Contai Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Contai, West Bengal with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Contai, West Bengal

Located in Southwest Bengal, in the district of Purba Medinipur, Contai is a small town that is yet to be explored by many travelers. Despite that, Contai has a lot to offer to its visitors, from culturally significant museums and historical places to natural attractions such as scenic views and outdoor adventures. In this travel guide, we aim to provide you with everything you need to know to plan your trip to Contai, West Bengal.

List of Places to Visit in Contai

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Contai Rajbari: Built by the royal family of Contai, Contai Rajbari is a place of historical significance that showcases the grandeur of the kings and queens who once resided here.

  • Ashapurna Museum: The museum is dedicated to the life and works of Ashapurna Devi, one of the prominent Bengali writers and literary figures of the 20th century.

Natural Attractions of Contai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Digha Beach: Located just 19 km from Contai, Digha Beach is a popular tourist destination known for its pristine waters and picturesque views. It is an ideal spot for a day trip with your friends and family.

  • Mandarmani Beach: This beach stretches for 13 km, making it the longest motorable beach in India. Mandarmani Beach is situated at a distance of 51 km from Contai and is another great option for a day trip.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Contai

  • Arambagh-Bagnan Route: This biking route runs from Arambagh to Bagnan and is a perfect escape from the noise of the city. The scenic beauty of the route will definitely make the journey worth it for adventure lovers.

Best Things to Do in Contai: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the weekly market: The weekly market of Contai is a colorful affair that showcases the liveliness of rural Bengal. It is a great spot for souvenir shopping, trying local delicacies, and experiencing authentic local culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Contai

Day Itinerary
1 Arrival in Contai and visit to Contai Rajbari
2 Visit to Ashapurna Museum
3 Day trip to Digha Beach
4 Visit to the weekly market and local food tour
5 Hike/bike along the Arambagh-Bagnan route
6 Day trip to Mandarmani Beach
7 Departure from Contai

Food and Drink Scene of Contai

Must-Try Dishes

  • Paturi: Paturi is a popular Bengali dish that involves wrapping fish in banana leaves and cooking it over a low flame. It is a must-try dish for seafood lovers visiting Contai.

  • Chingri Macher Malai Curry: This is another popular Bengali seafood dish that involves prawns cooked in coconut milk and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Aam Panna: This beverage is made from green mangoes and is a perfect drink to beat the heat during summer.

  • Nolen Gur: Nolen Gur is a Bengali speciality made from date palms and is widely used as a sweetener in desserts and drinks.

Where to Stay in Contai: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Sagar: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and is located in the heart of the town.

  • Hotel Sea Coast: This hotel is situated near Digha Beach and offers rooms with a sea view.

What to Buy in Contai: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Tant sarees: Tant sarees are a speciality of Bengal and make for great souvenirs to take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Contai

Contai is a small town in Bengal that has preserved its cultural heritage for centuries. The locals of Contai celebrate many festivals, and you can witness local customs and rituals during your stay in Contai.

Best Time to Visit Contai

The best time to visit Contai is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather during this time is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Contai

Do:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious places.
  • Try local delicacies and immerse yourself in the local culture.
  • Carry enough cash, as not all places accept cards.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places.
  • Do not disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Contai

Contai is generally safe for tourists, but it is advised to take precautions, especially when traveling alone.

Health in Contai

It is important to take necessary precautions while travelling to Contai. Carry mosquito repellent and drink bottled water to avoid getting sick.

Getting to Contai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Contai

  • Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport: This airport is located in Kolkata and is 170 km away from Contai.

Bus Stations Near Contai

  • Contai Bus Stand: This bus stand is located in the heart of the town and is connected to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

  • Train: Contai Railway Station is well-connected to major cities and towns in Bengal.

How to Get Around in Contai

The best way to explore Contai is on foot. Bicycle rentals and taxis are also readily available.

Where to Go Next from Contai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Digha: Digha is a seaside resort town located 19 km from Contai and is a popular tourist destination.

Conclusion

Contai is a quaint little town that offers immense opportunities for adventure, exploring local culture, and enjoying some downtime. Plan your trip to Contai and discover what makes this town so special.