Bishnupur
Known for its ancient temples dating back to 15th century, Bishnupur is the history lovers’ paradise. Situated in the Bankura District, Bishnupur is has some beautiful terracotta temples and prosperous Balucheri Saree industry. It is believed that art and culture flourished here during the reign of the Malla Rulers who were the patrons of painting and music. The temples here stand proof of the gorgeous architecture that this place once was adorned with.
Kolkata
The West Bengal, capital of Kolkata, officially known by its British name of Calcutta until 2001, has undergone a dramatic transformation over the last decade. No longer identified with slums, destitution, and the inspiring work of Mother Teresa, Kolkata has grown into the cultural capital of India. In addition, Kolkata is the only city in India to have a tram car network, which adds to its old-world charm.
Darjeeling
Darjeeling is known as the Queen of the Hills, located in the Lesser Himalaya and famous for tea Gardens, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and spectacular views of Kangchenjunga. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is listed under world heritage site as the Mountain Railways of India and runs daily from Darjeeling to Ghum, India’s highest railway station.
Dooars Region and Jaldapara National Park
If you cannot make it all the way as far as Kazaringa National Park in Assam to see the rare one-horned rhinoceros in the wild, do not despair. Jaldapara National Park has about 50 of these creatures, and you can view them close up on an elephant safari. The sanctuary is the most well-known forest in the Dooars region, at the Himalayan foothills of West Bengal close to Bhutan.
If you stay at the Forest Department's Hollong Tourist Lodge deep inside the national park, you will be blessed with the sight of animals wandering to the nearby creek and salt lick, rhinos included. The top months for rhino watching are March and April when the new grass comes up.
Digha
A sea-side city, Digha is an ideal weekend destination from Kolkata. Digha is extremely popular amidst tourists for its pristine beach and that is why one must book their tour well in advance, especially on the weekends. Make sure to try the fried fish that the locals sell; collect sea shells; follow trails left behind by crabs; and sip on coconut water while lazing under an umbrella on the beach.
Cooch Behar
Cooch Behar is one of the main tourist destinations in West Bengal, located in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. The princely state tourist attractions includes Cooch Behar Palace and Madan Mohan Temple.
Mandarmani Beach
Avoid overcrowded Digha Beach and head to Mandarmani Beach, about 3 hours south of Kolkata, instead. Although it is not far from Digha, this fishing village with a super long stretch of beach is so much more peaceful and unpolluted. Bombay Beach Resort and Sana Beach Resort are recommended places to stay there right on the beach.