Kolkata gems to visit after you’ve had your fill of maccher jhol and chamchams

Kolkata or Calcutta as we still call by default is a place one must visit at least once. Definitely for the food and the gorgeous bridal lehengas that it is famous for, but also to get a glimpse into what a truly panoramic city looks like. Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder and you need to be a traveler at heart to see it in the lanes of Kolkata. The city has a treasure trove of art that fascinates you, architecture that enthralls you and food that satiates you to no end. A tour through the city is sure to give you an insight into the intellectual and artistic past of the city. So here are some of the Kolkata gems that you must visit.

Victoria Memorial

You can begin the journey right from Victoria Memorial which was built by George Curzon, the Viceroy of India, to honor Queen Victoria. The grand white marble beauty was converted into a museum and houses as many as twenty-eight thousand plus artifacts in its 25 galleries. The popularity of the place is in the fact that it receives almost 20 lakh visitors every year!

Howrah Bridge

You have seen it in movies and now it is time for you to see the grandeur of this fourth busiest bridge in the world in person. Howrah Bridge is a landmark to the city and connects the eastern bank of Howrah to the western banks of Kolkata. Right from a taxi driver to a tourist guide, the first place anyone will ask you to see in the city is this bridge which if the pride of the people of the city. Recommended time of the day to visit this bridge is at night when you can see the glittering lights of the city from the bridge, with their reflection casting a spell on the waters below.

Sunderbans

Who doesn’t love spending a little time in the laps of Mother Nature, especially when it is a place like Sunderbans? This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest tiger reserve in India. It is a part of the largest delta in the world, formed by Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. The scenic beauty, serenity and picturesque setting of this place will compel you to simply sit and enjoy its beauty and of course to click loads of selfies for social media.

Tagore’s House

Rabindra Nath Tagore was one of the poets who is credited with putting India on world literary map. Also known as ‘Jorasanko Thakur Bari’, Tagore’s House is one of the prominent places to visit in Kolkata. This building which was earlier his residence is now a museum which is home to several of his literary wonders and fabulous paintings. A visit to this place will give you an insight into Tagore’s life.

Dakshineshwar Kali temple

The state of Bengal and particularly Kolkata is dotted with temples paying homage to goddess Kali. This temple is one of the most popular ones of Kolkata and you would want to visit this one for its architectural beauty even if you are not that religiously inclined. The temple is at the banks of Hooghly so it gives you one more reason for you to visit as you will get to see the river up close. And when you come to think of it, we all have a long list of stuff that we need to get off our chest and a whole host of stuff to ask from almighty. A good chance for you to do that on your visit.

Prinsep Ghat

This one cannot be missed for sure; the serene waters, cute boats rocking gently on the water and the backdrop of the Howrah Bridge. It’s a perfect place to go visit in the evening, armed with loads of lip-smacking Kolkata street food. You will get to witness a lot of architecture in Greek and Gothic style which is sure to make you appreciate its beauty. If you are on a trip with a loved one, hop into one of the boats for a romantic ride while you imagine yourself as the lead actor from an old Bollywood movie.

Fort William

This fort is on the eastern banks of Hooghly and dates back to the Colonial era. It once served as a jail but is now used as the headquarters of the eastern command wing of the Indian army. It was built in the British Raj and was named after King William III. Although you need special permission to visit the fort, the history attached to it makes it worthwhile. Another place to visit for the love of British Raj history is the oldest cantonment in India at Barrackpore.

Once done with your sightseeing, you can always go to Park Street to enjoy some delectable Kolkata cuisine and then to shop at New Market. If you are in Kolkata for a longer period, do check out this blog for more ideas.