Archive · 16 Sep 2026
West Bengal Plans Makeover for 135 Heritage Sites
West Bengal wants more people to visit its historic buildings and monuments.
The state plans to improve 135 heritage sites.
It signed an agreement with the Archaeological Survey of India to help carry out the work.
The sites may become easier and more interesting for tourists to visit.
Visitors could learn about the history and culture of each place.
Some locations may have light-and-sound shows and cultural programmes.
The state is also buying four boats for river tourism.
It is discussing special tourism train services with Indian Railways.
West Bengal plans to develop and promote 135 monuments and historic buildings across the state.
The tourism department signed an agreement with the Archaeological Survey of India on Wednesday.
Proposed improvements include tourism facilities, light-and-sound shows, and cultural programmes.
A joint state tourism department–Archaeological Survey of India team will oversee the project.
The state is also procuring four river-tourism vessels and discussing new services with Indian Railways.
- Who
- The West Bengal tourism department and the Archaeological Survey of India are leading the initiative, with Tourism Minister Shankar Ghosh and Minister of State for Information and Cultural Affairs Purnima Chakraborty present at the signing.
- What
- A plan to develop and promote 135 monuments and historic buildings, improve tourism facilities, and add cultural programming.
- When
- The agreement was signed on Wednesday; no specific date was given.
- Where
- Across West Bengal, at selected heritage sites and along the state’s rivers.
- Why
- To showcase West Bengal’s historical and cultural heritage, diversify tourism beyond conventional destinations, and make sites more attractive and informative for visitors.
- Heritage sites
- 135 monuments and historic buildings are included in the plan.
- Implementing agencies
- The West Bengal tourism department and the Archaeological Survey of India signed an agreement.
- Planned attractions
- Light-and-sound shows and cultural programmes are proposed at selected locations.
- Oversight
- A joint team of state tourism and Archaeological Survey of India officials will oversee the project.
- Revenue sharing
- The two sides are considering sharing profits generated by tourism projects.
- River tourism
- The government is procuring four new vessels for river-based tourism activities.
- Rail tourism
- The tourism department is discussing new tourism services with Indian Railways, potentially using the tagline “Palace on Wheels.”