Things to Do in Cooch Behar for Culture, Nature, and Fun
If you’re heading to Cooch Behar and wondering what exactly to do beyond ticking off tourist spots — you’re in the right place. This charming town in West Bengal is full of surprises: from royal palaces and peaceful lakes to soulful temples and street snacks that make you close your eyes and go “mmm.”
Here’s your friendly, wander-loving guide to the most delightful things to do in Cooch Behar — perfect whether you're planning a weekend escape or just daydreaming for now.
Visit Royal Heritage Sites
Cooch Behar wears its royal history with pride. At the heart of it all is the Cooch Behar Rajbari, also known as the Cooch Behar Palace. Think wide courtyards, European-style domes, elegant gardens, and echoes of Bengal’s royal past.
🏰 Don’t miss:
Walking under the grand archways
Snapping your best shot for Instagram at golden hour
Visiting the small museum inside
Bonus: The Rajbari Park right next door is perfect for sitting down with a book or people-watching.
Attend Rash Mela
If you’re lucky enough to be in Cooch Behar during November, you’ll catch the biggest event of the year — Rash Mela. It’s not just a fair, it’s a full-on festival of joy, color, lights, and community.
🎡 Why you’ll love it:
Traditional chariot procession from Madan Mohan Temple
Local sweets, crafts, and handlooms in every corner
Folk music, dancing, and the kind of celebration that stays in your memory forever
This is when Madan Mohan Bari becomes the spiritual and cultural center of the town.
Enjoy Sagardighi Lake
Need a moment of calm? Stroll around Sagardighi, the peaceful lake surrounded by colonial buildings, old banyan trees, and chirping birds.
🦆 Best things to do:
Walk during early morning fog — it’s pure magic
Watch the locals feed fish or sip tea by the water
Take in the views of Rajbari from across the lake
Evening in Local Parks
After a day of exploring palaces and temples, there’s nothing better than chilling in one of Cooch Behar’s local parks.
🌿 Try:
Rajbari Park – lush, clean, and right next to the palace
MJN Park – local favorite with a small lake and lots of greenery
Spotting kids playing cricket or elderly folks chatting under trees
It’s where daily life meets leisure — and it feels lovely.
Try Local Food
Oh, the food. If you don’t try some local bites, are you even really traveling?
🍽️ What to eat:
Chhanar Payesh – a Bengali dessert that tastes like sweet cloud
Jhal Muri – spicy puffed rice that hits all the right notes
Momo stalls (yes, North Bengal loves their momos too!)
Radhaballavi and Aloo Dum for breakfast goals
Most of it is street food — tasty, quick, and full of soul.
🍴 Bonus Tip: Ask for something homemade if you're staying at a guesthouse — nothing beats a local kitchen!
💛 Final Thoughts
There’s a quiet magic in Cooch Behar. It’s not loud or flashy, but it sneaks up on you — through a temple bell ringing, the warmth of a park bench, or the way a local smiles while handing you a plate of sweets.
From culture and festivals to lakes and local flavors, there’s something here for every kind of traveler. And the best part? It still feels real, unspoiled, and welcoming.
💬 Planning to visit? Check out the full Cooch Behar Travel Guide: Palaces, Temples, and Local Gems for routes, tips, and more.
