Shantiniketan

Shantiniketan is an International University founded by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore where the cultures of the East & the West could meet and mingle. Named Vishva-Bharati, the University represents Indian traditions while incorporating the best of other cultures. Shantiniketan, the abode of peace, was initially an Ashram or hermitage founded in 1863 by Maharishi Devendranath Tagore. In 1901 his son, Rabindranath converted it into an experimental open-air school with just five students. He widened the scope of studies which gradually formed
the nucleus of a University. Another interesting feature about Santiniketan is that splendid sculptures, frescoes, murals and paintings of Rabindranath, Nandlal Bose, Ramkinkar, Bindobehari Mukhopadhyaya and others adorn the campus.

Temperature (deg C): Summer- Max.39.4, Min.34.3. Winter- Max.15.7, Min.12.1. Rainfall: 125 cms ( June to September ). Heavy in July\August. Season: Throughout the year.

Places Of Interest:
The places of interest are mainly on the campus and have a distinctive feature of some of the best in Indian art and culture. China Bhavan, Chhatimtala, Kala Bhavan, Patha Bhavan, Prayer Hall, Bichitra, Sangeet Bhavan, Uttarayan Complex, Udayana, Konarka, Shyamali, Punascha and Udichi, The Bichitra ( or, Rabindra Bhavan ), Kala Bhavan, Bichitra (Rabindra Bhavan), Deer Park, Uttarayan Gardens.

Excursions:
Fullora- 40 kms, Nalhati- 104 kms, Kankalitala- 7 kms, Massanjore- 78 kms, Kendubilwa- 42 kms, Nanoor- 23 kms, Tarapith- 80 kms.

Entertainment:
Festivals accompanied by songs, dance and dramas are held here throughout the year.

Shopping:
Grameen (Bolpur), Sarvodaya Ashram (Bolpur), (Handicrafts & handlooms) Vishwa Bharati Shilpa Sadan (Shantiniketan), Shantiniketan Co-operative Stores (Shantiniketan).

Reach -
By Air: The nearest airport is Calcutta- 213 kms.
By Rail: The nearest railhead is Bolpur- 2 kms.
By Road: Calcutta- 213 kms, Durgapur- 56 kms, Sarnath- 197 kms.