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West Bengal, with its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, offers a plethora of travel destinations both within and outside its borders. From serene hill stations to bustling historical towns, the area surrounding West Bengal is filled with beautiful places to explore. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful getaway, an adventure in nature, or a dive into history, there’s something for every traveller. Here are the top 12 places to visit near West Bengal that promise unforgettable experiences.
Top 12 Scenic Places To Visit Near West Bengal
1. Sundarbans
Photo: Soumyajit Nandy / Wikimedia Commons
The Sundarbans is a mesmerizing UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest mangrove forests in the world, located in the southern part of West Bengal. The unique ecosystem is full of rich flora and fauna, including the famous Royal Bengal tiger. Visitors can take boat safaris through the intricate waterways to spot various wildlife species, including saltwater crocodiles and spotted deer. The region also happens to be a paradise for bird watchers, hosting migrant birds along with several local species. This is the best destination for nature lovers as well as adventure seekers.
Location: Sundarbans, West Bengal
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Entry Fee: ₹200 onwards (varies by package)
Timings: Open throughout the year, but best visited during winter.
2. Darjeeling
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Darjeeling is popularly known as the “Queen of the Hills” because of its breathtaking tea gardens, panoramic views of the Himalayas, and very vibrant culture. The town has been known for teas, with many estates offering guided tours and tastings. The sunrise at Tiger Hill, where one can see the first rays of the sun touching Kanchenjunga, is a must-see. Besides, Darjeeling has various monasteries, markets, and the beautiful Batasia Loop, making it a charming destination for families and nature enthusiasts.
Location: Darjeeling District, West Bengal
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to December
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: 24*7
3. Kalimpong
Photo: Biswajit Majumdar / Wikimedia Commons
Kalimpong is a serene hill station that offers a blend of Indian, Tibetan, and Nepalese cultures. Known for its vibrant flower markets, especially orchids, Kalimpong is a haven for flower lovers. The town is dotted with charming monasteries and historic churches, such as the Thongsa Gompa and the historic Morgan House. Visitors can take leisurely walks along the hilltops for stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The town also offers adventure activities like trekking and paragliding. Additionally, Kalimpong is famous for handicrafts, making it an excellent spot for shopping for souvenirs.
Location: Kalimpong District, West Bengal, 734301
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to December
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: Open year-round
4. Shantiniketan
Photo: Sagnik Samanta / Wikimedia Commons
Shantiniketan is an artistic and cultural hub, founded by the Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. This unique town is known for its holistic education system and vibrant festivals. The Visva-Bharati University attracts artists, writers, and intellectuals from around the world. Visitors can explore the various museums and art galleries that showcase the works of Tagore and other renowned artists. The annual Poush Mela celebrates local culture with crafts, music, and dance performances. The lush gardens and peaceful ambience of Shantiniketan provide an ideal setting for those looking to immerse themselves in creativity and learning.
Location: Birbhum District, West Bengal, 731235
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: Open year-round
5. Digha
Photo: Biswajit Majumdar / Wikimedia Commons
Digha is a beach destination that attracts many visitors, especially those who want to enjoy the long sandy shores and gentle waves. It is an ideal destination for families and beach lovers as the beach town offers an opportunity to enjoy the water. There are various water sports, such as jet skiing and banana boat rides. The marine aquarium, nearby, is also a great attraction, where kids can learn about the Bay of Bengal’s rich marine life. The sunset along the coastline is a brilliant scene. Thus, Digha is an attraction that calls for all sorts of relaxation and amusement.
Location: Purba Medinipur, West Bengal, 721428
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: Open year-round
6. Bishnupur
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Bishnupur is famous for its rich cultural heritage, particularly its terracotta temples and exquisite handicrafts. The town is home to some of the finest examples of Bengali architecture, such as the Madan Mohan Temple and the Jor Bangla Temple, which feature intricate terracotta carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology. Bishnupur is also known for its Baluchari sarees, making it a great place for shopping. The annual Bishnupur Mela attracts visitors with performances of traditional music and dance, showcasing the town’s vibrant culture. The peaceful ambience and historical significance make Bishnupur a captivating destination.
Location: Bankura District, West Bengal, 722101
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: ₹20 for certain temples
Timings: Generally open from 6 AM to 6 PM
7. Doars
Photo: Rupeshsarkar / Wikimedia Commons
The Dooars region, stretching along the foothills of the Himalayas, is renowned for its sprawling tea gardens and rich biodiversity. In addition to its scenic beauty, Dooars is home to several wildlife sanctuaries, such as Jaldapara National Park and Buxa Tiger Reserve, where visitors can encounter elephants, tigers, and rhinoceroses in their natural habitat. The region also hosts numerous Indigenous communities, allowing travellers to experience unique folk traditions, crafts, and local cuisine. Popular activities include jungle safaris, river rafting on the Teesta, and tea garden tours, making Dooars a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and cultural exploration.
Location: Northern part of West Bengal
Best Time To Visit: October to May
Entry Fee: Varies for each wildlife sanctuary (e.g., Jaldapara starts at ₹100)
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
8. Gour-Pandua
Photo: Subrata Ghose / Wikimedia Commons
Gour-Pandua is steeped in historical importance and glorious architecture from the Muslim Sultans. The complex features exceptional historical landmarks such as the Baro Sona Masjid and the Eklakhi Mausoleum, with superb art and architectural brilliance. Ancient ruins in the area are full of stories about the rich heritage and significance of the place during the medieval period. Visitors can explore the remnants of this once-thriving city and learn about its rich history. The landscape around is covered with lush mango orchards, so it’s a good place for people interested in history as well as nature.
Location: Malda District, West Bengal, 722206
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: 365 Days
9. Mandarmani
Photo: Nilanjan Majumdar / Wikimedia Commons
Mandarmani is an idyllic beach destination that boasts the longest drive-in beach in India. This seaside village offers a tranquil atmosphere, making it perfect for relaxation and leisure. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and indulging in local seafood delicacies. The beach is less crowded than other tourist spots, allowing for peaceful strolls along the shore. Water sports activities such as jet skiing and parasailing are popular here, adding an element of adventure to your visit. Mandarmani is an excellent choice for families and couples looking for a serene getaway by the sea.
Location: Purba Medinipur, West Bengal, 721423
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: 365 Days
10. Tarapith
Photo: Gorkhe1980 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Tarapith is a revered pilgrimage site, best known for the Tarapith Temple dedicated to the goddess Tara, a powerful aspect of the divine feminine. The temple is located near the Dwarka River and is often visited by devotees seeking blessings and spiritual healing. Close to the temple is the famous cremation ground, regarded as a place of mystical and tantric significance, where devotees and sadhus (holy men) perform rituals. The peaceful village setting, coupled with its intense spiritual atmosphere, makes Tarapith a unique destination that offers a blend of devotion, mysticism, and cultural exploration.
Location: Birbhum District, West Bengal, 731233
Best Time To Visit: October to March for pleasant weather
Entry Fee: No entry fee for the temple
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
11. Bardhaman
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Bardhaman, also known as Burdwan, is a historical and cultural town. There are many historical places here, such as the Bardhaman Rajbari, which is an impressive royal abode, beautifully decorated with gardens and architecture. There are many lakes in the town also, like the Rajbari Lake, where one can sit and relax in tranquillity. Bardhaman hosts so many festivals around the year and Jamai Sashthi is one, making it a lively destination for cultural enthusiasts. The regional dishes, be it Mihidana or even the Sitabhog, also make one love the place.
Location: Bardhaman District, West Bengal, 713101
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: 365 Days
12. Lava
Photo: Joydeep / Wikimedia Commons
Lava, a serene hamlet nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, is famed for its misty landscapes and stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Known as a gateway to the Neora Valley National Park, it offers ample opportunities for birdwatching, with sightings of rare Himalayan species like the Satyr Tragopan and Red-billed Blue Magpie. Lava’s peaceful monasteries provide a tranquil retreat for visitors, while the short trekking trails around the village offer beautiful glimpses of the surrounding hills and valleys. This blend of natural beauty, spiritual ambience, and outdoor adventure makes Lava a perfect destination for a serene escape.
Location: Kalimpong District, West Bengal
Best Time To Visit: October to April, especially for clear views in winter
Entry Fee: No entry fee; Neora Valley Park fees start at ₹100
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Exploring the places near West Bengal offers a delightful experience, blending natural beauty, rich culture, and historical significance. From the serene beaches of Digha and Mandarmani to the cultural richness of Shantiniketan and Bardhaman, each destination presents its unique charm. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through these stunning locales with none other than TripXL!
Cover Photo: Knath / Wikimedia Commons
