Land of lively festivals, Kolkata is also home to a vibrant artistic community, bustling markets and ancient temples. Once a British colony, Kolkata boasts of over two millennia of inhabitance which is evident from architecturally diverse buildings ranging from falling ruins to Victorian treasures. The city might be crowded but it has unbeatable charm that is truly invigorating.
It is the passion and enthusiasm of Kolkatans for their culture, tradition, art, literature history, food and much more that has given the city its name “City of Joy”. Once the capital of India under the British, Kolkata has plenty to offer to tourists from all walks of life that you simply cannot think of covering till you plan a detailed itinerary.
Indeed, there is plenty for tourists to witness in a city which has retained its traditional charm even as it progresses towards a bustling metropolis. There are many attractions in the city to keep you hooked for hours at end. From well-maintained, lush green gardens to beautiful lakes, historical buildings, well-stocked libraries, lively stadiums, ancient temples and churches, there is plenty to discover in The City of Joy.
Apart from landmark venues Kolkata also boasts lively markets which have a vibe which makes shopping entertaining. The markets in Kolkata offer almost everything from budget to branded products. There are plenty of eating options in all the markets where you can take a break and enjoy a cold lemonade to refresh yourself. New Market Kolkata, Gariahat Market, College Street, Hatibagan Market, and Burrabazar Market are some of the popular markets in Kolkata where you can buy anything from shoes, sarees, exotic flowers and rare cheese, clothes, jewellery and electronic items, rare volumes of books, silks and cotton sarees etc.
Kolkata also offers a range of mouthwatering cuisines which any foodie would love to sink his teeth into. The city offers plenty of eating-out options from food side stalls to swanky restaurants. Another important thing about Kolkata is the fact that it is relatively cheap compared to other metro cities in the country. So, you can expect to have a seven-course meal at fancy restaurants at a far lower price than you might imagine.
Some of the cuisines that Kolkata offers include Macher Jhol, Kosha Mangsho, Alur Torkari With Luchi, Shukto, Chelo Kebab, Mochar Ghonto, Katla Kalia, Macher Muri Ghonto, Aloo Posto, Telebhaja, Roshogullas, Sandesh, Chom Chom, Mishti Doi, Patisapta and more.
It is for all these fabulous reasons that Kolkata is considered one of the top tourist destinations in the country which attracts tourists all year round. No wonder then that there are several flights to this fabulous city from within the country to all over the world. So, if you also want to visit the City of Joy then all that you need to do is to book tickets from your favourite flights to Kolkata and fly to your favoured destination.
Best Places to Visit In Kolkata
Victoria Memorial
A prominent landmark identity of Kolkata, Victoria Memorial can be counted as one of the finest museums in India with a wide collection of Royal British paintings, historical documents, lithographs and artefacts. Stretched over an area of 64 acres, the monument boasts impressive architecture. Designed by the renowned architect William Emerson, the place holds great attraction for visitors who throng to catch a glimpse of this magnificent structure.
Howrah Bridge
The popularity of Howrah Bridge as one of the leading tourist attractions of the city can be understood from the fact that no visit to the city is believed to be complete till you have witnessed this fabulous bridge. The place is just perfect to spend some time in the setting of the magnificent Hooghly River. Believed to be amongst the longest cantilever bridges in the world, Howrah Bridge attracts tourists in drove. And, by the way, did you know that Howrah Bridge is now renamed Rabindra Setu?
Park Street
If chilling out at pubs or restaurants is your favourite pastime, Park Street is where you should be heading. Home to many high-end cafes, restaurants, iconic bars and pubs, the place is just perfect to chill with friends. No wonder it is crowded with locals and visitors alike.
New Market
The market owes its genesis to the British who constructed the new Market in 1874. Be it clothes, jewellery or any other item, you can trust to get a top deal here. The place has a very young feel and is therefore a natural hangout zone for youngsters who love to chill around the many stalls which are in abundance over here. If you are planning to shop around New Market then do not hesitate to bargain hard to get the best deal.
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