Nestled on the banks of the Hooghly River, Kolkata beautifully endures its legacy of art, culture and literature. The city is characterised by colonial-era architects and urban backdrops. Kolkata is the largest city in Eastern India and has some of the best colleges and institutions in the country. The city had been the capital of British India. The unique aspect of the city is its people who are enormously passionate about everything from politics to sports and films to food. These spirits can be well-observed in the ‘parar addas’ or neighbourhood discussions.
Things to do in Kolkata
Visit the Indian Museum and the Victoria Memorial. Go for an excursion to Alipore Zoo. Feel the spirituality at the Dakshineshwar Kali Temple and Belur Math. You can reach Belur Math from Dakshineshwar Kali Temple riding a boat or steamer in order to witness the riverside beauty of the city. Spend some leisure time at Millennium Park. Further, visit Jorasanko Thakur Bari to touch the legacy of Tagore.
Tourist attractions in Kolkata
The major tourist attractions in Kolkata include the Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, Victoria Memorial, Belur Math, Birla Planetarium, Science City, Jorasanko Thakur Bari, Fort William, St. Paul's Cathedral, Birla Mandir, Eden Gardens, Kalighat Temple and Alipore Zoo.
Places to shop in Kolkata
The prime shopping hubs in Kolkata include Gariahat Market, New Market, Shyam Bazaar, Hatibagan, College Street and Burra Bazaar. Gariahat Market is the paradise for shopaholics where you will find the widest collections of sarees, kurtas, apparels, jewellery and other stuff. New Market is a Victorian-style shopping arcade which is popular for trendiest clothes, fashion accessories, footwear and electronics. Burra Bazaar is the wholesale market and the most crowded place in the city.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Kolkata is from October to March.
Modes of transport
The public transport system in Kolkata is considered among the best in the country. The city takes the pride of having the first metro railway service in the country. Further, buses and minibuses ply in every corner of the city. Yellow taxis, app-based cabs and auto-rickshaws are the convenient means of transport across Kolkata.
Weather in Kolkata
Kolkata has a tropical climate. The city remains hot and humid during summers (April to June). The temperature rises to 45 degrees Celsius. Between June and September, the city receives heavy rainfall under the influence of southwest monsoon. Winters (November to February) bring lovely weather in Kolkata. The temperature during this season stays between 15 degrees and 29 degrees Celsius in the city.
Airport in Kolkata
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (IATA: CCU), Kolkata is situated in Dum Dum, about 17 km from the city centre.