The ‘city of joy’, Kolkata has a lot to offer its visitors be it mouth-watering delicacies or spectacular tourist attractions. Most of the sightseeing places in this town will give you an old-world charm. From exploring the works of the ‘bard of Bengal’, Rabindranath Tagore to going on a culinary walk and relishing the local food, there are a lot of things to do in Kolkata.
Counted among the top 5 popular cities in India, Kolkata attracts millions of tourists from India and across the world. You can explore the different museums here, visit Fort William or go boating in the Princep Ghat. No matter what you choose to do, you will be amazed by the magic of this beautiful city.
Here are the top things to do in Kolkata that will give you a memorable trip.
Admire the Spectacular Architecture at the Victoria Memorial Palace
Built between 1906 and 1921, this structure was constructed in the Indo-Saracenic revival architectural style. The 54 m high marble building is now converted into a museum and has an array of art and sculptural pieces on display. Take a trip down memory lane as you gain insights into Kolkata’s rich colonial history.
Explore the Diverse Wildlife at the Sundarbans
Visiting the Sundarbans National Park is one of the most adventurous things to do in Kolkata. It is located around 109 km from the city but is a popular tourist hotspot. This World Heritage Site lying on the Sundarban delta is also a Tiger and Biosphere reserve. It is also known for housing the biggest mangrove forests on the planet. You can spot the mighty Royal Bengal Tiger, an array of birds, reptiles that also include salt-water crocodiles and a lot more. The sight of the lush surroundings, gushing rivers, and gorgeous estuaries will leave you in awe!
Hop on a Vintage Tram and Enjoy a Ride Across the City
Taking a vintage tram ride is one of the best things to do in Kolkata. The city was the first in the entire continent to start electric tram services. Now rusty yet charming, these trams are equipped with FM radio and a TV to keep travelers entertained throughout the short journey. It is the most popular mode of transportation among tourists visiting this wonderful city.
Visit the Jorasanko Thakur Bari
If you are into literature and admire India’s legendary novelist, poet, artist, and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore; you might want to visit his birthplace. It is one of the most recommended things to do in Kolkata for youngsters to explore the heritage and culture of this city. This massive mansion in red looks distinctive and architecturally beautiful. Here you can know more about the poet’s family and their contribution to the Bengal Renaissance. This Bari receives a lot of tourists on the occasion of Panchise Baisakh that marks the poet’s birthday and Baishe Shravan, which is observed as his death anniversary. It also has a sound and light show so you can join one to know more about this place in a fun way.
Check Out the Iconic Mother House
The Mother House was founded by the Nobel Peace Prize winner, Mother Teresa in 1950. Popular as ‘Missionaries of Charity’, this place also houses her tomb. Shelter and care to the physically and mentally challenged or the poor, sick, orphans, victims of any natural calamity, and even drug addicts is provided by the sisters working here. They also work to help improve the lives of the homeless children by admitting them in numerous non-profit schools in the city for their formal education. Now, there are many branches of this institution around the world that teach and follow these practices of selfless devotion.
Gorge on the Delicious Local Cuisine
One of the top things to do in Kolkata is trying the mouth-watering cuisine here. The city is renowned for its desserts, street food and distinct biryani. You must definitely try out different flavors of pani puri, which is locally known as ‘puchka’ here. Try out the various dishes such as Macher Jhol, Shukto, Kosha Mangsho etc. Desserts like Rasogulla, Sondesh, and Mishti Doi are a must-try as well.
Also known as the cultural capital of India, this city will leave you in awe. There are a lot of things to do in Kolkata such as checking out the flower market, visiting the Nicco Park, watching the sunset from the Howrah Bridge etc. Have you been to Kolkata before? If yes, comment below and let us know, which of the activities mentioned above would you like to do to make your trip to this gorgeous city memorable.
You can book cheap flights to Kolkata through Indian Eagle and explore the ‘city of joy’ on a budget. So, why wait? Plan your itinerary today.
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