Kolkata, India
The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in Kolkata, India
Kolkata, the City of Joy, is a mesmerizing blend of rich history, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. As the capital of West Bengal, this vibrant city has something to offer every kind of traveller. From iconic landmarks to mouth-watering street food, from colonial architecture to traditional Bengali cuisine, Kolkata will leave you enchanted and wanting more.
Places to Visit
Landmarks and Monuments
- Victoria Memorial: A stunning white marble monument dedicated to Queen Victoria, featuring an impressive museum and beautiful gardens.
- Indian Museum: One of the oldest and largest museums in India, housing a vast collection of artifacts, relics, and exhibits.
- Fort William: A historic fort built by the British East India Company, now serving as the Eastern Command headquarters of the Indian Army.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: A beautiful Anglican cathedral with stunning stained-glass windows and intricate architecture.
Cultural Attractions
- Jorasanko Thakurbari: The ancestral home of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, now converted into a museum showcasing his life and works.
- Netaji Bhawan: A historic house-turned-museum dedicated to the life and struggles of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
- Birla Planetarium: A state-of-the-art planetarium offering daily shows on astronomy and space exploration.
Parks and Gardens
- Maidan: The largest urban park in Kolkata, perfect for a stroll or picnic amidst lush greenery.
- Eco Park: An eco-friendly park featuring beautiful gardens, a lake, and plenty of recreational activities.
- Botanical Garden: A peaceful oasis housing a vast collection of plants and flowers.
Markets and Shopping
- New Market: One of the oldest and busiest markets in Kolkata, offering everything from souvenirs to clothing to food.
- Chandni Chowk: A bustling shopping street lined with shops selling traditional Bengali sweets, clothes, and handicrafts.
- Gariahat: A popular shopping destination for clothes, accessories, and electronics.
Activities
Day Tours
- Kolkata Heritage Walk: Explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage on a guided walking tour.
- Hooghly River Cruise: Take a relaxing cruise along the Hooghly River and enjoy the city skyline.
- Food Tour: Sample the best of Kolkata’s street food and local cuisine on a guided food tour.
Adventure and Sports
- Kolkata Golf Club: Tee off at one of India’s oldest golf clubs, featuring lush green courses and modern facilities.
- Aquatica Water Park: Beat the heat at this popular water park with thrilling rides and attractions.
- Nicco Park: An amusement park offering a range of rides, games, and entertainment options.
Wellness and Relaxation
- Yoga Classes: Unwind with yoga classes at one of the many studios across the city.
- Spas and Massages: Treat yourself to rejuvenating spa treatments and massages at luxurious parlors.
- Riverbank Promenade: Take a leisurely stroll along the Hooghly River and enjoy the sunset.
Where to Eat
Street Food
- Rolls: Savor Kolkata’s iconic street food, comprising flavorful fillings wrapped in thin bread.
- Jalebis: Crunchy, sweet fried dough soaked in syrup – a classic Bengali dessert.
- Puchkas: Spicy, tangy, and utterly addictive – these crispy fried bread puffs are a must-try.
Restaurants
- Oh! Calcutta: Savor authentic Bengali cuisine at this popular restaurant chain.
- Bhojohori Manna: Treat yourself to mouth-watering fish dishes and other local specialties.
- The Park: Enjoy international cuisine amidst lush greenery and elegant ambiance.
Where to Stay
Budget-Friendly Options
- YMCA Kolkata: A centrally located, affordable accommodation option with basic amenities.
- Hotel Royal Palace: A budget-friendly hotel offering comfortable rooms and decent service.
- Backpacker Panda: A social hostel perfect for solo travellers and backpackers.
Mid-Range Hotels
- The Oberoi Grand: A luxurious heritage hotel offering opulent rooms and top-notch service.
- ITC Sonar Bangla: A 5-star hotel featuring elegant rooms, multiple dining options, and excellent amenities.
- Hotel Hindustan International: A comfortable mid-range hotel with modern facilities and a central location.
Luxury Hotels
- The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata: A luxurious heritage hotel boasting opulent rooms, fine dining, and exceptional service.
- JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata: A 5-star hotel featuring lavish rooms, multiple restaurants, and world-class amenities.
- Taj Bengal: A luxurious hotel offering elegant rooms, fine dining, and stunning views of the city.
Things to Know
Language
- Bengali is the primary language spoken in Kolkata, but Hindi and English are widely understood.
Currency
- The Indian Rupee (INR) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or currency exchange counters.
Weather
- Kolkata has a tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Best time to visit: October to February.
Safety
- Be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events.
Transportation
By Air
- Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) is Kolkata’s primary airport, connected to major Indian cities and international destinations.
By Train
- Howrah Junction (HWH) and Sealdah Station (SDAH) are the two main railway stations in Kolkata, connecting the city to the rest of India.
By Bus
- Esplanade Bus Terminus is the central bus station in Kolkata, offering connections to nearby cities and towns.
Local Transport
- Yellow cabs and app-based taxis like Ola and Uber operate in Kolkata.
- Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are popular modes of transport for short distances.
- The Kolkata Metro connects various parts of the city with an efficient network of underground trains.
Tips
Respect Local Customs
- Remove your shoes when entering temples, mosques, or homes.
- Use your right hand when eating or giving/receiving something.
Bargain Wisely
- Be prepared to haggle at markets and street stalls.
- Know the approximate prices of items before making a purchase.
Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of water and avoid consuming ice or unpeeled fruits/vegetables.
Learn Some Bengali Phrases
- “Kemon acho?” (How are you?)
- “Dhonnobad” (Thank you)
- “Khela khabar?” (What’s the news?)
Other Interesting Facts
Kolkata is home to:
- The Indian Museum, one of the oldest and largest in India.
- The Asiatic Society, a premier research institution in the country.
- The National Library, housing over 2.5 million books and manuscripts.
Did you know?
- Kolkata has been named after the Bengali word “Kolikata,” meaning “field of the goddess Kali.”
- The city is home to Asia’s oldest tram network, dating back to 1873.
- Kolkata is one of the few cities in the world with a dedicated “Book Fair” (Boi Mela) every year.
With this comprehensive guide, you’re all set to embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant streets of Kolkata!