Travel : West Bengal : Best places to see, best seasons & tasty food

 



West Bengal, a state in eastern India, offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From cultural heritage sites to natural beauty, here are some of the best places to visit in West Bengal:

  1. Kolkata (Calcutta):

    • The capital city of West Bengal, known for its historical significance and cultural vibrancy.
    • Visit the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and Belur Math.
    • Explore the vibrant markets, street food stalls, and colonial-era buildings in the city. Other spors to visit are Science city, Zoological Gardens, Birla Planetarium, new hubs in Rajarhat & various malls

  2. Darjeeling:

    • Famous for its tea gardens and stunning views of the Himalayas, including the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga.
    • Take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train).
    • Visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park and the Peace Pagoda.

  3. Sundarbans:

    • A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world and home to the Royal Bengal tigers.
    • Explore the unique ecosystem through boat safaris and wildlife spotting.

  4. Siliguri:

    • Often used as a gateway to other destinations in the region, such as Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Bhutan.
    • Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and Salugara Monastery are popular attractions.

  5. Digha:

    • A popular beach destination known for its wide sandy beaches and pleasant weather.
    • Enjoy water sports, beachside relaxation, and the New Digha Marine Aquarium.

  6. Kalimpong:

    • A serene hill station with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
    • Explore flower nurseries, Buddhist monasteries, and the Durpin Dara viewpoint.

  7. Shantiniketan:

    • Founded by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, it's a cultural hub and an institution for arts and learning.
    • Experience the Poush Mela, an annual fair celebrating local culture, music, and art.

  8. Murshidabad:

    • A historical town on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, known for its architectural heritage and silk production.
    • Visit Hazarduari Palace, Katra Mosque, and the tombs of Siraj-ud-Daulah and his family.

  9. Bishnupur:

    • Famous for its terracotta temples and unique Baluchari sarees.
    • Explore the Rasmancha, Shyamrai Temple, and Jorbangla Temple.

  10. Gorumara National Park:

    • Known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the Indian rhinoceros and various bird species.
    • Enjoy jungle safaris and stay in eco-resorts within the park.

These are just a few of the many remarkable places to explore in West Bengal. The state's blend of culture, history, and natural beauty ensures that there's something for every type of traveller.




Best Seasons

West Bengal experiences a tropical climate with distinct seasons. The best time to visit depends on your preferences and the activities you have in mind. Here are the main seasons in West Bengal:

  1. Winter (October to February):

    • Winter is considered the best time to visit West Bengal, especially for tourists who want to explore the cities, hill stations, and cultural attractions.
    • The weather is pleasantly cool and comfortable, making it ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and trekking in the hills.
    • This is a popular time to visit places like Kolkata, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Shantiniketan.

  2. Spring (March to April):

    • Spring is another good time to visit as the weather remains mild and pleasant.
    • It's a great time to explore various natural attractions, especially if you enjoy blooming flowers and lush landscapes.
    • You can visit places like the Sundarbans, Bishnupur, and Gorumara National Park during this period.

  3. Summer (May to June):

    • Summers in West Bengal can be hot and humid, especially in the plains and cities like Kolkata.
    • Hill stations like Darjeeling and Kalimpong offer a respite from the heat, with temperatures remaining relatively cooler.
    • If you're planning to visit during this time, focusing on hill stations and higher-altitude destinations is recommended.

  4. Monsoon (July to September):

    • Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to West Bengal, which can lead to flooding and travel disruptions, especially in lower-lying areas.
    • However, if you're interested in experiencing the lush greenery and the cultural events that sometimes take place during monsoon, you might find this period interesting.
    • Be prepared for rain and consider checking local conditions before traveling.

Keep in mind that specific weather conditions can vary across different regions of West Bengal. For example, the plains and coastal areas might experience higher temperatures and humidity compared to the hill stations. It's a good idea to check the weather forecast and plan your visit according to your preferences and the activities you want to engage in.




Cuisines

West Bengal is renowned for its rich and diverse culinary traditions, influenced by the state's culture and geography. Here are some of the prominent and delicious cuisines you should try when visiting West Bengal:

  1. Bengali Sweets (Mishti):

    • Rosogolla: Soft and spongy cottage cheese balls soaked in sugar syrup.
    • Sandesh: Sweet made from fresh paneer (cottage cheese) and flavored with cardamom or saffron.
    • Rasgulla: Similar to rosogolla but with a different texture and preparation.
    • Sondesh: A variety of sandesh with different flavors and ingredients.

  2. Fish and Seafood Preparations:

    • Machher Jhol: A light fish curry with various spices and vegetables.
    • Shorshe Ilish: Hilsa fish cooked in a mustard-based gravy, a classic Bengali delicacy.
    • Chingri Malai Curry: Prawn curry cooked with coconut milk and traditional spices.
    • Bhapa Ilish: Hilsa fish marinated with mustard paste and steamed in banana leaves.

  3. Vegetarian Dishes:

    • Shukto: A mixed vegetable dish flavored with mustard and poppy seed paste.
    • Aloo Posto: Potatoes cooked in a poppy seed paste with a distinct nutty flavor.
    • Mochar Ghonto: A curry made from banana flowers and various spices.
    • Dhokar Dalna: Lentil cakes cooked in a flavorful curry.

  4. Rice and Breads:

    • Luchi and Aloo Dum: Deep-fried puffed bread served with spicy potato curry.
    • Panta Bhat: Fermented rice soaked in water, usually eaten with fried fish, pickles, and green chilies.

  5. Street Food:

    • Phuchka (Puchka or Golgappa): Crispy hollow puris filled with spicy tamarind water, potatoes, and chickpeas.
    • Jhal Muri: A spicy and tangy mixture of puffed rice, peanuts, spices, and vegetables.
    • Kathi Rolls: Paratha wraps filled with various options like chicken, mutton, paneer, and vegetables.

  6. Sweets and Snacks:

    • Chhanar Payesh: A sweet rice pudding made with cottage cheese.
    • Pati Shapta: Thin crepes filled with coconut, khoya, and jaggery.
    • Chanar Jilipi: Cottage cheese-based sweet spirals deep-fried and soaked in sugar syrup.

  7. Traditional Bengali Thali:

    • A typical meal served on a banana leaf, featuring rice, lentils, vegetables, fish or meat curry, chutneys, and sweets.

  8. Chops and Cutlets:

    • Mutton or fish cutlets and vegetable chops are popular snacks with a crispy coating.

Exploring these traditional Bengali dishes will give you a deep insight into the culinary heritage of West Bengal and its unique flavors.




Air, Rail & Road connectivity

West Bengal is served by several domestic and international airlines that operate flights to and from various airports in the state. The primary airport in West Bengal is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) located in Kolkata, which is the main gateway for air travel in the state. Here are some of the major airlines that operate in West Bengal:

  1. Air India: The national carrier of India, Air India, operates domestic and international flights from Kolkata's Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.

  2. IndiGo: IndiGo is one of the largest and most popular low-cost airlines in India, with a significant presence at Kolkata's airport. They offer domestic flights to various destinations.

  3. SpiceJet: Another prominent low-cost airline, SpiceJet, operates domestic flights connecting Kolkata with multiple cities across India.

  4. GoAir: GoAir is a budget airline that serves domestic routes from Kolkata.

  5. Vistara: Vistara is a full-service airline that offers domestic flights from Kolkata to several major cities in India.

  6. AirAsia India: AirAsia India is a low-cost airline that operates domestic flights from Kolkata.

  7. Airports Authority of India (AAI): AAI operates several regional airports in West Bengal, including Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri, which connects to various domestic destinations.

These are just a few of the airlines that operate in West Bengal. Depending on your travel needs, you can choose from a range of options that offer both domestic and international connectivity. Keep in mind that airline operations and routes can change, so it's recommended to check with the airlines or travel agencies for the most up-to-date information before booking your flights.

West Bengal is well-connected to various parts of India by the Indian Railways network, which is one of the largest and most extensive rail networks in the world. The state has numerous railway stations that serve as important transportation hubs. Some of the major railway stations in West Bengal are:

  1. Howrah Junction (HWH): Located in Kolkata, Howrah Junction is one of the busiest and most important railway stations in India. It serves as a major gateway to West Bengal and other parts of the country.

  2. Sealdah Railway Station (SDAH): Also located in Kolkata, Sealdah is another important railway station handling a significant number of trains, including both long-distance and suburban services.

  3. Kolkata Railway Station (KOAA): This station primarily serves long-distance trains and is located in the heart of Kolkata.

  4. New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP): Situated near Siliguri, New Jalpaiguri is a gateway to the hill stations of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Sikkim.

  5. Asansol Junction (ASN): Asansol is a major railway division and a crucial station connecting eastern and northern India.

  6. Malda Town Railway Station (MLDT): Located in Malda, this station serves as an important railhead for northern West Bengal and the adjoining areas.

  7. Howrah-Bardhaman Chord Line: This rail route connects Howrah with Bardhaman (Burdwan), offering an important link between Kolkata and western parts of West Bengal.

  8. Durgapur Railway Station (DGR): Durgapur is an industrial city with a significant railway station connecting it to various parts of the state and beyond.

  9. Bankura Railway Station (BQA): Bankura is an important railway junction in southern West Bengal.

These are just a few examples of the many railway stations in West Bengal. The Indian Railways website and apps provide information on train schedules, availability, and booking options. When planning your trip to West Bengal by train, consider your starting point, destination, and the type of train service you prefer (express, superfast, etc.).


West Bengal is well-connected to the rest of India through an extensive road network of national and state highways. The state has multiple entry points, and major cities and destinations within West Bengal are accessible by road. Here are some of the key roadways to West Bengal:

  1. National Highways: Several national highways run through West Bengal, connecting it to neighboring states and major cities across India. Some of the important national highways include:

    • NH-2: Connects Delhi to Kolkata, passing through Asansol and Durgapur.
    • NH-6: Connects Mumbai to Kolkata, passing through major cities like Nagpur, Raipur, and Sambalpur.
    • NH-34: Connects Kolkata to Siliguri, passing through important towns like Krishnanagar, Baharampur, and Malda.
    • NH-31: Connects Barauni in Bihar to Guwahati in Assam, passing through Siliguri.
    • NH-60: Connects Kolkata to Asansol and Dhanbad in Jharkhand.

  2. State Highways: West Bengal has an extensive network of state highways that connect various towns, cities, and rural areas within the state.

  3. Entry Points to West Bengal:

    • West Bengal shares borders with multiple states: Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, Sikkim, and Assam. Roads from these neighboring states provide entry points into West Bengal.
    • If you're coming from the western parts of India, NH-6 and NH-2 are common routes.

  4. Hill Roads: The hill stations of Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Sikkim are accessible by road. The road to Darjeeling, known as the "Darjeeling Himalayan Road," offers scenic views but can be narrow and winding.

  5. City Roads: Major cities like Kolkata have well-developed road networks with multi-lane roads and expressways.

  6. Interstate Buses and Private Transport: State-run and private buses operate services to and from various destinations within West Bengal and neighboring states.

When traveling by road, keep in mind that road conditions and traffic can vary. It's advisable to check the route, road conditions, and weather conditions before embarking on a road trip. Additionally, road travel times may vary depending on the distance and the route taken.

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