Raiganj, West Bengal City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. [Updated-2025]

Raiganj, West Bengal City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. 

Raiganj, West Bengal

Raiganj is a major town and the district headquarters of Uttar Dinajpur district in West Bengal. It is known for the Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary (Kulik Bird Sanctuary), rich agricultural economy, and growing urban development. Situated near the India-Bangladesh border, Raiganj has a diverse cultural influence and serves as an important trade and transportation hub in North Bengal.

1. Location & Geography

• Located in North Bengal, about 425 km from Kolkata and 180 km from Siliguri.
• Lies on NH-12 (Old NH-34), connecting it to Malda, Siliguri, and Kolkata.
• Situated on the banks of the Kulik River, which supports its wildlife sanctuary.

2. History & Cultural Heritage

• Historically influenced by Pala, Sena, and Mughal dynasties.
• The region has a mix of Bengali, Rajbanshi, and tribal cultures.
• Important center for freedom movement activities during British rule.

3. Economy & Industries

• Agriculture:
  • Known for paddy, jute, maize, and vegetables.
  • Famous for lychee and mango orchards.
• Trade & Commerce:
  • A key market hub for North Bengal and nearby Bangladesh.
• Handloom & Small Industries:
  • Produces handloom textiles, wooden crafts, and local sweets.
• Tourism:
  • Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary attracts birdwatchers and nature lovers.

4. Education & Institutions

• Raiganj University (2015): The first university in Uttar Dinajpur district.
• Raiganj Government Medical College & Hospital: A growing medical education center.
• Several CBSE, ICSE, and WB Board schools provide quality education.

5. Tourist & Cultural Attractions

• Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary (Kulik Bird Sanctuary):
  • Home to thousands of migratory birds, including open-billed storks, egrets, and herons.
  • One of the largest bird sanctuaries in Asia.
• Kaliaganj Fossil Park: Displays fossils dating back millions of years.
• Rupahar Pahar: A scenic hill area with trekking opportunities.
• Sikharpur Temple: A popular Hindu pilgrimage site.

6. Connectivity & Transport

• By Road:
  • Lies on NH-12, well-connected to Malda, Siliguri, and Kolkata.
  • Frequent buses and private taxis available.
• By Rail:
  • Raiganj Railway Station on the Barsoi-Radhikapur line, connecting to major cities.
• By Air:
  • The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (190 km away), serving domestic and international flights.