Ngoc Discovering the Heart of the City
Kolkata is renowned as the cultural capital of India, with a long heritage of art, literature and religion shaping its identity. Start your exploration at Victoria Memorial, a stunning white marble building housing artifacts and sculptures commemorating British rule. Nearby, the Indian Museum holds the world’s second largest collection of art, with over 50 galleries exploring Indian history. For lunch, try Bhojohori Manna at Star Theatre, known for their rich Bengali cuisine like golbarir kosha mangsho (mutton simmered in yoghurt and spices). After, stroll through College Street, dotted with bookshops, and stop at Dilkhusha for chai. In the evening, witness the sunset illuminating the iconic Howrah Bridge from Princep Ghat.
Experiencing Bengal’s Artistic Legacy
On day two, start your morning at Jorasanko Thakurbari, birthplace of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore. Admire the architecture and browse the collection of Tagore family artifacts and portraits. Next, immerse in Indian contemporary art at Nandan, located in the busy Kolkata Maidan. For lunch, try Peter Cat for their famous chelo kebab kebabs. Spend your afternoon exploring the Zoological Gardens, one of Asia’s largest. End the day visiting Kalighat Temple, the oldest in the city, stopping to sample Machher jhol (fish curry).
Delving into Local Culture and Cuisine
On your final day, soak up the chaotic energy of New Market, perusing stalls selling everything from fabrics to snacks. Stop for street-side rajar fuska (stuffed pastry). Next, browse famous markets like Hatibagan and Garaihat to shop for souvenirs. Have lunch at Nizam’s, renowned for kathi rolls. In the afternoon, visit Dakshineswar Temple, significant in Hindu theology. Finally, wind down the evening enjoying Mughlai parathas and chai at Anadi’s restaurant.
Additional Activities and Sites of Interest
With extra time, Kolkata offers Eco Park for nature walks along wetlands and lakes. For history buffs, Mother House provides insights into the city’s Catholic heritage. Art and culture aficionados will enjoy the Indian Museum of Immortal Music chronicling Bengal’s musical roots. Those interested in green spaces can visit the lush Victoria Memorial Gardens. For a unique experience, catch a play or performance at Nandan complex. Architecture enthusiasts should see Academy of Fine Arts and its Indo-Saracenic style. No trip is complete without shopping for exquisite silks, jewellery and handicrafts along fashionable Park Street.
Experiencing Festivals and Events
Timing your visit around cultural events adds extra color and excitement. In November/December, be part of the joyous vibe during Kolkata International Film Festival screening international films. During October/November experience festive fervor at Durga Puja, with streets lined with colorful pandals. In January/February, stroll through vast book and publishing displays at the famous Kolkata International Book Fair. In December/January, the soothing melodies from church choirs and brass bands resound in the air during Christmas celebrations. From mid-January to February, traditional dance and music enliven the annual Poush Mela winter fair held at Shantiniketan.
Top Food Experiences Not To Be Missed
Bengali cuisine is soul-satisfying with a tantalizing mix of sweet, savory and spicy flavors. Be sure to taste:
- Rasogolla - Soft cheese balls in syrup best enjoyed from legendary maker Nobin Chandra Das.
- Sondesh -Milky sweet often flavored with raisins, coconut or fruits.
- Mishti doi - Sweetened yogurt like dessert.
- Pantua - Fried pancakes syrup.
- Luchi with moong dal/posto - Crisp fried bread with lentil curry.
- Ilish maach - Hilsa fish prepared in mustard gravy or fried.
- Beguni - Fried aubergine appetizer in sweet-sour sauce.
With interesting sites, rich culture and delectable food, a 3-day itinerary offers just a taste of what makes Kolkata a fascinating destination.
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