Cities of West Bengal are some of the most visited and most well-liked tourist places of the state. West Bengal is the state with the highest population density in India and its major cities boast the majority of population. Unity in diversity is best reflected in the cities of West Bengal, which has three urban agglomerations: Kolkata, Siliguri, Asansol- Durgapur. The state has 6 municipal corporations: Kolkata, Asansol, Chandannagar, Durgapur, Howrah, and Siliguri.
Cities in Northern Part of West Bengal
Major cities in the north of West Bengal are Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong and Jalpaiguri. These cities have become popular as tourist destinations and also export centres of tea, mango, oranges and so on. The beautiful tea estates of Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri are treats to the nature lovers. These North Bengal cities are best known as hill stations, attracting hordes of tourists round the year. They are also noted for their historical importance as places of summer retreats. The Buddhist monasteries and flower market in Kalimpong attract tourist from all across the globe. Siliguri is one of the most significant business hubs in the state and the entire north-eastern region of India. It is the fifth largest city of the state and the second most important trade centre in North Bengal after Kolkata and Malda District of West Bengal.
Cities in Western Part of West Bengal
In the western part of West Bengal are Bardhaman, Asansol, Durgapur, Purulia and Bankura. The western zone of this state is mainly the industrial belt and these cities are best known for their coal and steel production. Bankura and Purulia are best known for their local handicrafts. The third largest city of West Bengal, Asansol is known for its prominent iron and steel works and the locomotive work at Chittaranjan. Durgapur is a huge industrial city with well-planned roads and townships. It is the fourth largest city in West Bengal.
Cities in Eastern Part of West Bengal
In the eastern belt of West Bengal, the major cities are Krishnanagar, Kalyani, Chandannagar, Serampore and the capital city of the state, Kolkata. These cities are jointly the most important trading centres of the state. Kolkata is located on the east bank of Hooghly River and is the third largest city in India. The cuisine, aristocracy, culture, commercial and economical status of Kolkata represents that of West Bengal. Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, Birla Planetarium, Writers` Building, New Town Eco Park, Mother"s Wax Museum are some of the heritage plazas in the capital city of West Bengal. Kalyani is a planned township and is divided into residential, industrial and educational sectors. The eastern part of West Bengal is deeply influenced by the British East India Company and the French East India Company and hence the urban and the modern development are happened most.
Cities in Southern Part of West Bengal
Kolkata rules the list of the cities in West Bengal and enjoys every privilege of being the capital city of a flourishing state like West Bengal. Other major cities in the southern part of West Bengal are Barasat, Tamluk and Baharampur. These cities are important trading centres, primary of betel leaves and machinery parts. The first army barrack of the British East India Company was established in Barrackpore. Also, the first revolt of 1857 Indian mutiny is said to have started from this city. It is now a northern suburb of Kolkata.
Other Cities in West Bengal
English Bazar, Habra, Kharagpur, Shantipur, Dhulian, Ranaghat, Haldia, Raiganj, Balurghat, Basirhat, Alipurduar, Jangipur and Cooch Behar are amongst the other important cities which are located in the Eastern Indian state of West Bengal. The cities in West Bengal are best known for their diverse culture and economy.