Top 15 Places To Visit In West Bengal In October For A Culturally Rich Escape

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata, showcasing its architecture, one of the best places to visit in West Bengal in October.

It’s no wonder that delightful weather, festive atmosphere, and picturesque countryside make this a better season to discover the amazing list of places to visit in West Bengal in October.The monsoon season eases, welcoming all the splendour of West Bengal’s cultural celebrations like Durga Puja and relaxing getaways in nature. From the amazing city lights of Kolkata, the hills of Kalimpong, and the wild lust of Sundarbans, October is sure to offer enjoyable experiences. Whether you choose cultural heritage, festivals or picturesque nature, this month offers the best of what diverse Bengal has to offer.

15 Places To Visit In West Bengal In October

The places to visit in West Bengal in October are vibrant, with colourful festiveness, cool breezes, and cultural intensity.

1. Kolkata

St. Paul’s Cathedral in Kolkata, showcasing its Gothic Revival architecture, one of the top places to visit in West Bengal in October.

Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons

Kolkata (or Calcutta) is known as the cultural capital of India, and visiting in October means experiencing a blend of heritage, culture, and festivals. As Durga Puja hits its peak, Kolkata becomes a vibrant place of celebration, with elaborate pandals, idol processions, and festivities that last into the night. Walking around areas like North Kolkata will reveal a lot of colonial architecture, while Park Street transforms into a call of festive energy. The Indian Museum, Victoria Memorial, and St. Paul’s Cathedral are iconic landmarks worth visiting. Those looking to go boating (or punting) at Prinsep Ghat during the calm and pleasant evenings in October will be rewarded with stunning views of the Hooghly River. This is one of the best places to visit in West Bengal during October.

Top Highlights: Durga Puja pandals, heritage walks, Victoria Memorial
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kolkata

2. Darjeeling

Darjeeling ropeway cabins are moving over lush green hills under a clear daytime sky.

Photo: JyotiPN / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the Himalayan foothills, Darjeeling is a quaint hill station that is incredibly beautiful in October. Clear blue skies and crispness in the air are hallmarks of the region, and the best time to watch the sunrise over Kanchenjunga from Tiger Hill is when there are incredible panoramic views that are breathtaking. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, travels through the tea gardens and mountain landscapes that are incredible. The Happy Valley Tea Estate is sure to please when you tour the plantation, learn about tea processing and enjoy fresh tea. The Peace Pagoda, Batasia Loop, and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute offer cultural and historical details.

Top Highlights: Toy Train, Tiger Hill sunrise, tea gardens
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport

3. Sundarbans

A tigress in the mangrove forest in Sundarbans, one of the best places to visit in West Bengal in October.

Photo: Dr. Raju Kasambe / Wikimedia Commons

Sundarbans mangrove forest is the world’s largest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to go in West Bengal in October. The tidal river current slows, the air becomes cooler and fresher, and it is a great time to explore the oceans of wilderness teeming with life. October also marks the very beginning of the peak season for seeing wildlife in the Sundarbans, which includes a Royal Bengal Tiger, spotted deer, saltwater crocodiles, and a multitude of bird species. The lush green landscape and intertwined tidal river systems make every boat ride fascinating. The Sundarbans is one of the most exciting and best places to visit in October in West Bengal with family.

Top Highlights: Royal Bengal tiger sightings, boat safaris, birdwatching
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sundarbans

4. Kalimpong

The clock tower in Kalimpong stands tall in the town centre, surrounded by buildings.

Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons

At 1,250 metres in the eastern Himalayas, Kalimpong is a quieter alternative to Darjeeling and one of the most scenic places to visit in West Bengal in October. With orchids in bloom and clear views of white-capped peaks, it’s perfect for peaceful getaways. Visit Durpin Dara for views of the Teesta River and Durpin Monastery’s serene charm. Explore the Cactus Nursery, colonial-era Morgan House, Deolo Hill for picnics and paragliding, and vibrant markets selling handicrafts, woollens, and organic teas.

Top Highlights: Orchid nurseries, monasteries, hill views
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport

5. Shantiniketan

Santoshalaya Chhatri Niwas in Shantiniketan is surrounded by trees, one of the places to visit in West Bengal in October.

Photo: Bodhisattwa / Wikimedia Commons

Shantiniketan, the birthplace of Rabindranath Tagore, is the cultural heart of Bengal, located in Birbhum district. October’s mild weather and vibrant atmosphere make it ideal for walking through the Visva-Bharati University campus, where classes are still held under the open sky. Visit the Uttarayan complex, Kala Bhavana’s murals, and the Saturday haat in Sonajhuri forest for tribal crafts and Baul music. With its unique blend of art, literature, and rural charm, Shantiniketan is among the good places to visit in West Bengal in October.

Top Highlights: Visva-Bharati University, art museums, and local crafts
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Shantiniketan For A Refreshing Holiday

6. Digha

Digha sea beach in West Bengal has gentle waves washing over the wide sandy shore.

Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons

Digha is one of the most visited destinations to visit West Bengal in October, thanks to post-monsoon skies, calm waters, and a gentle sea breeze. Ideal for beach strolls, sunrise views, and fresh seafood, it balances leisure with affordability. New Digha is modern and family-friendly, while Old Digha offers a quieter, rocky shoreline. Explore marine life at the Marine Aquarium, try water sports, or visit Shankarpur fishing port and Chandaneswar Temple nearby for a peaceful coastal escape.

Top Highlights: Sandy beaches, seafood, the Marine Aquarium, and local parks
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport

7. Dooars

Lush tea garden in Dooars under cloudy skies, amongst the top places to visit in West Bengal in August.

Photo: Rajibnandi / Wikimedia Commons

Dooars, the lush floodplains at the Himalayan foothills, is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. In October, post-monsoon greenery and cooler weather make it ideal for exploring wet forests, open tea gardens, and vibrant tribal culture. Enjoy jeep safaris at Gorumara and Jaldapara to spot rhinos, elephants, and exotic birds. Rivers like Murti and Jayanti offer scenic picnic spots, while Buxa Fort and Buxa Tiger Reserve blend history with wilderness. For tranquil biodiversity and scenic charm, Dooars is a perfect October escape.

Top Highlights: Tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, river valleys
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Dooars

8. Murshidabad

Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad shows its grand white structure with multiple domes.

Photo: Sonu Islam / Wikimedia Commons

Murshidabad, once the capital of Bengal during the Nawabi era, is among the best places to visit in West Bengal in October. The mild weather is ideal for exploring its Mughal-era architecture and royal history. Visit the grand Hazarduari Palace with its 1,000 doors and rich museum, the impressive Nizamat Imambara, and the elegant Katra Mosque. Kathgola Palace and Nashipur Rajbari reflect the region’s merchant heritage. A boat ride on the Bhagirathi River offers scenic views of these iconic landmarks.

Top Highlights: Historic palaces, battle sites, Islamic architecture
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport

9. Mandarmani

Mandarmani beach with gentle waves meeting the sandy shore, amongst the top places to visit in West Bengal in October.

Photo: Tarunsamanta / Wikimedia Commons

Mandarmani is one of the most relaxing places to visit in West Bengal in October, known for its long, driveable beach and peaceful coastal charm. With the monsoon retreating, October brings calm seas, golden sunsets, and pleasant weather. You can enjoy beach drives, water sports like jet skiing and banana rides, or simply unwind on the wet sand. Enjoying local and fresh seafood, including prawns and crabs is one of the best things to do in Mandarmani. Far from commercial crowds, Mandarmani offers a quiet, scenic escape for beach lovers.

Top Highlights: Longest drivable beach in India, water sports, seafood
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Mandarmani

10. Ajodhya Hills

Ajodhya Chemtaburu Hill near Khairabera Dam with lush green slopes and a calm reservoir.

Photo: SnehasishAcharjeee / Wikimedia Commons

Ajodhya Hills in Purulia emerge as one of the most scenic and culturally rich places to visit in West Bengal in October. Post-monsoon greenery, gushing waterfalls like Bamni Falls, and crisp weather create ideal conditions for trekking and nature walks. Trails lead to spots like Mayur Pahar and bird-carved Pakhi Pahar. Tribal villages showcase Chhau dance and folk music. Turga and Khairabera dams offer boating and picnic views, while sites like Sita Kund add layers of history to this offbeat adventure.

Top Highlights: Rugged terrain, waterfalls, tribal villages
Nearest Airport: Ranchi Airport

11. Bishnupur

Bishnupur is one of the cultural heritage places to visit in West Bengal in October.

Photo: Shatarupa Dutta / Wikimedia Commons

Bishnupur, in Bankura district, is a cultural treasure known for its terracotta temples and exquisite Baluchari sarees. The 17th-century Rasmancha and Jor Bangla temples feature intricate brickwork, offering a glimpse into the Malla dynasty’s artistic heritage. Visitors can stroll through peaceful streets, explore small local markets, and admire traditional handicrafts. October’s pleasant weather makes it ideal for photography, sightseeing, and enjoying the town’s serene atmosphere. Bishnupur also hosts local music performances, adding to the cultural experience, making it one of the cultural places to visit in West Bengal.

Location: Bankura district, about 140 km from Kolkata
Top Attractions: Rasmancha, Jor Bangla Temples, Madanmohan Temple, Terracotta Museum, Handicraft markets

Suggested Read: Shiva Temples In Kolkata For A Spiritual Experience

12. Cooch Behar

Cooch Behar is home to a palace, known for its stunning European-style architecture.

Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons

Cooch Behar is a historic town in North Bengal, famous for the majestic Cooch Behar Palace and sprawling gardens. Its European-style architecture, coupled with temples like Madan Mohan, reflects the royal heritage of the former princely state. Visitors can explore the palace museum, stroll along serene streets, and capture scenic photographs of the town. October offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures, perfect for sightseeing and leisurely walks. Cooch Behar is one of the top places to travel in West Bengal in October for heritage lovers and photographers alike.

Location: Cooch Behar district, North Bengal
Top Attractions: Cooch Behar Palace, Madan Mohan Temple, Sagardighi Lake, Victor Castle, Rajbari Gardens

13. Jaldapara National Park

Jaldapara National Park is famous for its diverse wildlife and scenic forest trails.

Photo: Jonoikobangali / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the Alipurduar district, Jaldapara National Park is a wildlife haven famous for the Indian one-horned rhinoceros. Visitors can enjoy jeep and elephant safaris to spot rhinos, elephants, deer, and a variety of birds. October marks the start of the post-monsoon tourist season, with lush greenery and pleasant weather enhancing wildlife sightings. The park’s open grasslands and riverine forests offer memorable nature experiences, ideal for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and families seeking adventure in northern West Bengal.

Location: Alipurduar district, near Madarihat
Top Attractions: Indian one-horned rhinoceros, elephant safaris, birdwatching, riverside trails, and Grassland habitats

Suggested Read: Jaldapara Jungle Safari

14. Gorumara National Park

Gorumara National Park is one of the famous places to visit in West Bengal in October.

Photo: Gauri Tomer / Wikimedia Commons

Gorumara National Park in Jalpaiguri district is known for its Indian bison (gaur) and diverse wildlife, including elephants and exotic birds. Visitors can take jeep safaris through verdant sal forests and open grasslands, experiencing the park’s natural beauty up close. October is one of the best months to visit, with comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and excellent visibility for spotting wildlife. The park also offers photography opportunities, nature trails, and a peaceful escape from city life, making it one of the popular places to see in West Bengal in October.

Location: Jalpaiguri district, near Lataguri
Top Attractions: Indian bison (gaur), jeep safaris, elephant rides, birdwatching, forested trails

15. Bakkhali

Bakkhali is a serene beach destination, ideal for morning walks and short getaways.

Photo: Navi guy / Wikipedia

Bakkhali, a serene beach destination in South 24 Parganas, offers a peaceful escape with wide sandy shores and gentle sea breezes. Visitors can enjoy long walks along the crescent-shaped beach, explore nearby mangroves at Fraserganj, or relax at seaside resorts. October’s pleasant climate makes it ideal for leisure, photography, and evening strolls without the intense heat or heavy monsoon rains. The calm surroundings and scenic sunsets provide a rejuvenating experience, perfect for couples, families, and solo travellers seeking tranquillity by the Bay of Bengal.

Location: South 24 Parganas district, about 125 km from Kolkata
Top Attractions: Sandy beaches, Fraserganj mangroves, sunset viewpoints, local seafood markets, quiet resorts

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Bakkhali For A Perfect Getaway

From vibrant cities to peaceful hill villages and untouched natural escapes, the places to visit in West Bengal in October offer something for everyone. With clear skies, festive spirit, and seasonal bounty, it’s an ideal time for a memorable getaway. Whether you’re drawn to cultural festivals, heritage trails, or scenic retreats, West Bengal shines in October. Ready to explore this incredible region? Plan your journey with TripXL today.

Cover Photo: Vishal Rohatgi / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally cool and dry, average temperatures are in the range of 20°C to 30°C, perfect for travelling.
Yes, Durga Puja is West Bengal’s biggest festival, and it typically happens in early to mid-October in Kolkata.
Yes, hill stations like Darjeeling and Kalimpong offer pleasant weather and picturesque escape in October.
Light cotton clothes and comfortable footwear are the best for the day. However, carry a light jacket or shawl for cool evenings, particularly in hill areas.
Mandarmani offers long sandy beaches, water sports, calm seaside resorts, scenic sunsets, and local seafood stalls, for a perfect coastal getaway.
October in West Bengal brings the post-monsoon season with pleasant weather, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures, perfect for sightseeing, beaches, hills, and wildlife.
Kolkata is the main hub. Flights, trains, and buses connect major destinations; local taxis, shared jeeps, and rented vehicles cover hill stations and beaches.
Yes, options range from luxury resorts and heritage hotels to budget stays and homestays, particularly in hill stations, beaches, and heritage towns.
Try Bengali sweets like rosogolla, sandesh, seafood at coastal towns, Baluchari sarees in Bishnupur, and handicrafts from Shantiniketan or Murshidabad.
Harshita Lal

Harshita Lal

Harshita Lal is a travel writer who finds inspiration in the winding roads of hill towns, crisp mountain air, and the quiet stories hidden in everyday journeys. With a soft spot for the Himalayas and small-town simplicity, her writing blends personal discovery with practical travel insights. She enjoys writing pieces that help readers feel more connected to nature, to adventure, and to themselves. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her planning her next trek, journaling in a hillside café, or chasing the sunset.
Harshita’s Top Travel Highlights:
Harshita’s travels include memorable treks and quiet hill escapes, offering experiences of nature, peace, and simple moments that stay long after the journey ends.
1. Treks That Stay With You:
Completed treks like Triund, Kheerganga, Tosh, and Malana, each offering its own lesson in resilience, stillness, and the quiet power of nature.
2. Offbeat Hill Escapes:
Explored peaceful spots like Jibhi, Shoja, Barot Valley, and Mashobra, where there’s more pine than people, and every corner feels like a postcard.

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