Do you think that the Bengalis get into a quick fit of rage? Well, blame the climate and not them (No pun intended). Though every season pays a visit to Bengal but scorching summer seems to reign summer and stay longer. However, some pockets in Bengal like Darjeeling and Jalpaigudi have pleasant climate throughout the year. Darjeeling is a hilly region and the most popular tourist spot in West Bengal. Being wonderfully cool, Darjeeling gets footfalls of madding Bengalis who earnestly wish for a respite during the summer season. However, this place with its pristine beauty and lofty mountains is an irresistible attraction for the tourists at home and abroad alike. For sight-seeing, you can visit Himalayan Mountaineering Museum, Ghoom Buddhist Monastery and the Singlaa bazaar. Kalimpong, a beautiful little town is a must-visit for the travelers. The rising sun spreading its soft glow over Kanchenjunga, horse riding, tea gardens and treks are some experiences to cherish till your last breathe.
Calcutta is the capital city of West Bengal. The ideal time to visit this vibrant city is during September-October. It is a festive season for Kolkatans and the city wears a new look during this time. Everywhere you can see thick crowd of festive- frenzy people. However, the city being mingling spot of different cultures, hosts religious festivals of every faith. The city has a rich cultural heritage and many famous spots that you should not give a miss to. The city’s rich past has mingled with its vibrant present in a seamless blend and reverberates in several ‘pride of places’.
Eden Gardens – Named after the sister of Alexander, the Eden Gardens houses the biggest and most popular cricket ground in India. The garden stretches over a wide area of lush green and the stadium can accommodate more than one lakh spectators. Eden Gardens has been a witness to many spectacular events of record making and braking by the great cricketers. Kolkatans are madly in love with cricket and every cricketer wishes to play in the Eden Gardens in front of the thick pool of the amazing fans.
Victoria Memorial – It was built to commemorate Queen Victoria and was inaugurated by Prince of Wales in 1921. The Memorial, being greatly influenced by the Tajmahal, is built in marble. This memorial is the towering example of architectural brilliance of the British.
Birla Planetarium – It is a major tourist attraction in Kolkata. The auditorium has a capacity of 500 and arranges multi-lingual shows every day. The planetarium gives valuable information about the universe and its latest happenings. The planetarium has different models which are greater attractions for the little champs.
Sahid Minar – This 48-m high monument was built in 1828. It is standing tall on the northern part of the Maidan. This minar is a confluence of Syrian, Egyptian and Turkish architectural grandeur. You can have a panoramic view of the entire city from this minar. However, you need prior information from the police headquarter to climb the tower.
Kali Temple – It is a sacred place for the pious Hindus. The present structure was rebuilt in 1809 on the site of an ancient temple. It is also known as the Kalighat temple. Calcutta, an anglicized form of Kalikata is believed to originate from the name of this temple.
Rabindra Setu (Howrah Bridge) – It is one of three bridges hanging over the river Hooghly. Truly speaking, this bridge is one of the signature marks of Kolkata. Howrah Bridge is suspended on pillars. Vidya Sagar Setu, a newly constructed structure is also a cable-suspended bridge. The design of the new construction has a similarity with the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. It was built to reduce the traffic load on the old Howrah Bridge.
Ravindra Gallery – This gallery has a rare collection of the fine pictures and manuscripts of Nobel Laureate Rabindra Nath Tagore. The great poet and philosopher of nineteenth century dabbled in painting in the twilight years of his life. The unique style of his painting has earned rave reviews from the art critics around the world. This place is also a popular venue for various cultural programs.
Apart from the above-said locations, West Bengal has much to offer for its visitors:-
Belur Math – It is the head-quarter of Ramakrishna Mission, set up by great Swami Vivekananda.
Digha – Just a six-hour bus journey from the capital city and you will reach this nearest sea beach from Kolkata. Digha offers everything to satisfy a sea-loving tourist. The balmy beach of Digha stretches over the sea of golden sand. Just eight kilometer away from Digha is the Chandaneshwar Siva Temple, seated across the border in Orissa.
Tiger Hills – It is the highest point in Darjeeling and provides a bird’s eye view of the majestic Kanchenjunga peaks. The other peaks of the Eastern Himalayas can also be seen from Tiger Hills. It is an unforgettable experience for any traveler to watch the red ball rising behind the snow-capped Kanchangha. When the first ray kisses the peak of the mountains, it creates an impression of molten gold of having been poured all over.
Mirik – The place is 52 km. away from Siligudi and tucked in a corner which is far away from the hustle-bustle of busy city life. The place is surrounded by tea estates, cardamom plantations and orange orchards. Mirik is a tranquil timeout for the tired workaholics.