Historically, the former capital of India – Kolkata is the city of joy, a cultural hub of artists, poets and Nobel Prize winners. It is a city which has maintained its colonial character and reframed itself with different drapes over time.
Amongst all the cities, Kolkata is a traditional soul, enriched with colonial architecture, Durga Pujo fever, classic yellow taxi and street food, it is indeed a unique city. Kolkata is the capital of West Bengal; the city speaks of leisure and joy. Being the intellectual and cultural centre, the city is a gem hidden at the eastern tip of India.
This city attracts travellers as it remains one of the affordable cities in India. The afternoons in Kolkata are quiet and the melody of Rabindrasangeet mesmerizes your soul. So, in a world which is running and is obsessed with youth, Kolkata is a patchwork of stories. The best time to visit Kolkata is from October to March, the temperatures are cooler and the skies are clear. To be a part of this nostalgia-filled city, where the bazaars are filled with fresh fish and the spirit of winter is endless, book your stay with Jameson Inn Shiraz located at the famous Park Street in Kolkata. The hotel is close to famous landmarks, shopping havens and business hubs. Either you are travelling for business or leisure, Jameson Inn Shiraz is the perfect partner if you plan to nestle in the arms of this beautiful city.
THINGS TO DO
A picturesque city is a centre of rich culture and heritage. This city is the witness of our history and a perfect blend of old and new traditions. In order to connect with the soul of Kolkata, travellers should dance to the rhythm of the city.
FLIP THE PAGES OF HISTORY AND VISIT THE COLONIAL HERITAGE
The Victoria Memorial is the largest urban park in Kolkata. It is a marble building and is built using the same Makrana marble which was used to construct the marble mausoleum. A building which carries the colonial history of India, Victoria Memorial was dedicated to Queen Victoria – Empress of India. The building consists of a museum and is surrounded with lush green gardens, it is a spellbound experience and captures the true essence of the Victorian era. Located within walking distance from the Park Street area, it is a perfect place worth spending your time.
WALK ACROSS THE HOWRAH BRIDGE
If you want to experience the views of the city skyline and feel the flowing river below, then a stroll on the Howrah Bridge is the perfect place. Being the centrepiece of Kolkata, the bridge has been a part of various movies and is one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world! Indeed, a lovely walk to escape the chaos.
PLAN A TRIP TO SUNDERBANS
An adventure awaits you in the mangrove forests, Sunderbans is the swampy heart of adventure filled with thrill and serenity. Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, Sundarbans comprises an enormous network of interconnected waterways. If you have a fascination for nature and wildlife then taking a trip to Sunderbans will embrace your Kolkata travel.
VISIT THE BEACHES
When we talk about beaches, there is a feeling of relaxation attached to it. In Kolkata, the charm of beaches enthrals your spirit. The sound of waves and golden sand add the hint of bliss to your travel. The coastline of Bengal is blessed with enchanting beaches. There are different beaches in Kolkata like Mandarmoni beach, Digha beach and Bakkhali beach which is situated on an island. These beaches are not crowded and are quiet.
FOOD
A JOURNEY TO BENGALI CUISINE
There is magic in Kolkata cuisine, you are in for a surprise when you get your hands-on Bengali cuisine. Right from the street food delicacies, to starters and main course followed by dessert, the city offers culinary treats.
THE TRADITIONAL MACHER JHOL (FISH CURRY)
This classic main course from Kolkata, Macher Jhol is the dish which is cooked in every household, it is that staple dish which defines the feel of Kolkata. This dish can be cooked in 50 different varieties, the paradise of fish – Kolkata gives you the best Macher Jhol.
A PLATE OF KOLKATA BIRYANI
There is no discussion that Kolkata Biryani is the best amongst the different types of biryani available in India. This aromatic biryani has accomplished loyalty from the foodies. This biryani is cooked with the aromatic Basmati rice, flavoured meat, egg and the little taste of sweetness makes it a satiating dish. Casting a spell on your tongue, the elegant flavours of Kolkata Biryani stay with you!
SPICY PUCHKAS FROM THE STREETS
In Kolkata, Puchkas are the patent evening snacks popularly known as golgappa and pani puri in other states, Puchkas from Kolkata is spicy and perfect for the fire-breathers. The crunchy stuffed snack is fulfilling and a must-try when in Kolkata. You can easily spot puchkas around the corner but for the best one, you should head to Vardaan Market or Salt Lake. Filled with tamarind water, spicy masala and mashed potatoes this dish has the perfect flavours and satisfies your taste buds completely.
YOUR TEA PARTNER – TELEBHAJA
Sipping several cups of tea with Telebhaja is a ritual for the evenings in Kolkata. This snack is an evergreen one, usually stuffed with potatoes, onions or eggplant. The crispy flavours of fried besan make it a perfect snack to binge on. When in Kolkata, even the foodies who don’t do oily food are left mesmerized with the smell of these fritters.
KATHI ROLLS FROM PARK STREET
From Nizam's to Zaika the Kathi Rolls at Park Street is the must-have when in Kolkata. These flavoursome rolls offer an extraordinary experience. Kathi Rolls are stuffed with sauces and wrapped in thin roti. The spicy flavours and tangy aftertaste are worth drooling for, throughout the city, you can find different variations of this dish.
AUTHENTIC ROSHOGOLLAS
A mouthful of sweetness – Roshogollas from Kolkata are the only point of visiting Kolkata. The authentic taste of this sweet dish waters your mouth. It is perfectly soft, juicy and all the hype around it is true. The heavenly taste of this dessert will add sweetness and joy to your travel.
THE STAPLE SONDESH
These little pieces of sweetness are churned from fresh milk and are the staple served in every Bengali household. This sweet dish comes in different variants, one of them being gur sandesh which is made from jaggery. The best thing about this dessert is that it melts directly in your mouth and is decorated with pistachios and saffron.