Kolkata, the second-biggest city in India, is a never-ending celebration of human existence that is at once opulent and filthy, sophisticated and hectic, distinctly modern, and exquisitely decaying. West Bengal's capital, a thriving 350-year-old city on India's east coast, is known for its stunning spectacles and paradoxes; nothing is ordinary here. Kolkata, sometimes referred to as the "City of Joy," is the nation's intellectual, artistic, and cultural centre in every way. The streets of Kolkata are vibrant, busy, and disorganised, but they are also full of energy and innovation. Motivated by the unwavering will of the self-made middle class, the city has managed to create a stunning contrast between the old colonial elegance and the emerging hipster culture that is so popular among the younger population.
Peeling off each layer to look beneath the hood is a very rewarding, once-in-a-lifetime experience. From admiring the flourishing art scene in the city to embarking on rewarding gastronomic explorations to wandering amidst the countless bazaars to sitting by the banks of the Hooghly and enjoying a peaceful sunset, Kolkata is soaked in layers and layers of heritage and culture. As the well-known saying goes, "Come to Calcutta if you want a city with a soul."
Kolkata, which was the capital of the British Empire until the government was moved to Delhi, still retains a strong hint of its royal heritage in all parts of the city. Take a stroll through the streets of North Kolkata, which is home to some of the city's oldest mansions covered in vines and exudes an enduring sense of aristocratic pride, if you want to feel a little bit of the city's royal heritage. Rabindranath Tagore's ancestral home, now a museum, is located in Kolkata and includes an incredible collection of artworks and family photographs. Throughout the city, there are many ghats where you may sit and take in the sunset while drinking tea. The Prinsep Ghat is one of the most well-known, with breathtaking views of the Vidyasagar Setu in the distance. There's a lovely waterfront park called Millennium Park nearby where you can take boat rides and cruises.
There are countless restaurants and pubs along Park Street where you may party the night away. Kolkata has a very vibrant nightlife. Kolkata is known for its street food, which is enjoyed throughout the nation. The city is filled with restaurants and food stands at every turn where you can sample Bengali cuisine and local snacks like jhalmuri and ghugni chaat.
Best time to visit Kolkata
The greatest season to visit Kolkata is in the autumn and winter, from October to February, when there are plenty of events and ideal weather. Traveler arrivals are at their greatest during this season, especially during Durga Puja. Kolkata experiences hot, muggy summers and mild winters due to its eastern tropical climate. Travellers find summers to be the least desired, and while the monsoon season is beautiful, it's not the ideal time to come.
How to Reach Kolkata
Kolkata, a significant metropolis and the second-biggest city in India, is connected by roads, railways, and its own domestic and international airports. There are plenty of taxis near the train and airport terminals for both pickup and drop-off.