Far less frequented than other states in India West Bengal is home to the former capital of the country, Calcutta, and the largest concentration of Bengal tigers in the world. The Hotel Guru's selection of the best places to stay in West Bengal is wide ranging: from tea plantations to tiger reserves there are plenty to choose from.

From the dramatic tea laden hill stations of Darjeeling and Kalimpong to the bustling streets of Calcutta and the sonorous mangrove forests of the Sundarbans, West Bengal has a diverse topography for travellers to explore.

Kolkata

A truly divergent city Kolkata is an homage to India itself. Whilst it has seen some of the worst poverty in the country, today it is a centre for arts and education.

Gentrified Kolkatan society still orbits around the old boating clubs and golf courses and there is some imposing colonial architecture to be seen. The Victoria Memorial in particular, lying along the Hooghley River is a monument to the British presence here.

It's a great city to sample some of the best of the country’s cuisine and to experience both modern and ancient India.

Darjeeling

A charmingly antiquated way to see Darjeeling is aboard the ‘Toy Train’, one of the few hill station train lines still in use. Get out of town and away from it all as you journey deeper into the pastoral country.

Producing the ‘champagne of tea’ a visit to the plantations to sample the region’s crop is a must.

Darjeeling overlooks the majestic Khangchendzonga peak in the distance; this is Himalayan territory after all. Budding mountaineers will appreciate the variety of hiking and trekking options whilst less enthusiastic ramblers might opt for a sunrise visit to Tiger Hill. Far less exertive.

Kalimpong

Famed for its ubiquitous nurseries is Kalimpong. Particularly in the spring months it is resplendent underneath a carpet of orchids. The ideal retreat for some uninterrupted respite during your trip.

The Buddhist temples surrounding Darjeeling and Kalimpong are an interesting visit for their ornate wall paintings and to learn more about this fascinating religion.

Sundarbans Tiger Reserve

If wildlife interests you and you can’t leave India without spotting yourself a tiger or two then the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve is your best chance. Boating through the dense mangrove forests you may also come across the odd crocodile, leopard and even flying foxes.

The Hotel Guru's selection of the best places to stay in West Bengal covers all of the above desintations: from tea plantations to tiger reserves there really is something for everyone.

The Best Places to stay in West Bengal

For a boutique stay

• A true reflection of modern Kolkata, the beating heart of India’s educated and artistic crowd, The Corner Courtyard is a fun, colourful, modern meet antique boutique hotel in the heart of town.

For budget

• Nestled upon a quiet hilltop in Kalimpong, Holumba Haven provides excellent value for money. Set amidst a thriving botanical garden it showcases 200 different species of orchid for which the region is famous.

For luxury

• For all out luxury during your stay in Kolkata there is no better place than The Oberoi Grand. Many a world leader and head of state has spent the night within its historic walls.
• Providing an indulgent stay on a working tea estate Glenburn Tea Estate is without question the most luxurious hotel in Darjeeling.

For heritage

You are spoilt for choice for heritage hotels in West Bengal but our top options would have to be:

• Kolkata’s Fairlawn Hotel and Darjeeling’s Windamere Hotel are like portals back in time.
• The idiosyncratic Cochrane Place provides a stay in the residence of the former Scottish barrister Percy Cochrane.
• Or if you are looking for history meats indulgence then The Elgin, Darjeeling and The Elgin Silver Oaks boast period décor and all the amenities of a resort.

For wildlife

• Accommodation in the Sundarbans is limited and the Sundarbans Wildlife Camp is without a doubt the best in the area. Individual cottages include private terraces for which to do some wildlife spotting of your own.

For complete relaxation

• With every amenity you could wish for, a spa, gym, two restaurants and much more the Mayfair Darjeeling is ideal. Simply relax and let them take care of you.
• The Himalayan Hotel boasts manicured gardens for which to retreat from the hustle and bustle of town.

Both idyllic stays.

For an eco stay

• A forward thinking tea estate Makaibari Homestay was the first to employ female workers and organic and fair-trade practices.

Still not sure which to book? From character to browse through our list of the best places to stay in West Bengal to start to plan your trip. Or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in West Bengal