How does one describe a city like Kolkata? Kolkata, or better referred to as Calcutta, is one of the most fascinating cities you will ever see or visit. It sets as the perfect miniature example of our country which is admired for its harmony among diversity around the world. Being the erstwhile capital of British India, it demonstrates a beautiful mix of the English imperial culture and the traditional bengali way of living, along with all the essential elements of a modern metropolis. One cannot just visit Kolkata with the hopes of capturing a lot of fancy pictures of and around the city, but will need to stand and breathe deep in order to absorb the charm and the essence of the city.
The contrasting attributes of this city makes it impossible for me to explain it under one perspective. From the varying architectural marvels to the traditional lifestyle of the people, Kolkata is colored in many hues which makes an outsider gradually fall in love with the soul of the city. It is the kind of place that exudes a feeling of joy and belonging and with something to offer for everybody. It is a pinnacle of satisfying tourist destination.
There is an element of surprise at every corner of this city. You may start your journey from anywhere, but you will not be able to stop until you have explored every pin on the map of the city. Riding across Howrah bridge and over the ethereal Hooghly river, you will be filled with a sense of equanimity. While travelling in Central or South Kolkata, you will get an opportunity to cross places like Esplanade, Dalhousie Square, Park Street, Maidan , etc, where the artifact of the British era is still intact in the form of architecture of the buildings, names of the streets and the unique tram-line system found nowhere else in the country. The grace and elegance of Victoria Memorial is something you will not want to miss. A quick visit inside and you will learn a great deal about the then-rulers of our country. Riding on horse-drawn carriages outside the Memorial just sums up the visit perfectly. Also include religious places like the Golmandir Gurudwara, the Birla and Kalighat Temples, St. Paul’s Cathedral and Nakhoda Mosque in your to-visit bucket list to experience the height of spirituality of the city. You will also want to visit the Indian Museum and the National Library, both of which are the largest in the world.
Of course, with the long list of places I have given you to visit, how can I forget the main element of the city, its food! Be prepared to hog on the best food in the world, not in 5-star restaurants but on street! Stop at any corner of the city and you will find mouth watering munchies like puchka, chaats, rolls, chops, jhaal muri, bhel muri, soda shikanji, etc. The list is truly never ending! And after your tummy is overfilled with the delicacies, don’t forget to try our world famous gundi paan! Kolkata is the most favored city for food-lovers due to the never ending, mouth-watering dishes it has to proffer!
One can never truly have enough of this city. It will embrace you like no other leaving you in a state of awe. It may take a bit of time to adjust to the many hues of this city, but one you fall in love with its beauty, there is no going back. If you are a person of high spirit and you are looking for a soul refreshing journey, Kolkata is the city to visit!
Its the CITY OF JOY!