Top 5 Authentic Village Experiences in West Bengal


West Bengal offers travelers a range of rural tourism destinations that showcase the state’s rich cultural traditions, sustainable living practices, and natural beauty. For those looking to immerse themselves in the simplicity of village life, these places offer a perfect mix of relaxation, eco-tourism, and cultural engagement. Below are five unique rural tourism destinations in West Bengal—Monchasha, Gramer Bari, Asannagar, Ballavpur Danga and Srikhola—that promise an authentic rural experience.

Monchasha – An Eco-Village Retreat Monchasha, located in the East Midnapore district, is a sustainable eco-tourism destination that blends rural life with modern eco-friendly practices. Situated on the banks of the Bagda River, Monchasha is known for its bamboo cottages and eco-friendly architecture, all designed to offer a tranquil, immersive rural experience. Visitors can engage in local activities like organic farming, pottery, fishing, and learn about the traditional lifestyle of rural Bengal. Monchasha emphasizes sustainable tourism, with its natural surroundings and eco-conscious initiatives like solar power and waste recycling. The serene environment, coupled with the hospitality of the local community, makes Monchasha a peaceful retreat for those seeking a break from the urban hustle.

Gramer Bari – A Traditional Bengali Village Stay

Gramer Bari, located in the Sundarbans region, offers travelers an authentic Bengali village experience. This destination is perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in the traditional life of rural Bengal, filled with rustic homestays, local culinary delights, and a chance to join in daily farming activities. Gramer Bari offers a window into the slow-paced, agrarian lifestyle of the Sundarbans’ inhabitants. Guests can enjoy a boat ride along the village canals, explore the surrounding fields, and engage in activities like rice farming or fishing. This destination is ideal for travelers looking to experience Bengal’s rural charm, cultural warmth, and traditional practices in a homely atmosphere.

Asannagar – A Cultural and Agricultural Haven

Located in the Nadia district, Asannagar is a rural destination known for its agricultural richness and cultural vibrancy. The village is an excellent example of sustainable farming practices, with large expanses of green fields where farmers cultivate crops using traditional techniques. Visitors can join in activities like plowing fields, learning about organic farming, or visiting local temples and fairs that highlight the village’s cultural heritage. Asannagar also offers opportunities to explore local handicrafts, with artisans creating traditional Bengali items like clay toys and handmade fabrics. A visit to Asannagar provides a holistic rural experience, combining the best of Bengal’s agricultural life and artisanal crafts.

Ballabhpur Danga – An Eco-Tourism Experience Near Shantiniketan

Located near Shantiniketan, Ballabhpur Danga is a charming rural destination known for its focus on eco-tourism and sustainable living. This small village offers a peaceful environment where visitors can stay in eco-friendly accommodations, join in farming activities, and explore the local culture. The nearby Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of deer species, including the rare blackbuck, making it a great spot for nature lovers. Visitors can also enjoy cycling through the village, interacting with local artisans, and learning about organic farming practices. The proximity to Shantiniketan allows travelers to explore the famous cultural hub while enjoying a quiet rural stay.

Srikhola – A Riverside Village in the Himalayas

Srikhola, located in the Singalila National Park region of the Darjeeling district, is a remote Himalayan village known for its pristine river and tranquil environment. Situated at an altitude of over 6,300 feet, Srikhola is a paradise for nature lovers and those looking for an offbeat rural experience. The village gets its name from the Srikhola River that flows through it, offering visitors scenic views, opportunities for riverside walks, and a peaceful escape into nature. Srikhola is a popular destination for trekkers, particularly those returning from the Sandakphu trek. It offers a rural retreat where visitors can stay in cozy homestays, interact with the local Sherpa and Rai communities, and learn about traditional hill farming practices. With its stunning landscapes and peaceful environment, Srikhola is an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet, rural Himalayan getaway.

These five rural tourism destinations in West Bengal—Monchasha, Gramer Bari, Asannagar, Ballavpur Danga and Srikhola—offer unique opportunities to experience the beauty and cultural richness of Bengal’s countryside. Whether it’s eco-tourism in the plains, the vibrant culture of the Sundarbans, or the scenic mountain villages of the Himalayas, each of these places provides an authentic and immersive rural experience, perfect for travelers seeking simplicity and tranquility.

Reservation Assistance: Earth & Sky
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MonChasha Rural Tourism

The vast lands of rural bengal, covered with unspoiled greenery are spilled everywhere that give you a feeling of unbounded joy. Not only for the treat of eyes, such places taught us something about our past – the rural tradition, the authentic culture – ritual – cuisine – craft and the local style of living. Welcome to MonChasha – a perfect getaway for you.


For active participation in pure rural lifestyle, nowadays people are focusing on ‘rural tourism’ projects in India. Tourists now travel to a village area and try to discover their roots. They try to explore the life while taking part in the daily activities there. Not only for agro based activities & organic food, people try to explore the intangible heritages – the cultural aspects of rural India. The local handicraft, cuisine, community, folklore has tremendous scope for increasing India’s tourism offering not only to the world, but also to its own citizens. This is a story of a living tourism of Bengal. MonChasha – A tourist spot near Kolkata. monchasa

MonChasha is a blend of authentic village culture, pure earthen tradition, the cultural heritage of a speed less rural life and a true sentiment of natural India. MonChasha is an authentic ecotourism site of bengal – MonChasha is a rural based sustainable ecotourism initiative over at village Paushi, East Midnapore, West Bengal, India.

Bagda River bedide MonChasha
Accessibility for MonChasha

Pick up & drop service available from Contai (Kathi) Railway Station (24 km) & Kalinagar Bus Stop (6 km) by local vehicle as per the availability. Otherwise regular toto/trekker service available from Contai & Kalinagar to village paushi.

MonChasha Rural Tourism
Bamboo Cottages of MonChasha

The vast lands of rural bengal, covered with unspoiled greenery are spilled everywhere that give you a feeling of unbounded joy. Not only for the treat of eyes, such places taught us something about our past – the rural tradition, the authentic culture – ritual – cuisine – craft and the local style of living.

MonChasha Rural Tourism

The vast lands of rural bengal, covered with unspoiled greenery are spilled everywhere that give you a feeling of unbounded joy. Not only for the treat of eyes, such places taught us something about our past – the rural tradition, the authentic culture – ritual – cuisine – craft and the local style of living.

Accommodation:   We have 4 bamboo cottages. 4 (four) person can stay in a cottage. Each cottage have a river facing balcony & attached western washroom

Tariff Per Cottage Per Day with Food & Taxes:

  • Rs.7200/-only (for 2 persons)
  • Rs.9000/-only (for 3 persons)
  • Rs.10800/-only (for 4 persons)
  • Extra Person Rs.2250/-only

Cost Includes Accommodation In A Bamboo Cottage, All Meals (Welcome Drink, Lunch, Evening Snacks, Dinner And Next Day Breakfast)& All Applicable Taxes

  • Child Policy:
  • Child below 4 Years: Stay is free. Food on actual (payable on spot).
  • Child of age (4-8 years):  Rs. 1530/- Payable for Stay and Food during reservation.
  • Car Parking Charge: Free
  • Driver Stay (Dormitory) & Food: 1530/-
  • Pet Allowance – Rs.540/- _ WE DO NOT HAVE AC FACILITY.

100% advance payment required for reservation. At the time of reservation please ask for the rules and we request you to go through the terms & conditions carefully. Please submit photocopy of photo identity of each person at the time of check in.

Cottage Interior @ MonChasha Rural Tourism
Cottage Interior @ MonChasha Rural Tourism
Cottage Interior @ MonChasha Rural Tourism

Keeping in mind the local climatic condition we have used local products as hogla, khor (straw), bans (bamboo), tal (palm tree), jhau (tamarisk) which made MonChasha more eco-friendly. According to the local experience both hogla and khor have a natural power to control the room temperature. As we use, we have already planted new.

View from Balcony @ MonChasha Rural Tourism
View from Balcony @ MonChasha Rural Tourism
Inside MonChasha Rural Tourism
Inside MonChasha Rural Tourism
A small museum @ MonChasha Rural Tourism
Museum Interior @ MonChasha Rural Tourism
Open Dining @ MonChasha Rural Tourism
Open Dining Area @ MonChasha Rural Tourism
Open Dining Area @ MonChasha Rural Tourism
Open Dining Area @ MonChasha Rural Tourism
Goynabori – An amazing food art
Meals @ MonChasha Rural Tourism
Indoor games … Choose from Cards, Ludo, Chess, Carrom, Target and many more
Wow… what a creation !! Thank you.
Passionate photographers …this is your place. Try your ideas here…
Making of puffed rice… the traditional way of preparation …
Demonstration for netting & fishing over at MonChasha Rural Tourism Project
If you are a professional… then you must visit MonChasha
Nabya Nakshi Craft zone – a meaningful space provided by MonChasha Rural Tourism Project where local artisans share ideas and sell their handicrafts directly to the guests.
Pottery workshop going on at MonChasha Rural Tourism Project.