West Bengal is the land of a glorious history, rich culture, delightful cuisine, diverse landscape and wonderful festivals, making it one of the top destinations for tourists around the country and the world. People from all over are attracted to this state, particularly during the festive season.
Listed below are the top 10 tourist places in West Bengal:
1. Kolkata
The state capital of Kolkata is the top tourist place in West Bengal. The city is famous for its historic buildings, holy temples and monasteries and festive celebrations. The city is particularly famous for the worship of Goddess Kali. The festival of Durga Puja is celebrated in the city with great pomp and show. Victoria Memorial and Kolkata tram are the famous features which attract tourists here.
2. Darjeeling
The beautiful hill station of Darjeeling is another popular tourist place in West Bengal. Darjeeling offers the splendid view of the majestic peak of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. The other attractions include lush green tea estates, botanical garden, zoo, Darjeeling Himalayan Toy Train and ropeway cable car. The place has a beautiful weather all year round.
3. Shantiniketan
Located at a distance of 200 km from Kolkata, the town of Shantiniketan is the home of the prestigious university called Visva Bharti University, which was founded by Rabindranath Tagore in 1901. The town is famous for its handicrafts, arts and culture. It has a museum displaying paintings, frescos and sculptures by some famous artists.
4. Sundarbans National Park
Featuring next on the list of top 10 tourist places in West Bengal is the Sundarbans National Park, which is one of the top national parks of India. The mangrove jungle is spread over a huge area, which extends to the neighboring country of Bangladesh. The park is the home to tigers, though they remain hidden deep in the reserve. A cruise down the Hooghly river to reach the sanctuary can be a thrilling experience.
5. Jaldapara National Park
Another national park which makes it to the list is the Jaldapara National Park, which is the home to the amazing species of one horned rhinoceros. The park offers a wonderful elephant safari, which can be a truly enjoyable experience. It remains open from October till May.
6. Mirik Lake
Another fampos tourist place in West Bengal is the Mirik Lake, which is the largest natural lake in the state. Originally called Sumendu Lake, it offers attractions like boating and a walk down the 80 m long arching footbridge over the lake, known as the Indreni Pull.
7. Murshidabad
The historic city of Murshidabad is another tourist attraction offered by the state. it has a large number of historic monuments like Hazarduari Palace (which is now museum with nearly 2700 waepons), Wasef Manzil, Tripolia Gate, the Gharighar, Katra Mosque and the Bachchawali Tope.
8. Belur Math
Founded by Swami Vivekananda, the Belur Math is the head quarter of the famous Ramakrishna Mission. Located on the banks of the holy River Ganges, the temple symbolizes equality of all religions, by fusing together Hindu, Islamic and Christian styles of architecture.
9. Digha Beach
One of the most popular sea beaches in West Bengal is the Digha Beach, which is also an ideal destination for honeymooners. The popular attractions in the area include the Chandaneswar Temple, Talsari Beach and the Marine Station-Aquarium of Zoological Survey of India.
10. Shankarpur Beach
Another famous beach in the state is the Shankarpur Beach, where you can see thousands of red crabs. Located near the Digha Beach, the place is particularly an enjoyable place for young children.
West Bengal is a state which has something for everyone, whether you love nature and wildlife, are a history lover or want to enjoy fun filled festivals. Visit this wonderful state to have a memorable time of your life.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.