This Indian State Is Now The Country's Second Favourite Tourist Destination

West Bengal seems to be quietly climbing the travel charts, and the latest numbers from the Union Tourism Ministry confirm it. The state has now become the second most visited destination for international tourists in India, just behind Maharashtra, according to the India Tourism Data Compendium 2025. Instead of relying on big campaigns or direct global flight links, West Bengal's steady rise is driven by word-of-mouth, cultural curiosity and a growing interest in its festivals and heritage spots. 

In 2024, the state welcomed 31 lakh international travellers, a jump from 27 lakh in 2023. Between January and June alone, more than 27 lakh foreign tourists had already arrived. A large part of this traffic is coming from Europe and the US. The US accounted for 80,647 visitors, followed closely by Russia at 79,758, the UK at 77,792, and Italy at 64,225. What makes this even more interesting is that West Bengal has no direct flights to any of these regions, yet it continues to attract travellers looking for culture-heavy and experience-based trips.

Also Read: Want To Know India's Most-Visited States In 2024-25? Check The Rankings

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee credited this upswing to the state's wider approach to tourism. She said West Bengal has been focusing on festival tourism, religious tourism, MICE tourism, and other niche segments to appeal to different kinds of visitors. "Proud to share that West Bengal has emerged as one of the most favoured international tourist destinations in the country, and has achieved another great milestone!!" she wrote on X.

She added, "I welcome all tourists, both domestic and foreign, to visit West Bengal, the sweetest part of India, and experience its beauty, culture, and heritage. I thank all tourism stakeholders who have worked relentlessly towards achieving this proud moment for West Bengal."

Proud to share that West Bengal has emerged as one of the most favoured international tourist destinations in the country, and has achieved another great milestone!!

In the recently released India Tourism Data Compendium 2025 by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India , West…

— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) November 26, 2025

5 Things To Do In West Bengal

Already thinking about packing your bags for West Bengal? Here are some must-do experiences for your trip:

1. Walk Around Kolkata's Old Streets

Kolkata is easy to enjoy on foot. Just pick a neighbourhood like College Street, Kumartuli, or Park Street and start walking. The old buildings, bookshops, cafes nd small lanes give the city its charm. You can stop for chai, grab a roll or watch artisans at work.

2. Visit The Hills Of Darjeeling

If you like cool weather and mountain views, Darjeeling is perfect. The town has calm corners, pretty tea gardens and great sunrise spots. Tiger Hill is a classic. You can also take a ride on the toy train. It moves slowly and gives beautiful views of the hills.

3. Try Bengali Food

Food is a big part of the Bengal experience. You can start with simple dishes like luchi-aloo dum, fish curry, kosha mangsho or a plate of biryani. And of course, sweets. Mishti doi, rosogolla, and sondesh are must-tries. Most places serve affordable meals, so you can try many things.

4. Explore The Sundarbans

Sundarbans is calm, green, and very different from usual tourist spots. You travel by boat through narrow waterways and watch the mangrove forest around you. You may spot rare birds, crocodiles, and other wildlife. It is peaceful and very refreshing.

Also Read: How To Explore The Seven Wonders Of The World Like A Pro

5. Spend An Evening At Princep Ghat

Princep Ghat is one of the best places to relax in Kolkata. The river breeze is nice. You can sit, walk around or take a small boat ride. Many people come in the evening. The bridge lights look great after sunset. It is a simple and easy outing.

So pack your bags, and get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture, delicious food and breathtaking landscapes of West Bengal.