What is Kolkata best known for?
Kolkata, the capital state of West Bengal, is the primary commercial, business, and financial centre of Eastern India. Kolkata, earlier known as Calcutta, was the capital of India until 1911. It is the centre of West Bengal’s film industry and is known for its rich culture, food, and beautiful architecture from the British era. The first underground metro rail was first started in Kolkata, and the trams running on the streets of Kolkata are so pleasing to see.
The best-known places in Kolkata
- Park Street –Park Street is Kolkata's favourite hang-out place, and it is now named Mother Teresa Sarani. There are plenty of pubs and restaurants, and it is an inseparable part of Kolkata tourism.
- South Park Cemetery - This is another famous tourist place in Kolkata. The South Park Street Cemetery is different from the other places in the city. The memorials here are built with a good taste and enhanced with tombs and sculptures.
- Dakshineswar Kali Temple - This temple is of the goddess Kali. In 1855, a manifestation of goddess Kali, Bhavatarini, was built by a philanthropist called Rani Rashmoni. It is a famous pilgrimage place, and it stands on the serene eastern bank of the Hooghly River. It is among one of the most famous temples in Kolkata.
- Belur Math - The historic Belur Math is located on the western bank of the Hooghly River. It welcomes people from all over the world, and is considered as the headquarters of Ramakrishna mission. The popular religious spot consists of prayer halls and shrines dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna. The spiritual ambience and its exquisite architecture make Belur Math one of the best places to visit in Kolkata.
- New Market - There are more than 2,000 stalls in the New Market, and it is a one stop destination for all your needs. It was built by the British in 1874, and the market was earlier known as Sir Stuart Hogg Market. The market has now adapted to the classic Indian routine in the 21st century. You will get to see the brightly lit street lights, and the stalls serving delicious tea and snacks.
- Victoria Memorial - The architectural brilliance of this great big, white marble building that stands in the middle of the city was built under George Curzon, the then Viceroy of India. It is an integral part of Kolkata tourism. The memorial has now been transformed into a beautiful museum.
- Howrah Bridge - It is the fourth busiest Cantilever bridge in the world. It is one of the best places to visit in Kolkata. It is built on the river Hooghly and it connects the eastern Bank of Howrah to the western banks of Kolkata. The construction of this bridge was started in 1939 and the bridge was later renamed Rabindra Setu.
Airport in Kolkata
Kolkata airport is one of India's oldest airports and is situated 15 km from the centre of the city. The airport is the largest hub for air traffic and the fifth busiest airport in India. You can find all IndiGo flights from here.
- Airport address: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Jessore Rd, Dum Dum, Kolkata, West Bengal 700052
- IATA code: CCU