KOLKATA
Hey there, fellow travelers and curious souls! Are you tired of the same old destinations that everyone seems to be flocking to these days? Are you looking for something offbeat, quirky, and downright unforgettable? Look no further than Kolkata - the city of joy, chaos, and endless surprises.
From the vibrant street food scene that will leave your taste buds dancing in delight to the stunning colonial architecture that will transport you back in time, Kolkata has something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an art lover or just someone who loves exploring new cultures and traditions, Kolkata is bound to steal your heart.
But beware - this city is not for the faint-hearted. With its bustling streets, honking cars, and swarming crowds, Kolkata can be overwhelming at first. But fear not - once you embrace the chaos and let yourself get swept away by the energy of this incredible city, you'll never want to leave.
So come along with me on a journey through the sights, sounds and flavors of Kolkata. Get ready to discover hidden gems like Park Street, Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge and so much more. Let's dive into this vibrant melting pot of cultures and experience all that Kolkata has to offer!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Kolkata
- How to Reach and getting around Kolkata
- Weather of Kolkata
- Places to Visit in Kolkata
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Kolkata
- Best areas for Accommodation in Kolkata
- Shopping in Kolkata
- Nightlife in Kolkata
- Festivals and Events in Kolkata
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Kolkata
- FAQs
History and Culture of Kolkata
Kolkata, also known as Calcutta, is a city in eastern India that has a rich and vibrant history. The city was founded in the late 17th century by the British East India Company and was the capital of British India until 1911. The city is known for its beautiful architecture, delicious food, and vibrant culture.
Kolkata has always been a hub of cultural activity and is famous for its literature, music, and art. The city is home to many famous writers such as Rabindranath Tagore and Satyajit Ray. It is said that if you want to be a writer, you must come to Kolkata first!
The food in Kolkata is legendary and is famous for its sweets like rasgulla and sandesh. The city also has amazing street food like phuchka, kati roll, and jhal muri which are a must-try for anyone visiting Kolkata. If you visit Kolkata and don't try the street food, did you even really visit Kolkata?
Kolkata's Durga Puja celebration is one of the biggest festivals in India. During this time, the entire city comes alive with colorful lights, pandals (temporary structures built to house idols), and music. It's like Christmas but better because there's no snow!
Despite being a modern city with all the amenities of modern life, Kolkata still retains its old-world charm with its colonial buildings and trams plying on the roads. It's like stepping back in time but still having access to Wi-Fi!
In conclusion, if you want to experience the best of India's culture and history while having an amazing time eating delicious food and enjoying vibrant festivals, then Kolkata should definitely be on your list of places to visit! Don't forget your stretchy pants because you're going to eat A LOT
How to Reach and getting around Kolkata
Kolkata, also known as the "City of Joy," is the cultural capital of India. It is well-connected to major cities across the country and abroad. Here are some of the best ways to reach Kolkata.
By Air: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is the primary airport in Kolkata. It has direct flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore. The airport also has international flights from countries like Singapore, Thailand, and Dubai.
By Train: Kolkata has two main railway stations - Howrah Junction and Sealdah Station. Howrah Junction is one of the busiest railway stations in India and connects Kolkata to major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad and Bangalore. Sealdah Station operates trains that connect Kolkata to other parts of West Bengal and neighboring states.
By Road: Kolkata has a well-developed network of roads that connect it to different parts of West Bengal and neighboring states. National Highway 12 connects Kolkata to Delhi via Varanasi while National Highway 16 connects it to Chennai via Visakhapatnam.
By Bus: Kolkata has a bus terminal called Esplanade Bus Station which operates buses that connect it to different parts of West Bengal and nearby states like Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Assam.
By Car: One can hire a car or taxi from nearby cities like Durgapur or Asansol or even from major cities like Delhi or Mumbai if you want a long road trip experience.
Overall there are multiple ways one can reach Kolkata depending on their preferences such as time constraint or budget while exploring this historic city with ease.
Weather of Kolkata
Extreme Winters
Mild Winters
Hot + DryHot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantKolkata has a tropical wet and dry climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The monsoon season lasts from June to September, with frequent heavy rainfall. The city experiences occasional cyclones and thunderstorms during this period.
The best time to visit Kolkata is during the winter months, from October to February. The weather is pleasant, with cool temperatures and low humidity levels. This is the peak tourist season in Kolkata, with many events and festivals taking place during this time.
Spring (March to April) and autumn (September to October) are also good times to visit Kolkata, as the weather is mild and comfortable. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional showers during these months.
Summer (May to June) in Kolkata can be extremely hot and humid, with temperatures soaring above 40°C. This is not an ideal time for sightseeing or outdoor activities.
Overall, the best time to visit Kolkata is during the winter months when you can enjoy pleasant weather, cultural events, and festivals without worrying about extreme heat or heavy rainfall. So book your tickets accordingly!
Places to Visit in Kolkata
Victoria Memorial - A marble hall built in memory of Queen Victoria, this iconic monument is a must-visit for tourists. The museum inside the building houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures and other artifacts.
Howrah Bridge - This famous bridge is a landmark of Kolkata and one of the busiest in the world. It connects Kolkata to Howrah and is a popular spot for photography.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple - A Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, this temple is known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. The temple attracts thousands of devotees every day.
St. Paul's Cathedral - Built in 1847, this Anglican cathedral is one of the most beautiful churches in India. The stained glass windows and Gothic architecture are a treat for the eyes.
Botanical Gardens - Spread over 270 acres, these gardens house over 12,000 species of plants and trees from all over the world. The highlight of the garden is the giant Banyan tree which covers an area of 1.5 acres.
Indian Museum - Established in 1814, this museum has a vast collection of artifacts from all over India including fossils, coins, paintings and sculptures.
Marble Palace - A stunning mansion built by Raja Rajendra Mullick in 1835, this palace houses an impressive collection of art including works by Rubens and Murillo.
Park Street - Known as "The Street that Never Sleeps", Park Street is a popular destination for foodies with numerous restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world.
Kalighat Kali Temple - Another famous temple dedicated to Goddess Kali, this temple attracts thousands of devotees every day who come to seek her blessings.
Science City - A science museum with interactive exhibits on subjects like space exploration, robotics and energy conservation, Science City is a great place to visit with kids.
From historical monuments to religious places and modern attractions like Science City, Kolkata has something to offer for everyone visiting the city.
Religious Shrines
Heritage Places
Nearby Forests
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Kolkata
Best areas for accommodation in Kolkata
Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, offers a range of accommodation options for travelers. From luxury hotels to budget hostels, the city has something for everyone. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Kolkata.
Park Street: This is one of the most popular areas in Kolkata for accommodation. It is located in the heart of the city and offers easy access to major tourist attractions, restaurants, and shopping centers.
Salt Lake City: This area is known for its modern infrastructure and is home to many IT companies. It is a good option for business travelers who want to stay close to their workplace.
New Town: This area is located on the outskirts of Kolkata and offers a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It has many parks, lakes, and shopping malls.
If you're looking for accommodation in Kolkata, here are three properties that you might want to consider:
The Oberoi Grand: This luxury hotel is located in the heart of Kolkata and offers world-class amenities such as an outdoor pool, spa services, and fine dining restaurants.
Hotel Diamond Plaza: This budget hotel is located near Kolkata airport and offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
Zostel Kolkata: This hostel is located in Park Street and offers dormitory-style accommodation at a reasonable price. It also has a common area where guests can socialize with each other.
Overall, Kolkata has a wide range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Whether you're a business traveler or a backpacker, you'll find something that suits your needs in this vibrant city.
Shopping in Kolkata
Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is a shopper's paradise. The city has an array of shopping options from luxurious malls to bustling street markets. Here are some of the things to buy, markets to visit and things to avoid while shopping in Kolkata.
Things to buy:
- Sarees: Kolkata is known for its exquisite sarees like Baluchari, Kantha, Dhakai Jamdani and Tant.
- Handicrafts: The city has a rich tradition of handicrafts like Dokra metal casting, terracotta pottery and Shola pith crafts.
- Books: College Street is famous for its bookstores that offer a wide range of academic and non-academic books.
- Tea: Darjeeling tea, Assam tea and various flavoured teas can be found in the tea stalls across the city.
Markets to visit:
- New Market: It is one of the oldest markets in Kolkata that offers a wide range of products including clothes, accessories, spices and sweets.
- Gariahat Market: This market is famous for its traditional sarees and jewellery. It also has shops selling handicrafts and leather goods.
- Dakshinapan Shopping Centre: It is a government-run emporium that offers authentic handicrafts from different parts of India.
What to avoid:
- Street food: While Kolkata has some delicious street food options like phuchka, jhal muri and rolls, it's advisable to avoid them if you have a sensitive stomach.
- Bargaining too much: While bargaining is common in most markets in Kolkata, it's important to know when to stop as over-bargaining can lead to an unpleasant situation.
- Unlicensed shops: It's best to avoid buying from unlicensed shops as they may sell counterfeit or substandard products.
- Wearing expensive jewellery or carrying too much cash: To be safe from theft or robbery incidents, it's advisable not to wear expensive jewellery or carry too much cash while shopping in crowded areas.
In conclusion, shopping in Kolkata can be an enriching experience for those who love exploring local markets and traditional handicrafts. By keeping these tips in mind, one can have a wonderful time shopping in this vibrant city.
Nightlife in Kolkata
Kolkata, also known as the city of joy, is famous for its street food and rich cultural heritage. Apart from its art and literature, it has a vibrant nightlife too. The city has a mix of clubs, pubs, bars, and lounges that keep the party going till the wee hours of the morning.
Park Street is one of the most popular destinations for nightlife in Kolkata. It offers a variety of options like pubs, bars, lounges, and nightclubs. Some popular places to visit are Roxy, M Bar Kitchen and The Myx.
Salt Lake Sector-V is another place where the young crowd can be seen enjoying their night out. It has a good mix of bars and lounges like Phoenix, Aqua Java Air and OTT.
Ballygunge Phari, often referred to as 'B.P.', is another popular destination in Kolkata for nightlife lovers. It has some great bars like Olypub, Monkey Bar and Someplace Else.
Apart from these places mentioned above, there are other places too where one can spend their night in Kolkata like Tantra Nightclub in Park Hotel or Afraa Lounge & Restaurant in City Centre Mall.
In conclusion, Kolkata offers an array of options for people looking to enjoy their night out. From music events to live bands and DJs playing all genres of music - there's something for everyone in this city that never sleeps!
Outdoor Activities in Kolkata
Kolkata has a lot to offer when it comes to outdoor activities. From lush green parks to serene lakes, the city has something for everyone. One can take a leisurely walk in the beautiful gardens or indulge in adventurous activities like trekking, rock climbing or paragliding.
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Kolkata is boating. The city boasts of several lakes and water bodies where one can enjoy a peaceful boat ride. The popular ones include Rabindra Sarovar, Nalban Boating Complex and Central Park Lake.
Another activity that attracts adventure enthusiasts is trekking. The outskirts of Kolkata have several trekking trails that lead to scenic viewpoints and waterfalls. Some of the popular destinations for trekking near Kolkata are Garpanchkot, Jhargram and Mukutmanipur.
For those who love heights, paragliding is an exciting option. The city has a few spots that offer paragliding experiences like Bakkhali Beach and Darjeeling.
Apart from these activities, one can also enjoy a picnic with family and friends in the beautiful parks like Maidan, Eco Park or Millennium Park. These parks offer various attractions such as musical fountains, butterfly gardens and artificial lakes.
Overall, Kolkata offers a range of outdoor activities for all ages and interests. One can choose from thrilling adventures to peaceful walks in nature to make their stay in the city enjoyable and memorable.
Festivals and Events in Kolkata
Kolkata is a city that is known for its vibrant culture and rich history. The city celebrates many festivals and events throughout the year, which reflect its diversity and tradition. These festivals and events are an important part of Kolkata's social fabric, bringing people from different backgrounds together to celebrate and enjoy the city's unique heritage.
Some of the most popular festivals and events in Kolkata include:
Durga Puja (September/October): This is the biggest festival in Kolkata, celebrating the victory of goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. The entire city comes alive with colorful pandals (temporary structures) and lights. People dress up in new clothes, visit pandals with friends and family, enjoy traditional food, and participate in cultural programs.
Kolkata Book Fair (January/February): This is one of the largest book fairs in Asia, attracting publishers from all over India and abroad. The fair features a wide range of books, seminars, discussions, book launches, cultural programs, and food stalls.
Kolkata International Film Festival (November): This annual film festival showcases a selection of national and international films across various genres. It also includes workshops, panel discussions, masterclasses by renowned filmmakers, and cultural programs.
Christmas (December): Although Kolkata has a predominantly Hindu population, Christmas is celebrated with great enthusiasm by people of all faiths. The city is decorated with lights and stars; churches hold midnight mass; bakeries sell traditional cakes; schools organize plays; and people exchange gifts.
Bengal Classical Music Festival (December): This annual festival features some of the best classical musicians from India and abroad performing different genres of Indian classical music. It also includes workshops for students to learn from maestros.
These festivals and events are not just occasions for celebration but also provide opportunities for artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers to showcase their talents to a wider audience. They also attract tourists from all over India as well as abroad who come to experience Kolkata's unique culture firsthand.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Kolkata
Plan your trip around festivals and events: Kolkata is known for its vibrant festivals and cultural events throughout the year. Make sure to check the calendar of events before you plan your trip to experience them. Some of the popular festivals in Kolkata include Durga Puja, Kolkata International Film Festival, Christmas, and New Year's Eve.
Explore Kolkata's street food scene: Kolkata is famous for its delicious street food. Try local delicacies like puchka, kathi roll, phuchka, jhal muri, and mishti doi. However, be cautious about hygiene while eating from street vendors.
Visit historical landmarks: Kolkata has a rich history and boasts several historical landmarks like Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Fort William. Make sure to visit these places to get a glimpse of the city's past.
Take public transportation: Kolkata has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, metro trains, trams, and ferries. Taking public transportation is not only cheap but also a great way to explore the city like a local.
Be cautious of pickpockets: Like any other tourist destination in the world, pickpocketing is a common occurrence in Kolkata. Be cautious of your belongings while traveling in crowded areas or using public transportation. It's advisable not to carry large sums of cash or expensive items with you while traveling.
Overall, Kolkata is an exciting destination that offers a unique blend of culture and history. With proper planning and precautions, you can have an enjoyable experience while traveling in this beautiful city.
FAQs
What is Kolkata famous for?
Kolkata, also known as the city of joy, is famous for its rich cultural heritage, delicious food, and historical landmarks. It is home to the iconic Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and St. Paul's Cathedral. Kolkata is also renowned for its Durga Puja festival, which attracts visitors from all over India.
What are the best places to visit in Kolkata?
Some of the best places to visit in Kolkata include Victoria Memorial Hall, Indian Museum, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Kalighat Temple, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Howrah Bridge. The city also has a vibrant food scene with street food markets like Park Street and New Market.
What is the best time to visit Kolkata?
The best time to visit Kolkata is between October and March when the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C. This period also coincides with the festive season of Durga Puja when the city comes alive with lights and decorations.
How can I get around in Kolkata?
Kolkata has an extensive public transport system that includes buses, trams, taxis, and metro rail. The metro rail network covers most parts of the city and is the fastest mode of transport. Taxis are easily available but negotiate fares before boarding.
What are some must-try dishes in Kolkata?
Kolkata offers a wide range of delicacies that cater to different tastes. Some must-try dishes include rosogolla (a spongy dessert), mishti doi (sweet yoghurt), phuchka (a spicy snack), kathi rolls (stuffed parathas), biryani (flavored rice dish), and macher jhol (fish curry).
Is it safe to travel alone in Kolkata?
Kolkata is generally a safe city for solo travelers but it's always better to take precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night or carrying valuables. Women travelers should be aware of their surroundings and avoid walking alone after dark.
What are some popular shopping destinations in Kolkata?
Kolkata has several shopping destinations that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some popular markets include New Market (clothing and accessories), Gariahat Market (handicrafts and fabrics), College Street (books), and Chowringhee Road (jewelry). There are also several malls like Quest Mall and South City Mall that offer a modern shopping experience.
End of FAQs
