CULTURALLY RICH KOLKATA – THE SOUL OF THE CITY OF JOY NEVER DISAPPOINTS
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is a city located in the eastern part of India and is the capital of the state of West Bengal. It has gained the title of “City of Joy” owing to its lively and colourful atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and the warmth and hospitality of its people. The nickname was popularized by the book “City of Joy” by Dominique Lapierre, which tells the story of a poor neighborhood in Kolkata and its residents’ struggle for a better life. The city has a unique feel to it and visitors can feel comfortable as soon as they arrive. A plethora of events and festivals keep the environment alive and exciting.
The nickname has come to symbolize Kolkata’s unique blend of history, art, and culture, as well as its vibrant street life and friendly people. Visitors to Kolkata often describe the city as energetic, vibrant, and full of life, with a charm that is difficult to describe. From the bustling markets and street food vendors to the rich history and architecture, Kolkata offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those who visit.
Kolkata, a former British colonial stronghold, has evidence scattered across the city, of over two millennia of habitation. Whichever direction one turns to, there are buildings which are ornate and architecturally diverse, with a varied state of condition, ranging from crumbing ruins to Victorian treasures. Not just the lively festivals, but even the community that is steeped in culture and art add to the vibrancy. The markets may be clamorous and the temples packed, but are still popular. The city is crowded and pollution is high, but it still captivates.
Here are Some Things That Make Kolkata Special
1. Cultural Heritage: Kolkata has a rich cultural heritage, with a long history of literature, art, music, and cinema. The city has produced many famous writers, poets, and filmmakers, including Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray, and Amartya Sen.
2. Colonial Architecture: Kolkata has many beautiful buildings that reflect its colonial past, including the Victoria Memorial, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Writers’ Building.
3. Food: Kolkata is known for its delicious food, including street food such as puchkas (pani puri), kathi rolls, and phuchka, and its famous sweet dishes like rasgulla and sandesh.
4. Durga Puja: Kolkata’s biggest festival is Durga Puja, a 10-day celebration in which the city is transformed into a giant street fair, with colorful pandals (temporary structures) housing intricately crafted idols of the goddess Durga.
5. People: The people of Kolkata are known for their warmth, hospitality, and love of culture. Visitors often remark on the friendliness and welcoming nature of the locals.
Overall, Kolkata is a vibrant and culturally rich city that is unlike any other in India, making it a special and unique destination for visitors.
Things to Do and Places to Visit
There are many things to do in Kolkata that allow visitors to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious cuisine. Kolkata is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many interesting places to visit. Here are some suggestions:
1. Take a walk through the colorful streets of Kumartuli: This neighborhood is known for its skilled artisans who create beautiful clay idols for various festivals, including the famous Durga Puja.
2. Explore the markets: Kolkata is known for its bustling markets, including the New Market, which is over a century old and sells everything from clothing to spices.
3. Taste the street food: Kolkata is famous for its street food, including puchkas (pani puri), kathi rolls, and rasgulla.
4. Take a stroll in the parks: Kolkata has several beautiful parks, including the Maidan, which is one of the largest urban parks in the world, and the iconic Botanical Gardens.
5. Take a ride in the trams: The Kolkata Tramways are known for their old-world charm and offer a glimpse into the city’s colonial pastand have been in operation since 1902. They provide a unique way to experience the city and its vibrant atmosphere. They run on several routes and offer a convenient and affordable way to explore different parts of the city. Some of the popular tram routes include the Esplanade to BBD Bagh, Esplanade to Kidderpore, and Gariahat to Ballygunge. One of the best ways to experience the trams in Kolkata is to take a leisurely ride along some of the popular routes.
6. Victoria Memorial: This stunning white marble building is a must-visit attraction and one of Kolkata’s most iconic landmarks. It houses a museum that showcases the city’s colonial history and hosts a beautiful light and sound show in the evenings.
7. Howrah Bridge: This iconic bridge is one of the most recognizable symbols of Kolkata. It is a cantilever bridge that spans the Hooghly River and is a vital transportation link between Kolkata and Howrah.
8. Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Located on the banks of the Hooghly River, this beautiful temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali and is one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in Kolkata.
9. St. Paul’s Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is a fine example of Gothic architecture and is one of the most important churches in Kolkata.
10. Park Street: Known as the “food street” of Kolkata, Park Street is lined with restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines.
11. Indian Museum: This is the largest and oldest museum in India, with a collection of art, artifacts, and natural history exhibits.
12. Mother House: This is the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity, the religious order founded by Mother Teresa. The building now houses a museum dedicated to her life and work.
13. Science City: This is a science museum and exhibition center that offers interactive exhibits and activities for children and adults.
14. Nicco Amusement Park: Spread in an area of about 40 acres, Nicco Amusement park is probably the largest amusement park of Eastern India. Located in Salt Lake city, it draws huge crowds of people looking for a way to enjoy their day.
15. Alipore Zoo: Built in 1876, the Alipore Zoo, or Calcutta Zoo, is probably the oldest formal zoo of India. Spanning an area of slightly more than 45 acres, it is home to a huge variety of animals and mammals.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kolkata, India is during the winter months, from October to February, when the weather is mild and pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. This is also the festival season in Kolkata, with major celebrations like Durga Puja and Diwali taking place during this time.
The summer months, from March to June, can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 40 degrees Celsius or higher. Monsoon season, from July to September, brings heavy rainfall and high humidity, which can make it difficult to explore the city.
