Shantiniketan, a small town near Bolpur in the Birbhum District of West Bengal, is renowned internationally as the place where India’s first Nobel laureate poet, Rabindranath Tagore, founded Visva-Bharati University. The university, which was established in 1921, is a world-renowned center of learning and culture.
The name “Shantiniketan” means “Abode of Peace,” and the town certainly lives up to its name. The lush green surroundings, the quiet atmosphere, and the rich cultural heritage all combine to create a sense of peace and tranquility.
There are many things to see and do in Shantiniketan. Visitors can explore the university campus, visit Tagore’s home and other historical sites, or simply wander through the town and enjoy the scenery.
Must visit places in Shantiniketan
Visva-Bharati University
The university campus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many beautiful buildings, including Tagore’s home, the Amra Kunja (mango grove), and the Uttarayan Complex.
Chhatimtala
This is a prayer place under a Chhatim tree, which was built by Maharshi Devendranath Tagore, Tagore’s father. Chatimtala as it is called is the spot that symbolizes the starting point of Santiniketan, which was to become his son Rabindranath’s home and base activity. It is considered to be a hallowed spot and prayer services are held here on very special days.
Brahma Mandir
This beautiful temple was built in 1891 and is dedicated to Brahma, the creator god in Hinduism.
Rabindra Bhavan Museum
Also known as Tagore Memorial Museum, Rabindra Bhavan building was established in 1942 at Santiniketan. This beautiful museum showcases the personal collections of Tagore and thus is associated with the memory of this famous personality. It houses a library and a general section where you can find a wonderful collection of his paintings, manuscripts, photographs and letters of Tagore depicting his earlier lifestyle and work.
Uttarayan Complex
This complex houses several houses associated with Tagore’s memory, including Udayan, Konark, Shyamali, Punascha, and Udichi.
Kopai River
The Kopai River is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. The river is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Sonajhuri Forest
This area is known for its beautiful forest and its unique canyon formations. Sonajhuri is a great place to go for a walk, hike, or bike ride.
When to visit Shantiniketan
The best time to visit Shantiniketan is during the spring (October-February) or fall (March-November) seasons. The weather is mild during these times, and there are many cultural events and festivals taking place.
How to Get to Shantiniketan
Shantiniketan is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Kolkata Airport, which is about 162 kilometers away. There are also regular trains and buses that connect Shantiniketan to Kolkata and other major cities in India.
Where to stay in Shantiniketan
There are many hotels, guest houses, and homestays in Shantiniketan to suit all budgets. If you are looking for a unique experience, you could stay in one of the university’s guest houses, which are located on the campus.
What to eat in Shantiniketan
The food in Shantiniketan is a blend of Bengali and Bengali-inspired cuisine. There are many restaurants in the town that serve traditional Bengali dishes, as well as some more international options.
What to buy in Shantiniketan
Shantiniketan is a great place to buy handicrafts, souvenirs, and other locally-made products.
Some of the items that you can buy in Shantiniketan include:
- Katha stitch embroidery
- Batik works
- Dokra (artistic brassware)
- Leather bags
- Bamboo toys
- Wooden furniture
- Lithograph and slate cut paintings
- Locally hand-woven cotton
How to get around Shantiniketan
The best way to get around Shantiniketan is by rickshaw or car. There are also a few buses that run in the town.
I hope this blog post has inspired you to visit Shantiniketan, a beautiful and culturally-rich town in West Bengal. You may consider visiting Tarapith a few kilometers away from shantiniketan.