Bengal Heritage Tour Kolkata Shantiniketan & Bishnupur

Description

A tour of West Bengal offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the bustling streets of Kolkata, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant arts scene, to the tranquil landscapes of Darjeeling, with its breathtaking Himalayan views and tea gardens, there's something for every traveler. The UNESCO-listed Sundarbans mangrove forests are home to Bengal tigers and unique wildlife. Shantiniketan, founded by Rabindranath Tagore, is a hub for art and literature. Historic temples in Bishnupur, beaches in Digha, and vibrant festivals make West Bengal an unforgettable destination.

Tips for Travellers for Planning their Tour

Package Inclusions
    - Accommodation on twin Sharing Basis.
    - Meal Plan (as per mentioned above).
    - Exclusive AC Vehicle for transfers & sightseeing as per Itinerary.
    - All permit fees & hotel taxes (as per itinerary).
    - Rates are valid for INDIAN NATIONALS only.
Package Exclusions
    - Air Fare / Train fare.
    - Personal Expenses such as Laundry, telephone calls, tips & gratuity, mineral water, soft & hard drinks, porterage.
    - Additional sightseeing or extra usage of vehicle, other than mentioned in the itinerary.
    - Entrance Fees & Guide charges.
    - Any cost arising due to natural calamities like, landslides, road blockage, political disturbances (strikes), etc. (to be borne by the client, which is directly payable on the spot).
    - Service Tax.
    - Insurance.
    - Anything which is not included in the inclusion.

Itinerary

Day 01: Kolkata Airport / Rly. Station – City Hotel
Meet & Greet on arrival at Airport / Railway Station & transfer to hotel. Check-in to hotel & rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at Kolkata.
Day 02: Kolkata – Shantiniketan (210 kms / 4 hrs)
After early breakfast check out from hotel & transfer to Shantiniketan. Shantiniketan was founded in 1901 by Noble Laureate Shri. RabindraNath Tagore who visualized a perfect harmony of humanity with nature. Arrive & Check in at hotel & rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at Shantiniketan.
Day 03: Shantiniketan Sightseeing
After breakfast visit Kopai&Khoai River, Amar Kutir (Handicraft Center), Visva – Bharati University Campus, the complex at “Uttarayan”, Art Gallery, Museum&Ballavpur Deer Park. Evening free at leisure.Overnight stay at Shantiniketan.
Day 04: Shantiniketan – Bishnupur (190 kms / 4 hrs)
After breakfast check out from hotel & drive to Bishnupur. Arrive & Check in at hotel & rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at Bishnupur.
Day 05: Bishnupur Sightseeing – Kolkata (170 / kms 4 hrs)
After breakfast check out from hotel & visit temples where you can find unique art of Terracotta. And also you can find famous Sarnachuri&Baluchuri Sarees. You can visit JoreBunglow, Madanmohan Temple, Chhinnamasta Temple &Dalmadal Kaman. Later drive back to Kolkata. Arrive & Check in at hotel & evening free at leisure. Overnight stay at Kolkata.
Day 06: Kolkata City Tour
After breakfast start for full day Kolkata city tour covering Howrah Bridge*, Belur Math, Vivekananda Setu*, Dakshineswar Temple, GPO*, Writers Building*, Eden Garden Stadium*, St. Pauls Cathedral Church, Victoria Memorial Hall, Mother House & Birla Temple.Overnight stay at Kolkata. (*Drive Pass)

Day 07: Kolkata Hotel – Kolkata Airport / Rly. Station
After breakfast check out from the hotel and transfer to Airport / Railway Station for onward journey.

FAQs

1. What are the must-visit places in West Bengal?

Kolkata (Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum), Darjeeling (tea gardens, Tiger Hill, Himalayan Zoo), Sundarbans (mangrove forests, Royal Bengal Tigers), Shantiniketan (Tagore’s heritage), Bishnupur (terracotta temples), and Digha (beaches).

2. What is the best time to visit West Bengal?

October to March is ideal, with cool and comfortable weather, especially for the mountains and outdoor sightseeing.

3. How can I reach West Bengal?

By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata) is the main airport.

By Train: Major railway stations include Howrah, Sealdah, and New Jalpaiguri.

By Road: Well-connected highways link neighboring states.

4. What is the official language?

Bengali is the official language, though English and Hindi are widely understood in urban areas and tourist spots.

5. What should I pack?

Comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes for hill stations, warm layers if traveling in winter, and insect repellent for the Sundarbans region.

6. What are some local foods to try?

Don’t miss Bengali sweets like rasgulla and sandesh, fish curries, and street food like kathi rolls and puchka (pani puri).

7. Is West Bengal safe for tourists?

West Bengal is generally safe, but standard travel precautions, like keeping belongings secure and staying in well-reviewed accommodations, are advised.

8. What kind of cultural experiences can I expect?

Vibrant festivals like Durga Puja, local handicrafts (e.g., Baluchari saris), folk music, dance, and art, particularly in Shantiniketan and Kolkata.