On the eastern part of India, the state of West Bengal is the land of culture and rich tradition. Apart from the glorious past, today's West Bengal claims more fame as a bastion of leftist dominance.
A travel to West Bengal takes you to the state, which has given birth to maximum number Nobel laureates of the country. This is the home to numerous poets, painters, filmmakers and scholars celebrated across the globe.
Travel to West Bengal is mostly preferred during September and October, when the state celebrates Durga Puja with much enthusiasm.
Dotted with many places of interest, West Bengal tourism offers the tourists with a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor of the state.
| Location | Northern part of India Sikkim and Bhutan at the north Assam and Bangladesh on the east Bay of Bengal on the south Orissa, Bihar and Nepal on the west. |
| Latitude | Between 27°13'15" and 21°25'24" north |
| Longitude | Between 85°48'20" and 89°53'04" east |
| Area | 88,752 sq km |
| Climate | Summer - Hot Winter - Cold |
| Max Temperature | 35°C |
| Min Temperature | 10°C |
| Average Annual Rainfall | 210cms |
| Capital | Kolkata |
| Population | 80221171 |
| Languages | Bengali, Hindi, English |
| Religion | Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism, Jainism |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Clothing | Summer - Light Cottons Winter - Woolens |
West Bengal represents a panorama of majestic hills, dense jungle replete in wild lives, undulating green plains, beautiful breaches, historical monuments and a tremendously rich culture.
Strategically located at the eastern part of Indian peninsula, the state has a very smooth communication network. It is often referred to as the gateway of the eastern India. How to Reach West Bengal is, therefore, not an issue.
By Air
The state has an international airport in Kolkata, the state capital and another domestic airport at Bagdogra near Siliguri, in the northern Bengal. These two airports are served by nearly all public and private airlines and linked to major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and so on. Most of the destinations in West Bengal are located at convenient distance from Kolkata and Bagdogra.
By Rail
The state has a very good rail network too. Two railway stations namely: Howrah and Sealdah near Kolkata and New Jalpaiguri, close to Siliguri, are key railway stations in the state. There are numerous other railheads that are served by important trains from all over the country and link major destinations within the state.
By Road
An extensive road network covers the entire state. A number of National Highways and State Highways crisscross the land. One can also approach the state from neighbouring states, name Bihar, Orissa and Jharkhand. Cross border road transportation is also operational with neighbouring countries like Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh.
The ace artisans of the sate make exquisite items out of clay, conch, shoal. In some places of West Bengal, the craftsmen weave superb silk saris, which is a popular item for those who wish to do some shopping in West Bengal.
West Bengal Handicrafts
Fine arts also have a rich tradition in West Bengal. In fact the state has produced a number of celebrated painters. Painting is also a worth buying item in West Bengal.
Last but not the important to mention is that Darjeeling in West Bengal produces the finest quality of tea in the world.
So a packet or two of original Darjeeling tea must feature in your list for Shopping in West Bengal.
While shopping in West Bengal, look for:
| Baluchari silk saris | Clay models and terracotta items (horses) |
| Tea | Jute Products, Cane & Bamboo work and mats |
| Items made of shola, conch-shell | Leather work |
| Dhokra and metal cast items | Paintings |
In all destinations in West Bengal there are a lot of opportunity for shopping. Government Emporia are galore in number whereas private shops literally dot all over the state. You can also opt for shopping from the roadside vendors who offer good variety and great bargain.
