Kharagpur and Midnapore Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Kharagpur and Midnapore with this comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to natural wonders, hiking/biking routes to food and drink scene, and logistics to safety, this guide covers everything you need to know.


Kharagpur and Midnapore are two neighboring cities located in Southwest Bengal, in the state of West Bengal, Eastern India. Steeped in history and culture, the region offers a wonderful mix of natural and urban attractions for tourists to explore. From gardens and parks to museums and temples, Kharagpur and Midnapore have a lot to offer visitors. This comprehensive travel guide explores the best places to visit, the must-try food and drinks, where to stay, and tips for staying safe and healthy during your trip.

Introduction to Kharagpur and Midnapore

Kharagpur is a small city located in the Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal. It is known for its educational institutions, industrial parks, and scenic beauty. Midnapore is the district headquarters of Paschim Medinipur and is located around 35 kilometers west of Kharagpur. Historically, Midnapore was known for its role in the Indian Independence Movement in the early 20th century. Today, it is home to many cultural and tourist attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Kharagpur and Midnapore

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur: One of the oldest IITs in India, and beautifully landscaped, this institute is a must-visit while in Kharagpur.
  2. Khargeswar Temple: Built in the early 20th century, it is a famous Hindu pilgrimage center dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  3. Midnapore Museum: If you’re keen on knowing more about the history of Midnapore, this museum is a must-visit.
  4. Sitala Mandir: A popular Hindu temple in Midnapore

Natural Attractions of Kharagpur and Midnapore: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Ramgarh Hill: A beautiful nature reserve in Kharagpur, famous for its walking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and scenic views.
  2. Garbeta Forest: This forest in Midnapore district is home to many exotic bird species and is a famous trekking destination.
  3. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to many endangered species like the Indian wild buffalo, deer, and reptiles, it is a popular place for bird watching and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes in Kharagpur and Midnapore

  1. Kharagpur to Gangtok: A popular biking route which takes about a day to cover.
  2. Midnapore to Bahragora: This scenic route runs adjacent to the Subarnarekha River and is ideal for camping and hiking.
  3. Jungle Trek to Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: A popular trail for those who love trekking through forests and spotting wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Kharagpur and Midnapore: Activities and Tours

  1. Visit the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur.
  2. Take a leisurely stroll in the beautiful gardens and parks of Kharagpur and Midnapore.
  3. Go bird watching in Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kharagpur and Midnapore

Day Itinerary
1 Arrive in Kharagpur and visit Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, and Khargeswar Temple.
2 Travel to Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, go bird watching and camping.
3 Visit Ramgarh Hill for scenic views and hiking.
4 Visit Midnapore and explore Midnapore Museum and Sitala Mandir.
5 Take the Midnapore to Bahragora hike.
6 Visit Garbeta Forest and indulge in trekking, and camping.
7 Depart for home.

Food and Drink Scene in Kharagpur and Midnapore

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Khichdi: A popular rice and lentil dish, which is comforting and delicious.
  2. Fish dishes: The region is famous for its fish curry and fish fry dishes.
  3. Luchi-Aloo Dum: Luchi is a kind of deep-fried bread made from flour and served with a spicy potato curry.

Local Beverages

  1. Lassi: A rich, creamy yogurt drink, which is perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.
  2. Cha (Tea): The favorite beverage of the region.

Where to Stay in Kharagpur and Midnapore: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Burdwan Hotel: A three-star hotel located in the heart of Kharagpur.
  2. Hotel Jodhpur Palace: A budget-friendly hotel located in Midnapore.

What to Buy in Kharagpur and Midnapore: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handicrafts and pottery: The region is known for producing beautiful handicrafts and pottery.

Local Culture and Customs of Kharagpur and Midnapore

The local culture of Kharagpur and Midnapore is heavily influenced by Hinduism. The locals are warm, friendly, and welcoming, and they take great pride in their customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Kharagpur and Midnapore

The best time to visit Kharagpur and Midnapore is during the winter months, i.e., from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kharagpur and Midnapore

Do:

  1. Respect the locals and their customs.
  2. Try the local food and drinks.
  3. Carry a hat, sunscreen, and sufficient water while visiting natural attractions.

Don’t:

  1. Wear shorts or revealing clothing while visiting temples or other religious places.
  2. Litter in public places.
  3. Talk about politics or religion with strangers.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kharagpur and Midnapore

  1. Always carry a copy of your ID proof and emergency contact information.
  2. Avoid traveling alone at night.
  3. Stay in well-lit areas and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas.

Health in Kharagpur and Midnapore

  1. Always carry a first aid kit and necessary medications.
  2. Stay hydrated and carry sufficient water.
  3. Be aware of water-borne diseases and drink only bottled or boiled water.

Getting to Kharagpur and Midnapore: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kharagpur and Midnapore

The nearest airport to Kharagpur and Midnapore is the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, which is around 135 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Kharagpur and Midnapore

Kharagpur Bus Stand is the primary bus station in the city, and Midnapore Bus Stand in Midnapore is one of the busiest bus stations in the district.

Other Options

You can also opt for trains or private taxis to get to Kharagpur and Midnapore.

How to Get Around in Kharagpur and Midnapore

Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses are the primary modes of transportation in Kharagpur and Midnapore.

Where to Go Next from Kharagpur and Midnapore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Kolkata: The capital city of West Bengal, and famous for its historic landmarks, architecture, and local food.
  2. Darjeeling: A beautiful hill station famous for its tea plantations and scenic views.

Conclusion

Kharagpur and Midnapore are vibrant cities, offering a mix of cultural, natural, and urban attractions. This comprehensive travel guide covers all the essential information you need to plan your trip, from the best places to visit, food and drink scene, lodging options, transportation, and health and safety tips. So pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Southwest Bengal.

Kharagpur Junction Railway Station Kharagpur Junction Railway Station