The
land of fish, curry and rice, West Bengal is saddled with this label. But
this decription while closely approximates the people's concern here, does
not even touch their other aspects, their passion, love for a hearty chat
and impulsiveness. The Bengalis are an argumentative people, fighting it
out over politics, and the other favourite topic, football. But it's a
place full of warmth as well. You may come here as a stranger, but you
leave as a friend.
The climate is, however, hot - blame the climate for the Bengali's
hotheadedness. The rains come around July. But it is hot and sweaty all
the year round.
However, Darjeeling, the most popular hill station of the region, and its
surrounding areas, prove a respite. Wonderfully cool, its landscape is
aweinspiring. Here, the Himalayan Mountaineering Museum,
Ghoom Buddhist Monastery and the Singlaa bazaar
are major attractions. Kalimpong is another beautiful little
town. The dawn breaking over Kanchenjunga, horse riding, tea gardens and
treks, all the expectations of a hilly holiday are fulfilled. West Bengal,
thus promises you both plains and mountain peaks.
Calcutta, the capital, is a city not
to be missed. Its varied past has a way of lingering on in unexpected
corners. The Victoria Memorial at one end of Chowringhee
is a marble monument to commemorate Queen Victoria's India.
The Botanical Gardens is full of a wonderful variety of tropical plants.
The Eden Gardens stretching over acres of lush green
grass is the famous cricket field. A two-day-one-night cruise to the
mangrove forests of the Sunderbans entails spending
nights in a forest bungalow on stilts and the chance to see the Royal
Bengal Tiger. Digha, the beach resort of Calcutta, is
easily accessible by road and a wonderful getaway.
Places
to visit: Click Here
to know more about exciting tourist places in West Bengal
Best time to visit: The Durga Puja months of September-October and
December-January.
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