Southwest Bengal, India: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Southwest Bengal, India? If you're planning to go to Southwest Bengal, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Southwest Bengal
- Important essentials for Southwest Bengal
- Activities for Southwest Bengal
- Southwest Bengal in January: weather and what to pack
- Southwest Bengal in February: weather and what to pack
- Southwest Bengal in March: weather and what to pack
- Southwest Bengal in April: weather and what to pack
- Southwest Bengal in May: weather and what to pack
- Southwest Bengal in June: weather and what to pack
- Southwest Bengal in July: weather and what to pack
- Southwest Bengal in August: weather and what to pack
- Southwest Bengal in September: weather and what to pack
- Southwest Bengal in October: weather and what to pack
- Southwest Bengal in November: weather and what to pack
- Southwest Bengal in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Southwest Bengal, India
Based on the climate and weather in Southwest Bengal, India, the best time to go is December. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Southwest Bengal, India
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Southwest Bengal, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Southwest Bengal, India by month
January
If you visit Southwest Bengal during January, you may find that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
Extra socks
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to choose the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
February
If you go to Southwest Bengal in February, you will notice that it is hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and guard against skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans harmful contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.
March
March for Southwest Bengal is consistently hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
Loose-fit shorts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Skirts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
April
April in Southwest Bengal is scorchingly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 80s F (low 20s C) to high 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Thin short sleeve shirts
You should pack additional, since these are likely to get wet or dirty.
Protecting legwear
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are created to help you stay cool:
Insulated water bottle
- this
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are developed to keep you cool and to provide UV protection.
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach:
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
May
May can be blisteringly hot. Temperatures average in the high 90s F (high 30s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
- this
Insulated water bottle
UV protecting pants/skirts
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Thin short sleeve shirts
Don't forget bring additional, since these are likely to get wet or dirty.
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are specially designed for cooling and to provide UV protection.
Sunglasses
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed to help you stay cool:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach:
A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants can be essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you choose the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
June
If you vacation in Southwest Bengal during June, you may see that it can be blisteringly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sun protecting pants
These will keep you safe from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Thin short sleeve shirts
Be sure bring additional, as these are likely to get wet or dirty.
Insulated water bottle
- this
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are created to cool you:
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunglasses
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered to cool you and can provide UV protection.
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach:
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases remain dry. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be careful to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
July
July in Southwest Bengal is constantly hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from UV rays:
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Skirts
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also filters contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are essential in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Be sure to get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.
Travel neck pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
August
If you visit Southwest Bengal during August, you might see that it is constantly hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Loose-fit shorts
Sunglasses
Skirts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters contaminants:
thisBug repellent
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
September
If you visit Southwest Bengal during September, you will probably see that it can be sweltering. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Loose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and cool you.
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings don't get wet. We like:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great one.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to choose the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
October
October in Southwest Bengal can be sweltering. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 70s F (high 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you cool and protect you from UV rays:
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are essential in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings stay dry. We suggest:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
November
November in this region is extremely warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Sunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good value.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly product.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
Our fave is this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Check that you get the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
December
If you visit Southwest Bengal during December, you will probably see that it is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Light skirts
Sandals
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Voice and data SIM card
A SIM card that works in Southwest Bengal. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, India has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and M. Take care to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
What to do in Southwest Bengal, India
Southwest Bengal is one of the most beautiful regions of India, filled with an abundance of breathtaking natural scenery, as well as ancient cultural sites and vibrant cities. This region is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to India. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Southwest Bengal that you should definitely add to your itinerary.
1. Sundarbans
The Sundarbans is a vast mangrove forest located in the delta region of the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghna river basins. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the largest population of Bengal tigers in the world, as well as a myriad of other rare and endangered species. Visitors can take a boat tour through the forest and observe the magnificent wildlife, as well as take part in activities such as bird watching, fishing and hiking.
2. Darjeeling
Set amidst the stunning Himalayan mountain range, Darjeeling is known for its tea plantations, scenic beauty, and rich culture. It is home to some of the best tea in the world, and visitors can take a tour of the tea estates and learn about the process of tea production. Darjeeling is also famous for its toy train, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and runs through the town, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
3. Digha
Digha is a popular beach destination located on the Bay of Bengal. The beach stretches over 7 km and is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Visitors can also visit the nearby Marine Aquarium and Research Centre, which houses a diverse range of marine life.
4. Bishnupur
Bishnupur is a historic town known for its terracotta temples and exquisite art and craft. The town was once the capital of the Malla dynasty, and visitors can explore the magnificent temples built during that time, including the Rasmancha, Jorbangla and Shyamrai temples.
5. Shantiniketan
Shantiniketan is a small town known for its connection to the famous Bengali poet and Nobel laureate, Rabindranath Tagore. The town is home to the Visva Bharati University, which was founded by Tagore and is now a centre of education and arts. Visitors can explore the university grounds and learn about Tagore's unique philosophy of education and artistic expression.
6. Kolkata
No visit to Southwest Bengal would be complete without a trip to the vibrant city of Kolkata. Known as the cultural capital of India, Kolkata is a city with a rich history and an abundance of cultural and historical sites. Visitors can explore the Victoria Memorial, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the famous Howrah Bridge, as well as indulge in the city's delicious street food and vibrant nightlife.
In conclusion, Southwest Bengal is a region that has everything a traveller could want - stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant cities. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for some relaxation on the beach, Southwest Bengal has something for everyone. Make sure to add these top tourist attractions to your itinerary on your next trip to India.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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