friend and compel you to never say goodbye to it. Want to enjoy the different sides of this city? Visit it at any season and it will appear new to you.
Highlights: Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Indian Museum, St. Paul’s Cathedral, College Street (Boi Para).
Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
Activities: Explore colonial architecture, ride a tram, enjoy local street food, visit bustling markets, and attend cultural festivals like Durga Puja.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.
- By Train: Howrah and Sealdah Railway Stations.
- By Road: Well-connected by road with major cities and towns.
2. Darjeeling
Let’s head north to witness the snowy Kanchenjunga with all its beauty. Yes, we are talking about the famous hill station of West Bengal, Darjeeling. When people of this state get agitated with the scorching sun and hot and humid summer, the first destination they can think of is Darjeeling. This hill station still has colonial charm while the natural beauty is mind-blowing.
The lush green tea garden, the colorful rhododendrons, and the cloudy pine forest can create the perfect ambiance for tourists. Once you are here, you should not miss riding on the toy train, the glory of Darjeeling. You can visit plenty of waterfalls, astounding views of the Himalayas, Buddhist monasteries, museums, and many other places. The captivating natural beauty and the Tibetan food give you a perfect vacation.
Highlights: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Tiger Hill, Peace Pagoda, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, tea gardens.
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November.
Activities: Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas, take a toy train ride, visit tea estates, and witness the sunrise at Tiger Hill.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Bagdogra Airport (approx. 70 km away).
- By Train: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (approx. 62 km away).
- By Road: Connected via NH10; regular bus and taxi services from Siliguri.
3. Bankura
Each district of West Bengal has its own charm. Located on the west side of West Bengal, Bankura is a perfect destination for history buffs and artistic minds. First of all, you can make your trip adventurous as Bankura has hills to trek and hike. Trek to Susunia Hills and Biharinath Hills from where you can enjoy a great view of the area. These hills are full of rough terrain and cliffs that will make your trip more adventurous.
Arrange a trip near Mukutmonipur Dam and have a great picnic there. The Terracotta temples of Bankura are not only historical documents to tourists, but they are the epitome of the astounding architecture of Bengal. Visit the Rasmancha, Krishna-Balaram Temple, or Gokul Chand Temple and you will be astonished by seeing the intricate work of architecture.
Highlights: Bishnupur’s terracotta temples, Susunia Hills, Mukutmanipur Dam, and Joypur Forest.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Activities: Explore historical temples, go hiking at Susunia Hills, enjoy water activities at Mukutmanipur Dam, and experience rural craftsmanship.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (nearest major airport, approx. 185 km away).
- By Train: Bankura Railway Station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road; regular buses from Kolkata and nearby towns.
Read also folk dance of West Bengal: West Bengal’s Vibrant Folk Dance Culture
4. Kalimpong
Kalimpong is another hill station in West Bengal which has not lost its glory under the glamour of Darjeeling. Not only in West Bengal, but this place is one of the most beautiful hill stations in north-eastern India. With mighty hills, lush green vegetation, thick bamboo groves, long meadows, beautiful hamlets, and green pastures, Kalimpong will make you fall in love with it instantly.
Once you are here, you should visit the 18th Century Dharmodaya Vihar Nepalese Temple, the heritage landmark of this place. Also, visit the highest points of Kalimpong, the Deolo Hills, and the 8-acre garden where you can visit the huge Buddha idol, and enjoy local foods, and pony rides. You can also visit other local attractions, like Galingka, Morgan House, Dr. Graham’s House, etc.
Highlights: Deolo Hill, Kalimpong Cactus Nursery, Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, Durpin Dara Hill, Pine View Nursery.
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November.
Activities: Visit nurseries and monasteries, enjoy panoramic views from Deolo Hill, and experience the serene environment.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Bagdogra Airport (approx. 79 km away).
- By Train: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (approx. 77 km away).
- By Road: Connected via NH10; regular bus and taxi services from Siliguri.
6 Days Gangtok Kalimpong Darjeeling Trip
5. Siliguri
The North Bengal has its own charm and it won’t let you go that easily. Known as the ‘Gateway to North-east India’, Siliguri is one of the most beautiful hilly towns with lots of beauty. The city is serene and famous for tea, music scenes in movies, timber, and wildlife. You should not miss visiting the Jaldapara National Park, located on the banks of the Torsa River.
If you are lucky, you can get to see the giant elephants, one-horned rhinoceros, several species of deer, and obviously, the Royal Bengal Tiger. Another wildlife park you can visit in Siliguri is the North Bengal Wild Animals Park. It is part of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and stretches more than 300 hectares. This place is exclusive for the unique flora and fauna you can visit here.
Highlights: Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Salugara Monastery, Kali Mandir, Coronation Bridge, Hong Kong Market.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Activities: Shop at Hong Kong Market, explore wildlife at Mahananda Sanctuary, visit temples and monasteries, and enjoy local cuisine.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Bagdogra Airport (approx. 15 km away).
- By Train: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road; regular buses and taxis from nearby cities.
6. Sunderbans
You are in West Bengal and how can you miss the dwelling ground of the most ferocious and royal animal of India, the Royal Bengal Tiger? Yes, to visit the ‘royalty’ you need to head south and visit Sunderbans. Apart from the tiger, this place is also on the map of the world for housing the largest mangrove forest in the world.
Spread around 102 islands, this place has its extended part in the neighboring country, Bangladesh. You need to hire a boat and can explore the canals and rivers here. Apart from tigers, you can visit various species of birds, deer, monkeys, and crocodiles. Read Also: How to Reach Sundarban from Kolkata.
Highlights: Sunderbans National Park, Royal Bengal Tigers, mangrove forests, Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary, boat safaris.
Best Time to Visit: November to March.
Activities: Take a boat safari to spot wildlife, explore mangrove forests, visit watchtowers, and learn about the unique ecosystem.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (nearest major airport, approx. 112 km to nearest entry point like Godkhali).
- By Train: Canning Railway Station.
- By Road: Buses and taxis are available to reach entry points like Godkhali, followed by boat rides.
3 Days Sundarban Trip Itinerary
7. Shantiniketan
You are in West Bengal and leaving the state without visiting Shantiniketan will be a great mistake. Entangled with the memories of Rabindranath Tagore, this place is still encouraging the culture and heritage that the world-famous poet had incorporated here.
Visit Viswa Bharati and you can feel the charm of Tagore throughout. Shantiniketan, the abode of peace as it says, is the place where you can find the peacefulness of mind along with the wilderness of the Santhal tribes in their music, dance, and food.
To grab a completely different experience away from the hustle-bustle of the city, you can arrange a trip for a day or two to Shantiniketan. To get the festivity of this place, you can visit it here during Holi when the Basanta Utsav is celebrated in March or in December when the ‘Poush Mela’ (a large fair) is organized.
Highlights: Visva-Bharati University, Tagore’s Ashram, Amar Kutir, Kopai River, Poush Mela.
Best Time to Visit: November to March.
Activities: Explore the university and museums, attend cultural festivals, shop for handicrafts, and enjoy the peaceful rural landscape.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (nearest major airport, approx. 163 km away).
- By Train: Bolpur Shantiniketan Railway Station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road; regular buses and taxis from Kolkata.
8. Digha
This is one of the most popular beach towns in West Bengal that you must visit. You don’t need to plan much, need a long holiday or anything. Just look for a weekend, hire a car, and set on a journey. The magical beaches, the amazing museums, and the religious temples wait for you to visit Digha whenever you want.
Play with the waves of the Bay of Bengal in New Digha or sit on the boulders of Old Digha, this entire beach town is charming and wonderful. There are exotic beaches, like Talsari Beach, Udaipur Beach, Shankarpur Beach, etc. are wonderful destinations in Digha.
Highlights: Digha Beach, Marine Aquarium and Regional Centre, Udaipur Beach, Talsari Beach, Shankarpur Beach.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Activities: Relax on beaches, visit the aquarium, enjoy seafood, and take boat rides.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (nearest major airport, approx. 190 km away).
- By Train: Digha Railway Station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road; regular buses and taxis from Kolkata and nearby towns.
9. Mandarmani
If you want to avoid the crowd of tourists in Digha, Mandarmani is another seaside village that will enchant you. Located on the northern end of the Bay of Bengal, this place is free from crowds and also you will find solitude to spend your time here.
Relax on the seashore, swim in the water, or walk along the shoreline alone or with your partner, it is only the music of the waves and the calls of the seagulls that will charm your ears. Take a break from your busy schedule of weekdays and have a nice weekend trip at Mandarmani.
Highlights: Mandarmani Beach, Delta (Mohana) Point, local seafood.
Best Time to Visit: October to February.
Activities: Enjoy beach activities, ride ATVs, visit the Mohana for bird-watching, and savor fresh seafood.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (nearest major airport, approx. 180 km away).
- By Train: Contai or Kanthi Railway Station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road; regular buses and taxis from Kolkata and nearby towns.
10. Murshidabad
Murshidabad once the capital of West Bengal was transferred to Kolkata by the British rulers. But, this place still has the essence of the nawabs of the Bengals in its buildings, mosques, museums, etc.
Throbbing with the memories of Nawab Siraj-Ud-Doula, Murshidabad will welcome you with historical essence. When you are here, visit Hajar Duari Palace, Nasipur Palace, Wasef Manzil, Katra Mosque, Jahankosha Canon, Imambara, and many other attractions.
Highlights: Hazarduari Palace, Nizamat Imambara, Katra Mosque, Nasipur Palace, Kathgola Gardens.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Activities: Explore historical monuments, visit museums, take boat rides on the Bhagirathi River, and enjoy local cuisine.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (nearest major airport, approx. 200 km away).
- By Train: Murshidabad Railway Station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road; regular buses and taxis from Kolkata and nearby towns.
11. Navadvipa
If you are a devotee of Lord Krishna, this pilgrimage is for you. If not, it is the stunning beauty of the village in West Bengal that will keep you attached to this place. Located on the western bank of River Hooghly, this place is pious because it is the birthplace of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu in the 10th Century. The historical significance of this place is very high while it has also religious importance in the state.
Highlights: ISKCON Temple, Chaitanya Math, Nabadwip Dham, Ballal Dhipi, Sonar Gouranga Mandir.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
Activities: Visit temples and mathas, participate in religious ceremonies, explore historical sites, and enjoy boat rides on the Ganges.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (nearest major airport, approx. 120 km away).
- By Train: Nabadwip Dham Railway Station.
- By Road: Well-connected by road; regular buses and taxis from Kolkata and nearby towns.
So, these are the top 10 places in West Bengal that you can visit on your next trip. The state has gems in its sleeves that can’t be explored in one go. So, make your itinerary carefully and cover as much as you can.
Also, check more details on West Bengal:
- Places to See West Bengal in March
- West Bengal’s Top 11 Destinations to Visit in Monsoon
- 17 Most Famous Honeymoon Places in West Bengal
- West Bengal 9 Popular Historical Destinations
- 5 Most Beautiful Lakes in West Bengal
- West Bengal 6 Famous Hill Stations to Visit
How to Reach West Bengal
West Bengal is well-connected to the rest of India and the world by air, rail, and road. Here are the details on how to reach West Bengal:
By Air
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata): This is the primary international airport serving West Bengal, located in Kolkata. It connects the state to major cities across India and various international destinations. Regular flights are available from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, and international destinations such as Dhaka, Bangkok, Singapore, and Dubai.
Bagdogra Airport (Siliguri): Located near Siliguri, this airport serves the northern part of West Bengal and connects to cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and international destinations like Paro (Bhutan). It’s the gateway to the northeastern region and the hill stations of Darjeeling and Kalimpong.
Other Regional Airports: West Bengal also has smaller airports like Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport in Durgapur, which connect to other parts of India.
By Train
Howrah Junction: One of India’s largest and busiest railway stations, Howrah Junction in Kolkata is a major hub that connects West Bengal with all parts of India. Trains from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad frequently arrive here.
Sealdah Railway Station: Another major railway station in Kolkata, Sealdah handles a large volume of passenger traffic and connects to various destinations in West Bengal and other states.
New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station: Serving the northern part of the state, NJP is the main railhead for travelers heading to Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Bhutan. It has good connectivity with Kolkata, Delhi, and other major cities.
Other Railway Stations: West Bengal has numerous railway stations across the state, including those in Siliguri, Durgapur, Asansol, and Malda, facilitating easy access to different regions.
By Road
National Highways: West Bengal is well-connected by a network of national highways, making road travel convenient. Major highways like NH 12, NH 16, NH 34, and NH 114 connect the state to neighboring regions and other parts of India.
Bus Services: The state has a robust network of state-run and private bus services. The West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) and other private operators run regular bus services to and from Kolkata and other major cities within the state and neighboring states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Assam.
Taxi and Car Rentals: Taxi and car rental services are widely available in major cities and towns, providing an alternative mode of road travel for reaching different parts of the state.
By Sea
Port of Kolkata: The Port of Kolkata, one of the oldest operating ports in India, facilitates cargo and passenger movement. While primarily a cargo port, some cruise services are available, connecting to destinations along the eastern coast of India.
Inland Water Transport: West Bengal has a well-developed inland water transport system, particularly along the Hooghly River. Ferries and boats operate between various points in and around Kolkata, providing a scenic and alternative mode of transport.
