About Kolkata
Kolkata, fondly known as the City of Joy, is currently the state capital and administrative headquarter of West Bengal. This culturally rich city has a vibrant aura that attracts tourists from all over the globe. The architecture, heritage sites, and landmarks are steeped in history and define the art and culture of Kolkata. Kolkata offers something to devotees from every religion as so many beautiful Hindu temples, churches, masjids, and gurudwaras are situated here.
Moving ahead, the food in Kolkata is one of the highlights of this charming place. Some notable mentions are Calcutta-style biryani, Pulao, Kolkata chicken chaap, Mangshor Jhol (Mutton soup curry) and Bengali Doi Maach (Fish Dish). In dessert, items like Rosogolla, Sondesh, Mishti Doi, etc., deserve a try.
Things to do in Kolkata
This city offers so many popular places and things to explore. The following are some of our recommendations on what you must try in the ‘City of Joy’.
- Experience lush, stunning meadows at Ecopark: This is one of the beautiful urban parks situated in the greater Kolkata area. Plan a visit with your kids and loved ones to this ecological park sprawled over an area of 480-acre comprising an urban forest, tea garden, lake, and multiple restaurants.
- Visit Nandan, one of the famous cultural hubs in Kolkata: Nandan is one of the famous hubs of performing arts and visual arts in Kolkata. You can arrange a visit here to know not only the artistic and aesthetic mind-set of this city but also to get an outlook on international cultural heritage also.
- Visit Victoria Memorial, the iconic architectural marvel of Bengal: This iconic historical building is the pride of India, which was constructed in the memory of Queen Victoria. Reserve one day to take an indoor and outdoor tour here and see a great collection of historical artefacts and objects such as coins, maps, weapons, etc.
- Spend a day at Jorasanko Thakurbari to know the cultural history of Bengal: This is the house where the famous Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore was born and was also the residence of the famous Tagore family of Bengal. Visiting this heritage building which has now turned into a museum, will give you an interesting insight into the life of Rabindranath Tagore
- Explore the world-famous artworks of Bengal at Kumartuli: 'Kumartuli 'means the ‘Quarters of Potters'; as its name signifies, the local potters live and work here. There is a lot you can do here, such as exploring and shopping for clay idols and different artworks, taking photos while strolling around the riverbank, and riding a boat.
- Try the freshly baked Plum Cakes at Nahoum’s Confectionery: This 115-year-old bakery is one of the main attractions of Kolkata, especially if you are exploring the culinary scene of this city. In the New Market area of Kolkata, you will find Nahoum’s Bakery serving fresh cakes and bread.
- Shopping at the New Market: At the centre of Kolkata stands the iconic New Market. The red building of the market complex is reminiscent of its British Heritage. In this market, you will find local handicrafts and souvenirs for you to take back home.
- Enjoy a meal at Jimmy’s Kitchen: Besides the sweets, Kolkata is famous for its own iteration of Chinese dishes, known as Indo Chinese. And the best place to enjoy these treats is at Jimmy’s Kitchen. It is one of the iconic places to eat in this city. Some of the dishes to try here are the mixed chowmein, dry chilli chicken, the momos, and any mocktail of your preference.
- Visit the Howrah Bridge: Howrah Bridge is one of the iconic architectures of the city, and is almost synonymous with the city. So, you can visit this cantilever bridge for a great view of the Ganga River and Kolkata as well as the city of Howrah. Also, do not forget to visit the flower market near the bridge.
- Take a Tram ride: Similar to visiting the Howrah Bridge, a trip to Kolkata is incomplete without a tram ride. This is the only city in India with an operating tram infrastructure, and taking a ride can be quite a pleasant experience.
- Indulge in the puchkas of Kolkata: The puchka in Kolkata is different compared to what you get in the rest of the country. Here the crispy hollow spheres are stuffed primarily with spicy potatoes and chickpeas then dipped in a tangy watery mixture of spices and mint leaves. You will also find different iterations of the same like dahi puchka, sweet puchka, etc. across the city.
- Taking a walk through Park Street: Taking a walk through Park Street is also a great activity to indulge in when you come to Kolkata. Moreover, if you visit during Christmas, you will have an experience to remember. One more thing, Park Street has some of the most iconic restaurants of Kolkata like Trincas, Mocambo, Peter Cat, etc. One additional tip, try visiting the Oly Pub if you have time for the yummy steak and liver fry.
- English breakfast at Flurys: Another legendary place to visit during your Kolkata trip is Flury’s on Parks Street. This old confectionary shop, now a fully functioning restaurant, serves some of the best pastries and cakes you can have. Moreover, do not forget to try the English breakfast here.
About Kolkata Airport
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is one of the busiest airports and largest international airports in Eastern India. Covering around 2460 acres of land, it serves the city of Kolkata and its adjacent districts as well. The airport is about 16 km from the city centre. The IATA code of Kolkata Airport is CCU and it is located at Jessore Rd, Dum Dum, Kolkata, West Bengal (700052).