Santiniketan in Birbhum, the land of red soils noted for its topography and its cultural heritage which is unique and is somewhat different from that of the other districts in West Bengal. Due to the presence of Visva Bharati University https://visvabharati.ac.in/, founded by Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, Shantiniketan is often referred to as a university town. Santiniketan's architecture and natural surroundings perfectly capture Tagore's idea of universalism. Apart from upholding the spirit of inclusive learning, Santiniketan is also the abode of various cultural heritages like Baul music, Kantha embroidery, Shola pith work, Pottery studios, Leather and metal work. This year Santiniketan has been recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Site.
From Kolkata it will take 3-4 hours by car, Nearest railway station is Bolpur Shantiniketan.
Gulancha home stay, Nayantara, Nibhriti, Udashibabar Akhra, Dancing lights, West Bengal Tourism lodges (Rangabitan and Santobitan). Udashi Babar Akhra at Ballabhpur has a mud house with 2 rooms and a small tree house (floor bedding) It is an interesting stay option with space for flourishing folk culture and indigenous rural lifestyle of Bengal. The 4 acre campus of Tepantar Theatre Village, 23 km from Santiniketan have 7 twin-shared cottages and 5 dorms each accommodating 10 persons. Guest can experience Theatre Show, Baul music in addition.
A 2-6 days of tour in and around Santiniketan is recommended. In case of 2 days tour, its better to stay at any hotel in Santiniketan. There are plenty of good hotels and home-stays there catering to a wide range of taste and budget. If time permits, other than the university, one can check out … Continue reading “Bolpur”
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