West Bengal is the ‘sweetest state in India”. It has a great depth of history and culture. A former jewel for the British Crown, Bengal’s heritage has a fair share of European colonization by the French, Dutch, Portuguese Danish etc. This colonial cultural and the indigenous heritage of Bengal gives a parallel blend for tourists to visit and discover what this state has to offer in terms of history, culture, festivity, and monuments. Here are the places that every tourist must visit if they are in West Bengal:
1. The City of Joy: Kolkata
The former capital of India, and the current capital of West Bengal, it got this title from Dominique Lapierre’s novel, “The City of Joy”. Kolkata is a bland of British and Bengali culture parallely woven together. One must visit the city, especially in Durga Puja when it is beautifully lit up. One must visit Park Street to savour the food and jazz music. The north part of the city upholds the Bengali heritage and you might discover the havelis, the potter’s colony. If you want literature then head to the College Street to delve into books. Also, there is the China Town, where you will get a taste of oriental culture. And do not forget to take a boat ride at Hugly river seeing the Howrah bridge.
2. Darjeeling
This is paradise for Bengalis during the summer break and the respite from humidity. Darjeeling is a small hill station in North Bengal. Surrounded by K2 and Kanchenjunga, the Tiger Hill gives you the mesmerizing view of the mountains. If you are a tea-lover, visit the estates and take the tea as a token of memorable souvenir. The streets of Darjeeling are great to discover new restaurants and street shopping. If you love British breakfast, Glenary’s and Keventers should be the ideal place to savor some delicious bacon and pancakes. The trip to Darjeeling is incomplete without the toy train ride, so keep it in your bucket list.
3. Mandarmani
From the hills, now to the beach, Mandarmani is the ideal weekend getaway for beach lovers. It is India’s longest beach for driving. It is a place of leisure where you can loosen up and relax around the tranquility of nature and the waves of the beach. If high on budget, you can stay at private resorts and also take part in adventure sports such as banana boat rides, jet ski, surfing. And, of course, do not forget to try some delicious crabs and pomfrets while you are there.
4. Shantiniketan
If you are looking for spirituality and tranquility in your travel, Shantiniketan is the place for you to visit. It is located in bolpur town and easily accessible by train and private cars. It is a place where Tagore found the true meaning of boundless education and knowledge. The ebay time to visit it during December and March when the town celebrates the “Poush mela” (winter festival) and the “Vasant Utsav” ( Holi). The entire town can be seen full of color and lights. It is a place to embrace local folk music of the Bauls and see the Santhal dance, and imbibe in the solitude of nature.
5. Bishnupur
This 15th century town is ideal for tourists who love history and culture. The town is known for its architectural marvel of terracotta temples. The town was once upon a time flourished with art and music when the Malla rulers patronized the performing arts. If you love organic textiles and ethnic wear, then this town is the industrial hub for the perfect Baluchari silk sarees which are exquisite.
6. Chandannagar
The French quarters of West Bengal, Chandannagar gives you the vibes of Southern France with its yellow and pastel hues. See the churches or enjoy the scenic view at the Strand Road, Chandannagar has a laid back vibe. You may relish the mix of Bengali sweets with a French touch. The town is at its utmost glory especially during Jagadhatri Puja in the autumn season.
West Bengal is precipice of old school heritage and colonial history. It has been bestowed with natural and architectural history that will marvel any tourist. The beauty of West Bengal is a treasure of travelers and one might run out of camera storage to capture all of it.
By Aditi Chakraborty
Image Source:
https://www.holidify.com/places/kolkata/
