Experience Diversity
If you wish to feel the real essence of India, you’ve got to visit the `City of Joy’ Kolkata (previously Calcutta). Situated in the eastern part of India, it is aptly known as the `City of Joy for the sheer exuberance one experiences on being here. You’ll find a co-existence of diverse cultures and communities, heritage buildings, ancient temples, food, and shopping. Especially famous for traditional items, like sari (an Indian outfit), jewelry, and elaborate cuisine that makes it so vibrant. Kolkata is a slice of India in its varied textures; a perfect amalgamation of traditional and modern.
I got the chance to spend a significant amount of time in Kolkata, therefore it holds a special place in my heart.
For first-time travelers, listed below are the major tourist attractions of Kolkata and recommended spots to visit.
A top tourist site of Kolkata is the Victoria Memorial. The impressive, century-old structure, reminds of the British era when Calcutta was the capital of India. Visitors have a number of options: from spending time in the beautiful, surrounding lawns, to taking a tour of the insides of the magnificent, white building, which is ticketed. Tourists can also go for a fascinating buggy (horse-drawn carriage) ride available just outside. It’s quite an enjoyable experience as the horses trot on the roads, with you perched on the carriage.
Next on my list and close by to the Victoria Memorial in central Kolkata is the Indian Museum. This is the oldest museum in the country and has an interesting collection of armors, antiques, ornaments, paintings, and fossils.
Another famous landmark associated with the capital of West Bengal is the Howrah Bridge set over the river Hooghly. Admire it from afar, or take a leisurely boat ride on the river flowing below, or merely pass through the huge bridge!
To experience the authentic vibe of Kolkata at its own pace, hop onto a tram crisscrossing the streets. Perhaps the slowest tram rides you would have done, and watch the `City of Joy’ unfold in its truest form. A part that cannot be overlooked of course — congested traffic, crowded streets, urban cacophony, old buildings, and humid weather.
Weather — Best Time to Visit
Kolkata generally has a humid weather which combined with the heat in the summer months (March to July), causes the temperatures to soar as high as 45 degrees Celsius. So, if you’re visiting during this time keep yourself hydrated, wear light cotton clothes made of soft, breathable fabric. Carry a hat and umbrella. Winters (November to February) are pleasant hence a great time to visit.
Local Bengali Cuisine & Shopping
Apart from sightseeing, there are a host of other activities to look forward to when in Kolkata, mainly — food and shopping. A range of shopping options from high-end, designer stores and malls to markets and pavement shops, there’s plenty on offer. Gariahat market is quite popular with locals and tourists alike! Shop for the choicest of clothes, homeware, different types of bags, and footwear. And don’t forget to bargain. Believe me, you’ll end up owning a lot of stuff at a fair price.
Afterwards to refresh yourselves, stop at one of the eateries here to relish the delectable food of Kolkata. Mouthwatering rolls, cutlets, fish pakora, puchka, and more to tickle your palate. And a trip to this side of the country is incomplete without having the irresistible Bengali sweets — the spongy `rasgulla’, `sandesha’, and `mishti dohi’ (a form of flavored sweet yogurt).
Park Street is the upscale area, where you’ll find classy restaurants, pubs, and stores.
There is no end of things to do in Kolkata apart from the ones mentioned above. From the well-known center of learning Shanti Niketan, Science Museum, Botanic Garden, and Belur mutt, are some of the other options for tourists to explore.
