Situated in the north eastern corner of India, the state of West Bengal has a rich history of rule and a diverse landscape supporting an array of climatic regions. Found within its borders are the densely populated capital city of Kolkata (for years the capital of British India), tea plantations clinging to the slopes of the Himalayas in Darjeeling, long stretches of unspoilt beach in the sleepy fishing village of Mandarmani, and the mangrove delta of Sunderban in the south – its watery inlets home to one of the largest concentrations of tigers on the planet.
Set within the heart of Assam state in India, Kaziranga National Park is one of the last areas in eastern India undisturbed by human presence and inhibited by the world's largest population of the renowned one-horned Rhinoceros. This world heritage site, bordering the southern banks of the Brahmaputra River, boasts many protected wildlife species, including one of the largest populations of tiger in the world, as well as large breeding populations of elephant, water buffalo, swamp deer and an abundance of birdlife. The extensive grasslands, forested highlands, marshes and flood plains are a wildlife and nature lover’s paradise. Don't miss out on an Elephant Safari, as it is the best way to get up close and personal with the park’s famous rhinoceros.
Situated on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River in north-eastern India, the city of Guwahati is not only the commercial, sporting and educational hub of the region, but offers numerous natural wonders for visitors. The ‘Gateway to the Seven Sisters’ is renowned for its surrounding tea plantations, rolling green hills and diverse wildlife, including rare animals such as Asian elephants, pythons, tigers and Indian bison. Religious centres, historical monuments and archaeological sites add to its magical aura, making it a popular starting point for visitors to this region of India.
The Singalila National Park lies in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, over both sides of the renowned Sandakphu trail. This is an extraordinary and unique destination, characterised by exquisite pink rhododendrons among lush green misty valleys, backed by stunning views of the snowy eastern Himalayas. The park is also famous for its numerous and important animal species, which include the rare red panda, as well as barking deer, wild boar, pangolin, pika, Himalayan Black Bear, Clouded Leopard, more than 120 species of birds, and many reptiles and amphibians. Trekking, camping, and birdwatching are just some of the activities on offer, while many visitors will enjoy the chance to simply soak up these enthralling surroundings. Several tours and safaris are also available.
Located along the eastern bank of the Hooghly River in the lower Ganges Delta, Kolkata is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. This 350-year-old metropolis is the heart and soul of eastern India, and is known for its crumbling colonial architecture, elegant gardens, countless temples and bustling bazaars. Celebrated as the birthplace of the early 20th-century Bengal Renaissance, Kolkata is a major centre for drama, art, film, theatre, literature, spirituality and music. Visitors can roam the streets and soak up the atmosphere of faded grandeur, or take a ride in a rickshaw to one of the many Indian restaurants serving mouth-watering Bengali cuisine. Must-see highlights include the Victoria Memorial, with its east-meets-west architecture; the Indian Museum, with its range of rare artefacts; and the Kali Temple, an important pilgrimage centre for Hindus.
