 The
gateway state to the exotic Eastern India, West Bengal is a
land of heritage, natural beauty, art, culture and poetry, and
people marked with the human touch. The state stretches from
the Himalayas in the north to the Bay of Bengal in the south.
But it’s not only the wondrous natural splendour but also
Bengal's artistic genius in theatre, folk music, literature,
films, cuisines and paintings that makes this place a haven
for visitors. Fish, rice and a plethora of sweets are Bengali
specialties. Ace Bengali artisans work wonders with terracotta,
conch shells, clay models, leather, batik and woodwork. Bengal
handloom sarees, with exquisitely woven borders, also have a
universal appeal. It is perhaps during the festival times like
Durga Puja, Kali Puja, Diwali, Dol Jatra, Ganga, Id, Ramzan,
Christmas and New Year that the true spirit of West Bengal can
be experienced. |
Kolkata
Aptly titled as 'The City of Joy', 'City of Palaces', and 'Paris
of the East' this sprawling metropolis undoubtedly touches the
heart of each tourist with its endearing way of life. With over
300 years of history, the former capital of India, Kolkata is
one of the four metropolises of the country. Major attractions
in the city include Fort William, Victoria Memorial, Birla Planetarium,
Indian Museum, Nehru Children’s Museum, Zoological Garden,
Nandan, Shahid Minar, Raj Bhavan, Town Hall, Kolkata High Court,
Howrah Bridge (Rabindra Setu), Vidyasagar Setu, Dalhousie Square,
Rabindra Bharati University, Marble Palace, National Library,
Asiatic Society, Science City: Nicco Park, Swabhumi, The Missionaries
of Charity.
Krishnanagar
(118 kms from Kolkata) This is an artiste's town that produces
clay models and figurines.
Nabadwip
(120 kms from Kolkata) Medieval capital and birthplace of
great religious reformer Shri Chaitanya. Another tourist attraction
is Sonargouranga Temple.
Murshidabad
(221 kms from Kolkata) Murshidabad is the former capital of
Independent Bengal with several reminders from the past.
Gaur
(353 kms from Kolkata) Ancient capital of Buddhist, Hindu
and Muslim Bengal.
Raiganj
(425 kms from Kolkata) Kulik Bird Sanctuary.
Darjeeling
(686 kms from Kolkata) This is one of the celebrated hill
stations of India. One can take an amazing ride on the toy
train from Siliguri. Adventure sports like trekking, mountaineering
and rock climbing are some of the activities common among
tourists here. Other attractions are the tea garden trails,
and the view of Mt Kanchenjunga. |
 |
Jalpaiguri
(610 kms from Kolkata) One can go to Dooars and Jaldapara
Wildlife Sanctuary from here.
Coochbehar Town
(704 kms from Kolkata) Tourist attractions are Koochbehar
Palace, Madan Mohan Temple, Sagardighi, Rasik Bil, Gosanimari
Temple, Baneswar Temple etc.
Vishnupur
(152 kms from Kolkata) One can see the terracotta sculptures
and temples. This is the centre of silk, tussar and bell-metalware.
Bankura
(185 kms from Kolkata) Famous for terracotta art and terracotta
handicrafts.
Ajodhya Hills
(285 kms from Kolkata) This is an eco, adventure and rural
tourism centre.
Shantiniketan
(212 kms from Kolkata) The famous international university,
which was started by the great Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore
in 1901, is today a major seat of learning of art and culture.
Sunderban Wildlife Sanctuary
(135 kms from Kolkata) This 2585 sq. km mangrove swamp is
the world's largest delta and a world famous tiger habitat.
Digha
(185 kms from Kolkata) One of the most illustrious beaches
in Eastern India. |
