West Bengal
West Bengal is known for its bag full of cultures, magic of Baul music, women dressed in traditional saris, striped Bengal tigers, majestic Khangchendzonga and a legendary history. The state proudly houses some of the most remarkable cities where many prominent occurrences of history took place. Though these cities have draped themselves into modernism today, they are still deeply rooted to their past.
Top places to visit in West Bengal:
Kolkata
The beautiful face of West Bengal, Kolkata remains one of the oldest living cities in the country. It is the land of Indian cultural, romantic poetry and artistic charms. The Howrah Bridge of Kolkata is a must visit sight which underlines the brilliance of human mind. Jorasanko Thakurbari is another prominent wonder of history here which once housed the ancestral Tagore family. Park Street of Kolkata is the lifeline of the city where you can have a whale of a time watching local traditions and eating at local restaurants. Travellers also visit the Indian Museum to explore its 35 imposing galleries exhibiting antiquities, artefacts, paintings and mummies.
Darjeeling
Darjeeling has a flourishing tea industry which makes it a heaven for tea lovers. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, renowned with the name of Toy Train, is a dream of every nature lover. This UNESCO World Heritage Site takes you on a beautiful journey between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling. Singalila National Park and Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park of the city are also famous for their remarkable flora and fauna. Here you can spot some endangered species of animals living happily in their natural habitat. Also spot the most beautiful sunrise from the Tiger Hill.
Bankura
Bankura is where the most priceless wonders of nature dwell. Visit Jhilmili to experience the most unseen facades of nature at its best. The forest here is dense and treats you with some remarkable collection of flora and fauna. Gokul Chand Temple of Bankura is also popular as it has historical significance associated with it.
Siliguri
Siliguri is all about historical temples and tea gardens. Visit Kali Mandir here dedicated to Goddess Kali. For nature lovers, the beauty of Chilapata Forest is worth exploring. The forest also has a serene bungalow where you can relish a stay amidst untouched wonders of nature all around. History seekers can plan to explore Nalraja Garh, a 2000 year old fortress.
Murshidabad
This historical wonder was once the capital during the Mughal rule. Today one can find many historical marvels here like Hazaarduari Palace built in the 19th century. Also explore Nizamat Imambara, the largest Imambara of the country constructed by Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah.
How to Reach
Kolkata?s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is well connected with all parts of India and Europe and the Orient. The state has a wide range of railway network with Howrah railway station and Sealdah railway station of Kolkata being the most popular ones. Roads here are in good condition and many state run buses can be found connecting all parts of the state.
