Published By: Sougata Dutta

4 Best Places To Take Road Trips In West Bengal

Roads to the heavenly places of Bengal

To the north of the Indian state of West Bengal lies the high snow-capped Himalayan mountains and vast Terai region; There is no shortage of places to visit in West Bengal, which is full of this diverse and natural beauty. Although the city of Calcutta has always been considered as a very attractive place for travellers from home and abroad due to its legacy of famous art and literature, ancient historical significance and being the centre of important political activities, there are many more beautiful and ancient historical places in West Bengal where it is very easy to travel by road from Kolkata.

Today's article lists four less explored tourist spots that are enriched with natural beauty and bear witness to ancient times.

Murshidabad

History seems to stand still in this district of West Bengal founded by the first Nawab of Bengal Murshid Quli Khan! it was the capital of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa till the time of British rule, this district is the bearer of ancient footprints and one of the best tourist destinations in West Bengal. The distance from Kolkata to Murshidabad by road is only 230 kilometres. Situated on the banks of the Bhagirathi, this historic city has witnessed the reign and defeat of the last Nawab of Bengal, Sirajdaullah, the rise of British rule, the Battle of Palashi, the infamous betrayal and the long 200 years of subjugation and many important events of the past. The historic sites of the Hazarduari or Medina Mosque are a shining example of the city's mixed culture.

Bakkhali:

For those who enjoy the breathtaking view of the secluded beach, Bakkhali is the ideal place to visit on weekends or weekends. Bakkhali is quite different from other beaches in West Bengal. The unique beauty of the white sand of Bakkhali beach will fascinate anyone. It is not a coast in that sense, but Bakkhali is an island in the Sundarbans region. Henry Island in Bakkhali, Frazerganj beach and the view of the Sundarbans from the top of the watchtower is a must-watch while vacationing in Bakkhali. If you want, you can visit Jambudwip from Bakkhali by renting a boat. The magical scenery of Bakkhali beach on a full moon night is an extraordinary experience. At present Bakkhali is connected to Kolkata by several roads.

Rajabhatkhawa:

Rajabhatkhawa is located just 17 km from Alipurduar. Here nature seems to have poured out all its beauty. If you want to enjoy the beauty of the Rajabhatkhawa forest, it is better to go out early in the morning. Putus and the surrounding five- to seven-story tall wild trees like Sishu, Jarule and redwoods do not let the sunlight penetrate through the forest at that time. This creates a strange and mystical atmosphere in the depths of the forest by combining light and darkness. Rajabhatkhawa has one of the country's leading vulture conservation and breeding centres. Leopards are often seen in this forest. From the Rajabhatkhawa check post every morning and afternoon there is a gipsy safari of the forest department. If you wish, you can travel from Rajabhatkhawa to Buxa Fort and Jayanti Jungle. Sikiajhora can be reached from Rajabhatkhawa via Damanpur. Sikiajhora can be called a piece of the Sundarbans. Here boat safaris can be done under the management of self-help groups.

Mukutmanipur:

Surrounded by mountain ranges, impassable earthen embankments of vast rivers, endless expanse of trees all around have made Mukutmanipur an appealing tourist destination. Every year tourists flock to the banks of the river Kansavati for the unearthly natural beauty of Mukutmanipur. Kangsabati river dam, the second-largest dam in the world situated here. The nature around this earthen dam is captivating. At night, the secluded environment on the banks of the dam, the cold wind and the sound of Madal coming from the nearby Santhal village- captivates the mind. Ancient temples, deer parks and all the great handicrafts made by the locals with grass and bamboo bear witness to the extraordinary skill of the natives of this region.