Coochbehar – The Royal Town of North Bengal

Coochbehar, a picturesque town and district in the northeastern corner of West Bengal, sits proudly near the Assam border. A blend of regal heritage, cultural vibrancy, and natural beauty, it was once one of the last independent princely states of India. Today, Coochbehar stands as a unique travel destination, attracting history buffs, nature lovers, and seekers of offbeat adventures alike.

Where is Coochbehar?

Nestled in the Dooars region, Coochbehar is strategically located with Bangladesh to its south, Assam’s Dhubri district to the east, and the lush green Alipurduar district to the north. Its western frontier touches the Jalpaiguri district, making it a gateway to several famous tourist destinations of North Bengal and the Northeast.

A Journey Through Time – History of Coochbehar

Coochbehar boasts one of the richest histories in North Bengal, tracing back to the 11th century when the powerful Pala dynasty ruled the region. The town shares its historical lineage with Assam’s Kamrup territory, and evidence of its glorious past has been unearthed in places like Gosanimari, an archaeological site believed to be the original capital of the Kamtapur state.

The golden age of Coochbehar began in the 16th century when Biswa Singha, the founder of the Koch dynasty, established the Kamta kingdom. At its height, the kingdom spanned across North Bengal, parts of Bangladesh’s Rangpur district, and Assam’s Bongaigaon and Goalpara regions.

Coochbehar played a significant role in trade and politics, with frequent conflicts and treaties with the Bhutanese kingdom, leading to the famous Dooars region, named after the 18 mountain passes (Dwars) that connected Bhutan to the plains.

Following India’s independence in 1947, Coochbehar merged with the Indian Union in 1950, marking the end of its princely status but not its royal charm!

Coochbehar Palace – The Crown Jewel

One of the grandest attractions in Coochbehar is the Coochbehar Palace, built in the 19th century by Maharaja Nripendra Narayan. A stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, the palace stands as a testament to the town’s royal past. Now maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the palace houses a museum showcasing historical artefacts, royal portraits, and antique furniture.

• Visiting Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (Closed on public holidays)

• Highlights: Grand Durbar Hall, museum exhibits, Mughal-style gardens

Pro tip: Visit early in the morning for stunning photographs with soft golden light bathing the majestic structure!

Other Attractions in Coochbehar

1. Sagardighi – The Heart of the Town

A serene lake in the heart of Coochbehar, Sagardighi is a popular spot where locals gather to relax, and visitors can enjoy watching migratory birds. The lake is surrounded by colonial-era buildings, adding to its charm.

2. Rasik Bil – A Paradise for Birdwatchers

Located about 30 km from Coochbehar, Rasik Bil is a large natural lake renowned for its migratory birds. Adjacent to the lake, the Leopard and Crocodile Rescue Centre add an element of wildlife adventure to your visit.

3. Madan Mohan Temple – The Spiritual Hub

Built by Maharaja Nripendra Narayan, the Madan Mohan Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is the epicentre of the grand Rash Mela, a festival held every November, drawing thousands of devotees and tourists. The fair is one of North Bengal’s largest rural celebrations, bursting with local culture, handicrafts, and traditional performances.

4. Chilapata Forest – The Wild Side of Coochbehar

Just 45 minutes from town, the Chilapata Forest offers a thrilling wildlife experience. Home to elephants, leopards, and deer, this dense jungle also has remnants of the Nal Rajar Garh, a fort dating back to the Gupta period.

5. Torsha River and Nearby Countryside

The Torsha River flows through Coochbehar, offering scenic beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset. A drive along its banks provides a glimpse into the local rural lifestyle, tea gardens, and lush green paddy fields.

How to Reach Coochbehar?

Coochbehar enjoys excellent connectivity by rail and road.

• By Train: Major trains heading to the Northeast pass through Coochbehar station or nearby Alipurduar Junction (22 km away).

• By Road: Well-connected via NH-27, Coochbehar is a 4-hour drive (145 km) from Siliguri.

• By Air: Coochbehar has an airport, but flights are irregular. The nearest operational airport is Bagdogra (IXB), 145 km away.

Weather & Best Time to Visit

Coochbehar enjoys a mild climate for most of the year.

• Summers (March – June): 27°C – 33°C, warm but manageable.

• Monsoons (July – September): Heavy rainfall, lush greenery.

• Winters (October – February): 12°C – 20°C, perfect for exploring.

Best Time to Visit: October to March when the weather is pleasant, and major festivals like Rash Mela take place.

Where to Stay in Coochbehar?

Coochbehar has a range of budget and mid-range hotels, but many visitors prefer staying in nearby resorts or homestays for a nature-filled experience.

Popular Stay Options near Coochbehar:

• Rasikbil Forest Bungalow (WBFDC) – Ideal for bird lovers

• Chilapata Jungle Resorts – Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts

• Salkumarhat Resorts – Close to Jaldapara National Park

Looking for the best stay options? Contact NBTT Travel Solution Private Limited at 9733000592 / 593 / 594 for customized bookings!

Why Visit Coochbehar?

• Royal Heritage & palaces

• Unique mix of history & nature

• Offbeat yet well-connected

• Proximity to wildlife destinations

Whether you’re a history geek, a birdwatcher, or someone looking for a peaceful getaway, Coochbehar has something for you!

For travel bookings & personalized itineraries, contact NBTT Travel Solution Private Limited at 9733000592 / 593 / 594.

Let us make your Coochbehar trip an unforgettable experience