Cooch Behar (West Bengal) FAQs In 2024

10 FAQS on Cooch Behar

What is Cooch Behar known for?

Cooch Behar is known for its rich historical heritage and royal past. It is prominent for the Cooch Behar Palace, which is modeled after Buckingham Palace in London. The region was once a princely state and it reflects a distinct cultural heritage influenced by both Bengali and Assamese traditions. Its history, temples, and palaces attract many tourists.

Cooch Behar can be reached by air, rail, and road. The town has its own domestic airport, Cooch Behar Airport, which is connected to Kolkata. However, flights may not be very frequent. The nearest major railway station is New Cooch Behar Railway Station, which is well connected to different parts of India. By road, it is accessible by national and state highways from major cities of West Bengal and neighboring states.

The best time to visit Cooch Behar is from October to March. During these months, the weather remains pleasant for sightseeing. The summers can be hot and humid, and the monsoons can bring heavy rains, which may not be ideal for tourism.

The top tourist attractions in Cooch Behar include the Cooch Behar Palace, Madan Mohan Bari Temple, Sagardighi (a large pond in the heart of the town), Baneshwar Shiva Temple, and the Rajbari Park. Additionally, the Rasikbil bird sanctuary is a short drive away and makes for an excellent day trip for nature enthusiasts.

Yes, the most significant festival in Cooch Behar is the Raas Mela, which usually takes place in November and centers around the Madan Mohan Bari. This festival celebrates the divine love of Lord Krishna and Radha and attracts numerous visitors. Additionally, Durga Puja and Kali Puja are also celebrated with great enthusiasm.

Cooch Behar is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any other destination, visitors should take standard safety precautions, such as safeguarding their belongings and being aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Cooch Behar offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to mid-range lodgings. While the town may not have luxury resorts, it provides decent facilities for a comfortable stay. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during festival seasons.

Tourists can often find guide services at major tourist spots like the Cooch Behar Palace. It is advisable to hire a guide who is registered with the tourism department to ensure authenticity and reliability of information.

Yes, tourists can buy local handicrafts in Cooch Behar. The town has several markets and shops where you can find handloom products, traditional sarees, and handcrafted items that reflect the cultural artistry of the region.

While there are no national parks within the immediate vicinity of Cooch Behar, the Jaldapara National Park and Buxa Tiger Reserve are relatively nearby and can be reached within a few hours' drive. These parks are famous for their wildlife, including one-horned rhinoceroses, tigers, and various species of birds.