When it comes to tourism in India, West Bengal boasts some of the top offbeat places to visit with family or friends. Besides the serene hills of Darjeeling or the wildlife-rich Sundarbans, you can explore some of the top offbeat places in West Bengal that we will uncover in this article.
However, beyond these popular destinations lie the top offbeat places to visit in West Bengal waiting to be discovered. If you are an adventurous traveller seeking unique experiences away from the typical tourist trails, West Bengal has plenty to offer. Let’s delve into some of the top offbeat places to visit in West Bengal.
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Offbeat Places in West Bengal at a Glance
- State: West Bengal
- Famous For: Hidden hill villages, unexplored beaches, forests, riverside towns, and heritage destinations
- Ideal For: Weekend trips, couples, solo travellers, nature lovers, photographers, and slow travel enthusiasts
- Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather and sightseeing
- Top Offbeat Destinations: Tinchuley, Purulia, Mohana, Shantiniketan (Santiniketan), and more
- Popular Experiences: Camping, trekking, village walks, tea garden stays, boating, sunrise views, and eco-tourism
- Nearest Major Travel Hub: Kolkata and Siliguri
- Budget Range: ₹1,500–₹6,000 depending on destination and accommodation
- Best for Weekend Trips From Kolkata: Taki, Mousuni Island, and Jhargram
- Best for Offbeat Mountain Escapes: Tinchuley, Lamahatta, and Sittong
- Travel Tip: Carry cash and warm clothing while visiting remote hill destinations, as ATM and network access may be limited in some areas.
Which Offbeat Places in West Bengal Are Worth Visiting?
Here are the top offbeat places to visit in West Bengal:
1. Digha Offbeat Places: Explore Mohana
Best Time to Travel: October to February
Special Attractions:
- Mohana is a tranquil offbeat sea beach in West Bengal located near Digha.
- It is less crowded and offers a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy the sea breeze and beautiful sunsets.
- As a result, it is one of the offbeat places in West Bengal for 2 days.
Cost: Digha Mohana, as one of the offbeat places in West Bengal near Kolkata, has budget-friendly guesthouses and lodges.
Read more: Best Tourist Spots in West Bengal – Let’s Unveil the Best Tourist Attractions in Bengal
2. Bishnupur Tourism Places
Best Time to Travel: November to February
Special Attractions:
- Bishnupur is a historically significant town renowned for its terracotta temples built during the reign of the Malla kings.
- The intricate architecture and intricate carvings on the temples are a visual treat for history and art enthusiasts.
- Don’t forget to explore the Bishnupur Gharana of music and the famous Bishnupur Silk Sarees.
Cost: Bishnupur is budget-friendly, and accommodation options range from budget hotels to heritage properties.
3. Jhargram
Best Time to Travel: September to March
Places to Visit in Jhargram:
- Located in the lush forests of West Bengal, Jhargram offers an immersive experience of tribal culture and traditions.
- The Jhargram Raj Palace, now converted into a heritage hotel, is a major attraction.
- Take a tribal village tour, visit the Jhargram Mini Zoo, and explore the mesmerising Ghatsila waterfalls nearby.
Cost: Jhargram as one of the offbeat places to visit in West Bengal is relatively affordable, and staying in guesthouses or budget hotels is the best way to keep costs in check.
4. Murshidabad Tourism Places
Best Time to Travel: October to February
Special Attractions:
- Murshidabad is a historical city on the banks of the Bhagirathi River. It was the former capital of Bengal during the Mughal era.
- Visit the Hazarduari Palace, Katra Mosque, and Nizamat Imambara to immerse yourself in the region’s rich history.
- The serene and lesser-known Katgola Gardens are also worth exploring.
Cost: Murshidabad, as one of the offbeat places in West Bengal for the weekend, offers pocket-friendly accommodation options, making it suitable for budget travellers.
5. Shantiniketan as One of the Offbeat Places to Visit in West Bengal
Best Time to Travel: September to March.
Tourist Spots to Visit in Shantiniketan:
- Shantiniketan is a tranquil town with a unique cultural heritage, being the home of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore.
- The Visva Bharati University, Tagore’s residence, and the various ashram complexes are key attractions.
- Witness the vibrant Poush Mela held in December and explore local handicrafts like Kantha embroidery.
Cost: Shantiniketan has various accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
For a more detailed guide read our blog: A Detailed Santiniketan Tourism Guide to Help You Plan Better During Your Next Trip
6. Raichak
Best Time to Travel: October to March
Special Attractions:
- As an offbeat destination in West Bengal, situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, Raichak is a charming riverside town.
- The Raichak Fort, now a luxury heritage hotel, offers a glimpse into the region’s colonial past.
- Take a leisurely boat cruise on the river and enjoy the picturesque countryside. For thrill-seekers, a visit to the nearby Sundarbans can be arranged.
Cost: As one of the offbeat weekend destinations in West Bengal, Raichak caters to various budgets, with a mix of luxury and mid-range accommodation options.
7. Bakkhali
Best Time to Travel: October to February
Special Attractions:
- Bakkhali is a pristine beach destination located in the southern part of West Bengal.
- This is the place to be if you seek solitude and uninterrupted beach views.
- Enjoy the sunset at Henry’s Island and visit the nearby mangrove forests of Jambu Dwip for a unique experience.
Cost: Bakkhali offers budget-friendly hotels and lodges, making it a great option for backpackers.
8. Offbeat Places to Visit in West Bengal – Cooch Behar
Best Time to Travel: October to February
Special Attractions:
- Cooch Behar is a city steeped in history and culture. Visit the grand Cooch Behar Palace, a beautiful example of classical architecture.
- The city is also home to the Madan Mohan Temple, the oldest temple in the region.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Rasikbil Bird Sanctuary, which is a haven for birdwatchers.
Cost: Cooch Behar offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets.
9. Lava and Lolegaon as One of the Offbeat Destinations Near Kalimpong
Best Time to Travel: March to June and October to December
Special Attractions:
- Lava and Lolegaon are charming hill stations in the Kalimpong district.
- Surrounded by lush forests, these places offer stunning views of the Himalayan peaks.
- Go for nature walks, visit the Changey Waterfalls, and enjoy the tranquillity of the region.
- Lolegaon is famous for its Canopy Walk, providing an adrenaline-filled experience amidst the treetops.
Cost: Both Lava and Lolegaon offer a mix of budget and mid-range accommodation options.
10. Offbeat Places in Bankura: Mukutmanipur
Best Time to Travel: September to February
Special Attractions:
- Mukutmanipur is a lesser-known gem in the Bankura district, famous for its picturesque dam and lush green surroundings.
- Enjoy boating on the dam’s reservoir and take a boat ride to the nearby Deer Park Island.
- The sunset views over the dam are truly breathtaking.
Cost: Mukutmanipur offers affordable accommodation options, making it an excellent choice for budget travellers.
11. Duarsini as One of the Purulia Offbeat Places
Best Time to Travel: October to February
Special Attractions:
- Duarsini is a small tribal village located in the Purulia district.
- It offers a unique cultural experience as you interact with the local Santhali community.
- Explore the Ayodhya Hills, visit the tribal markets, and enjoy the warmth of a bonfire under the starlit sky.
Cost: Duarsini offers basic accommodation, perfect for travellers seeking an authentic rural experience.
12. An Offbeat Tourist Spot in Basirhat, Taki
Best Time to Travel: September to February
Special Attractions:
- Situated on the banks of the Ichamati River, Taki is a serene and less crowded destination.
- The town shares its border with Bangladesh, and you can take a boat ride to cross the river and visit the Bangladeshi village of Golpata.
- Enjoy the scenic beauty and relish fresh river fish delicacies.
Cost: Taki offers affordable accommodation options for travellers.
13. Gour, an Offbeat Place to Visit Near Malda
Best Time to Travel: October to February
Special Attractions:
- Gour, also known as Gauda, is an ancient historical site near Malda town.
- It was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Bengal.
- Explore the ruins of the Gour Old Fort, Firoz Minar, and various mosques, showcasing exquisite medieval architecture.
Cost: Gour offers budget-friendly accommodation options in nearby towns like Malda.
14. Offbeat Places to Visit Near Kalimpong: Jaldhaka and Paren
Best Time to Travel: March to June and October to December
Special Attractions:
- Jaldhaka and Paren are two serene villages in the Kalimpong district, offering breathtaking views of the Teesta River and surrounding hills.
- Experience the bliss of rural life, go for nature walks, and relish the local cuisine.
Cost: Jaldhaka and Paren provide budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays.
15. Chinsurah, a Tourist Spot to Visit in Hooghly District
Best Time to Travel: October to February
Special Attractions:
- Chinsurah, a historic town near Kolkata in the Hooghly district, has a rich Dutch heritage.
- Visit the Hooghly Imambara, Bandel Church, and Dutch Cemetery to witness the traces of the past.
- Take a boat ride on the Hooghly River for a peaceful experience.
Cost: Chinsurah offers budget accommodations and is suitable for a day trip from Kolkata.
16. Tinchuley
Best Time to Travel: March to June and October to December
Special Attractions:
- Tinchuley is an offbeat destination near Darjeeling. This picturesque hamlet is known for its tea gardens and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
- The Tinchuley Monastery and the Tinchuley Viewpoint are major attractions. Read a detailed 7-day Darjeeling itinerary covering Tinchuley.
Cost: Tinchuley offers budget-friendly homestays and small guesthouses.
17. An Offbeat Tourist Place in Jalpaiguri, Jaldapara National Park
Best Time to Travel: October to March
Special Attractions of Top Offbeat Places to Visit in West Bengal:
- Located in the Jalpaiguri district, Jaldapara is home to diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered one-horned rhinoceros.
- Take a thrilling jeep safari through the grasslands of the national park for a chance to spot rhinos, elephants, and other wildlife.
Cost: Jaldapara offers various accommodation options, ranging from budget to luxury resorts.
18. Buxa Tiger Reserve, an Offbeat Tourist Place in Alipurduar
Best Time to Travel: October to April
Special Attractions:
- Buxa Tiger Reserve is a less-explored wildlife sanctuary in the Alipurduar district.
- Enjoy nature trails, and go for a safari to spot tigers, elephants, and various species of birds.
Cost: Buxa offers budget accommodation options near the reserve.
19. Kurseong
Best Time to Travel: March to June and October to December
Special Attractions:
- Kurseong is a serene hill station in the Darjeeling district, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Don’t miss the charming Makaibari Tea Estate and the picturesque Eagle’s Crag viewpoint.
Cost: Kurseong offers a mix of budget and mid-range accommodation options.
These offbeat tourist spots in West Bengal offer a chance to explore the state’s diverse landscape, culture, and traditions beyond the common tourist destinations in West Bengal.
Embrace the spirit of adventure; these hidden gems will reward you with unforgettable experiences and memories to cherish for a lifetime in one of these top offbeat tourist places to visit in West Bengal.
Wrapping Up on Top Offbeat Places to Visit in West Bengal
West Bengal has a diverse landscape that goes beyond the typical tourist hotspots. These top offbeat places to visit in West Bengal provide an opportunity to experience the state’s culture, history, and natural beauty in a more intimate and authentic manner.
Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or just seeking a quiet retreat, the top offbeat places to visit in West Bengal have something to offer for every traveller. So, pack your bags, step off the beaten path, and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Bengal’s offbeat treasures.
Frequently Asked Questions on Top Offbeat Places to Visit in West Bengal
Yes, there are plenty. Some of them are: Digha Mohona, Raichak, Tinchuley, Lava & Lolegaon, Chinsura, Kurseong, etc. Please read our blog to know more.
The winter season is the best time as the temperature is mild during that time. Also, you are not much bothered about the rain. West Bengal’s weather is extreme during the summer and monsoon. So we suggest you try out during the year-end to visit such places.
Some of the popular weekend destinations from Kolkata include Mousuni Island, Taki, Purulia, and Jhargram for short nature getaways.
Yes, there are a few less-travelled hill stations in West Bengal. This includes Sittong, Rishop, Lolegaon, and Mangpu, which are among the hidden hill destinations known for Kanchenjunga views, eco-tourism, and peaceful stays.
Yes, many offbeat destinations in West Bengal are perfect for couples and solo travellers due to their calm atmosphere, homestay culture, scenic landscapes, and budget-friendly accommodations.
The Chief Editor of TourMantras is a digital marketing professional, but also a travel enthusiast at the same time. He loves researching the latest tourist destinations in India or abroad and visiting them in person when possible. After that, he loves posting them on our website just to satisfy his passion and provide accurate information to travellers.
