Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Kolkata is sure to leave you with lifelong memories. And, I'm not saying this because I belong from here - but because when you're here, you too will get to feel the vibes that this city beholds.
Kolkata, also known as the City of Joy, is a bustling metropolis located in the eastern part of India. It has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its literary, artistic, and culinary traditions. Being born and brought up here, there are bits and pieces of me that will always long for the richness and slow life that this city still tightly holds on to.
There are plenty of incredible travel experiences that one can enjoy in Kolkata, and here are some of them that you just can't miss:
1. Hop on a tram to enjoy a slow ride
Taking a ride on the iconic electric tram in Kolkata is a unique way to explore the city and soak in its history. You'll be surprised to know that the tram network in Kolkata has been operating for over a century and continues to be an important part of the city's public transportation system.
The trams operate on various routes, giving passengers a chance to see different parts of the city while enjoying the vintage charm of the tram cars. Riding a tram through the streets of North Kolkata is a unique way to see the beautiful old houses and buildings that the area is known for, and a trip through the Maidan on a tram would be a great way to experience the city's green spaces.
2. Spend an afternoon by the lake
Spending an afternoon by the lake (Rabindra Sarobar) in South Kolkata is a fantastic way to relax and enjoy the city's natural beauty. The area is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike and offers various facilities such as a stage for concerts, swimming pools, clubs, and a stadium.
The paths around the water bodies are perfect for a leisurely walk or jog, and the scenery is breathtaking. The serene environment of the Lakes is a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it an ideal spot to unwind and rejuvenate.
3. Explore the Bow Barracks
The red-bricked and green-windowed buildings of Bow Barracks seem to hold a special charm that has withstood the test of time. Located close to The Statesman building in Central Kolkata is Bow Barracks, a former garrison mess for the American soldiers posted in India during World War I. It is now home to the dwindling community of Anglo Indians in Kolkata.
Take a walk around this place, and get some 'gram-worthy photographs.
4. Binge on some Jewish delicacies at New Market
For a taste of vintage Kolkata and a chance to stock up on unique kitchen essentials, make your way to the Gothic-style New Market. This historic market, constructed in 1874 for the British elite, offers a captivating array of shops selling practically everything, from delicate lace and fine silverware to premium steak cuts and exotic vegetables. Don't miss the opportunity to savour a Jewish cheese samosa from the iconic Nahoum and Sons bakery, established in 1902 by Nahoum Israel, an Iraqi-Jewish immigrant who made Kolkata his home after leaving Baghdad.
Among their cherished offerings are delectable brownies and freshly-baked biscuits. The garlic bread from here is simply irresistible, and it would be a culinary crime not to pair it with the exceptional smoked Bandel cheese and Kalimpong cheddar, available at J. Johnson's store, just a brief two-minute stroll away.
Adjacent to Free School Street, you can also indulge in Hungarian sausages from Kalman, a cold storage enterprise founded by a Hungarian trapeze artist before World War II.
Also Read: The Long-Forgotten Baghdadi Jews Of Kolkata – A Slice Of History That Needs To Be Known!
5. Try the authentic Chinese meals at China Town
The initial Chinese settlers in Kolkata are believed to have arrived in the late 18th century. Over the years, they established themselves in two distinct areas: Chinatown in the Tiretti Bazar locality and the Tangra district. The Haka community was among the earliest to make their home here, followed by the Cantonese, Hupey, and others.
Exploring this cultural enclave is a delightful experience. You can opt for one of the guided tours around historic Chinatown (Tiretti Bazaar) or take a leisurely stroll on your own. Begin your day with a traditional breakfast at Chhatawala Gully, then explore the many atmospheric Chinese temples scattered throughout the neighbourhood. Don't forget to pick up some dried plums and shiitake mushrooms from the local provision stores. You might even find a handmade shoe crafted by one of the few remaining Chinese shoemakers in the area.
Also Read: 10 Authentic Chinese Eateries in Calcutta
6. Visit the one and only 'Boat Museum' in India
It might come as a surprise, but Kolkata is home to the country's only 'Boat Museum,' where you can even lay your eyes on the very boat Rabindranath Tagore used for his extended poetic sojourns. The tranquil ambiance of the boat served as a sanctuary for Tagore, inspiring his verses and plays. This unique museum is situated within the Institute of Cultural Research at Ambedkar Bhavan.
The Boat Museum boasts an impressive collection, with 46 meticulously crafted scale models of diverse indigenous boats. Each boat is a distinctive masterpiece designed for specific purposes. Notable exhibits include the dholai and khorokishti cargo boats, with the dholai commonly found in the Sundarban region, originally intended for transporting wood but now used for bricks and tiles.
The khorokishti, used for carrying hay, features a broad, flat bottom, while the paukhia, another cargo boat, is expertly crafted to navigate shallow creeks. The museum showcases a captivating array of Bengal's diverse boats, each with its own unique history and purpose.
Kolkata, with its rich history, captivating culture, and warm-hearted residents, has a unique allure that is impossible to resist. It's often said that you can take a Bengali out of Kolkata, but you can never take Kolkata out of a Bengali's heart, and I wholeheartedly agree.
This city, with its soulful poetry, artistic fervour, and undying spirit, weaves a tapestry of memories and emotions that remain imprinted in one's soul forever.
Have you been to Kolkata? Share your favourite places in the city with me, in the comments below.
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