A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Bengali cuisine offers a rich tapestry of flavors and textures that showcase the essence of Kolkata’s culinary heritage. One must experience a traditional Bengali thala (platter), which serves as a fantastic introduction to the region’s food culture. You can enjoy a delightful spread at notable establishments like 6 Ballygunge Place, which is celebrated for its authentic offerings.
Strapped for rupees? Head to Kolkata. The capital of West Bengal holds the unshakeable status of being India’s most pocket-friendly major metropolis, beating out the likes of Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Travellers on a tight budget will be delighted to know that the city has a bunch of wonderful activities that can be done for absolutely no cost. Here’s a rough-and-ready list of the best free things to do while visiting Kolkata.
Kolkata is a city synonymous with creativity. From unsung crafter communities working diligently to preserve their traditions to some of the Indian art world’s most recognizable creators, this vibrant city showcases an incredible quantity and variety of artistic expression. For travelers passing through Kolkata, there lies an opportunity not only to appreciate its glittering creative heritage but also to acquire precious collectibles in excursions around town.
Amongst Indian foodies, Kolkata is celebrated as a gourmand’s paradise, home to one of the most evolved culinary traditions in South Asia. Locals are not only proud of their food; they approach their epicurean pursuits with sophistication. It pays to know the ropes before you visit and indulge in a Bengali feast.
While Kolkata promises some of the most cosmopolitan experiences that India has to offer, the surrounding countryside also has a few aces up its sleeve. If you’re passing through the metropolis and have a few days to spare, you can take your pick from vibrant cultural hubs, scenic beaches, fascinating colonial history, and nature reserves teeming with wildlife in the waterlogged Sunderbans delta. Whichever you pick, you’ll appreciate Kolkata all the more after dipping into its rural heartland.
There’s a saying in Bengali that goes,baro mashe tero parbon, literally ‘13 festivals in 12 months’, neatly summing up the importance — and yearlong abundance — of festivals in Kolkata’s everyday life. From cultural extravaganzas to some of India’s biggest Hindu festivals, there’s always something exciting happening in the city. Rarely will more than a few weeks pass without some kind of festival filling the streets with celebrations, decorations, and fanfare.
