Southeast Bengal Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, and more in Southeast Bengal.


Introduction to Southeast Bengal

Southeast Bengal is a breathtaking region located in Eastern India, in South Asia. Known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and historical significance, Southeast Bengal has much to offer to its visitors. This tour guide aims to give you a comprehensive understanding of what Southeast Bengal has to offer, including a list of places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, local food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health information, transportation, and nearby destinations to explore.

List of Places to Visit in Southeast Bengal

Southeast Bengal is home to numerous cultural and historical attractions as well as natural wonders. Here are some must-visit places in Southeast Bengal:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Victoria Memorial, Kolkata
  • Indian Museum, Kolkata
  • Belur Math, Howrah
  • Bishnupur Terracotta Temples, Bankura
  • Hazarduari Palace, Murshidabad
  • Jorasanko Thakur Bari, Kolkata

Natural Attractions of Southeast Bengal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Sunderbans National Park, South 24 Parganas
  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Darjeeling
  • Singalila National Park, Darjeeling
  • Dooars Valley, Jalpaiguri

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southeast Bengal

Southeast Bengal is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some popular routes:

  • Sandakphu Trek, Darjeeling
  • Buxa-Jayanti Trek, Alipurduar
  • Neora Valley National Park Trek, Kalimpong
  • Benog Wildlife Sanctuary Trek, Darjeeling

Best Things to Do in Southeast Bengal: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Southeast Bengal:

  • Take a river cruise in the Sunderbans
  • Visit a tea plantation in Darjeeling
  • Explore the local markets in Kolkata
  • Marvel at the sunset from Tiger Hill in Darjeeling
  • Take a toy train ride in Darjeeling

Week-Long Itinerary for Southeast Bengal

If you have one week to explore Southeast Bengal, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Victoria Memorial and Indian Museum in Kolkata
2-3 Trekking in Darjeeling
4-5 Wildlife safari in Sunderbans National Park
6 Visit Belur Math and Bishnupur Terracotta Temples
7 Explore Hazarduari Palace and Jorasanko Thakur Bari

Food and Drink Scene of Southeast Bengal

Southeast Bengal has a rich culinary tradition, with a wide variety of flavors and dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bengali Fish Curry
  • Luchi (deep-fried flatbread)
  • Sondesh (a sweet made from cottage cheese)
  • Rasgulla (a sweet made from cheese and syrup)
  • Mishti Doi (a sweet yogurt)

Local Beverages

  • Cha (a sweet and spiced milk tea)
  • Aam Panna (a refreshing drink made from green mangoes)
  • Thandai (a milk-based drink flavored with spices)

Where to Stay in Southeast Bengal: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southeast Bengal offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata
  • Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling
  • Sunderban Tiger Camp, Sunderbans
  • Shantiniketan Tourist Lodge, Birbhum

What to Buy in Southeast Bengal: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Southeast Bengal offers a range of unique souvenirs and local products for visitors to take home. Here are some of the best items to buy:

  • Kantha Embroidery
  • Baluchari Sarees
  • Terracotta Pottery
  • Darjeeling Tea

Local Culture and Customs of Southeast Bengal

Southeast Bengal has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
  • Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home
  • Use your right hand when greeting or eating

Best Time to Visit Southeast Bengal

The best time to visit Southeast Bengal is between October and March when the weather is pleasantly cool and dry. April to June is hot and humid, while July to September is the monsoon season, with heavy rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southeast Bengal

Here are some important things to do and not to do while exploring Southeast Bengal:

Do:

  • Try local cuisine
  • Learn a few words in Bengali
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious sites and traditions
  • Litter or pollute the environment
  • Be disrespectful to local people

Safety and Health

Before traveling to Southeast Bengal, visitors should be aware of safety and health information.

Safety in Southeast Bengal

While Southeast Bengal is generally safe for visitors, it’s important to take certain precautions, such as:

  • Avoid traveling alone at night
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Keep your belongings secure

Health in Southeast Bengal

Visitors should take certain precautions to avoid getting sick while in Southeast Bengal, such as:

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water
  • Avoid street food and unhygienic eating places

Getting to Southeast Bengal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southeast Bengal is well-connected to other parts of India and the world. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Southeast Bengal

  • Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata
  • Bagdogra Airport, Darjeeling

Bus Stations Near Southeast Bengal

  • Esplanade Bus Terminus, Kolkata
  • Siliguri Bus Stand, Darjeeling

Other Options

  • Trains: Southeast Bengal has a well-connected rail network, with trains running to and from major cities in India.
  • Taxis and Private Cars: Taxis and private cars are available for hire, and are a highly recommended way to explore the region.

How to Get Around in Southeast Bengal

Southeast Bengal is well-connected by road, and taxis and buses are readily available. Local trains and rickshaws are also available for shorter distances.

Where to Go Next from Southeast Bengal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Southeast Bengal is surrounded by numerous destinations worth exploring. Here are some ideas:

  • Sikkim
  • Bhutan
  • Nepal
  • Odisha

Conclusion

Southeast Bengal is a mesmerizing region with much to offer to its visitors. From cultural and historical attractions to natural wonders and thrilling outdoor activities, Southeast Bengal has something for everyone. By following this comprehensive tour guide, you can ensure that your trip to Southeast Bengal is unforgettable.



    Bibhutibhushan Wildlife Sanctuary