Kolkata - The cultural capital of India
Earlier, the capital of British India and now, the capital of West Bengal, Kolkata is a prominent centre for art and culture in the country. Also known as the City of Joy, it is known for its heritage buildings, colonial architecture, tourist attractions, festivals and delectable cuisine.
Things to do in Kolkata
- Go on a cruise on the Ganges at Princep Ghat
- Marvel at the iconic Victoria Memorial
- Gorge on famous Bengali sweets and delicacies
Tourist attractions in Kolkata
- Victoria Memorial is an opulent marble structure located at the heart of the city. It houses an impressive collection of paintings, artefacts and books dating back to the British colonial era. A Light & Sound show is held every evening.
- Indian Museum is located within the premises of the 18th-century Asiatic Society building. It is the largest museum in the Asia-Pacific region and one of the oldest ones in the world housing rare artefacts, such as fossils, skeletons, Egyptian mummies, Mughal paintings, armours and jewellery.
- Howrah Bridge, Fort Williams, Kalighat Temple, Dakshineshwar Temple, Princep Ghat, Jorasanko Thakur Bari, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Eco Park, and Alipore Zoo are some of the other tourist attractions.
Places to shop in Kolkata
- Gariahat Market is the major shopping centre and one of the busiest streets in South Kolkata. It stocks everything, from clothing and footwear to jewellery and home décor.
- If you are looking to buy traditional Bengali cotton saris, Byloom is the place to go. Besides, the store also has an exquisite collection of khadi and traditional saris alongside wellness products, accessories and recycled stationery at extremely affordable prices.
- Shop for clothing, accessories, electronics, kitchenware and home furnishings at South City Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in South Kolkata.
Best time to visit Kolkata
Autumn and winter (October to February) seasons form the best months to visit Kolkata. During this period, the weather remains pleasant and soothing with plenty of festivals around the corner, including Durga Puja.
Modes of transport
The fastest way to travel across the city is Kolkata Metro, which extends from South Kolkata to North Kolkata. Buses and auto-rickshaws are easily available. Cycle rickshaws are a convenient way of travelling short distances. Kolkata also boasts of having the only operational tram service. One can also avail taxis and shared cabs.
Weather in Kolkata
Kolkata sees hot and humid weather throughout the year. March to May is the hottest period with the temperature exceeding 30 degree Celsius. The city experiences monsoon with moderate to heavy rainfall from June to September. In winters, the temperature may drop to as low as 9 degree Celsius with little or no rainfall.
Airport in Kolkata
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport is the city’s main airport.
IATA code: CCU