Asanboni

Asanboni situated under the foothills of Dalma - the best elephant habitat of Jharkhand, where the pachyderms love to

spend their summer. Gaurs, one of the boldest & biggest among the denizens of jungle, prefer to be in close proximity to

the elephants as they love to share the culms pulled down by the taller tuskers. At Jamsedpur Dimna Lake & Jubily Park are

worth visiting. Regarding accommodation, private resorts can be arranged.

Gangasagar

The picturesque view at Sagardwip is breathtaking. The spectacular sunset & sunrise will make your day. The orange orb

casts an enchanting spell on the island & the silvery beach infested with red crabs & lined with trees creates a magical

ambience. Sagardwip's Kapil Muni temple is the fourth construted temple in the island. The first was razed

by a tornado and the next two were destroyed by the sea.

Digha

The Southern West Bengal is endowed with the most famous beach on the eastern coast of India Digha. The beach town of

Digha is famous all over for flat, hard beaches. The beauty of this place was discovered as early as the days of Warren

Hastings. Digha was known as Beer cool at that time. Digha beach is girdled with casurina plantations along the coast. The

sea is calm and shallow for about a mile from the beach making it quite safe for swimming.

Excursion Chandaneswar: An old Siva Temple, 8 km. from Digha. Also Lankeswari (14 km.) and Kapal Kundala Temple (45

km.) near Contai may be visited.

Shankarpur

Shankarpur, a virgin beach as yet, is a recent discovery. It is a twin beach of Digha, around 10 km. from it. It offers nearly all

the pleasures of a private beach. This beach too is cupped with casurina plantations. Shankarpur is only 14 km. east of

Digha, along the Digha-Contai Road. It is also a regular fishing harbour. Shankarpur is now developed as a sea resort with

hotels, tourist lodges and other facilities.

Mandarmoni

Mandarmani is a beach resort in Purba Medinipur district of South Bengal, one of the southern districts of West Bengal. It is

almost 180km from Kolkata Airport on the Kolkata - Digha route and just 14km from Chaulkhola. Mandarmani is one of

Bengal’s recently developed tourist destination that lies close to ever-popular Digha and Shankarpur. With sun and surf,

pristine sea beach and untrammeled silt coloured sand, this beach is slowly becoming popular among the tourists.

Mandarmani boasts of a 13 km long motorable beach, probably the longest motorable beach road in India. On the beach

you will undoubtedly get the chance to feel the divinity and tranquility. If that is not enough to please your senses, then try

to loll on the sand and listen to the waves crashing upon the shore, which will surely drive away your bustling pressure.

Mandarmani is best reached by road. The nearest train station is at Contai and the nearest airport is at Kolkata. The road

route from Kolkata is: Esplanade - 63km - Kolaghat - 3km - Mecheda - 80km - Contai - 12.3km - Chawalkhola - 4km - Kalindi -

4km - Dadan Patra Bar - 6km -Mandarmoni -Total 163km

From Kolkata, catch a bus at Esplanade or at Howrah headed for Chawalkhola. You can avail any bus service headed

towards Digha. State Transport Buses are available, fare is as cheap as 76 INR per head. A number of Deluxe coaches run

daily having fares between 100 to 110 INR. Whiteliners in Kolkata - Digha route (Rs 160/- per head) from Esplanade starts at

7.30 am

Junput

Junput is 40 km. from Digha by bus, with a change at Contai. The place offers beautiful sea-view and lines of casurina trees.

The beach is unspoilt. Brackish water fish cultivation and research are done here by the State Government Fisheries

Department.

Bakkhali Frasergunj

Bakkhali beach is long and sandy, the waves twinkling in the sunlight. Dense casurina groves drape the beach. Red fiddler

crabs march in line on the beach. The white sand beach is entirely different from others. It is pristine pure & holds the

charms of a beach unspoilt. It can be accessed from Calcutta, & is 3 hours drive on very good roads. The destination is also

all too famous for the migratory birds that can be sighted over there. Regarding accommodation, government as well as

private resorts can be arranged.

Chandipur

Chandipur backed up by musical sway of casuarina trees & creepered sand dunes. The Panchalingeswar Temple so named

after the five 'lingams' of Shiva that are enshrined in the temple is located on top of a hillock near the Nilagiri hills. A

perennial stream, which is the main attraction of the area regularly, washes the lingams as it flows over them. Sajanagarh,

Nilagiri Hill, Kuldiha Elephant Sanctuary &Jagannath Temple located nearby. Regarding accommodation, government as

well as private resorts can be arranged.

Gadiara

Gadiara is a small town – 80 km from Kolkata. In the 18th century, the British build a fort at this place to guard the entrance

by the river against river pirates. However the fort is now in ruins. It is situated at the confluence of the Hoogly and

Rupnarayan Rivers. Geonkhali - a fishing village in Midnapore district. The ride to Geonkhali might take around 20 minutes,

depending on the ebb or flow of the current, but it is best to brace yourself for the overwhelming smell of freshly-caught

fish once you get there. Govt. & Private Accommodation available.

Garpanchakot

Garpanchakot is newly discovered destination. Situated at the foothill of Panchakot (panchet hill),in the north east corner

of the Purulia District, close to the boundary with district Burdwan and Jharkhand.Garpanchakot located near village

Bagmaara at the northern base of the Panchet Hill in Purulia district is also famous for its medicinal herbs and plants. A 550

year old fort made by Panchakote dynasty, an ancient Shiva Temple are worth visit spots.

Kamarpukur

Kamarpukur is the birthplace of the great Hindu Saint Sri Ramakrishna Paramhamsa. The attractions include the ancestral

Home of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhamsa, old buildings and remains of temples. Jayrambati is a little village three miles to the

west of Kamarpukur. It is the birthplace of Sarada Devi (wife of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhamsa). Bishnupur, the erstwhile

capital of the Malla rulers of the 16th century is famous for terracotta temples, palace ruins and man-made lakes. The

temples of Aatpur in Hooghly are characterized by at-chala temples that have complex but unified decorative schemes.

Maithan

Maithan or Mother's abode is a beautiful location dotted with lakes and rolling green hills. The rivers Damodar and Barakar

flow through Maithon and Maithon Dam is South East Asia's first underground power station. The extesive reservoir

created by the dam is the main attraction of the area with Parasnath Hills, Kalyaneshwari temple and tranquil Nature trails

and hiking destinations.

Mayapur

Mayapur is situated opposite of Nabadwip (130 KM from Kolkata) across the river Bhagirathi. Some thoughts claim this

place to be the actual birth place of Sri Chaitanya. ISKCON temple, Saraswat Adwaita Math & Chaitanya Gaudiya Math are

important temples here. During Dolyatra Mayapur – a treasure house of customs, tradition, art & scenic delights

presents as center of harmony, amity, fraternity & festivity. Regarding accommodation, private resorts can be arranged.

Mursidabad

Mursidabad Named After Nawab Murshid Kuli Khan, The Dewan Of Bengal, Bihar & Orissa. Once An Important Trading

Town Murshidabad Was The Capital Of Bengal Nawabs, Situated 209 Km North Of Kolkata, Having A Tradition Of

Handicrafts In Silk, Ivory Carvings & Bell Metal-Ware. Standing Right Beside River Bhagirathi Is Nizamat Kila An Italian Style

Palace Built By Britishers For Their Pet Nawab Mirjafar. Places To Visit Are Khusbag Garden Where Nawabs Were Buried,

Great Imambara, Moti Jhil, Impressive Ruins Of Katra Mosque, Medina Mosque, Jain Parasnath Temple At Kathgola &

Hazarduari - The Mansion Of 1000 Doors, Which is Now A Museum Of Nawab Dynasty’s Belongings. Another Interesting

Palace Is Wasif Manzil With Its Unique Collection Of Curios, Paintings, Arms & Costumes. The Char Bangla Temple, The

Bhavaniswar Temple Are The Finest Specimen Of Bengal’s Terracotta Temples. At Plassey The Historic Battle Was Fought

Between Nawab Siraj-Ud-Daula And Lord Clive.

Tarakeshwar

Tarakeshwar is one of the prominent pilgrimage centers, located near Kolkata. Mondays attract scores of pilgrims. Fairs

functioned on Shivratri & Chaitra Sankranti. Several terracotta temples were constructed at Aatpur - 50 km from Kolkata in

the late 18th century by Mitra zamindars of Burdwan. The most ornate of these temples is Radha Govinda temple built in

1786 by Krishnaram Mitra, Dewan.

Santiniketan

Santiniketan has the distinct identity of culture and heritage, which gives the place a unique soft touch. This is a preferred

tourist destination developed as a part of the popular religious-cultural tourist circuit of the region viz. Santiniketan-

Bakreswar-Tarapith. Chhatimtala, Upasana Griha, Dehali, China Bhavana, Black House , Santiniketan Griha, Uttarayana,

Shyamali & Udayana are sight seeing spots.

Murguma

Murguma a beautiful place over at Purulia, nestled in the lap of Ayodhya hill range. Walking through dense woods

alongwith huge lakes or waterbodies and different colourful tribal villages will be a memorable experience. There are very

old temple structure at Deulghata around 20 km from Murguma. At Begun Kodor you will find a small town with a palace

and a temple in ruins. Kairabera has an abandoned irrigation bungalow otherwise private accommodations can be

arranged.

Raichak Falta

A beautiful 18th

century Anglo – Indian styled fort is testimony to the splendid bygone era in Raichak, a small town in West

Bengal. Located on the banks of Hooghly River. Surrounded by verdant trees, the picturesque town offers glorious views of

the river with rows of country boats sailing down & makes a perfect escape from the city grind.

Latpanchor

On the West bank of River Tista about 13 kilometers from Kalijhora is a hidden Himalayan beauty known as Latpanchor. At

an altitude of 3400 ft, the place is close to the core area of Mahananda Wild Life Sanctuary. Among the animals found here

are the rare mountain goat (serow), tigers, leopards, gaurs, wild boars, different kinds of deer and monkeys, jungle cats,

porcupines, civets, monitor lizards and snakes. Latpanchor is also famous for the medicinal plants it produces. Snow capped

peaks of Kanchenjunga range can be seen from here. One can also see the Tista River, Kalimpong hill area, Algara, Lava,

Tode, Tangta and the plains of Terai. The best part of visit to Latpanchor is that you can enjoy the beauty of the hill without

having to jostle among tourist crowd.

Places to visit around Latpanchor:-

The lake of Namthing - Situated at an altitude of 4250 ft above sea level, the beautiful lake is the natural habitat for a

number of rare species. Namthing Lake is only the second place in the region where you can see the Himalayan Salamander

in the wild, the only other place being Jorpokhri.

Latkothi - About 4 km from Latpanchor. The mountain road through the Cinchona, Sal, Teak & Pine trees reaches here to

disclose the wonder of nature. You can spend a day in this place or may further visit the Kuhi area with special permit from

the forest department. Colorful butterflies and birds will welcome you to the region

Sansari Dara - This is the viewpoint from where you can watch the sunrise over the Himalayas.

Accommodation is available in Forest bungalow and in Himalayan Nature resort.

Baramangwa

Baramangwa, a little village near Teesta Bridge, lying in the lap of Teesta Valley. It is a village where only profession was

agriculture even a couple of years back. Bara Mangwa was used for rafting on the Teesta only. Local school buildings were

used for putting up people coming for day time rafting. But it had future as a home-stay tourist destination as the village

had prospect for creating rock climbing facilities, caving in nearby caves and bird watching. Nature is bountiful here. Hills

are covered with green pine and oak trees. The gurgling Teesta runs through a narrow gorge. Rainfall in upper reaches

creates waterfalls when it rains. A nursery of flowers, ornamental plants, herbs surrounds the home-stay facility for

adventure seekers, nature lovers and bird watchers. Bara Mangwa took the shape of social tourism when local youth began

participating in operating and helping in adventure sports.

Tinchuley

The word Tinchuley means three chullas or ovens. Tinchuley is a small village near Darjeeling which has become quite

famous in the recent years due to the effort of the local people in developing community tourist. The leading effort comes

from the Gurung family who have developed the model of homestay to suit their condition.

WWF has declared tinchuley as a model village for its effort in the improvement of environment of Darjeeling and its

adjoining areas with active participation from the local people. The people of Tinchuley has undertaken several eco-friendly

projects including building of forest nursery, floriculture project, bio-compost manure projects, vermi-compost projects and

many other such projects. The main attraction of this village is its Home Hospitality where one gets to eat bio-organic food

and stay in the village.

Places to visit around Tinchuley:-

Tinchuley Sunrise Point - This place provides beautiful views of the surrounding mountains including the Tista valley. All the

major places in the region including the Kalimpong as well as places in East and South Sikkim are visible from here.

Tinchuley Monastery - Revered by the locals, this small monastery is a must see if you are at Tinchuley. The locals tell

stories of a monk meditating in the monastery for 17 years.

Kalimpong

Situated at an altitude of 1800M on the Bhutan-Tibet-Sikkim boarder on the eastern part of Darjeeling Himalayas, the sub-

division town Kalimpong was an important trading center in the earlier days, when the trade routes/silk routes between

Tibet, Bhutan and Sikkim were very much active. The brilliant climate of Kalimpong attracted the British, who later set up

their establishments there. The old churches, the Graham's home, the Morgan House, golf course still hold the memory of

the British Raj. Once a small Lepcha village slowly turned into an ideal place for holydayers.

The beckoning Himalayas, dense virgin forests, vast valleys and meadows and of course the perennial shinning but chilling

weather together have placed Kalimpong in the map of the most important tourist destinations in the Eastern Himalayas.

The climate of Kalimpong has helped in the production of orchid, cactus and ornamental plants. A huge quantity of orchids

and gladiolus are produced in the numerous nurseries and are exported to different countries. Kalimpong is a major center

for traditional handicrafts. The wood curving, thanka paintings, metal crafts, Tibetan and Lepcha jewelries, wooden mask

attract a large number of tourists throughout the year.

The journey from Siliguri to Kalimpong is a memorable one too! The first phase of a total 64Kms journey on the NH31

passes through the dense forest of Mahananda Wild Life Sanctuary. Remember, this is a silence zone and must be driven

cautiously so that the natural habitat for elephant, bison and tiger is not disturbed. Finally, you may be rewarded with a

sight of majestic tusker on the roadside, a glimpse of fleeing deer or a sudden colourful flashy flight of peacock. The journey

through the sanctuary ends at Sevok and you are suddenly exposed to a huge canvas painted with forested hills, mighty

river and vast river basin. The landscapes change rapidly as your car takes the zigzag hilly road on the NH31A. The mighty

Tista River will accompany you throughout the second phase's journey up to Tista Bazaar. Tista is dancing, twisting,

bending; fly high with her! But the speed of the car must remain within 40kmph limit. The final phase starts from Tista

Bazaar as you take a sharp upward turn through the winding roads towards Kalimpong. Tista is no more with you now. She

is left behind far below and lonely. You will not miss her for long though as the vacuum will soon be replaced by the great

Kanchenjunga-burning in the blues!

Places of Tourist Interest at Kalimpong:-

Durpin Dara - It is situated at an altitude of 1402 meters which offers breathtaking views. This is an observatory point about

3 kms. from the town from where a breath taking view of the Himalayan ranges can be seen. Durpin Dara is the highest

point in Kalimpong accessible by car. Durpin Dara offers a finest view of the plains and the mighty Teesta.

Flower Nurseries - Kalimpong is famous for flower nurseries which export exotic flowers. Kalimpong is the only place where

many commercial flower nurseries are situated. One should visit the beautiful laid out 'Universal Nursery' about 3 km from

the town. The Sri Ganesh Moni Pradhan Nursery at 12th mile is specially renowned for its varieties of orchids and the Udai

Mani Pradhan Nursery is among the most important in the area. If you are interested in Rose, Gerbera and Dahlias you can

visit Standard Nursery at Chibo Busty.

Dr. Graham's Home - Founded by Dr. John Anderson Graham in 1900 on the lower slopes of Delo Hill. This Extraordinary

educational institution is situated in a sprawling campus of 500 acres. The institution has its own farmhouse, bakery, dairy,

poultry, hospital and clothing department. Every year in the month of May a gala festival called May Fair is organised here.

It is a unique institution still supported by charitable collections and sponsors from all over the world.

Mangal Dham - This recently constructed place of worship is a marvelous piece of architecture.

Getting Kalimpong:

Kalimpong is easily accessible by road from Siliguri. The 70 Kms journey by car takes about 2.5 Hrs. The important rail

station New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is another 5kms from Siliguri. NJP is directly connected with all major cities of India. Bagdogra,

one of the most important Airport of North East India, is only 14 kms from Siliguri. Indian Airlines and Jet Airways have

regular Air service connecting Bagdogra with New Delhi, Guwahati and Kolkata.

Pedong

20 kms from Kalimpong on the way to Lava is Pedong. A small picturesque hamlet situated on a ridge and surrounded by

pine forests, Pedong commands some magnificent views of snow ranges of Mount Kanchendzonga. It falls on the ancient

silk route that connected Tibet with India through the Jelep La Pass. Pedong is an ideal place for the day visitors staying in

Kalimpong. Several short and thrilling treks originate from Pedong leading to Damsangdugi fort- a historically important site

that witnessed a long ethnic war between Lepchas and Bhutias. A 300 year old ruin hidden by dense forests at Damsangudi

still holds memories of the reigns of Lepcha Kingdom.

Another short trek from Pedong winds up to Tinchuley, another hidden beauty of Kalimpong hills. The deep gorge and wide

valley has prompted adventure tourism activities like Para Gliding and Hang Gliding. Rikissum Top is perhaps the most

scenic location around Pedong. Situated on top of a dense forested hill Rikissum provides a bird eye view of the surrounding

mountains.

Places to visit around Pedong:

Damsang Fort - Within a 15 min walking distance from Pedong the Damsang Dzong was built in the year 1690 to stem any

aggression by the troops of the East India Co. and other hostile tribes as well. The fort is in ruins after the Anglo-Bhutanese

war of 1864. Apart from the Mystic and Historic Interests one is also treated to a magnificent view of the Himalayas and

lush green valleys as this Dzong was built at a vantage point for the Purpose of Administration purpose.

Cross Hill - It is a place of Pilgrimage for the Christian Community this cross was placed as a landmark by father Augustine

Desgodins in the year 1882 when he was going into Tibet through the Nathula Pass for Preaching of Christianity.

Tin Chuley View Point - A short 900m walk will take one to the Tin Chuley Hill. There are lovely views of Kashyone village,

thick wooded forests, and terraced fields brimming with green paddy. The Jelepla pass and Nathula pass can be viewed at a

very close range, as well as the entire Mt. Kanchenjunga range, Sikkim and also a far as Gangtok town.

Sillery Goan - It is located at an altitude of 6000 ft, in the middle of the pine forests of Damsang. Wake up to the sounds of

birds chirping and a Glorious Golden Sunrise. The view of the Mt. Kanchenjunga is simply breathtaking from here and can

be seen very close compared to any point in the region.

Ramitey - See the river Tista snaking in between the Valleys and the Mighty Kanchenjunga looming majestically over it. Is

unquestionable the only place where one can view the Mountains and the Teesta, also the longest view of the river.

Rikkisum - Situated on a hill top on the Pedong - Lava road, Rikkisum commands some magnificent view of the snow ranges

Kanchenjunga mountains. There is an old Bungalow which was built by the British in the year 1902 simply because this is

easily the best view point of the Kalimpong sub-division where you can see the entire Kanchenjunga range also Kalimpong,

Darjeeling, Gangtok, Pedong towns and all this is set amidst beautiful Pine Forests. A picnic or Camping is recommended

here.

Sangchhen Gumpa - This is a Bhutanese monastery built in the year 1706. all the antique belonging to the Damsang Fort are

kept in this monastery after the fort was destroyed. The Chyaam dance is performed during the Ramnavami festival.

Other places of interest are Raniban, Lepcha Heritage, Lava, Rishyap, Loleygaon.

Recommended Activities in Pedong - Nature Walks, Treks, Fishing, River Picnicking, Rock Climbing, Bird watching, Camping

etc.

Lava

A journey of 99km via Kalimpong or 115km via Gorubathan from Siliguri will take you to Lava, one of the most picturesque

spot in the Darjeeling Himalayas. A serene misty hamlet in the Kalimpong sub division, Lava has been a recent addition in

the tourism map of North Bengal and is getting immense popularity among the travelers looking for off beat destinations.

Situated at an altitude of 2100m, Lava presents a landscape with ultimate splendor of nature that can never be captured by

word. The conifer forests under the worm glow of sun with colourful birds flying and singing everywhere the whole

surrounding will enthrall you to a new dimension.

The view of the silvery peaks of Greater Himalayan snow ranges or the smiling children of local ethnic villages, soaked in

simplicity and hospitality, will give you a sense of total fulfillment. Visit the Lava Monastery and Neora valley Interpretation

center, which offers the glimpse of the nature's wealth.

Lava is the gateway of Neora Valley National Park, a virgin, unexplored terrain in the Himalayas. A drive to Choudaferri

inside the park through the pine clad winding road and the Sunrise spot at Tiffin Dara are simply unforgettable. Rishyap,

another upcoming popular tourist destination is only 8kms from Lava.

Reaching Lava:

Nearest Town: Kalimpong, Distance 30Kms. Journey Time: 1hr

Nearest Rail Junction: New Jalpaiguri (NJP); 120Kms, Journey time: 3.5hr

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra, 125Kms

Khorlo organizes regular package tours to Lava, Loleygaon & Kalimpong. Customized packages are also arranged with

consultation with the travelers.

Lolegaon

An important offbeat destination in Kalimpong hills, Loleygaon is 123 km from Siliguri, 54 km from Kalimpong and 24 km

from Lava. At an altitude of 1850M in the midst of undulating slopes and adorned with towering Dhupi and Cypress trees

Loleygaon is the place of ethereal wilderness. Glittering Kanchendzonga at dawn or sensational sunrise and sunset from

Jhandidara will leave you spellbound. The soft colourful petals of the flowers and orchids and the cool breeze will bring a

new life in you. The visit to the Heritage Forest of Loleygaon is a must to get a feel of the exquisite wealth nature has

showered here. The unique 'Canopy Walk' over the century old mossy Oak and Cypress in the Heritage Forest is a thrilling

experience. The all-pervading melodious silence will give you a new dimension of contended soul.

The wilderness resorts in Loleygaon are located amidst the natural environment offering best view of Kanchendzonga and

surrounding mountains.

Rishyap

9 Km Jeepable road or only 3 km easy pleasure trek from lava leads you to a beautiful small hamlet Rishyap, nestles amidst

the hidden hills of Neora Valley. The deep silent forest of Pine, Birch, Fir and Orchids with soothing path following the chirps

of birds & the view of big sky on the lad of snowcapped Khang-Chen-D-Zongha is a special gift of Rishyap. The 300 degree

visible mountain ranges you can find from Rishyap are (left to right) Mt.Kharg, Kokthang, Rathung, Kabroo (North, South,

Dome and Fourth), Talung, Pandim, Khang-Chen-D-Zongha, Simvo, Narsingh, Siniolchu. Another two peaks after these lie

Khanchangyao and Panhundri - remains as the peridens between Sikkim and Tibet and just below it lies the glacier called

"Khangse" which also happens to be the source of river Teesta. Clola, Nathula, Jelepla, Batungla - The Clola Range form the

border between Sikkim and Tibet. Just behind these form 'La's lies the 'Chumvy Valley' which is in China.

Kurseong

Kurseong is a perfect place for people who want to derive the pleasures of being in an alpine surrounding without worrying

about higher altitudes and bone-chilling cold weather. Kurseong does not suffer from severe winters and a healthy,

comfortable climate is prevalent throughout the year except the monsoon season. It rains non-stop in the rainy season;

infact, Kurseong receives the highest amount of rainfall after ‘Cherrapunjee’ in Meghalaya. Ironically, such heavy amount of

rainfall is ideal for white orchids that adorn the hill-slopes of Kurseong in abundance. The natural beauty of Kurseong

thrives because of the generosity of the rain-gods.

Kurseong was ceded to the British Empire by the king of Sikkim in 1835. Later in 1880, the small hamlet became a tourist

destination for the colonial authorities and was a preferred place for sanatoriums where the sick would recuperate.

Thereafter, the Kurseong T.B. Sanatorium was built because the climate and environment was healthy and rejuvenating for

the sick and elderly.

The serenity and beauty of Kurseong has also attracted and inspired famous personalities like Rabindranath Tagore, Atul

Prasad Sen, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose and Sister Nivedita. Mark Twain is also supposed to have visited Kurseong in 1885

and spent some time here. It is believed that Rabindranath Tagore was inspired to write a few poems when he visited the

hill station while Netaji Subhash Chandra was sent to Kurseong for his internship in 1936; the house he stayed is still

restored in Giddapahar, a few kilometers from Kurseong.

As you leave the small town you can find acres of verdant slopes covered with tea bushes – one of the finest varieties of

Darjeeling Tea is found in the tea gardens surrounding Kurseong. The finest teas are produced by Castleton, Makaibari and

Ambootia Tea Estate. Visitor can have a first hand experience of how tea leaves are processed and prepared for production

by visiting the nearby tea factories.

Even though Kurseong has lagged behind in the race to become a preferred tourist destination compared to its glamorous

counterpart Darjeeling, there is tranquility and peace about the place that does not fail to affect a visitor – and that quest

for peace and tranquility brings him back again. Kurseong is connected to Siliguri by two alternative routes; one is the

Pankhabari route which is faster but very steep. The other road traverses through Rongtong, Ghayabari, Mahanadi and

GiddaPahar which provides a breathtaking view of the natural surroundings. If you travel through this road in monsoon you

can enjoy the magnificent sight of waterfalls cascading from the hills.

Places to visit around Kurseong:-

Eagle’s Craig view point - This view point is located near the town seemingly perched on a cliff. One can have a sweeping

view of the surrounding mountain, hill, hamlets and slopes from here. It has a cafeteria, a watch tower and a flower garden;

this place also houses the water reservoir for the entire town of Kurseong. The place also has a concrete altar built in the

park with a khukri on top called shahid smarak; it was built by the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council to pay tribute to the lives

that were lost in the agitation of 1988. From here you will get a magnificent view of the plains of Siliguri dotted with bright

lights in the distance at night.

Deer Park - The Deer Park in Dow hill area comes under the jurisdiction of the state forest department. It was named such

because large numbers of Deers were found in the area before the menace of deforestation and poaching arrived. If you

are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the animal trying to attract your attention by coming out of the wilderness.

Venturing inside the forest is prohibited.

Forest Museum - The forest museum is also located in Dow Hill and is overseen by the forest department. You will get to

know the types of animals that inhabited the forest area here in the past when you visit the museum.

Giddapahar view point - Giddapahar view point in Giddapahar, a few kilometers from Kurseong, provides a great view of

the mountains and is a great place for clicking photographs.

Giddapahar Seti Mata Temple - This temple is carved out of an ancient rock and is dedicated to Goddess Durga. A sacred

place of the Hindus.

Ambootia Temple - This temple is located within the Ambootia Tea Estate area. It has an old temple thronged by many

devotees.

Dowhill’s Girls School - Provides a glimpse of the British era with its architecture and elegance. This school is well known for

its beautiful location surrounded by pine trees and the quality of education it provides.

Victoria Boy’s School - This school was also created by the British and still maintains its Victorian looks and fame.

Grotto - The grotto houses the statue of Virgin Mary and is located in a beautiful surrounding that takes you to another

place and time. It is a peaceful place and peace is what you feel when you’re there. Devotees light candles and pray to God

here; it is also frequented by young couples because it offers seclusion.

Bhangzang Salamander Lake - It is located 14 km from Kurseong. In the past, it used to be a favorite place for the British and

people from the neighboring towns used to hang out here frequently. A relatively unknown getaway among the tourist

destinations in Darjeeling brought to you by Khorlo. It is a beautiful green-tinged lake that shelters the rarest and most

endangered species of salamanders – a species under threat of extinction.

Bagora - Bagora is also called zero point because it is the place with the highest elevation in Kurseong. It has also has a base

camp of the Indian Air Force with a helipad.

Darjeeling

Welcome to India’s “Queen of hills” surrounded by the most gorgeous snow peaks in the world. A land of infinite beauty--

the place of Dorjee (the mystic thunderbolt of the Lamas). Situated 80 km from NJP railway station, the joyride by Toy train,

the Mall, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Tibetan Refugee Self Help Centre,

Gorkha Stadium, Japanese Temple, Lalkothi, Dhirdham Temple, Ava Art Gallery, Tiger Hill, Ghoom Monastery, Batasia Loop

and War Memorial, Lebong Race Course (Highest and Smallest in the world), Mirik Lake, 22km long Puttabong Takvar Tea

Garden (Longest in the world), Rock Garden, Ganga Maya Park, Rangeet Valley Ropeway (2km long journey to Takvar),

Takdah, Lepchajagat, Trek to Sandakphu, Phalut, Rimbik, Sreekhola, Dhotray are the places of tourist interest at Darjeeling.

Darjeeling the dream land of the East, nestled in grandeur and beauty of towering snow-capped mountains with the Abode,

the mighty Kanchenjunga, the king of the mountains, dominating the sombre, snowy sentinels, lies the jewel of the town,

elegant, sophisticated and incredibly beautiful; the name, of the Tibetan origin, meaning where thunderbolt rested "Dorjee

- thunder-bolt, Ling - place". it has been a popular hill station since the British period. The tourist flow to this place has been

increasing day by day. Due to the proximity with three international borders, this place is strategically very important.

The toy train coming from Siliguri is something which is liked by the elders and the children equally. The real fun in coming

to Darjeeling is on the toy train. It takes six to seven hours to cover a distance of 82 kms and the slow speed gives you

enough time to watch and appreciate the beauty which nature has provided it. This train passes through the Forests,

waterfalls, over deep valleys and through the mountains and tunnels.

Places to visit around Darjeeling:-

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute - On May 29, 1953, just before the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain,

subjects from two of the Commonwealth nations gave her a coronation gift -- conquest of the virgin peak of the invincible

Mt. Everest which had claimed so many a gallant life. The 29,028 foot peak was scaled for the first time by Sir Edmund

Hillary and his Sherpa guide - Tenzing Norgay. Edmund Hillary was knighted by the Queen. In free India a grateful nation

built the gallant Sherpa, an institute where he could impart his skill to other enthusiasts who climb mountains. With

Everest, Norgay had climbed higher than any man in the world. The foundation stone of this institute in Birch Hill Park,

which is open to train climbers from all over the world and promotes the cause, both as a science and a sports was laid by

the late Prime Minister Nehru on November 4, 1954. The institute museum displays the equipment used in the victorious

attempt; besides a rich collection of Himalayan flora and fauna. Adjacent, approximately, is the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan

Zoological Park, stocked with high altitude wild life -- the Siberian Tiger, Himalayan Black Bear, Pandas, Deer and Leopards

etc. These can be seen roaming in their natural habitat.

Step Aside - A short distance away from the Chaurastha, on the way to the Bhutia Bustee Monastery is the house 'Step

Aside', home of the famous Indian patriot Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das where he lived and died on June 16, 1925. The first

floor is preserved as the way he left it, the ground floor is a maternity clinic. Also reposing in the house is the unfolded

secret of the second Kumar of Bhowal of the "Bhowal Sanyasi" case. The Kumar was discovered dead in this house by a

sanyasi (holyman) and cremated at the Hindu Burning Ghats. Twelve years later, on the anniversary of his death, the Kumar

appeared in Dacca and laid claim to his estate. Who died in "Step Aside?" Who was cremated? The house alone can tell.

Sister Nivedita Memorial - Where the mortal remains of Sister Nivedita were cremated, stands the dignified memorial

erected by Swami Abhenyanand of the Sri Ramakrishna Vedanta Math. A direct disciple of Sri Ramakrishna, he also built the

Ramakrishna Vedanta Ashram in 1924 where religious discourses are held every Sunday. It is situated just below the

Railway Station on the way to the Victoria Falls.

The Lebong Race Track - Unpretentiously, it boasts of being the smallest and the highest racetrack in the world. Races are

held here regularly on the military parade ground under the management of the Gymkhana Club. Eight kilometers from

Chaurastha, the racing season is from May- June and October-November.

Dhirdham Temple - Built on the ambitious lines of the great Pashupatinath Temple of Nepal, in 1939, it is situated below the

railway station.

Sree Mandir - Adjacent to the N.P.H. Library and Hall, just below the market square, is this beautiful Hindu temple, offering

daily puja. The annual Durga Puja is offered during September-October

Lloyd Botanical Gardens - One of the gifts of the inveterate Englishman's character, be the traveler, settler or colonizer, is

that he always carries a 'bit of England' with him wherever he goes. It manifests itself in the Englishman's club, or house and

garden. In the temperate regions of Kenya, or the hill stations of India can be found gardens from out of the veritable

English countryside. Early English visitors were struck by the walks on Birch Hill (now preserved as a forest reserve) and its

European character, when they came across alpine trees and flowering shrubs of the middle altitude type : oak, chestnut,

maple; cherry and birch, In 1878, Mr. W. Lloyd proprietor of the famous bank of the same name, gave a gift of 16 hectares

(40 acres) of rolling hillside to Sir Ashley Eden to make one of the best gardens in Asia. Sir Ashley started the garden to

study living specimens from the sub-temperate and temperate Himalayas. Over the years, plants native to Sikkim Himalaya

and exotica from other parts, have been introduced. On its charming laid out terraces grow the alpine plants, arum lilies,

geraniums, spectacular azaleas, tree-ferns and conifers. Collected from Europe come the hawthorn, blackberry, broom,

horse, chestnut, ash, birch, lilac etc. From China and Japan, cryptomerias; plums, cherries, magnolias and maples weeping

willows and deodars. From Africa, the Cape bulbon plants and the cypress; from America, magnolia grandiflora and

jurriferus bermudiana. From Australia and New Zealand, silver and black wattle, the silver oak, the blue gum and

eucalyptus. The Cactii and Savcculents section is housed in a separate conservatory with 150 species on display The varied

collection of orchids have developed 5O rare varieties. The Orchidarium housing 2,500 plants. Inside the conservatory,

begonias in bloom weave an attractive mosaic of multi-colored splendor.

Arranged in tiers are more than 200 pots of every conceivable hue; when the bloom fade, the plants are replaced by a fresh

lot. In the student's garden are family representative of Sikkim Himalayan flora and in the medicinal garden are some of the

common indigenous, medicinal plants of the Eastern Himalayas. With the upper section containing indigenous plants, and

the lower the exotic ones, the gardens present a "kaleidoscope of color which continues till the autumn sun floods the hills,

turning them into russet and gold, and fallen leaves carpet the road." They are situated just below the Eden Sanatorium and

are easily accessible from the Bazar Motor Stand. Open to the general public the year round, it also organizes a flower show

during the summer months. (Timing: 6 A.M. to 5 P.M.).

Victoria Falls - At a short distance away from the Railway Station, downward to the south, are the stunningly beautiful

Victoria Falls created by the Kalijhora, a small stream. From a distance 100 feet high, it cascades down over a precipitous

crag, and rushes down to the valley below, through deep ravines to Sidrapong. There is ferro-concrete bridge over the

stream. At Sidrapong Power Station, at an elevation of 3,500 ft above sea level and 3,300 ft below Darjeeling, down in the

west, the waters of the Victoria Falls are harnessed for generating the electric supply for Darjeeling, and its suburbs. It is the

first Hydel Project in India.

Ava Art Gallery - About 2km from the town enroute to Ghoom, houses the unique art and embroidery works of Mrs. Ava

Devi.

Manjusha--West Bengal Handicrafts Emporium - Manjusha on Nehru Road (The Mall), where prominent hill handicrafts,

handloom and silk products of West Bengal are on display and sale.

Happy Valley Tea Estate - It is nearest Tea Estate at 3 km in this hill region. Processing of tea can be seen here.

Tadakh Orchid Culture Center - Twenty-six kilometers from Darjeeling, Tadakh is a beautiful picnic spot. It is run by West

Bengal Forest Corporation. Nearly 110 varieties of both hybrid & local orchids are cultured here. Bulbs are for sale.

Bhutia Bustee and Aloobari Monasteries - Just 1.5 kilometers from Chaurastha, descending from 'Step Aside' (the house

with the past - #3 above), is the Bhutia Bustee Tibetan Monastery. With a long and colorful history, the monastery belongs

to the Red Sect of Buddhist Lamas. The origin of the name Darjeeling is linked to this monastery. 'Dorjee' means

thunderbolt in Tibetan and 'Ling' means resting place, thus 'Place' of the 'Thunderbolt', which was the name of the

monastery, originally located on Observatory Hill before it was ransacked by the Nepalese in the 19th century and rebuilt

on the present site. The ill fated monastery was again destroyed by the 1934 earthquake and owes its present existence to

the munificence of the late Raja of Sikkim. The Aloobari Monastery, with an equally colorful history, is three kilometers to

the south, en route to Ghoom on the Tenzing Norgay road. Both of these monasteries have brightly colored and carved

roofs.

Yiga-Cholang Buddhist Monastery at Ghoom - Eight kilometers from Darjeeling at an elevation of 8,000 feet, at the highest

rail-road station in the world, the last lap of the journey before the Batasia loop, is the Ghoom Tibetan Monastery,

belonging to the Yellow Sect of Buddhists who worship a 15-foot statue of the "Coming Buddha" (Maitreya Buddha). Built in

1875 by Lama Sherab Gyantso, it is the largest of the three monasteries and contains images of Buddha's disciples Chenrezi

and Chongapa. Among the Buddhist texts available there are the Kangyur, the Buddhist Tibetan Gospel running into 108

volumes. The monks fly prayer flags in the Tibetan tradition and hold religious and folk dances during Feb-March to

welcome the Tibetan new year. Visitors, both Indian and foreigners, are welcome to this gaily painted red and blue

monastery

Batasia Loop - Aboard the "toy train" from Siliguri to Darjeeling just below Ghoom and 5 km from Darjeeling is the Batasia

Loop -- an engineering marvel and feat. Almost imperceptibly, the railway line negotiates a circle and descends 1,000 ft in

altitude. The train's figure-8s and "Z" maneuvers are as picturesque as the flowers, streams and waterfalls. At Batasia

("windy place") one gets a grand view of the town of Darjeeling perched on the slopes of hills and Kanchenjunga in the

background. For more information on the Toy Train, click the "Toy Train" link on the menu bar above.

Ghoom Rock - About 15 km from Darjeeling, on the Ghoom-Sukhia pokhri road, at an altitude of 7,900 ft, stands the 100-

foot high enormous detached rock, offering a grand view of the mountains and the Balsan Valley. It is a popular spot with

the tourists.

Tiger Hill - Passing through primitive forests of oak, magnolia and beautiful ferns ablaze with color is the steeply ascending

road to Senchal, running through Ghoom on its way to Tiger Hill which is 11 km from the town and at an elevation of 2,590

meters (8,482 ft). To the summit of this internationally famous 'Hill', journey mountain and nature lovers to view the worlds

most majestic mountain Khang-Chen-D-Zonga, or mighty Kanchenjunga the king of them all. From the summit, to the north,

lies the town of Darjeeling and in the background stands the stupendous snowy range in all its glorious magnificence. No

finer place exists to steep the viewer in the grandeur and beauty of towering snow-capped mountains. Mt. Everest, 225 km

away rarely deigns to come out of the cloudy mists, with its two other peaks on each side. About 135 km away is Tibet's

Chomolhari mountain, said to be the world's most beautiful peak. Kanchenjunga 28,146 ft dwarfing the two others, Kabru

(24,000 ft) and Janu (25,300 ft), conical in shape, leaps into view only 64 km away. One of the most unifying forces in myth

and identity of the country, the towering range is rightly named Khang-Chen-D-Zongha, or the house of five treasures, by

scholars, referring to the five summits of this gigantic mountain. The peak is the third highest in the world, and presents

many more formidable hazards than Everest. The legendary warrior patron of the mountain is credited, in awe, with a

cordon drawn round the summit, eternal and still, beyond which man may not enter.

Senchal Lake - The hill of damp and mist-situated at an altitude of 8,160 ft, 10 km to the south-east of Darjeeling, has a lake

and golf links on the summit. Also a favorite picnic spot, it can easily be said to be the highest golf course and picnic spot in

the world. The springs that feed the lake also feed the town, the lake is the reservoir of Darjeeling's water supply. A Tourist

Lodge atop Senchal thoughtfully provides a bar besides accommodation with both hot & cold running water.

Darjeeling Rangeet Valley Passenger Ropeway - The Darjeeling Ropeway connects Darjeeling with Bijanbari down in the

little Rangeet Valley. A mono-cable type, with one rope acting both as tractor and carrier, the Ropeway travels at a speed of

6.5 km an hour. The 4,620 foot span is the biggest and a record for India. From an elevation of 7,000 ft, in Darjeeling's North

Point, a bi-cable passenger ropeway, carrying six at a time, in a boxed car, descends to 800 feet at Singla. This thrilling ride

is on the first bi-cable passenger-carrying ropeway and the largest of its kind in Asia. Singla, with 1,500 acres of forest land

is on the banks of the great Rangeet. Here amidst stunning beauty, the Rammam river with the little Rangeet meets the

Great Rangeet. Starting at the terminus station of St. Joseph's College in North Point, the closed cabin swings above

yawning gaps, filled with spurs, dense forests, mountain ridges, water-falls, flowing silvery rivers, green valleys and tea

gardens. Stopping at Takvar, Burnesbeg and Singla Tea Estate, it takes 45 minutes to reach Singla Bazaar, eight kilometers

away and 6,000 feet below. The ropeway was originally built at a cost of 29 lakhs of rupees basically to serve many tea

gardens in the locality.

Mirik

MIRIK (elevation 1,767 m) is a small hill resort which has come into prominence during the 1980's. The small town is built

around a 1.25 km long lake known as Lake Samendu. The pristine lake is surrounded by high forested hills and tea gardens.

Boating in the lake is a fascinating activity for the tourists. Mirik is also famous for its tea estates, orange orchards and

cardamom plantations.

There is a floating fountain in the middle of the lake and a 80 ft long arch-type little footbridge on the lake. The lake is

provided with boating facilities. Overnight accommodation is available around the lake in a number of places. The common

tourist attraction in the area includes:

Kawlay Dara - For fabulous view of the plains as well as mountains. Beautiful view of sunrise and sunset can also be seen

from here.

Deosi Dara - Another observatory point for stupendous landscape view.

Rai-dhap - An ideal picnic spot

Tea Estates - There are eight tea gardens in Mirik area. Thurbo T.E., one of the best tea-estates, is only 2 kms. from the lake.

The factory may be visited with the permission of the manager.

Orange orchards - About two kilometers from Mirik, situated on the spur, one can see beautiful orange orchards. Mirik is

the largest supplier of oranges in West Bengal. One can also have glimpse of the village life of hill areas.

Mongpong

32 km drive away from Siliguri, Mongpong provides you with the mesmerizing landscape of the Eastern Himalayas. On the

lofty banks of Tista under the floating clouds will offer you some unforgettable picnic spots and panoramic view of

Mahananda wild life sanctuary. You also can trek through the virgin forest near Mongpong. The sight of flickering ripples in

the Tista in a moonlit night will take you to the world of sublime dream. The cool breeze and soft melting glow of the sun

will infuse a new life in you at Mongpong.

Samsing

The distance of Samsing from Siliguri via Chalsa is 81 Km. The drive to Samsing through lush green tea gardens sets the

mood for the trip. The land of floating clouds, meandering mountain streams and endless maze of green will leave an

everlasting sense of satisfaction in your heart. Samsing is full of flying beauties, the birds. The sweet chirping of unknown

colorful birds in the serene landscape is a refreshing break from the city life. Step out with a binocular and explore the

treasure offered by the nature. Some of the major species include Grey Nightjar, Orange-bellied Leaf bird, Maroon Oriole,

Grey chinned and Short-billed Minivets, Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, Slaty-backed Forktail, Sultan Tit, Ashy Bulbul, Yellow-

vented, Golden-spectacled and Chestnut crowned Warblers, Greater Necklaced Laughing thrush, Long-tailed Sibia, White-

napped and Black-chinned Yuhinas. For the adventurous souls Samsing offers excellent terrain. Situated at an altitude of

750m Samsing is a gateway to the remote parts of Neora Valley National Park.

Suntaleykhola

Just 4 kms from Samsing lays Suntalekhola, a recently added tourist spot in Dooars. Suntalekhola is truly an offbeat

destination in the Himalayan foothills of Dooars in the backdrop of glistering green and blue sky with touch of everlasting

beauty. Trekking from Samsing to Suntalekhola will bring you closer to nature. The sinuous flow of mountain streams will

whisper in your heart. The music of rusting leaves and the hide and seek of shadows with the trickling sunrays through the

conifer leaves will take you to a pure and pristine world.

Laying on the south eastern fringe of the Neora Valley National Park, Suntalekhola offers a trail leads to the left from the

first bend of the tar road approached from the bungalows and ends at Lava after a three-day trek The trail leads steeply

through thick broadleaved tropical and semi-tropical forests via Mouchouki, Rachilla Top (4500m), Aloobari and Pankhasari

Ridge. Staying on the bank of the Suntalekhola you will listen to the eternal tunes of water. The picnicking on the bank of

the Suntalekhola or drive through the steep serpentine way to Tree Fern Point and Mouchuki with only nature as your

companion worth remembering all the life. The hills with green all around will never let you feel alone in this divine

landscape.

The accommodation in both Samsing and Suntalekhola is maintained by Forest Department of West Bengal. The wilderness

resorts in Suntalekhola are located amidst the natural wild environment. Jhalong Another lesser-trodden offbeat wonder of

Dooars Himalayan foothills, is situated on the bank of Jaldhaka on the way to Bindu in Kalimpong Sub-division. Jaldhaka

Hydro electricity project on the Jaldhaka River is another major attraction. Eurasian Wryneck, Crested Kingfisher, Brown

Dipper, Hodgson's Redstart, Slaty-backed Forktail, Little Forktail, Rufous-necked Laughing thrush are some of the recorded

species found here. Activities: Bird watching, short trekking to Todey and Tangta, angling at Jaldhaka, village tours, cultural

shows etc.

Bindu

A small village at an altitude of 700m, on the India-Bhutan border, Bindu, famous for its cardamom plantation, is also

coming up as a popular offbeat tourist destination in Dooars Himalayan foothills. Bindu is scenically placed among the high

mountains all around with Jaldhaka River flowing through the valley making a natural border with Bhutan and India. The

108 km drive from Siliguri to Bindu winds up through the undulating slopes of Dooars covered with lush green tea garden

and forests. A visit to Todey (1500m) and Paren from Bindu is worth experiencing for the unspoiled natural environment

and innocent village people. Accommodation in Bindu is available at Shivaji Tourist Inn, with basic homely atmosphere.

Situated on the bank of Jaldhaka the hotel offers a grandstand view of the valley. The warm hospitality and the delectable

food in the hotel will remain as a sweet memory for days to come. Staying over at Gahunbari Drukyul Retreat over a hilltop

near Bindu will be a memorable experience. Jaldhaka, at 1500ft above sea level is a prospective tourist destination. Situated

on the hill section of Gorubathan under Kalimpong Sub-division it is cut off from the rest of the district by a mountain ridge

descending south-west from Reche-la of Neora Valley NP and is separated from Bhutan by the De-chu or Jaldhaka River.

Jaldhaka can be reached from Siliguri, (90Kms) and from Kalimpong (135Kms). Apart from the natural surroundings, the

hydro-electric power project situated 5 Km from the Bazaar is the center of attraction here. A beautifully located forest rest

house overlooking the scenic Jaldakha valley and the Bhutan hills provides the best accommodation in Jaldhaka.

Accommodation can also be arranged in a privet hotel.

Buxa

The main corridor for wild Elephant between Assam &Bhutan. Nestling in the misty mountains in the North Eastern corner

of Jalpaiguri district bordering Bhutan, Buxa Duar is a jewel in the crown of the 761 sq. km. (Core area 369 sq.km.) of Buxa

Tiger Reserve. It is virtually a trekkers' paradise. Besides the 5 km long trek from Santrabari to Buxa Duar through the hilly

terrain covered with sub-tropical forests, a number of picturesque trekking routes lie scattered in the lofty Sinchula ranges.

Declared as Tiger Reserve in 1983, this picturesque Reserve with its prodigious Terai, Bhabhar and hilly landscape up to an

altitude of 5600 feet reveals astonishing range of bio-diversity. Apart from Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris, 31 in 1997 census),

there are 146 species of Birds, plenty of Leopards, Lesser Cats, Civets, Malayan Giant Squirrel, Elephants, Gaur, Chital,

Sambhar, Barking and Hog Deer. Animals like Chinese Pangolin, Clouded Leopard, Regal Python are endemic to the region.

Having separate galleries on Avi-fauna, Entmofauna, Forest Ecology and such similar themes, The Nature Interpretation

Centre (NIC) at Rajabhatkhawa attracts visitors from far off places. A number of forest rest houses well distributed over the

forest area provide ample scope of nature education and solitude to the visitors.

Other places of tourist interest are Jayanti Mahakal Mandir, Raimatong, Jayanti, Bhutan Ghat, Rupam Valley, and Roverse

Point.

Buxa Fort is the pride of Jalpaiguri district. It is very dear to the people of Dooars. They have sentimental attachment to it.

Where history whispers as the air hums "Vande Matram", & the freedom movement unfolds before you. Its sight sends you

ages back in the past. The hills echo the sounds of clanging swords of warriors where you can almost see the sentries

shouting orders to our freedom fighters. Buxa Fort is located at an altitude of about 2600 ft A.S.L. at a two-hour trekking

distance from Santrabari. The trek is a very pleasant one with some beautiful scenery en route. Originally established as a

cantonment by the British East India company in 1873, it was used by the British as a deportation camp for political

prisoners during India's struggle for freedom. The area's general inaccessibility, as well as dense forests, made it ideal for

this. Some illustrious freedom fighters who were imprisoned here were - Triloki Sen,, Arun Guha, Surendra Mohan Ghosh,

Hemendra Ghosh, Anil Roy, Maj. Satya Gupta, Amalendu Dasgupta, Jagannath Das Gupta, Khitish Chandra Mullick, Bhupati

Majumdar and many others. Post-independence, it lost its significance and until today remains rather neglected. In the

sixties, Buxa Fort was used as a relief camp for Tibetan refugees. The Tibetan Buddhist monks who also sheltered here,

attracted quite a few national and international tourists. During 1970-71, it was again used as a relief camp for Bangladeshi

refugees for about six months. The trekking route to the fort both from Mahakal and Santrabari, is set amidst breathtaking

scenery and provides trekkers with an opportunity to sample nature in a form unspoiled by modern influences. Details

regarding Buxa are available from the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation, Calcutta.

This terrain forms a part of the Sinchula range of lower Himalayas. Its construction is on a strategically located gravel

plateau (2600 ft above sl). The Fort is located at Buxa Duar in Jalpaiguri district close to Indo-Bhutan border (aerial distance

<5 km).

BUXA TIGER RESERVE 175 km from Siliguri. The name "Buxa Tiger" has been derived from Buxa Fort ('Buxa Duar' - a fort at

an altitude of 867 metres on the Sinchula Range guarding the most important of the eleven routes into Bhutan), which once

was used for detainees during freedom movement of India. This Tiger Reserve comprises the forest area of Rajabhatkhawa,

Nimati, Barobisha, Raidak, Raimatang Jainti, Buxaduar and Bhutanghat. The main rivers are Sankosh, Raidak, Jayanti,

Churnia, Turturi, Phashkhawa, Dima and Nonani. Area of the Tiger Reserve is 759 sq. km. with a core area of 331 sq. km.

Buxa Tiger Reserve was set up in the year 1982-'83, which later in the year 1992, January, was declared a National Park.

Rashikbil

34km. from Alipurduar (Via High Road) is Rashikbil - The Bird Sanctuary. The fluttering of colourful feathers of these

sprightly little flying creature make this water body a paradise for Bird Watchers. Boating under the blue sky with birds

graciously flying or swimming nearby is beyond description. The forthcoming Deer Park, Children Park and Aquarium,

Interpretation Centre will be the tourist interest spots. Sightseeing spot nearby is - Coochbihar is beautifully located in the

bank of River Torsa & was once the capital & with the abolition of the zamindary, it became like any other small town of

Bengal. The Classical European (Corinthian Architecture) styled Royal Palace, Madan Mohon Temple (Constructed by

Maharaja Nripendra Narayan on 1889), Victor Palace, Goshanimari, Baneswar, Tinbigha Corridor are situated here. The

Coochbihar palace, remarkable for its wonderful architecture & royal grandeur, undertaken and being developed by the

Archaeological Survey of India as a museum, attracts a large no. of tourists. The Madanmohan temple & the beautifully

planned Sagardighi area are also worth visiting. The often-famous heritage sites in this region are Gosanimari and the

Jalpeswar temple.

Jaldapara

stablished in 1941 for the protection of the Indian one-horned rhino, the Jaldapara Sanctuary covers 216 sq km, is a mosaic

of woods, grasslands, perennial streams, sandy river banks and extensive belts of tall grass. It contains a great diversity of

flora and fauna of mixed deciduous forest, grasslands and river banks. Jaldapara Wild Life Sanctuary, situated in Alipurduar

Sub-Division of Jalpaiguri district in West Bengal, is home to a wide variety of wild life, particularly the Great Indian One

Horned Rhinos. The river Torsha flows through this rain forest sanctuary which is mostly covered with tall grasses, the

sanctuary encompasses a luxuriant vegetation and a rich variety of wildife. The Malangi River also flows nearby from east to

west. Riding elephants is the only way to move inside this forest.

The birds to be found here are the Crested Eagle, Pallas's Fishing Eagle and shikra, besides Jungle fowl, peafowl, patridges,

Bengal Florican and lesser Pied Hornbill. Python, monitor lizards, krates, cobras, geckos and about 8 species of fresh water

turtles have also found

The wild life, in addition to the famous Great Indian One Horned rhinos, consists of Royal Bengal Tigers, wild elephants,

deers, swamp deers, hog deers, wild pigs, bisons. Some rare species like the hispid hare and the hog-badger are also found

here. Besides wildlife viewing, there is scope for unusual holiday activities like elephant riding and leisurely strolls through

the towering grass.

This is the land where the primitive "Toto" tribe holds its last stand - refusing to be swamped by the main stream of

civilisation. Toto have their home in "Totopara " - a village that lies to the north of the sanctuary. Their customs and culture

have been the subject matter of great anthropological interest. This remote village has a small population of 950 . Bania

ruins , the remains of an old fort and a big lake in Bania block, speak of the existence of an ancient settlement and culture.

Locals believe that "Nala Raja" of the Epic lived here and the fort is called the "Nala Rajar Garh".

Besides, local excursions may be arranged to visit tea gardens to see the manufacturing of tea in the nearby tea gardens by

prior arrangement with the authority.

This is a land of trumpet and songs. The Rhino is the flagship animals for the Sanctuary, which can be seen from the safety

of the elephant back, while driving on roads and from a top watchtowers. Besides, one can find elephants wandering in the

woodland and frequenting the open grasslands, rivers and glades. Loner tuskers and maknas often come close to Hollong

lodge. Herds of Gaur (Indian bison) are easily sighted during early morning and late evening. Deer are well represented here

with four species, the chital, the hog deer, the sambar and the barking deer (Muntjac). Sambar, the largest of Asiatic deer, is

usually seen in a small family group in the woodland and along streams. Unlike chital, hog deer are basically solitary in

nature and prefer tall grass cover. The muntjac is small deer of tree forests and specially notable for its loud alarm call- like

the bark of a dog. Wild pigs can be seen in small parties around river banks and open grounds engaged in digging out tubers

and bulbs. Tigers and Leopards are the main predators in this reserve, though seen rarely by the tourist. Lesser cats of the

reserve are Jungle cat, Leopard cat and Fishing cat. Other important animals in the park are the common otter, the small

and large Indian civet, Giant squirrel, Indian pangolin, Hispid hare and the Indian porcupine.

Jaldapara is exceptionally rich in avifauna because of varied terrain, mosaic of vegetation and rich insect life. More than 240

species of birds are found in variety of habitat- Grassland, water bodies, woodland. The varied tree forests and rich shrub

growth on the forest floor provide ideal setting for many woodland birds, such as Green Pigeons, Hornbills, Barbets,

Parakeets, Woodpeckers, Cuckoos, Orioles, Drongos, Babblers, Thrushes etc. Brahminy ducks, whistling teals and

Goosanders are winter visitors. The most common water birds are the large and little cormorant, Indian Shag, Darter,

Egrets, Lesser Adjutant Stork, Pied Wagtail, Spur Winged Lapwing, Moorhen, White Breasted Waterhen etc.

Gorumara

80km. from Siliguri the picturesque landscape of Gorumara N.P. comprises of pristine forest, tall elephant grass, rugged

reeds, shallow pools, meandering river spread in the flood plains of Murti and Jaldakha rivers against the background of

snow capped Khang-Chen-D-Zongha and other Himalayan ranges. Gorumara N.P. covers an area of 80 sq.km including the

upper Tondu Reserve and Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary possessing an extremely rich Bio-diversity. Staying night in the

Garati Watch Tower will be a lifetime experience. The watch Tower is situated in the deep and dense forest of Gorumara

N.P. It provides an amazingly beautiful view of wandering Rhinos, Gaurs (Indian Bison), Asiatic Elephants, 4 species of Deer,

wild Pig and Leopard or Panther - the main predators of Gorumara. 20 types of snake including King Cobra, 7 species of

Turtles, 5 species of Lizards, 200 species of Birds eg. Hornbill, Cuckoos, Minivets, Wood Peckers, Pigeons, Brahmny Duck and

different types of Butterflies as Krishna Peacock, Red pare Jezebel, Kaiser-I-Hind made Gorumara more wild and romantic.

Rhino and Jatraprasad Observatory Point: At the core forest enables a grand view of wildlife to the visitor. Tourist can enjoy

a charming picnic on the banks of the river Murti situated at the fringe of the Gorumara N.P. Nature Interpretation Centre:

Provides all information of the Gorumara with the help of a variety of models besides a light and sound show. A Deer park

with rich collection is worth seeing spot for the children. Mahakal Dham is one of the rarest temple where elephant is God.

Tourists can go along the abandoned railway track of Bengal Dooars Railways reaching a beautiful river Neora and an

abandoned bridge in the deep woods in a beautiful location an all time picnic spot. Kalamati is a forest village with a

primary school. The beautiful motorable road towards Kalamati cut through dense forests rich with wildlife. Plenty of

peacocks can be seen there at dawn. 2-3 km. from Kalamati a Watch Tower at Chukchuki and a Deer Park newly opened for

tourists. Location: Located in the flood plains of Murti and Jaldhaka river of the dooars region in Jalpaiguri. Approach &

Access: It is 15 km from Lataguri, 10 km from Chalsa and 52 km from Jalpaiguri. It is recommended to hire vehicles from

Chalsa or Lataguri to enter the National Park. Accommodation: Accommodation is available at Gorumara Forest Rest House

(Contact- DFO, Wildlife Divn.-II, Aranyabhavan, Jalpaiguri. Ph: 03561-224907) and private resorts in Lataguri and Chalsa

Prime Attraction: The scenic landscapes, magnificent forests, tall elephant grasses and rippling streams are added to the

nature of this park. The main attractions are Rhinoceros, Elephant, Gaur, Leopard, Hornbill etc. *Gorumara N.P. is closed

during rainy season from 16th. June to 15th. Sept.

Chapramari

Chapramari Wildlife Reserve is close to the Gorumara National Park. Chapramari is about 30 km from Chalsa and Lataguri. A

huge variety of flora and fauna covers the forests. Chapramari is famous for its elephant population. Gaur (commonly

known as Indian Bison) is quite common around this region. Albeit few in number, the forests are also home of the famous

Royal Bengal Tiger. Different other varieties of deer, reptiles and other animals can be easily seen around here. The place is

a heaven for bird watchers. Location: This wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the foothills of Eastern Himalayas in the district of

Jalpaiguri. Approach & Access: Can be approached by road from Siliguri or Jalpaiguri. Its 70 km from Jalpaiguri. This

sanctuary is around 20 kms away from Gorumara. Accommodation: Accommodation is available at Chapramari rest house

(Contact- DFO, Wildlife Divn.-II, Aranyabhavan, Jalpaiguri. Ph: 03561-224907) and accommodation used to visit Gorumara

may also be used to visit Chapramari. Prime Attraction: It provides a breathtaking view of forests against the backdrop of

the Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks. It is the home to diverse avifauna and mammals like Elephant, Gaur, Leopard

etc. * Chapramari W.L.S. is closed during rainy season from 16th. June to 15th. Sept.

Nabadwip

Nabadwip lies on the western side of the river Bhagirathi at a distance of about 20 K.M. from Krishnanagar and it is

associated with birth of Lord Sri. Chaitanya and the advent of the Vaishnab religion in Bengal. Sri. Chaitanya was not only a

religious leader preaching Vaishnab ideas and Bhakti cult but also a social reformer in the 16th

Century. Nabadwip was the

capital of Lakshman Sena, the famous ruler of Sena dynasty, who ruled from 1179 to 1203. There are a number of temples

and pilgrimage centres. Dwadas Shib Mandir built in 1835 with the exquisite floral designs attracts a large number of

pilgrims. The images and idols of Lord Sri. Chaitanaya in a few other places are also regarded with reverence.

Mayapur

Mayapur is situated on the opposite of Nabadwip across the river Bhagirathi. Some Schools of thought claim this place to be

the actual birth place of Lord Sri Chaitanya The ISKCON temple of A.C.Bhaktivedanta, the Saraswat Adwaita Math and the

Chaitanya Gaudiya Math are the important temples at Mayapur. During Holi (DOL) festival Rashyatra Mayapur presents

itself as a center of harmony, amity, fraternity and festivity.

Shantipur

Shantipur had been a seat of Sanskrit learning and literature, Vedic texts and scriptures since ninth century. It is located in

the Ranaghat Sub-division of the district and is about 18 K.M. away from Krishnanagar. The Topkhana Mosque was built by

Fauzder Gazi Mohammad Yaar Khan in 1703 – 1704 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. This mosque consists

of a big dome and eight minars.

The Shayam Chand Temple built in traditional "Aatchala" manner, the Jaleswar Temple with its exquisite terracotta designs

and the Adwaita Prabhu Temple are the noteworthy temples of Shantipur.

The weavers of Shantipur have made themselves famous throughout India by their professional aptitude in making "Tant

Saree". Fulia a township very close to Shantipur, is the birth place of Poet Krittibas, composer of Bangla Ramayan.

Palashi (Plassey)

Palashi is a place of great historical interest. It is situated at a distance of about 50 K.M. from Krishnanagar. The famous

Battle of Plassey was fought here on 23rd

June, 1757 between the last independent ruler of Bengal, Nawab Siraj Ud-Daula

(1756-1757) and the British forces under the command of Lord Clive. This battle marked the advent of the British rule in

the erstwhile Bengal and in India as a whole. A memorial stone to mark the victory of the British was erected here in 1883.

The structure which stands even today was built at a later period of Lord Curzon.

Ballal Dhipi

Ballal Dhipi is located near Bamanpukur Bazar on way to Mayapur at a distance of about 25 K.M. from Krishnanagar. The

excavation work was started here by the Archaeological Survey of India in the early 1980s, It revealed a unique structural

complex covering nearly 13,000 Sq. meters. Centering around a mound (Dhipi) having a height of 9 metres. This complex

identifies itself with the Vikramsila Vihar. Experts say that this side of Stupa (Vihar) of eighth / ninth century was perhaps a

seat of learning and pilgrimage up to the eleventh century.

Shivaniwas

Shivaniwas is located within Krishnaganj Block in the Sadar Sub-Division and is about 26 K.M. away from Krishnanagar.

Predicting an attack from the Bargis and Marathi raiders, Raja Krishna Chandra Rai (1728 – 1782) temporarily shifted his

capital from Krishnanagar to this place. The Raj Rajeswar Temple, named after Lord Shiva, was build by him in 1754. The

Shivalinga enshrined in this temple is said to be the largest in Asia.

The Ragniswar temple and the Ram-Sita temple built in 1762 form a composite structure alongside Raj Rajeswari Temple,

locally known as Buro-Shib Mandir. The architecture of this temple bears Gothic influence.

Krishnanagar

Krishnanagar is the district headquarters situated on the bank of river Jalangi. Krishnanagar is named after Raja Krishna

Chandra Rai (1728 – 1782). The Rajbari built here during the reign of Raja Krishna Chandra Rai is a prominent place of

tourist attraction though the remnants of the past glory have been eroded and only a dilapidated structure of the exquisite

places with carving on its inner walls exists today.

Krishnanagar was the birth place of the noted Poet, Composer and Playwright Shri. Dwijendra Lal Roy (1863 – 1913) whose

contribution to Bengali Literature needs no mention. The Christian Missionaries attached much importance to

Krishnanagar. The Protestant Church was built here during 1840s . The Roman Catholic Cathedral was built in 1898. The

origin of famous clay models of Krishnanagar is Ghurni. The clay model artists of Ghurni have won international repute and

fame for their excellence in clay modelling.

Bethuadahari

A forest covering about 67 Hectares is located at Bethuadahari which is situated at a distance of about 22 K.M. from

Krishnanagar. This forest is actually an extended Deer Park. The forest was established in 1980 to preserve the bio-diversity

of the central Gangetic alluvial zone. A census of 1998 reveals a population of 295 deer in this forest and other wild life

includes Python, Jungle Cat, Porcupine, Monitor Lizard, Snake and a variety of birds (around 50 species).

Bahadurpur forest situated by the side of N.H.-34 in Krishnanagar-II Block has been chosen as a prospective spot for Jungle

Safari.

Hasadanga Beel adjacent to Bahadurpur Forest is a vast waterbody which can be transformed into a Water Sports

Complex. This Beel has the potential to be developed as a safe haven for the seasonal migratory birds.

Mangaldwip Char which has emerged at the confluence of the Bhagirathi and the Churni in Ranaghat-I Block is another spot

likely to be developed as a Tourist Transit Point-Cum-Resort along the river cruise to Murshidabad.

Hazarduari

The Hazarduari Palace, or the palace with a thousand doors is the chief tourist attraction of Murshidabad. This three-storey

palace was built in 1837 by Duncan McLeod for the Nawab Najim Humaun Jah, descendent of Mir Zafar. It has thousand

doors (among which only 900 are real) and 114 rooms and 8 galleries, built in European architectural style. The total area

of Hazarduari Palace is 41 acres. It is now a museum and has an exquisite collection of armoury, splendid paintings,

exhaustive portraits of the Nawabs, various works of art including beautiful works of ivory (Murshidabad school) of China

(European) and many other valuables. The Armoury has 2700 arms in its collections of which only few are displayed. Swords

used by Shiraj-ud-Daulla and his grandfather, Nawab Alivardi Khan, can be seen here. The other attractions in this floor are

Vintage Cars and Fittan Cars used by the Nawabs and their families.

The library containing rare collections is not accessible to the public unless special permission is obtained. The building,

rectangular on plan ( 424 feet Long and 200 feet broad and 80 feet high). The Palace was used for holding the "Durbar" or

meetings and other official work of the Nawabs and also as the residence of the high ranking British Officials.

Between the palace and the Imambara is a small mosque, ‘Madina’, with colourful tiled verandahs. The Mosque has an

ornamented replica of Hazrat Muhammad's tomb at Madina.

Around the palace are other attractions like the Wasef Manzil (the New Palace) by the bank of the Ganga, Tripolia Gate, the

Dakshin Darwaza, the Chak Darwaza, the Imambara, the Gharighar (the Clock Tower), the Bachchawali Tope (a canon) and

the Madina, the only surviving structure built by Siraj-ud-Doula. The Bachchawali Tope (canon) was made between the 12th

and the 14th century, probably by the Mohammedan rulers of Gour, and requires about 18 Kg of gun powder for a single

shelling.

Bankura

BANKURA a beautiful district of West Bengal in India, situated on the banks of Dwarakeshwar, covers an area of 6881 Sq.

Kms. with a population of more than 3 million people. This is an endeavour to bring-forth all that Bankura and it's environs

has to offer. For those who wish to explore the unusual, a visit to Bankura would be a never-to-be forgotten experience.

If you have read Rabindranath Tagore, then you must remember that in the poem ‘Bansi’, the poet-lover fantasizes his

beloved standing by the bank of Dhaleswari River in her marital attire. Well, for those who haven’t got the reference, we

are talking about Bankura in West Bengal.

Bankura a diverse experience for travelers from time immemorial. Let us take you around from the heights of Susunia to

the dense forests of Ranibandh or perhaps from the marvellous temples of Bishnupur.

Just 185 kilometers away from Kolkata, Bankura is famous for its tribal population, terracotta art and music and is a hot-bed

for tourism. Dhaleswari River flows along the southern end of the district in the western part of the state and Damodar

flows along the northern end. On one hand, the district situated along Grand Trunk Road and a major rail junction, is a vital

agricultural area; on the other, the rugged terrain of this area known as ‘Rhar’— unfolds its natural beauty in its wildest

form. Thus, you can enjoy the wondrous attractions while staying in the hotels in Bankura and for that- just follow us to a

holiday destination in Bankura.

Bishnupur

Vishnupur also pronounced as Bishnupur is 38 Km from Bankura and is famous for its terra-cotta temples, one of the most

important traveling spots of Bankura. The town is called the' town of temples', because there are various kinds of temples

together. Some important temples are Radhashyam temple, ShyamRai temple, Jorbangla, Madan Mohan temple, Lalji

temple, Malleshwar temple, Kalachand, RadhaMadhab, Radhagobinda temple and Rasmancha.

Malleshwar temple is the oldest one. The base dimension of the temple is 22.5 Sq. Foot. The temple was built by Bir Singh

in 1622. The specialties of the temple are the base moldings and stone elephants.

The Shyamchand temple was built in 1640. This temple is made of laterite and the base dimension is c.12sq+c.13sq. Now

the lower walls of the temple with moulding and niches proves its historical existence.

The extra ordinary Rasmancha was built in 1600 by Bir Hambir. The base dimension is 80'3sq. This is one of the earliest

extant uses of the 'bangla do-chala' roof, above a series of cusped arches on sturdy pillars opening on to a verandah which

runs round all four sides. Now the temple remains as a protected monument.

The ShyamRai temple was built in 1643 by Raghunath Singh . This was made out of brick in a 'pancha ratna' design. This

temple is most richly decorated and can compete with any temple in West Bengal with terra-cotta art and design.

This is the well-known Jorbangla temple, specially known as the finest monument in Vishnupur with rich terra-cotta upon

outer walls and inside. The temple of Kesta Roy was built in 1655 by Raghunath Singh. The base dimension of the temple is

38.5 Sq. Foot.

The Kalachand temple ,, situated in Lalbandh, was built by Raghunath Singh in 1656. The base dimension is 31.4 Sq. Foot.

Here a single tower rises from the center of a more or less flat roof on a curved cornice.

The Madan-Mohan temple was built by Durjan Singh in 1694. The base dimension of the temple is 14'9 Sq. Foot. There is a

rich decoration of terra-cotta upon the facade of the temple and also on the west base. The subjects of terra-cotta are the

battle of Kurukshetra, Krishnalila and so on.

The temple of Radha-Gobinda was built by Krishna Singh in 1729. The base dimension of the temple is 40.5 Sq. Foot . The

temple is decorated by curved laterite figures.

Mukutmonipur

A site to visit for the vast water reservoir at the junction of river Kangsabati and Kumari. It is the second biggest earthen

dam in the India. The dam lies about 55 Km. southwest of Bankura, via Khatra. The hills, the forest and beautiful

atmosphere. Green forest surround the vast bluish tract of water, Hillocks are essentially a dream come here. The place is

very much famous for its superb natural beauty. The undulating terrain along the southern edge of the Kangsabati Water

Reservoir spreads as a three-dimensional necklace of green and Terracotta colour. The stand-till water of the reservoir look

like a large blue tinted glass mirror reflecting the vast expanse of sky over it. The vastness of the lake stretches as far your

eye can reach. The view of the sunset with the lake on the four ground is breath taking . You must also experience the

moonlit night around the reservoir . The surface of the static water turns into a shiny silvery plate gifted by God. There is

also a deer park by the side of the reservoir.

Susunia

Susunia is the second highest altitude hill of Bankura. The hill runs almost due east and west for a length of 2 miles and rises

to a height of 1442 feet. Susunia is famous for trekking and rock climbing . The stone inscription of king Chandravarman is

here and its perennial spring water is good for health.

Amarkanan & Korohill

The 400 feet high hill is a very pleasant and beautiful spot, only 19 Km. away from Bankura. There is a beautiful temple of

Savitri Devi at the top of the hill. Amarkanan is at the foot of Korohill. It is a village growing towards a semi-town with

school, college etc.

Gangdoha

There is a beautiful water reservoir behind the small river Sali. The area surrounded by green fields and bushes seems a

lovely picnic spot. This is only 28 Km. away from Bankura and 9 Km. away from Koro Hill.

Biharinath Hill

Biharinath is situated at the extreme northwest and 57 Km. away from Bankura District, thought to be an ancient center of

Jainism. The height of the hill is 1469 feet and it is the highest hill in Bankura. Biharinath is still very rich in flora and fauna.

Particularly among the wild life Hyena, Pangolin, Chameleon, Racaphorus, which are very few in number, are still found

here. The natural beauty of the area is very attractive.

Jhilimili

Jhilimili is a famous place for exquisite natural beauty. The hills covered with forests of Sal, Mahogany and teak. The entire

route from Mukutmonipur to Jhilimili and then on to Kankrajhore and Jhargram is a beautiful eye soothing view with dense

forest.

Talberia

There is a beautiful lake in Talberia. The lake is created by rainwater pouring into a glade surrounded by hills stored by the

construction of a guard wall. It is charming picnic spot about 85 Km. from Bankura.

Siddheshwar Temple

The Siddheswar temple of Bankura in Onda is famous for its decoration. The base dimension of the temple is 23 sq.feet. It

was built before Muslim age and more than thousand years old. The towers of the temple are very richly decorated with

stucco on brick. Now the temple is being protected carefully.

Santiniketan

Santiniketan has the distinct identity of culture and heritage, which gives the place a unique soft touch. This is a preferred

tourist destination developed as a part of the popular religious-cultural tourist circuit of the region viz. Santiniketan-

Bakreswar-Tarapith.

The place was originally selected by Maharshi Debendranath Tagore to practice religious mediations. Rabindranath started

an experimental school known as ‘Brahmacharya Ashrama’ here with an objective to educate the student in close liaison

with nature in the style of ‘Tapovana’ of ancient India. Later an international university named Visva-Bharati came up as a

center of Indian culture and the meeting place of the East and the West.

Rabindranath was great lover of nature. He planted trees in and around the Ashrama and gave it a green look. He

introduced several festival to celebrate seasons, to commemorate great name and these were free from any religious

narrowness.

Chhatimtala : Maharshi Debendarath used to mediate under the Chhatim Trees.

Upasana Griha : A prayer hall, made of several colored Belgium glasses with marble steps on all the four sides. During

evening service, candle is lit around the prayer hall, and it wears a magnificent look in flickering light.

Dehali : Rabindranath used to live with his wife Mrinali Devi in this two storied building.

China Bhavana : A centre for Chinese studies. Natir Puja, a dance drama of Tagore is painted on its wall under the guidance

of Nandalal Bose, pioneering Indian artist.

Black House : A mud building known for its relief works done by stalwarts like Ram Kinkar and Prabhas Sen.

Santiniketan Griha: The oldest building of Santiniketan.

Uttarayana : The garden with five houses where Rabindranath used to live.

Shyamali : Rabindranath welcomed Gandhiji at this mud house.

Udayana : The biggest building where Rabindranath spent his last days.

Museum and Archive : Situated in Uttranyana complex, it contains the original manuscript, paintings and personal

belongings of Rabindranath. Archive has a Library and research wing.

Another worth visiting place around Santiniketan is remnants of ‘Khoai’- a name coined by the Poet himself for a special

kind of undulating laterite land formation. The stream of rainwater meandering through it offers a magnificent view during

monsoon.

Tarapith

Tarapith, a holy religious place, is situated in a village Tarapur under Rampurhat Police Station of Rampurhat Sub-Division in

the district of Birbhum.

It is said to be so called because the eye ball (tara) of Sati fell here. Others say that Tarapith is not a pith but the place owes

its sanctity to the fact that the Sage Basistha here worshipped the Goddes Sati in the form of Tara. The common local

opinion is that it is really a Pith and Basistha selected this place for worshipping Sati because it was a pith.

It is visited everyday by a good number of devotees. Here pilgrims constitute a vast chunk of domestic tourists.

Sundari Sundarbans……

Canopied with bondless azure sky with babbling streams and rivulets flowing across the endless stretch of greenary - the

Sundari, Garan, Keora, Hental, Dhundul, Golpata, Passur, Garjan, Kakra and many other variety of trees - World’s best

mangrove forest, the largest delta of the world, with all her exotic beauty and silent mystery - The Sundarban is waiting to

welcome you. Be with Khorlo Tours & Travels on our own luxurious pleasure launch - destined to take you through the

meandering canal of Durga Duani to the area of Tiger Project. While moving through the rippling waters of Matla you will

come across rivers of different sizes and shapes named as Bidya, Hogol, Gosaba, Gona, Kartal, Netai, Raimangal, Kalindi,

Haribhanga, Bidyadhari and Sundarban will unfold her myriad beauties before you one after other.

The deep dense forest, the murmur of the sparking rivulets, various species of local and other migratory birds as Tern,

Kingfisher, Heron, Cormorant, Egret, Seagull, White Bellied Sea Eagle, Whimprel, Black Tailed Godwit, Little Stint, Sandpiper,

Golden Plover, Pintail, White-eyed Pochard, Dalmetion Pelican, Ospery, Shaheen Falcon, Lesser Adjutent Strok & Estuarine

Crocodiles basking in the wintry sunshine, Chinese Pangolin, Spotted and Axis Deer, Wild Boar, Rhesus Monkey, Leopard

Cat, Indian Fishing Cat, Common Yellow Water Moniter, Marine Indian Soft/ Flap shelled Olive Ridley Turtles, Gigantic

Dolphin, Hard shelled Batagur, Terrapin, Pythons, King Kobra, various type of lizards and the feeling of emancipation in the

lap of nature will certainly touch your mind.

The inaccessibility of Sunderbans (declared as a Tiger Reserve on 1973) is its biggest attraction and in the mystery-shrouded

Pirkhali, Gazikhali, ChoraGanjikhali, DeolBharani, Bhagaban Bharani, Panchamukhani and Sunarkhari you may have a

glimpse of that awful beauty- A Born Man Eater- The Royal Bengal Tiger. You may ascend the watch tower of Sajnekhali,

Sudhanyakhali, Do Baanki, Marichjhapi, Burir Dabri and Netidhopani overlooking an untamed forestscape and enjoy sights

and sounds of nature resplendent in her pristine virginal beauty.

At dusk as the birds retire to their nests and the sky tinged with rays of the setting sun, the entire forest undergoes a subtle

transformation when the shapes and forms, silhoutted against the evening sky, acquire a surrealistic character. The night

stay in launch with eternal silvery moonlight, the star-studded blue sky and the constant murmur of the river is a different

experience altogether. The varigated moods and colours of the forest form a Kaleidoscope, which is sure to fascinate you.

The sounds of nocturnal birds at a distance will take your mind far far away from this madding world.

The most interesting wilderness of the world, Sunderbans is a paradise for wild life enthusiasts, bird and butterfly watchers.

Honey collectors, fishermen with their typical fishing boats will be an added attraction.

Places of tourist interest

Goshaba: Remembered as Sir David Hamilton’s Settlement.

Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary: Situated on the confluence of Matla and Gumdi rivers, a home of Herons, Egrets and other

species.

Mayadwip & Kalasdwip: The nestling place of Olive Ridley Turtles with a beautiful beach & densely wooded island.

Bhagabatpur: It is a hatchery cum sanctuary of the biggest Estuarine Crocodile.

Lothian Island: A Bird Sanctuary famous for White Bellied Sea Eagle, Black capped Kingfisher, Whimbrell, & Tern.

Gangasagar: Culturally and religiously important destination with a good beach.

Frazergunj & Bakkhali: A wellknown beach especially a Bird Watches Paradise, Beach with Casuarinas and Red Fiddle Crab.

The twin white sand beaches are entirely different from the other beaches. They are pristine, pure and hold the charms of a

beach unspoilt.

Then why delay? Have a pleasure trip to the land of Ma Bonobibi, Dakshinaroy, the Royal Bengal Tiger and the World

Heritage Site (awarded by UNESCO in 1997) - the Biosphere Reserve with us. Your comfort and convenience is our

responsibility and we are sure that the wide range of flora & fauna, the warm hospitality, assurance of safety and

mouthwatering delicacies will give you full satisfaction.

CALCUTTA - CITY OF JOY

Eden Garden A sprawling garden set up by the British in the early 20 century with a band stand and a beautiful pagoda. A

stadium has been built adjacent to it for cricket test matches which can accommodate about 85,000 people.

Shopping Centers New Market, Sreeram Arcade, Charnock City, Air Conditioned Market, Vardaan Shopping Complex,

Treasure Island, Park Center, Fancy Market, Mark's Supermarket, Cottage Industry, Dakshinapan, Bengal Home, Khadi

Gramodyog, Kankurgachhi Handloom Market, Ballygunge New Market, Shyambazar Market, Chandni Market, Bagri Market,

College Street Market, Gariahat Market, Lake Market.

Howrah Bridge This Engineering marvel has been the firmest symbol of Calcutta. The huge cantilever bridge, strung on two

270 feet high pillars connects Calcutta from Howrah. It four traffic lanes are daily used by over a lakh vehicles. The Howrah

Bridge extending across the Hooghly river catches the eyes of every visitor as soon as he steps into the city of Calcutta. This

cantilever bridge is supported by two 270 feet high piers.

City Transport Metro Rail or underground railway, Circular Rail, local trains, tram cars metered taxis, air-conditioned taxis,

mini buses, private buses, luxury buses, state-transport buses, tourist cars, auto rickshaws, rickshaws, launch/ferry service

on the Ganges.

Calcutta High Court The Highest seat of judiciary in West Bengal. One of the oldest in India (constructed in 1872), built in

the Gothic style of architecture, it is a landmark in Calcutta. An extension was added later, which retains its architectural

symmetry. Near Eden Gardens.

Saheed Minar A monument similar to Qutab Minar of Delhi. This was known as Octerloney Monument. Located near

Esplanade on the Maidan and seat of many memorable political meetings. Victoria Memorial Built between 1906 and 1921 on the lines of the Taj Mahal in memory of Queen Victoria. Topped with a

moving angel this memorial faces the Calcutta Maidan. It houses paintings, manuscripts, and other objects of historic value

in its Museum and Art Gallery. Two regular sound and light shows are held in the evening. Closed on Mondays.

Vidyasagar Setu A beautiful bridge that spans the Hooghly, it has been built to ease the load off the existing Howrah Bridge.

Inaugurated in 1994, it affords a panoramic view of the Calcutta skyline.

Writer's Building The seat of the West Bengal Government Secretariat, it is located in B B D Bag. Built during the days of the

Raj, this building epitomises the political revolution of Bengal.

Marble Palace General Post Office (GPO) A piece of novel architecture located in the B B D Bag area. Controls the entire postal system of

Calcutta. One of the oldest and largest turfs for horse racing in India. Holds a number of national events in horse racing.

National Library Previously Vice-Regal House, it is one of the largest libraries in Asia with a collection of rare books and

manuscripts. Located opposite the Zoological Gardens, Alipore.

Museums West Bengal pioneered museum development in India with institutions like the Asiatic Society (1784), the Indian

Botanic Garden (1787) and the Indian Museum (1814) -institutions which are amongst the oldest in India and upto this day

remain principal attractions of tourists visiting Calcutta. There also exist about twentyfive other museums of zoology,

botany, geology, agriculture, veterinary medicine, pathlogy and anatomy attached to colleges and universities and used for

teaching and research.

The Victoria Memorial Situated on Calcutta Maidan , it stands majestic in its symmetrical construction of white marble.

There is an Art Gallery and Museum inside. The surrounding open Space, beautifully laid out with trees, pools and lawns, is

one of the most cherished areas of Calcutta.

Science City It is located on Calcutta's Eastern Metropolitan Bypass. This 21st century marvel of science, communication

and environment is the first and only institution of its kind in India. The pioneering effort of NCSM, in setting up open air

Science Parks has now added a new dimension to science teaching through a process of discovery in the outdoor setting.

Set amidst trees and lawns, here one finds science out of doors and alive.

Birla Planetarium Only the second of its kind in the commonwealth and similar to that in London. Regular astronomical

shows are preseted here with commentaries in different languages.

Situated close to the crossing of Theatre Road and Chowringhee road, the Birla Planetarium is adjacent to the maidan. The

Planetarium owes its existence to the Birla Education in 1929. The Planetarium is a single-storeyed, circular structure

constructed in pure Indian architectural style.

Nicco Park Nicco Park is situated at Salt Lake. This Amusement park is the Disneyland of West Bengal, with a variety of

unusual games and rides. The Cave Ride is the latest addition and is the only of its kind in this part of the world. The park is

open to the public from 10.00 a.m to 8.00 p.m. everyday during the winter and 11.00 a.m to 9.00 p.m everyday during the

rest of the year.

Academy of Fine Art Collections include contemporary Indian Art. Rabindra Gallery contains original paintings, manuscripts

and personal belongings of Rabindranath Tagore. The Academy also runs an Artists' Studio for the benefit of working artists.

Moreover this is an important center of cultural activities.

Zoological Garden The Zoological Gardens at Alipore opened to the public in 1876, have one of the finest collections of

birds, animals, and reptiles. Within the Gardens,there is also a childrens' Zoo. The aquarium in front of the Zoological

Gardens contains sea-fishes of rare varieties.

Kalighat Temple Built in 1809, the Kali Temple is an Ancient center of Hindu pilgrimage. The architecture is of typical

mediaeval Bengal style. Despite industrialisation and commercial activity that has given Calcutta a new look, the Kali temple

remains unchanged, attracting a larger number of pilgrims and visitors every day. Visitors to the temple recieve as 'prasad'

a vermillion paste , the symbol of Kali, to wear on the foreheads as a tilak.

Botanical Garden Spread over an area of 273 acres on the west bank of the Ganga, Indian Botanic garden is the largest of its

kind in India. Laid out in 1787, the Garden contains 12,000 living perennial plants and over two and a half million dried out

plant specimens in the herbarium, collected from all over the world.

St Paul's Cathedral The Anglican Cathedral of Calcutta built in 1847, adjacent to the Birla Planetarium. It towers 65 m high

and is famous for the serene service conducted on Christmas Eve.

Belur Math Founded by Swami Vivekananda, the world famous yogi and disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, it is the

Headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission and is 6.4 kms from Howrah Station on the banks of the River Hooghly.

This International tourist attraction is located near Belur in Howrah district. Its sprawling prayer hall with a statue of

Ramakrishna is remarkable. Connected by train and bus.

Dakshineswar Temple Built by Rani Rasmoni of north Calcutta in the 19th century on the bank of Ganges, north east of

Calcutta. It is here that Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, the renowned spiritual personality and the guru of Swami

Vivekananda had worshipped the Goddess Kali, Bhaba Tarani, and did his sadhana at the Panchabati Garden adjacent to the

temple. A world famous place of pilgrimage.