bigtravelbuzzKolkata, also known as Calcutta, is the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is a major cultural, commercial, and educational center in eastern India, known for its rich history, architecture, and food.
Some popular places to visit in Kolkata include Victoria Memorial, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Howrah Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Indian Museum, and the Birla Planetarium. The city is also famous for its street food, including puchkas, jhal muri, and kathi rolls, among others.
Kolkata has a tropical wet-and-dry climate with hot and humid summers and cool winters. The best time to visit Kolkata is during the winter months between October and March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
The city has a well-developed public transportation system, including the Kolkata Metro, buses, and trams, making it easy to get around. Additionally, the city has a vibrant nightlife with many restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it a great place to explore after hours.
Overall, Kolkata is a must-visit destination in India, offering a unique blend of history, culture, food, and entertainment.
Places to Visit in Kolkata
Kolkata is a city rich in history, culture, and architecture. Here are some of the top places to visit in Kolkata:
- Victoria Memorial: A grand monument built in honor of Queen Victoria, this iconic landmark is a must-visit in Kolkata.
- Dakshineswar Kali Temple: This famous Hindu temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is located on the banks of the Hooghly river.
- Howrah Bridge: One of Kolkata’s most recognizable landmarks, this cantilever bridge spans the Hooghly river and is a great place to take in the views of the city.
- St. Paul’s Cathedral: A beautiful Gothic-style cathedral located in the heart of the city, it is one of the most famous churches in Kolkata.
- Indian Museum: Established in 1814, this is the oldest and largest museum in India, with a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits spanning from ancient times to the present day.
- Birla Planetarium: An interactive science museum and planetarium that offers a unique experience for all ages.
- Mother House: The home of Mother Teresa, this is a peaceful and reflective place to visit and learn about her work and legacy.
- Park Street: A popular shopping and dining district in Kolkata with a vibrant nightlife and a wide variety of restaurants and bars.
- Kalighat Temple: A revered Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, located in the heart of Kolkata.
- Marble Palace: A beautiful 19th-century mansion with exquisite marble interiors and a vast collection of art and antiques.
These are just a few of the many fascinating places to visit in Kolkata, which is a city full of history, culture, and attractions.
Best Time To Visit Kolkata
The best time to visit Kolkata is during the winter months, between October and March. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). The city’s major festivals, including Durga Puja, Diwali, and Christmas, also take place during this time, making it an ideal time to experience the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
The summer months between April and June are hot and humid, with temperatures reaching as high as 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Monsoon season starts in July and lasts until September, bringing heavy rainfall and high humidity, which can make sightseeing challenging.
Overall, the best time to visit Kolkata is during the winter months when the weather is pleasant, and there are plenty of festivals and cultural events to experience.
Things to Do in Kolkata
Kolkata is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, offering a variety of experiences for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do in Kolkata:
- Explore the City’s Architecture: Kolkata is known for its beautiful architecture, including the iconic Victoria Memorial, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Howrah Bridge, and other grand colonial-era buildings.
- Visit Museums and Art Galleries: Kolkata is home to several museums and art galleries, including the Indian Museum, Victoria Memorial Hall, and Academy of Fine Arts.
- Take a Food Tour: Kolkata is a food lover’s paradise, with a rich culinary heritage that blends Indian and international flavors. Take a food tour to taste local specialties like rasgulla, kati rolls, and puchkas.
- Visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple: A famous Hindu temple located on the banks of the Hooghly river, dedicated to the goddess Kali.
- Attend Cultural Festivals: Kolkata is known for its vibrant cultural scene and is home to several festivals throughout the year, including Durga Puja, Kolkata International Film Festival, and Christmas.
- Take a Boat Ride on the Hooghly River: Experience the city’s waterfront on a boat ride along the Hooghly river, which runs through the heart of Kolkata.
- Shop at Local Markets: Kolkata is home to several bustling markets, including New Market, Gariahat Market, and College Street, where you can shop for local handicrafts, books, clothing, and more.
- Walk Through Kolkata’s Parks and Gardens: Kolkata has several beautiful parks and gardens, including the famous Victoria Memorial Garden, where you can relax and enjoy the city’s natural beauty.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Kolkata, which is a city full of history, culture, and unique experiences.
How to Get Around in Kolkata
Kolkata has several transportation options to get around the city, including:
- Metro: Kolkata has an extensive metro rail network, which is the fastest and most convenient way to travel around the city.
- Bus: Kolkata has a vast bus network, operated by the government-run Calcutta State Transport Corporation (CSTC) and private operators.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are widely available in Kolkata and are a convenient way to travel around the city.
- Tram: Kolkata has a unique tram network, which is the only operational tram system in India. The trams are slow but provide a charming way to see the city.
- Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a popular mode of transport in Kolkata, especially for short trips.
- Walking: Many areas of Kolkata are pedestrian-friendly, and walking is an excellent way to explore the city’s narrow streets and alleys.
It is recommended to use licensed and authorized modes of transportation in Kolkata to ensure safety and avoid scams.
Where to eat in Kolkata
Kolkata is known for its culinary delights, and the city has a wide range of dining options, from street food to fine dining. Here are some of the best places to eat in Kolkata:
- Peter Cat: This iconic restaurant in Park Street is famous for its Chelo Kebabs and sizzlers.
- Arsalan: If you are looking for delicious biryani, Arsalan is the place to be. They have several outlets across the city.
- Flurys: This legendary bakery on Park Street is known for its delicious cakes, pastries, and chocolates.
- Kewpie’s: If you want to try authentic Bengali cuisine, head to Kewpie’s in Ballygunge. They serve traditional dishes like Cholar Dal, Aloo Posto, and Fish Curry.
- Nizam’s: This iconic eatery in New Market is famous for its Kolkata-style kathi rolls.
- Bhojohori Manna: Another great place to try Bengali cuisine, Bhojohori Manna has several outlets across the city.
- Mocambo: This retro-style restaurant on Park Street is known for its Continental cuisine and cocktails.
- Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick Sweets: This famous sweet shop in Bhowanipore serves some of the best sandesh and mishti doi in Kolkata.
These are just a few of the many great dining options in Kolkata. The city has something for everyone, from street food to fine dining.
Famous street stalls in Kolkata
Kolkata is known for its delicious street food, and here are some famous street stalls in Kolkata that you must try:
- Kathi Rolls at Kusum Rolls: Located in the Park Street area, Kusum Rolls is known for its delicious Kolkata-style kathi rolls.
- Puchka at Vardaan Market: Vardaan Market in Camac Street is home to several street food vendors, but the puchka (pani puri) at the entrance is a must-try.
- Jhal Muri at Princep Ghat: Jhal Muri is a spicy, tangy snack made with puffed rice, peanuts, onions, and spices. The vendors at Princep Ghat serve some of the best jhal muri in Kolkata.
- Ghugni at Maharaja Chaat Centre: Ghugni is a popular snack in Kolkata made with boiled yellow peas, tamarind chutney, and spices. Maharaja Chaat Centre in Vivekananda Park is a popular spot for ghugni.
- Kathi Rolls at Badshah: Badshah in New Market is another famous spot for Kolkata-style kathi rolls.
- Chow Mein at Terreti Bazaar: Terreti Bazaar in North Kolkata is known for its Chinese food, and the chow mein served by street vendors is a must-try.
- Aloo Kabli at Dacre Lane: Dacre Lane in Esplanade is a popular street food destination, and the aloo kabli (spicy potato chaat) served by street vendors is a favorite among locals.
These are just a few of the many street food stalls in Kolkata. Remember to check for hygiene and cleanliness before eating street food to avoid any health issues.
Where to stay in Kolkata
Luxury accommodation
Kolkata has several luxury accommodations to choose from, including:
- The Oberoi Grand: Located in the heart of the city, The Oberoi Grand is a luxurious heritage hotel with a colonial charm.
- Taj Bengal: Set in landscaped gardens, Taj Bengal is a luxurious hotel that offers panoramic views of the city and the Victoria Memorial.
- ITC Sonar: ITC Sonar is a luxurious hotel that features beautiful landscaped gardens, a swimming pool, and a spa.
- The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat: The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat is a luxurious hotel located in the city’s new IT and business hub. The hotel features contemporary design and offers a range of amenities for guests.
- JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata: The JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata is a luxurious hotel located in the city’s business district. The hotel offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a range of dining options.
These are just a few of the many luxury accommodations in Kolkata. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Where to stay in Kolkata
Budget accommodation
Kolkata has several budget accommodations to choose from, including:
- Backpackers Park: Backpackers Park is a budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of the city. It offers comfortable dormitory beds and private rooms with shared bathrooms.
- The Salvation Army Red Shield Guest House: The Salvation Army Red Shield Guest House is a budget-friendly accommodation that offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. The guest house is centrally located and offers easy access to major tourist attractions in the city.
- The Floatel Hotel: The Floatel Hotel is a unique budget-friendly hotel located on the Hooghly River. It offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities, including a restaurant and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the river.
- Hotel Victerrace International: Hotel Victerrace International is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of the city. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and easy access to major tourist attractions.
- Hotel Esteem: Hotel Esteem is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of the city. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and easy access to major tourist attractions.
These are just a few of the many budget accommodations in Kolkata. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Travel Tips Kolkata
Here are some travel tips for Kolkata:
- Be prepared for the heat and humidity: Kolkata can be hot and humid throughout the year, so be sure to pack lightweight and breathable clothing. It’s also important to stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
- Use public transportation: Kolkata has a good network of public transportation, including buses, trams, and the metro. These are affordable options to get around the city.
- Try the street food: Kolkata is famous for its street food, and there are many delicious and affordable options to try. However, it’s important to be careful and choose stalls that look clean and hygienic.
- Visit the iconic landmarks: Kolkata is known for its rich history and culture, and there are many iconic landmarks to visit, such as the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
- Respect the local culture: Kolkata has a unique culture that should be respected. It’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and to be mindful of local customs and traditions.
- Be cautious with your belongings: Like any big city, Kolkata has its share of pickpockets and scammers. It’s important to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Learn some basic Bengali: While many people in Kolkata speak English, it can be helpful to learn some basic Bengali phrases, such as “dhanyabad” (thank you) and “kemon achen?” (how are you?).
By following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kolkata.