Bawali, a historic village near Kolkata, features the restored Rajbari Bawali, a neo-classical mansion turned luxury retreat. Guests wander its ornate verandahs, relax by its courtyard pool, and savor fresh Bengali cuisine. Amid the stay, hidden temple ruins evoke a bygone era, blending heritage and tranquility.

Traveling north to the hills of Darjeeling district, Kurseong – the “Land of White Orchids” – offers serene natural beauty and laid-back exploration. Offbeat highlights include the forested Chimney Village, where colonial relics and Kanchenjunga views simmer in silence , and Eagle’s Crag, a peaceful viewpoint overlooking tea plantations and distant peaks. The Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Museum, located in his brother’s ancestral home, adds a rich historical layer.

For nature lovers, lesser-known gems like the Bhangzang Salamander Lake—home to rare Himalayan newts—provide tranquil wilderness. Meanwhile, Dow Hill Eco Park and mysterious Dowhill woods weave in local folklore, offering a slightly eerie twist to the lush landscape.