14 Things To Do In Shantiniketan That Must Be On Your Itinerary

Rabindranath Tagore is the founder of Visva Bharati University. Its objective was to advance holistic education. It is a brilliant illustration of wisdom and enlightenment. New generations of students and scholars are still studying or being admitted to the campus. Their motivation stems from the harmonic combination of modern teaching techniques and traditional Indian wisdom. It is important to remember that Visva Bharati University has a large campus that is impossible to see in a single day.

To see the main sites here, you need to allow at least a few days. Rabindranath Tagore established this public university in 1921. It hosts a number of intellectual and cultural events, such as seminars, art exhibits, literary debates, dance and music performances, and more. 

There are six major buildings on campus. Today, the campus is dotted with museums, libraries, centres, institutes, departments, and schools. Rabindranath Tagore resided and taught at Amar Kutir. Sangeet Bhavana, Cheena Bhavana, Patha Bhavana, Nippon Bhavana, and more well-known departments are among them. The university does not charge admission, but it is closed on national holidays. If you want to take a campus tour, you will need administrative approval.

Tagore's father, Maharshi Devendranath Tagore, used to meditate at the very rare location of Chhatimtala. He was a strong proponent of calm and quiet thought. A branch of the Saptaparni tree, which grows here, is presented to students upon graduation. It's extremely serene and peaceful, making it ideal for anyone tired of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This location, which is close to the prayer hall, is revered and adored by those who come.

Timing: Monday to Saturday, 1 PM - 5 PM

Sunday, 12:30 AM - 12 AM

Entry: Free

The prayer hall, also known as Upasana Ghar, is one of Shantiniketan's most exquisite locations. Constructed in 1863 by Maharshi Devendranath Tagore, Tagore's father, it is also known as Kanch Mandir because of the dazzling Belgian glass that was used in its construction. Every Wednesday, prayers are held here, and the hall is gorgeously lit with candles. The light that shines through the glass creates an idyllic and enigmatic mood. Because of its history and grace, it is a must-see when visiting Shantiniketan.

Rabindranath Tagore wrote many of his well-known poems and writings while residing in Shantiniketan for a significant portion of his life. His father, Maharshi Devendranath Tagore, had constructed Tagore's ashram in 1863, which is now a heritage site. According to history, the ashram was used for spreading the Brahmo Dharma. Also dubbed the Rabindra Bhavan Museum, constructed in 1961, the museum features an extensive collection of his original artwork, including paintings, writings, photographs, and certificates, which provide a more in-depth look into his life.

His Nobel Prize medallion was also on display here until it was taken a few years ago. Even with the tragedy, his creative energy continues to pulsate through the museum, leaving a legacy that is impossible to ignore.

Timing in Winters: 2 PM - 4:30 PM

Timing in Summers: 2:30 PM - 5:30 PM

Timing during Summer and Puja vacations: May-June and September-October; 7:30 AM - 11 AM

Entry Fee: INR 10 for adults, INR 5 for students, and INR 50 for foreign visitors

Amar Kutir was once the home of Rathindranath Tagore, the son of Rabindranath Tagore, and is now a museum devoted to conserving his work. A wealth of personal items belonging to Rathindranath are on display at the museum, providing visitors with an insight into his life and literary and artistic talents.

Timings:  10 AM - 6 PM

The main purpose of this stunning, artistic structure in the centre of the Shantiniketan campus is to honour creativity. Kala translates to "arts," and this Bhavan was established to teach pupils to appreciate art and recognise beauty everywhere. It is a venue for visual arts practice and research, with a strong emphasis on assisting others in viewing the world from an artistic perspective. To put it simply, it's a place to practice your ability to notice the small nuances that add beauty to life.

Timings: Monday to Friday, 7 AM–9 PM. Closed on Saturday-Sunday.

Entry: Free entry

Rabindranath Tagore's former residence, the Udayan building, is located within this compound. Along with Udichi and Punasha, an additional site worth seeing is the mud hut, also known as Shyamali. The houses are surrounded by beautiful gardens, and the Rabindra Bhawan Museum is close by. Several Ramkinkar Baij statues have also been moved here, creating a breathtaking scene. But keep in mind that you cannot bring a camera or hand recorder into this compound.

Timings: 10 AM - 5 PM. Closed on Thursdays.

The Ballavpur Wildlife Sanctuary, which is close to Bolpur Santiniketan, is a treat for nature lovers. There are many different kinds of species in the refuge. Monkeys, deer, and several bird species are among them. Beautiful vegetation envelops it. Situated within three kilometres from the main campus, Deer Park was created in 1977 and is commonly known by that name. To observe the deer herds in action, you can leave early in the morning. Beautiful birds have made this their home, and it is also a natural habitat for them. Photographers and bird enthusiasts can take pleasure in observing birds and documenting the stunning moments. 

Timing: 10 AM - 4 PM

Entry: INR 10 per person

Visva Bharati University's natural history department is called Prakriti Bhavana. It takes guests on a fascinating tour through evolution and time. As you explore the beauties of nature, you'll come across collections of fossils, plants, and animals carefully selected. The topic and theme of biodiversity reverberate through every little corner of Prakriti Bhavana.

Timing: 9 AM - 5 PM

Entry: INR 30 per person

Visit the Sarkar Rajbari and travel back in time. This imposing palace was constructed in the 18th century by the Sarkar family. Currently, it is a museum. It is conserving the area's rich history and cultural legacy. It is a must-visit spot in Shantiniketan because of its magnificent architecture and priceless antiques.

This Rajbari is a magnificent specimen of traditional Bengali architecture and is situated in Surul village, Shantiniketan. It was once the residence of Srinivas Sarkar, a prosperous local businessman. What makes it even more remarkable is the renowned Durga Puja festival, which is celebrated here each year with amazing fervour and delight.

Timing: 9 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free

Any Bengali shopaholic would regret if they missed Shonajhurir Haat while in Shantiniketan. It's the town's beating heart, where celebrations of life, music, and colour coexist. From bangles and jewellery to handwoven sarees and other exquisite handcrafted gifts, local craftsmen display their craft at this lively haat. Not to mention the food options! Snacks from these food stalls are quite mouthwatering. The Santhals and Bauls contribute to the atmosphere with their soulful performances, which transform the entire haat into a mystical setting—exactly the kind of world Rabindranath Tagore had imagined. Bonus, if you're good at bargaining, you'll probably have lots of shopping bags!

The Kopai River, a tributary of the Mayurakshi river, passes by the towns of Shantiniketan, Bolpur, Kankalitala, and Labhpur in the Birbhum district. Even though the river is small and calm, during the monsoon it overflows its banks. At last, the river empties into the Bay of Bengal. Tagore's enduringly popular poem "Amader chhoto nodi," which generations of Bengalis have heard since they were toddlers, was inspired by this river. Shantiniketan oozes romanticism, and sitting by the banks of Kopai while watching the sunset transports you to a different realm of joy and quiet.

The December Poush Mela in Shantiniketan is a stunning and colourful event. It honours the spirit and culture of Bengalis. Maharshi Devendra Nath Tagore, the father of Rabindranath Tagore, and a few others adopted the principles of Bramho Samaj on this day, which is celebrated by the Poush Mela. Tribal dancers, painters, Baul singers, and rural folk artists all come together at the mela. Delicious traditional Bengali food and sweets are available at food stalls. Early in the morning, Shantiniketan rises to the soothing tune of shehnai. Officially, the market lasts for three days, but according to university rules, sellers are allowed to set up shop until the very end of the month of Poush.

Following this, a prayer meeting is held at the Chhatimtala, which is an open space with trees beneath it. Then, as they sing, the residents of Shantiniketan proceed to the Uttarayan. Live Baul music performances take place at Poush Mela. Folk melodies, tribal sports, and dances are among the mela's unique attractions. The fair kiosks provide traditional Bengali delicacies like malpua and jalebi. Other unique dishes that are offered at the fair include Chanar Payesh, a sweet dish made with cottage cheese, sugar, and jaggery; Tiler Khaja, which is a combination of thin wafers with flour and sesame seeds; Moa, which are balls made with puffed rice and jaggery; and Patishapta, which are thin pancakes filled with coconut and jaggery.

At the market, stalls sell various homemade pickles and books by Rabindranath Tagore. Beautiful Patachitra and Madhubani artwork is also available. Bihar artists attend the market to sell their Madhubani paintings. Kurtas, sarees, purses, and other things have batik prints. The kantha stitching, which produces distinctive patterns on sarees or fabric, is another must-buy when in town! Handmade products from mud and other materials are also available at the fair; wooden combs and showpieces are particularly well-liked.

During this time, if you want to take part in this magnificent event, make sure to reserve your tickets and accommodations in early. The daily visitor count rises to approximately 40,000 or possibly higher.

Holi or Dol, also known as Basanta Utsav, is a widely observed holiday in West Bengal. The festival of colours honours life's hues and splendour. Basanta Utsav was brought to Shantiniketan by Rabindranath Tagore. Early in the morning, there are dance and music performances to commemorate the event. Colour is used, but in a beautiful way that is really aesthetically pleasing—first they shower you with flowers and plants and then use abir, which is red coloured powder, and then they go on to play with herbal eco-friendly colours. Visva Bharati students participate in the festivities and help to make it a grand event that attracts visitors from around the globe. The air is filled with the colour of Holi, and they are dressed in bright yellow. 

October to March: The weather in Shantiniketan is nice during these months, with highs of 10°C to 25°C. This is the ideal time to visit, particularly during the riotous celebrations of Basanta Utsav in March and Poush Mela in late December, which herald the entrance of spring.

July to September: The monsoon season brings a lot of rain that turns the scenery lush and green, and is a different vibe when visited during that season. 

With its excellent road and rail connections, Shantiniketan is easily accessible from anywhere. It is approximately 160 kilometres from Kolkata and is reachable by trains that run on this route every day. The Howrah Division's Bolpur Railway Station and Prantik Railway Station provide comfortable transportation options to ensure a smooth journey. It will cost you between INR 500 and INR 3,500. 

Searching for the ideal escape from Kolkata that oozes peacefulness, nature, and all things green and local culture? Read this complete guide to Lamahatta, North Bengal, for your next adventure.