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West Bengal Best Visit Time

Best Time to Visit:

Summer:

Winter:

Monsoon:

Introduction
West Bengal is home to a diverse range of ethnicities, cultures, religions, people, and languages, all of which contribute to the state's spectacular landscapes, forests, and coastal beauty, as well as its rich history. Every year, a large number of tourists flock to West Bengal, which is adorned with mesmerising landscapes, snow-capped mountains, gushing seas, blossoming tea gardens, massive deltas, and lush greenery. 
 
The type of tourist places that exist in West Bengal are a delight to your soul, with cultural remnants like the establishments of the East India Company in the past, to hill stations like Darjeeling, and the happy city of Kolkata. It is a diverse state that is home to several different civilizations and types of people all in one place.
Every year, a large number of domestic and foreign tourists visit West Bengal. More than 71 million tourists visited the state in 2018, according to the Indian government's Department of Tourism. It has a variety of heritage and luxury hotels, cottages, home-stays, and hostels where visitors can relax and enjoy their trip.
 
The entire state of West Bengal is sizzling this summer! From March to the end of June, the weather is humid and sticky, making it difficult for people to get through the months. During these months, tourism is discouraged. By the end of June or the beginning of July, the monsoon has arrived. It is not a fun or comfortable time to be in Bengal. The winter months are the best time to visit West Bengal. The temperature is steadily dropping in hilly areas, and there is also snowfall. As the temperature rises and the humidity drops, the southern area breathes a sigh of relief. People flock to the park in large numbers to take advantage of the pleasant weather.
 
15 Nights / 16 Days

North East with West Bengal and Orissa

05 Nights / 06 Days

Golden Triangle of West Bengal Tour

05 Nights / 06 Days

West Bengal Panoramic Tour

05 Nights / 06 Days

Fascinating West Bengal Tour

05 Nights / 06 Days

Enchanting West Bengal Tour

14 Nights / 15 Days

Splendid Jharkhand and Bihar with West Bengal Tour

Traditions and Culture
West Bengal has carved out a unique place in Indian history thanks to its rich heritage and captivating appeal. The state is a sanctuary for literature and art lovers, as it is home to some of our country's greatest intellectuals, including Rabindranath Tagore, Toru Dutt, Raja Ram Mohan Roy, and many others.
 
Whether it's the various religions assimilating into one another or the lovely cultural events that seem to make up the glorious state that it is, it all seems to add up to the glorious state that it is. West Bengal is much more than big red bindis and dhoti kurtas.
West Bengal has a rich literary tradition, with great writers such as Sharat Chandra Chattopadhyay, Rabindranath Tagore, Kazi Nazrul Islam, and Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay contributing significantly to Bengali and world literature. The legacy of literature goes far beyond that.
 
During the Indian Independence movement, the Theatre of Bengal played an important role in instilling a sense of nationalism in Indians and inspiring them to join the fight against British rule. Bengali theatre has a long and illustrious tradition of performing drama; from the Bangali folk theatre Jatras to Satyajit Ray's films, Bengali theatre has never failed to captivate audiences.
Bengal is regarded as the forerunner of modern contemporary art, with notable artists such as Abanindranath Tagore, Gaganendranath Tagore, Jamini Roy, and Rabindranath Tagore leading the charge to encourage the modernization of the country's art. There are several references to terracotta art and Kalighat paintings well before the advent of modernisation, demonstrating that art has been loved for a long time. Bengali music is enjoyable to listen to for everyone and anyone. Traditional Baul singing is perhaps the most well-known of all. Other types of folk songs include Gambhira, Kirtan, and Bhawaiya. Chhau, a famous West Bengal tribal dance style, tells stories from Indian epics.
 
Bengali women typically wear a sari, with the 'pallu' draped in a unique way that is unique to West Bengal. Dhoti kurtas were worn by men in the past, but they are now only worn on special occasions such as festivals or weddings. Bengali wedding rituals and ceremonies will take several days to complete. It typically begins with the Kabin ceremony and ends with the Bou Bhat ceremony, and the rituals are divided into Ghoti and Bangal categories.
 
Fair and Festivals
Fairs and Festivals of West Bengal:
 
As a state that promotes unity in diversity, it is home to a variety of religions and, as a result, hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year. For Bengalis, festivals are a luxurious affair, with extravagant parties and people purchasing new clothes and accessories exclusively.
 
  • Saraswati Puja: This festival takes place between the months of January and February. Saraswati Puja is regarded as one of West Bengal's most distinctive festivals. This day is commemorated in Bengal as the Goddess Saraswati's return home. This festival is held on the 5th day of the month of Magha. In the northern parts of the country, it is also known as Vasant Panchami.
  • Durga Puja: Durga Puja is the most well-known festival in West Bengal, and it is widely observed. Goddess Durga and her clan, which includes Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Saraswati, and Lord Kartikeya, arrive on Earth for the famous Hindu festival. Durga Puja is a ten-day festival, with the last five days being the most well-known. This elaborate festival is a true representation of grand celebrations and enthusiasm among the people of West Bengal, regardless of caste or creed.
  • Losar: Losar, or the Tibetan New Year, is one of the many vibrant festivals celebrated in Darjeeling's hills. Mask dances and other rituals are performed in Tibetan Buddhist monasteries during the 15-day festival. The event is usually held in February or March.
  • Poila Boishakh: The first day of Baisakh, also known as Poila Boishakh, is the first day of the Bengali calendar year. Bengali New Year is a common name for the day. For a Bengali household, this day marks the start of a new year, which necessitates a celebration. People spend a lot of time getting ready for this day, purchasing new clothing, cooking lavish meals at home, and, most importantly, praying to Gods and Goddesses.
  • Lakshmi Puja: In October, the Bengalis celebrate Lakshmi Puja, another significant Hindu festival. It is enthusiastically and passionately celebrated throughout the state. During this festival, people from all over the world travel to the state to take part in this grand celebration. It is celebrated a week later after Vijay Dashmi.
  • Jagannath Rath Yatra: In Kolkata, the Jagannath Rath Yatra is the most famous festival. Kolkata, Mayapur in Nadia, Mahesh in Hooghly, and Mahisadal in East Midnapore districts host a week-long festival with ceremonial Rath Yatras. The Jagannath idol, along with the idols of Balaram and Subhadra, is mounted on the 50-foot-high chariot, which weighs approximately 125 tonnes, on the day of the Ratha Yatra.
  • Kali Puja: Apart from Durga Puja, this festival is held nearly twenty days after Durga Puja and is perhaps Kolkata's second largest festival. This festival, which is held in honour of Goddess Kali, is characterised by nighttime chanting of mantras that lasts until dawn. While animal sacrifices are also made at a few places which have reduced greatly, the deity is adorned with hibiscus garlands and offered sweets, rice, and lentils. It is celebrated on the day of Diwali.
  • Eid-ul Fitr: Another important festival in West Bengal is Eid. It is primarily observed by Muslims in the state. The date of this festival's occurrence is unknown. In Can, Eid-Ul-Fitr is observed. It occurs after the auspicious Ramzan month has ended. After a month of fasting and prayer, this festival commemorates the beginning of joyful communion.
 
Must Visit Place

Must Visiting Places in West Bengal:

West Bengal is a land of many natural wonders, from the magnificent Himalayas to the tranquilly of the Gangetic plains, from calm seashores to spectacular mangroves. The vibrant festivities, sublime architecture, delightful crafts, classical and contemporary music, and delectable ethnic delicacies that make West Bengal a magnificent place offering extraordinary experiences add to its appeal.

  1. Darjeeling- Darjeeling's tourist attractions can captivate and awe visitors with the natural beauty of the area. Darjeeling, a former summer capital of India under the British Raj, is covered in thick evergreen forests of Sal and Oak, with ducks and teals making waves in the water and rare orchid breeds spreading colours on moist soil. It is blessed with spectacular panoramic views of Kanchenjunga snow peaks, magnificent colonial architecture including mansions and churches, an influence of diverse cultures in majestic craft and cuisine, a beautiful woman, the seed taker with a yellow scarf on her head and a tea-bag on her shoulders, and a vast expanse of Tea estates at its core.
  2. Sundarbans National Park- Sundarbans National Park is situated in West Bengal, India, and is known for having the world's largest mangrove forests. It is also a Tiger Sanctuary and a Biosphere Reserve, offering tourists a full natural circle, from 'Royal Bengal tigers' to raging rivers and lovely estuaries. It is a UNESCO world heritage site with a diverse range of birds and reptiles, including saltwater crocodiles.
  3. Kolkata- Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal and India's second-largest city. It's a never-ending celebration of humanity's life. This vibrant 350-year-old city on India's Eastern Coast serves as the state capital of West Bengal. It thrives as India's artistic, social, and intellectual capital. Kolkata, also known as the 'City of Joy,' is brimming with energy.
  4. Kalimpong- Kalimpong, located near Darjeeling in West Bengal, was once a royal hill station ruled by the kingdoms of Sikkim and Bhutan until the mid-nineteenth century. Because of its proximity to the Nathu La and Jelep La passes, the historical site was a significant landmark on the ancient Silk Route.
  5. Siliguri- Siliguri is a great holiday destination in and of itself, with plenty to see and do. Siliguri has been known for its tea and timber products, as well as a major commercial and transportation hub, over the years. Siliguri's Jaldapara National Park, located on the banks of the Torsa River, is a popular tourist destination. The park is known for having a large population of Royal Bengal Tigers, elephants, one-horned rhinoceros, and various other species of deer.
  6. Shantiniketan- Shantiniketan is a town in West Bengal's Birbhum district, about 212 kilometres from Kolkata. Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel Laureate, put it on the map because it was his birthplace. The site, which is now a university, attracts a large number of visitors each year. Make sure to see Tagore's Ashram, Poush Mela, Amar Kutir, Rabindra Bhavan Museum, and many sculptures while you're there.
  7. Digha- Digha, a beach town on the Bay of Bengal's shores, is a popular tourist destination known for its untouched beaches and scenic views, especially among West Bengal residents. This most famous sea resort in West Bengal has a lot to offer people of all ages, with beautiful beaches, religious temples, and high-tech research centres and museums.
  8. Bishnupur- This is a lovely town in West Bengal's Bankura district, with many interesting things to see and do for visitors. It is well-known for its terracotta-based pottery pieces, which represent the artisans' abilities. Bishnupur is renowned for its quaint environment and surreal views and is one of the best places to visit in West Bengal.
  9. Mirik- West Bengal tourism is incomplete without Mirik, which offers everything from romantic boating experiences to temples for the faithful and orchids and gardens for nature lovers. The densely populated, but not overcrowded town also has viewpoints for peaceful contemplation and traditional Indian Bazaars where you can splurge. Going to Mirik for a great hill station getaway is a brilliant idea.
  10. Kalimpong- This melting pot of Indian, British, Nepalese, and Tibetan cultures is located 3 hours outside of Darjeeling. It is a well-known tourist destination due to its flowering gardens, Buddhist monasteries, historic churches, and holy temples. Make sure to take advantage of the many activities on offer, including great hill walks, bird watching, and shopping at the Kalimpong Market Square.
  11. Kurseong- Kurseong, also known as the 'Land of White Orchids,' is a hill station near Darjeeling known for its waterfalls, temples, and Buddhist gompas, as well as the spectacular views it offers.
  12. Murshidabad- Murshidabad has seen a lot, whether it was the Nawabs before colonial rule or the English Lords calling it home, and it reeks of old-world charm. Murshidabad's floors are paved in temples, monuments, and churches, transporting visitors to the city's beautiful golden days. This town's magnificence is unparalleled.
     
 
Cuisine
If you visit West Bengal, you should expect to eat a lot of delicious Bengali food. It's rare to find another culture that is so passionate about their food. All of their feelings are reflected in their cooking and cuisine. Bengali cuisine is a kaleidoscope of tastes. It is the only multi-course traditional cuisine to emerge from the Indian subcontinent.
 
The staples of this cuisine are fish and rice. The fragrance of mustard oil and flavouring spices, the incredible variety of seafood, their never-ending list of vegetarian delicacies, those adorable ‘Luchis,' and heartwarming Kosha Mangsho and lip-smacking Ilish Macher Paturi will leave you wanting more.
 
Here are few dishes one should not miss when in West Bengal:
 
  • Luchi Alur dom: For a lazy Sunday brunch, Luchi alur dom is the preferred Bengali mix. Luchi, which is similar to puris, is served with alur dom, or aloo dum, which is a spicier and tangier variant of dum aloo.
  • Ilish Macher Jhol: Hilsa, or ilish fish curry, is one of the region's most common fishes, and it's something you have to try. The pungent-smelling curry is made with Nigella seeds and chilli to achieve the perfect balance. This is a must-try since it is one of West Bengal's staple foods.
  • Keemar Doi Bora: This is one of Bengal's least well-known street foods. It has a long cultural association with Nobel Laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore and his family, one of the most well-known Bengalis in the world. Purnima Thakur, when she came into possession of the Tagore family cookbook, introduced the dish to the world as an original creation of the Thakurbari, as the Tagore family is called. This perfect marriage of minced meat and sweet and spicy curd is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
  • Shukto: Shukto is a mixture of different vegetables such as Brinjals, Bitter Gourd, Crunchy Drumsticks, and Bori that is usually eaten as the first course of a diet (a Bengali speciality again). This thick curry, made with ground spices and milk, is a great way to start a meal.
  • Kathi Rolls: Bengalis are proud of this dish, which consists of thin rotis wrapped around skewer-roasted succulent meat kebabs. A popular street food which can be found in any corner of the state.
  • Scholar Dal: This dish, made with chana dal as the main ingredient, is one of Bengalis' favourite dals. The dal goes well with rice or Luchis because of its slightly sweet and spicy flavour. The addition of flavorful spices such as bay leaves, coconut bits, and cinnamon enhances the flavour significantly.
  • Jhal Muri: Another famous street food in Bengal is Jhal Muri. Rice flakes (muri) are combined with roasted lentils and coconut chunks and tossed with spicy chutney and mustard oil. It's a handy snack to have when driving around the city late at night and having long conversations with a friend.
  • Daab Chingri: There's no doubt that Bengali cuisine's different types of fish curries are among the best in the world. If you're tired of fish and want to try something different, try the daab chingri, which are jumbo prawns cooked in mustard and served in tender coconut.
 
The sweet dishes are last but not least. Bengalis are known for a wide range of sweets, including mishti doi (sweet curd), rosogolla, a variety of sandesh, payesh (rice in thickened milk), and many others.
 
FAQ’s

West Bengal is popular for its colonial buildings, old traditional markets, Howrah Bridge, beautiful temples, sweets and fish varieties in Kolkata. The stunning landscape of Darjeeling is yet another thing that makes West Bengal popular on tourist maps. The Bishnupur terracotta temples in West Bengal are well known. The second-biggest chandelier in the world and the largest staircase in India are both found in Hazarduari Palace, a famous tourist destination. The secrets of Sundarbans and the opulent beauty of Digha also attracts many tourists.

 

 Although the highlands of Darjeeling and Siliguri can be visited any time of the year. The best time to explore West Bengal is from October to March when the weather is much cooler.

There are pre-made packages available for online or mail-in reservations. A call itself can be turned into a package. On our website, there is a booking form that must be completed. The alternative is to write to us with specifics about your itinerary. Please include both your phone number and email address.


 

It's relatively safe to be in West Bengal. You can survive by taking general safety precautions. Locals are pretty helpful. Avoid flashing excessive amounts of jewellery or cash. City areas are safer than the outskirts or countryside. Avoid going out late evenings or at night unaccompanied. Other than that, stay close to tourist hotspots.
 

The best tourist attractions in West Bengal are Kolkata, Darjeeling, the Sundarban National Park, Mirik, Digha, Mandarmani, Gangasgar, Siliguri, and Murshidabad, among other locations.

Gangasagar is an island and a centre of Hindu pilgrimage. On January 14th, Makar Sankranti is annually observed here with great fervour and vigour. At the meeting point of the River Ganges and the Gulf of Bengal, a sizable number of Hindus congregate to take a sacred bath. In order to obtain blessings, people hold prayer rituals at the Kapil Muni Temple.



 

West Bengal is known as the "Cultural Capital of India" due to its rich history in art, literature, and music. It’s the birthplace of luminaries like Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray, and it celebrates iconic festivals like Durga Puja with unmatched grandeur.

Durga Puja in West Bengal is not just a festival; it’s a celebration of art, culture, and community spirit. The elaborate pandals (temporary structures), artistic idols, cultural performances, and festive atmosphere make it a UNESCO-recognized cultural experience.

West Bengal is home to diverse landscapes, from the serene tea gardens of Darjeeling to the unique mangroves of the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The lush Dooars region is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Bengali cuisine is a gastronomic delight, featuring dishes like machher jhol (fish curry), shorshe ilish (hilsa in mustard sauce), kosha mangsho (slow-cooked mutton), and desserts like rosogolla and mishti doi. The state’s street food, like kathi rolls and puchkas, is equally irresistible.

West Bengal is a spiritual hub, featuring destinations like Kalighat Temple in Kolkata, Belur Math (the headquarters of Ramakrishna Mission), and the sacred Tarapith temple. These sites attract pilgrims seeking divine blessings and peace.

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