Kolkata, WestBengal City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city. [Updated-2025]

Kolkata, WestBengal City Guide: Where To Go, Stay, Eat, And shop in India’s best city.

Exploring Kolkata: Culture, History, and Cuisine

Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is the capital of West Bengal, India, and one of the country’s most vibrant and culturally rich cities. Located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River (a distributary of the Ganges), Kolkata is known for its colonial architecture, intellectual heritage, artistic traditions, and bustling streets.

Key Highlights of Kolkata:

1. Historical Significance
   • Founded by the British East India Company in 1690, Kolkata served as the capital of British India until 1911.
   • Played a major role in India’s independence movement and cultural renaissance.
2. Cultural Hub
   • Known as the “Cultural Capital of India” due to its contributions to literature, cinema, theater, and art.
   • Home to Nobel laureates like Rabindranath Tagore (literature) and Mother Teresa (peace).
3. Landmarks & Attractions
   • Victoria Memorial – A grand marble museum dedicated to Queen Victoria.
   • Howrah Bridge – An iconic cantilever bridge over the Hooghly River.
   • Dakshineswar Kali Temple – A famous Hindu temple associated with Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.
   • Indian Museum – One of the oldest and largest museums in India.
   • Park Street – A lively area with restaurants, pubs, and historic cafes like Flurys.
   • Eden Gardens – One of the world’s largest cricket stadiums.
4. Festivals & Cuisine
   • Durga Puja – Kolkata’s biggest festival, celebrated with grand pandals (temporary temples), lights, and cultural events.
   • Street Food – Famous for puchka (pani puri), kathi rolls, rosogolla (a Bengali sweet), and macher jhol (fish curry).
5. Transport & Connectivity
   • Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport connects Kolkata globally.
   • The Kolkata Metro is India’s first underground railway system.
   • Trams, a legacy of British rule, still operate in some parts.
6. Economy & Education
   • Major commercial hub for Eastern India, with industries like jute, tea, and IT.
   • Home to prestigious institutions like Presidency University, IIM Calcutta, and Jadavpur University.

Interesting Facts:

• The city inspired famous writers like Satyajit Ray (Oscar-winning filmmaker) and authors like Jhumpa Lahiri.
• The Kolkata Book Fair is the world’s largest non-trade book fair.
• The only city in India with a working hand-pulled rickshaw system.

Kolkata is a city of contrasts—where old-world charm meets modern energy, making it a fascinating destination for travelers and a beloved home for its residents (Kolkatans).