District Wise West Bengal Travel Information

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Districts Wise Travel Information of West Bengal. In This Page, We will Discuss Key Tourist Attractions of 23 Districts.

West Bengal is a land of natural wonders. West Bengal is blessed with immense beauty, from the majestic Himalayas in the north to the Gangetic plains and Bay of Bengal in the south. West Bengal is a land of great historical importance and the cradle of many great cultures and has been home to some of the renowned personalities of Indian history. The state is also home to some of India's most beautiful heritage architecture. The palaces of Murshidabad, the terracotta temples of Bishnupur, and the colonial architecture of Kolkata are some of the many architectural wonders. Unknown to many, Kolkata is also known as the "City of Palaces". West Bengal is also renowned for its colourful festivals. For example, the annual Durga Puja celebrations are a spectacular sight to behold, with huge pandals (temporary temples) set up across the state. Apart from this, many Folk festivals attract tourists across the globe. Poush Mela of Shantiniketan, Baul Mela of Kenduli, and Rath Yatra of Mahesh are some examples of continuous traditions.

Alipurduar Travel Attractions

Alipurduar is situated in the northern part of West Bengal. Alipurduar is adjacent to Assam and Bhutan. Alipurduar is home to some magnificent wildlife reserves and amazing landscapes. Durgapuja, Kalipuja, Lossar, Karam are prominent festival of the district.

Some of the popular destinations of Alipurduar;

Jaldapara National Park
Chilapata Forest
Buxa Tiger Reserve
Jayanti
Buxa Fort
Lepchakha
Raimatang
Malangi
Toto Para
Mahakal Cave Temple
Jaigaon

Jaldapara and Chilapata are famous for rhinos and elephants. These jungles are a mix of savanna and dense vegetation. Government organize tourism, helps people to enjoy the beauty of Nature and wildlife. Jayanti is a tranquil place of scenic beauty. In the backdrop of the Bhutan Mountains, this valley is one of the best places to observe and enjoy natural blees.

Bankura Travel Attractions

Bankura is world-famous for its Terracotta art, especially the "Terracotta Horse." With dense forest, beautiful hills, picturesque river landscape, and ancient temples, Bankura has many things to offer its tourist. Bankura is situated in Eastern Chota Nagpur Plateau and borders Purulia, Burdwan, and Jhargram districts.

Some of the Popular Destination of Bankura

Mukutmanipur Dam
Jhilimili
Bishnupur
Susunia Hill
Biharinath Hill
Bardi Pahar
Joypur Forest
Ghaghor

Bankura is famous for its Terracotta Temples. In Bishnupur, there are several excellent examples of these temples. Madan Mohan Temple, Shyam Roy Temple, Jorbangla and Rasmancha are the perfect example of its glorious art and cultural heritage. Mukutmanipur is surrounded by hills and a hosting a Dam in the middle. It is the place of confluence of two rivers, Kangsabati and Kumari. Jhilmil is an elevated forest land on the bank of river Kangsabati.

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Birbhum Travel Attractions

The literary meaning of Birbhum is "Land of Veer or Warrior". This place is also known as "Lal Matir Desh" or the Land of Red Soil. Birbhum shares its border with the neighbouring state of Jharkhand. Birbhum is rich in culture and various song forms, such as Baul, Kirtaniyas, Kabiyal etc.

Some of the Popular Destination of Birbhum;

Shantiniketan
Tarapith
Kankalitala
Nalhati
Kherai
Bakreswar

Shantiniketan is famous for the heritage of Kabiguru Rabindranath Thakur and his Visva Bharati University. Visva Bharati University still promotes the concept of Gurukul and Open Air Class Rooms. Birbhum is also the place of several Sati Piths. Tarapith, Kankalitala, and Nalhati are famous pilgrimage. Bakreshwar is renowned for its natural hot spring and Bakreswar Shiv Temple.

Cooch Behar Travel Attractions

Cooch Behar or Koch Bihar is situated in the northern part of West Bengal. It borders Alipurduar in the North, Assam in the east and Bangladesh in the south. Cooch Behar was a princely state. Cooch Behar has marked its place on the modern-day tourist map. This place is a culmination of Natural Beauty, Forest, Art and Heritage.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Cooch Behar;

Cooch Behar Palace
Madan Mohan Temple
Sagardighi
Rashik Bill
Baneswar Shiv Temple
Kamteshwari Temple

The palace of Koch King Maharaja Nripendra Narayan is the landmark tourist spot of Cooch Behar. This palace is built in European Architecture of post-Renaissance. This palace is a magnificent example of architecture and historical importance. Rashik Bill is a lake surrounded by dense trees. This is a must-visit place for bird watchers and nature lovers. In addition, this place attracts migratory birds. There is also a small zoo on the lake premises.

Dakshin Dinajpur Travel Attractions

West Dinajpur district was divided into two parts and formed Dakshin Dinajpur. Dakshin Dinajpur, or South Dinajpur, has a rich history. This area was under Pundravardhana, Pala dynasty and Sen dynasty in ancient times. It borders Bangladesh in the east, Bihar in the West, Uttar Dinajpur in the north, and Malda in the south.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Dakshin Dinajpur;

Bangarh
Sarongbari
Kal Dighi
Angina Bird Sanctuary

Banagarh is a place of historical importance. This place is known for the archaeological ruins of ancient Koti Barsha Pradesh during the Gupta period. Kal Dighi got its name from the black watercolour. It's a popular place for birding. In winter, migratory birds come to this lake. Sarongbari is a picnic location. Tourists visit this place as a day outing.

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Darjeeling Travel Attractions

Darjeeling is the hill station of West Bengal. It's situated in the lower Himalayas and borders Nepal, Sikkim and Kalimpong district of West Bengal. Panoramic view of snow peaks and tea gardens, this place is a tourist magnet. Throughout the year, visitors come here to enjoy the beauty of the Himalayan Mountains. On a clear day, the Kanchenjunga view from Darjeeling is a memory to behold. Darjeeling is one of the magnificent hill stations of the World.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Darjeeling;

Tiger Hill
Himalayan Railway
Batasia Loop
Shanti Stupa
Ghoom
Darjeeling Mall

Ghoom is the highest railway station in India. In addition, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway or the Troy Train is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tiger Hill is one of the best places in the World to observe Sunrise's beauty. Tourists across the World come to see this mesmerising Sunrise over the snow clad Kanchenjunga. The Mall is the key tourist place in Darjeeling, full of shopping opportunities and views. This district is also World Famous for Its Tea plantation. Darjeeling Tea is exported in huge quantities and has its demand.

Hooghly Travel Attractions

Hooghly is perhaps one of the most important places in colonial history. This district witness the rule of British, French, Portuguese, Dutch, German and Austrians. Because of this cultural mix, this place holds many architectural marvels of European style. This place is separated by Hooghly or Ganga River from Kolkata.

Some of Popular Destinations of Hooghly;

Chandannagar
Kamarpukur
Bandel Church
Colonial Cemeteries
Itachuna
Hanseswari Temple
Imambara

Situated in Bansberia, Hanseswari temple is a magnificent example of Bengal Temple Architecture. It is a Thirteen Ratna temple or has thirteen Chura (domes) dedicated to the goddess Kali. Bandel Church is one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in West Bengal. The word Bandel came from the Bengali word "Bondor" or port. In 1600 this place was an important port for European trade. Kamarpukur is the birthplace of saint Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa Dev. He was the Guru of Swami Vivekananda. Apart from this, the old building of Chandannagar and Chinsurah are architectural marvels of time.

Howrah Travel Attractions

Howrah is an industrial district of West Bengal. Situated on the west side of the Hooghly river, this district is also famous for its Howrah Bridge. Howrah Station is one of the largest railway stations in India. In british time, Howrah was one of the main junctions for their administrative coordination.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Howrah;

Belur
Kalyaneshwar Temple
Indian Botanical Garden
Garchumuk
Gadiara and 58 gates

Belur Math was founded by Swami Vivekananda and is the headquarters of Ramakrishna Math & Mission. Situated at the bank of the Hooghly river, it's a place of tranquillity and harmony. Evening prayer in Belur Math is an experience of its kind. Indian Botanical Garden in Shibpur is one of the oldest and largest in India. It's famous for its age-old banyan tree. Among concrete jungle, this place holds dense vegetation and balances pollution of the whole area. Gadiara is situated at the confluence of rivers Rupnarayan and Hoogly. It is a popular picnic spot.

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Jalpaiguri Travel Attractions

With Tea plantations, dense jungles, wildlife reserves, and a river landscape Jalpaiguri is a tourist hotspot in West Bengal. Tea Plantations amidst dense jungle provide a panoramic view. If you are a nature lover, you can spend days in this place just relaxing in the lap of Nature. For wildlife enthusiasts, this place offers various National Parks and Sanctuaries.

Some of Popular Destinations of Jalpaiguri;

Gorumara National Park
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
Jhalong
Suntalekhola
Murti
Bindu

Gorumara National Park is one of the best places to see One-Horned Rhinos. Gorumara is a mix of Savanna grassland and forest land, providing the ideal location for a Rhino habitat. Chapramari Sanctuary is an extension of Gorumara Forest but is separated by the Murti River. Both the forest is attractive in terms of wildlife and bird population. There is also a place name Murti. Situated on the Murti Riverbank, this is an ideal day outing or picnic spot. Occasionally, you can even see wild animals from here. This district is full of tourist spots; even a month is not good enough to explore all the locations. Suntalekhola is a picturesque place situated in a small river bed among high mountains. The sound of continuous flowing water and the chirping of birds provide a calming environment to its visitors.

Jhargram Travel Attractions

The meaning of Jhargram is "The Jungle Village". Jhargram is situated in the southern part of West Bengal, but it is entirely different from Gangetic Plains. Jhargram is known for its natural beauty, surrounded by hills and thick forest. Jhargram is very rich in folk culture. Various types of dance to celebrate life and Nature is part of local culture. In Jhargram jungles, you may occasionally encounter elephants and deers.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Jhargram;

Jhargram Palace
Kendua
Zoological Park
Kankrajhor Forest
Jhilli Lake

Jhargram is associated with Raja Man Singh and his conquest of this region. The ancient palace of Jhargram still stands tall. Part of this palace is transformed into a hotel. Kendua is a famous bird-watching site. Throughout the year, bird lovers gather here to enjoy sightings. Jhargram is also renowned for its jungles. Significantly during monsoon, the beauty of surrounding jungles amplifies multi-folds. Jhilli lake is also a birding paradise and also open for boating.

Kalimpong Travel Attractions

Like Darjeeling, Kalimpong is also a hill station with immense natural beauty. Vast Tea Plantations, Dense forest, mountainous landscape, and view of snow peak make this place a perfect tourist hub. Kalimpong is also very rich in flora and fauna. Kalimpong still holds victorian charms with its architecture. Kalimpong is also known for its flowers. There are many nurseries for the production of various types of flowers. Fortunately, most of them are open for tourists as well.

Some of the Popular Destination of Kalimpong;

Lava
Loleygaon
Rishop
Neora National Park
Sherpa View Point

Rishop means Mountain Peaks and Tree. It is a calm village situated above 2500 mt. The view from this hilltop is mesmerizing. This place is far away from pollution. In the absence of sun and light pollution, the night sky transforms dynamically. You will feel a different realm with cold mountain air, distance white pick, and a lakhs of stars. Many mountain treks and adventure routes are added advantages for interested tourists. Lava monastery is an important place for Buddhists, and its also open to tourists. Lava is also one of the gateways of Neora National Park. This entire region has a very high place on the World Birding map. Ornithologist across the globe comes here to observe its diversified birds populations. Recently, Royal Bengal Tiger is also observed in Neora Valley National Park.

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Kolkata Travel Attractions

Kolkata is the state capital of West Bengal. It is one of India's most important cities and a metro city. In the british era, Kolkata was the capital of India. Kolkata is a mix of its rich tradition and contemporary living. Durga Puja of Kolkata is World Famous and a must-have experience for a lifetime. This city is full of colonial architecture and palaces. Most of these are now Government Offices. Kolkata is rapidly increasing in size in the South, North and East.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Kolkata;

Victoria Memorial Hall
National Museum
Birla Planetarium
Science City
Kalighat Temple
National Zoo
Nandan and Academy
Rabindra Sarovar

Kalighat Temple is an important pilgrimage in Kolkata. People across the country come here to offer their pujas. Victory Memorial Hall is an extensive construction of white marble. It is one of the largest memorial buildings in the World. Now it's converted into a museum. The National Museum of Kolkata is India's oldest and largest museum and the ninth oldest in World. It has an extensive collection of artwork, fossils and items of historical important. Birla Planetarium is the largest in Asia and second-largest in World. It is designed like a Stupa and dedicated to propagating knowledge of celestial objects.

Malda Travel Attractions

In West Bengal, people consider Malda as the starting point of North Bengal. Malda is always the centre of culture and civilizations. Malda is also famous for its mango. Malda was the capital of the Pala Dynasty, Sen Dynasty and Nawabs. Malda is Famous for its Silk as well.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Malda;

Gour
Adina Mosque
Firoz Minar
Lukochuri Gate
Dakhil Darwaza

Gour is situated on India and Bangladesh border. Apart from its historical importance, this place is also crucial from an archaeological point of view. Baro Sona Mosque, Dakhil Darwaza etc., are living examples of Bengal's art and craftsmanship. Pandua is another place of historical importance.

Murshidabad Travel Attractions

Murshidabad was the capital of Bengal before the British era. This place was named after Nawab Murshid Quli Khan. During Nawabs, Murshidabad was very prosperous and the centre of Bengal. British, French, Danish, Dutch established their factories here. It was also home of the wealthiest banker of that time, Jagat Seth.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Murshidabad;

Hazarduari Palace
Madina Mosque
Moti Jheel
Khosh Bagh
Kathgola Palace
Kiriteswari Temple

Hazarduari, or Palace with Thousand Doors (in actual 900 are there), is the key tourist attraction of Murshidabad. It was built by Nawab Najim Humaun Jah. The current day it has been converted into a museum. This museum has a good collection of art effects and weapons of that era. Near Hazarduari, tourists also visit Nizamat Imambara, Madina Masjid etc. The Kashim Bazar Palace of Maharaja Manindra Chandra Nandy is an excellent example of Art and Architecture. Kiriteshwari temple is among Sati Piths. Kirit, or Crown of Devi, worshipped here.

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Nadia Travel Attractions

Religion, history and art, a culmination of these three factors, make Nadia a tourist attraction. Nabadwip was the capital of Bengal during Ballan Sen and his son Lakshman Sen. From the ancient past, Nabadwip was the centre of intellectuals in India. Nadia is the place of Sri Chaitanya Mahapravu. ISKCON headquarters is in Mayapur.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Nadia;

Mayapur
Nabadwip
Fulia
Krishnanagar
Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated at the confluence of Bhagirathi and Jalangi, the grand Iskcon temple of Mayapur is an important tourist place in West Bengal. Mayapur is also the birthplace of Mahaprabhu Sri Chaitanya. From time immemorial, Nabadwip has been the centre of philosophy and religion in India. The Rajbari of Krishnanagar, built by Maharaja Krishna Chandra Roy, is another tourist attraction of Nadia. Fulia is world-famous for its Tant (handloom) Sari.

North 24 Parganas Travel Attractions

North 24 Parganas are adjacent to Kolkata, and in many places, its becomes an extension of Kolkata. Kolkata Airport is situated in this district. This is also a border of Bangladesh and a major land trade route between the two countries.

Some of the Popular Destinations of North 24 Parganas;

Dakshineswar Temple
Adyapith Temple
Taki
Gandhi Ghat
Bibhutibhushan Abhayaranya

Dakshineswar is famous for Kali Temple, built by Rani Rashmoni. Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa was the priest of this temple. Situated on the east bank of the Bhagirathi River, this is a majestic temple complex. Adyapith is also a Kali temple situated near Dakshineswar. The Kali Idol was found during an excavation in Kolkata. Taki is a border town located at the Ichamati Riverbank. During Durga Immersion, both countries gather on the Ichamati bank, and Idol Immersion happens through boats. It is a grand celebration and visitors come from various parts to witness this. Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary or Parmadan Avayaranya is a small but beautiful forest. Deers, rabbits and langur are found in enclosures.

Paschim Medinipur Travel Attractions

Paschim or West Medinipur was part of Medinipur district. Medinipur was one of the epicentres of India's Freedom Fight. Agriculture and allied industries are the primary professions of the people. Shilaboti, Kangsaboti, Subarnarekhs, Dulong, Kelaghi rivers helping agriculture here.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Paschim Medinipur;

Garhbeta
Pathra
Gangani
Barasuli Dam
Kurumbera Fort
Karnagarh

Gangani is also known as The Grand Canyon of India. It is situated on the bank of River Shilaboti. Because of climatic conditions and soil structure, this canyon-like geography attracts tourists in large numbers. This place also becomes a hotspot for migratory birds in winter. Pathra is a temple village. There are many temples in and around Pathra village. This place is situated in Kangsabati Riverside. In recent days, the Archaeological Department undertaking the maintenance of these temples. Zamindar Bari, Rasmancha, Durga Dalan, and Shiv Temple are some of the famous temples here.

Paschim Bardhaman Travel Attractions

Paschim Bardhaman or West Burdwan is a industrial district of West Bengal. Bordering Jharkhand, an extension of the Chota Nagpur Plateau, can be seen here. This is also a mining hub, and this region is well known for its Steel Industry.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Paschim Bardhaman;

Damodar River
Maithon Dam
Randiha
Nehru Park

Damodar River is the lifeline of this district. Multiple dams provide much-needed water for its industries. The river bed and adjacent jungles are rich in biodiversity. River beds are full of birds, and during winter, they are joined by migratory cousins. In various places, you will find jackals and wolves. Maithon Dam is situated on the border of West Bengal and Jharkhand. Here you can enjoy natural beauty, boat rides and explore mountain trails. There are many picnic spots like Randiha, Bathanbari etc. All these are mainly the backwaters of Durgapur Dam.

Purba Bardhaman Travel Attractions

Purba Bardhaman, or East Burdwan, is mainly an agriculture district. East Bardhaman is also known as the "Rice Plate" of West Bengal. This district claims a significant part of West Bengal's history and culture. Birbhum and Murshidabad border it in the north, east Nadia and Hooghly in the south.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Purba Bardhaman;

108 Shiv Temple
Curzon Gate
Purbasthali Lake
Kalna

Purbasthali Oxbow lake is a birder paradise. This lake gets many numbers of migratory birds in winter. Conservation efforts and awareness among local people enriching the bird population and are also increasing visitors numbers. 108 Shiv Temple in a single complex attracts pilgrims and tourists. It is a heritage temple compound and is maintained well. You will receive calm and positive vibes here. Kalna is famous for Terracotta temples. The art and architecture of Pratapeshwar Deul, Lalji Mandir, attract tourists around the year.

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Purba Medinipur Travel Attractions

Purba Medinipur or East Medinipur is a coastal district of West Bengal. Purba Medinipur holds its prominent place in India's Freedom Struggle. This district is home to ancient settlements like Tamralipta. In terms of industry, Haldia is a growing industrial hub and a prominent port in West Bengal.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Purba Medinipur;

Digha
Mandarmani
Junput
Mahishadal
Bargabhima Temple

Digha and Mandarmani are famous sea beaches in India. However, these two beaches have their distinct characteristics. Digha is for having a good time with beachside markets and many activities. On the other hand, Mandarmani is for quiet and solitary relaxation. A vast sea beach with minimal visitors helps you indulge in the beauty of Nature. All these sea beaches are well connected and have all the modern facilities. Mahishadal Rajbari is a go-to place for history lovers. Geonkhali near Mahishadal is a perfect day outing place. Maa Bargabhima Temple in Tamluk is one of the Satipith. It's a calm and clean temple where devotees can offer their prayer without any disturbances.

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Purulia Travel Attractions

Purulia is part of the Chota Nagpur Plateau and the westernmost district of West Bengal. This district is known for its Sal Forests and hills. Purulia has a vibrant folk culture. Chau Nach and Jhumur songs are the traditions people have kept alive over centuries. For every season, we have different Jhumur Songs. Through these songs, people celebrate the grace of Nature. Chhau Dance is an integrated part of people's life. Through this dance, the artist tells various mythological stories. Chhau dance is now famous across the World.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Purulia;

Ayodhya Pahar
Garh Panchkot
Baranti
Baghmundi
Joychandi Pahar
Panchet Dam
Murguma

Garh Panchkot is a historical place. It is situated at the foothill of Panchet Hills. There are different accounts available about this Garh or Fort. Unfortunately, nothing much left today. However, this place will tell you many sagas of bravery and our proud history. Ayodhya Hills is an extension of the Eastern Ghat range and part of Dalma Mountain. This place is now famous for mountaineering training. The highest point of Ayodhya is Gorgaburu. During monsoon, this entire region transforms dramatically. Joychandi Pahar is named after the Chandi Mata Temple at its top. This mountain is also famous for mountaineering training. Between Marandi and Baranti hills, Baranti Lake is another place of scenic beauty. Especially sunset from this lakeside is an unforgettable memory.

South 24 Parganas Travel Attractions

South 24 Parganas is the most promising district in terms of Tourism. It is famous on the World tourism map for multiple tourist attractions. Starting from Kolkata and East Medinipur in the West, this district borders Bangladesh in the east and the Bay of Bengal in the south. The World's largest delta and mangrove forest Sundarban is situated in this district. In addition, South 24 Parganas has many islands and rivers.

Some of the Popular Destinations of South 24 Parganas;

Sundarban
Gangasagar
Bakkhali
Lothian Island
Frazerganj

Sundarban is the World's largest delta and home to some unique wildlife. This National Park is famous for its Man-Eating Royal Bengal Tigers. Unlike any other reserve forests, tigers here are born maneaters. There are several researches, but till now, it is not concluded this unique behaviour. Apart from tigers, this is also home to giant crocodiles and numerous other animals. Sundarban is also home to many rare and endangered species of birds. Lothian island is famous for Olive Ridley turtles. Bakkhali is a trendy sea beach. Henry Island is another nearby sea beach to Bakkhali. This is one of the best beaches for people who wants to be alone with Nature. On the other hand, Gangasagar is one of the holiest places for Hindus. It is the place of one of the World's largest human gatherings, the Kumbh Mela. Gangasagar is also referred as Sagar Sangam as Maa Ganga confluence with Bay of Bengal. Almost the entire district is held very high on birder's map.

Uttar Dinajpur Travel Attractions

Uttar Dinajpur or North Dinajpur was earlier part of West Dinajpur, later divided into two districts. In the west, Bihar and the east, it borders Bangladesh. Therefore, in the West Bengal map, one can quickly identify this district as the shortest width on the map.

Some of the Popular Destinations of Uttar Dinajpur;

Kulik Bird Sanctuary
Burhan Fakirs Mosque
Karnajora Park

Kulik is the second largest bird sanctuary in Asia. It is home to more than 170 species of birds. During the migration period in winter, Kulik Sanctuary provides food and shelter to approximately 80000 to 100000 birds. River Kulik is flowing through this sanctuary. Kulik Sanctuary is situated right beside National Highway in Raiganj. Raiganj Municipality recently developed an Eco Park, which has become quite popular among local visitors.