hidden places to visit in kolkata

THE 10 BEST Hidden Gem Attractions in Kolkata (Calcutta)

Best kolkata (calcutta) hidden gem attractions.

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• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Hidden Gems
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. South Park Street Cemetery

2. Marble Palace Kolkata

3. Tangra Chinatown

4. Town Hall

5. Tour de Sundarban

6. Calcutta Photo Tours

7. Calcutta Walks

8. Kolkata Trips

9. FunOnStreets

10. Calcutta City Guide Tour

11. India Beacons Sojourn

12. Sundarban Chalo - Unique Jungle Tour

13. Kolkata Food Walk

What travellers are saying

Top 13 Un Tourist Places In Kolkata For The Discerning Tourist

Kolkata, the capital city of the state of West Bengal, warrants no special introduction to tourists from across the globe. As a destination, there are a lot of tourist places in Kolkata that are especially talked about, famous and obviously commercialized.

In this piece, we decided not to chew the same gum and talk about great tourist places in Kolkata that are less talked about. For any tourist who wants to know and understand Kolkata at depth, these are a must in the bucket list.

Understanding The Common Tourist Places in Kolkata

The city has its own fair share of history and heritage. At the same time, the city has developed a lot like a modern-day metropolis. Architectural marvels, art galleries, and a very special, very warm cultural ambiance welcome you in the city.

If you plan to go on a shopping spree, you have more than enough options here. There are the lavish outlets and malls in South City, City Center, Forum or Quest area. For the budget options, the street markets in Gariahat or Hatibagan give you ample opportunities.

When you walk the roads in Kolkata, the hidden gems by the road can surprise you. From old buildings with ornate gate to theme parks- Kolkata offers a plethora of tourist spots.

West Bengal claims herself as “The Sweetest Part of India”. As a result, the sweetmeat shops spread across the capital will tempt you to come and relish the items. The festivals of the city have their own appeal too. Irrespective of religion, all the citizens take part and have a great time across the year. The nicknames- “The city of palaces” and “The city of Joy” describes the beauty and the spirit of the city perfectly.

The issue of too common, too seen, too hackneyed!

However, typical to the really famous travel destinations in the world, there comes a slight problem. When you come to Kolkata or search for tourist places in Kolkata, there are certain destinations that pop up.

The places like Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge or Maidan are quite symbolic with Kolkata and its visual representation in movies or tv shows set in the city backdrop. All of these destinations are quite well-known and tourist magnets.

While these points make up a vibrant side of the city, Kolkata is far more beyond the popular destinations. The city is the third-most populous metropolitan area in India, and the soul of the city lies with its residents.

If you wish to look into the heart of the city, you will need to go beyond the common points from tourist handbooks. A city of religious and cultural harmony, Kolkata can amaze you in every turn and twist of the road.

The Un Tourist Places in Kolkata, Holds the Key to Know the Real City of Joy

The city thrives not in the common destinations but in the untouched, un tourist places in Kolkata. Make no mistake, these parts are well-known to the inhabitants of the city. They flock here for years, even for generations in some places. When you want to feel the real vibe of the city, you will need to go to these places.

See for yourself how the city laughs and lives with the native flock full of joy and vitality.

If you love to know cities by its nerve, if you love to travel like locals, if you love to click pics of less clicked these are the places for you. So, if you have some time in the city and obviously the serious intent to know the city do not miss to visit these so-called un tourist places in Kolkata.

These are the places, where history unfolds, these are places where Kolkata lives and breathes. In short, these are places that make Kolkata what you know it for.

Here is our list of some un-tourist places which will make your Kolkata memory unforgettable.

# 1 khalasitola; The Heady cocktail 

A small watering hole that withstood the test of time, Khalasitola is a part of Kolkata and its heritage. It is associated with a long history of intellectuals, artists and literary legends of Bengal, even the world. The place dates back to the early nineteenth century.

At that time, the “Khalasi” or dockyard workers used to frequently visit the bar. In 1918, it was re-initiated by an engineer, Mohito Saha. The place is still run by his family, keeping true to the tradition. The popular poison here was country liquor, and the place still serves them.

Why is this Place Famous?

Artists and legends like Ritwik Ghatak, Sunil Ganguly, Kamal Majumdar, and other Bengali artists used to hang in this place often. During the sixties, there was a rise in the Hungryalists movement in literature. The poets arranged reading sessions and distributed bulletin here.

Khalasitola has a history and legacy, which transcends the brand of a wine shop. When you reach the place, the unique ambiance will strike you.

After your eye gets adjusted with the squeaking chair and caged counters, you can see the efficiency and discipline of the place. Queues at the counters, neat and distinct service of food items to try, management and removal of chaos-makers, the place offers it all with a touch of legacy.

The place is at an old and central part of Kolkata, by the Maidan. The exact location is the intersection of Rafi Ahmed Kidwai-S.N. Bannerjee Road opposite the Lotus cinema bus stop. Take a bus or tram from the Esplanade area through the Maidan, and walk the rest of the way.

#2 Territy Bazar; Mini China in Kolkata 

The city welcomes and hosts people from all across the world. Irrespective of country of origin and language, they have settled here and were integrated into urban life. Still, they retained their own culture without any trouble. Territy Bazar is a prime example of that inclusivity.

Why Special?

Kolkata’s very own little “China Town” is a hidden gem in terms of cultural assimilation and a heaven for those who crave oriental breakfast. The Chinese had settled here from the late eighteenth century.

Since then, they have played a significant role in  Kolkata’s culinary journey. When you walk in the area for the first time, you have to walk through a busy market area, just like other parts of Kolkata. Then the slow transformation begins, with a change in building styles and the assortment of breakfast options.

The place runs 7 days a week, from 6:00 a.m to 7:30 a.m. But on Sundays, you will find more food varieties and more stock.

Through the bustle of the market, walk in here and find the Chinese people ready with their breakfast choices of fishball, soup, momo and Maggi. Here, you can find soups with both pork and fish, with sauce and other condiments.

The peeping hot preparations do not burn a hole in your pocket also. To reach the place, walk towards Poddar court from the central metro station.

On your left, you will find a small mosque. The wide lane by it organizes this magnificent breakfast fest.

This is surely one of the must-visit tourist places in Kolkata for the discerning traveler.

# 3 Chor Bazaar

If you wake up with a small tug in your belly to trade lightly on the other side of the law, or yearn for some value-for-money shopping, Chor Bazaar can be a unique experience. It can also pull you in with an array of antiques and other rare/unique commodities.

As the name suggests, the place primarily started as a market for stolen goods.

Since the old days, it has expanded and you can now find A to Z items here, at a throwaway price. Here lies the catch though, some of the items can really be stolen, where some are second-hand.

Unless you are really aware, you can end up with duplicate or defective items. Still, shopping at chor bazaar could be quite an enthralling experience. The Chandni market region in Kolkata is the most famous Chor Bazaar in Kolkata, which has flourished like a paradise of electrical and electronic gadgets.

What you get here?

The maze of lanes are lined with shops, and they offer various electronic goods and gadgets, from headphones to the latest smartphones.

For a first-timer, it can be quite mind-boggling with the calling from the shops, the price, and the items spread without much care.

You will find CCTV cameras, phones, phone covers, speakers, the latest LED TVs, all being sold in shops on pavements, or in big malls at a price that competes with the largest e-commerce platforms.

Another attraction here is the junkyard sale section, which is the ultimate example of recycling. Here the discarded electronics are dismantled, and the extracted parts are sold at a throwaway price.

If you wish to revive some ancient model of TV or PC you are attached with, and can not find the parts anywhere, come here before giving up hope. If you are lucky, when you are roaming the streets, you can stumble upon a jail-broken iPhone set at one-tenth of the price.

However, do not blame us if you find it to be an android running on Apple hardware.

Also, barring the big shops and malls, forget about anything called a warranty in here for the cheap goods. To reach the place, take any bus that goes to Chandni region, or take a metro to Chandni. You will have to walk the rest of the way for the shopping experience.

# 4 Dacres Lane; The  ‘Delicious’ Walk

The ultimate and oldest food street of Kolkata, Dacres Lane or James Hickey Sarani serves history with its excellent food. The tale of the lane goes back to the colonial days. The dishes in the old food joints, like the unique chicken stew and loaves, still keep to that trend and quality without changing a bit.

What is Special Here?

Take a walk through the lane to see shops overflowing with office-going loyal customers. The small shops offer a quick service of fresh tasty food with a smile. The lane is located in the heart of the city and office-para of BBD Bagh region. As a result, the dainty tables are never empty and no food is wasted.

Bengali, Chinese, Tandoor, Toast, Khichdi-papad or Lassi- you can find all types of food and cuisine here throughout the day. The legendary shops like Chitto Babur Dokan, Apanjan, Hindu Hotel etc stay full to the brim during the lunch hours.

When the lights start to dim in the evening hours, the lights are lit in the local classic bars, for another set of frequent customers.

The famous chef Gordon Ramsey was wonderstruck when he visited the place for an episode of ‘Gordon’s Great Escape’. The place is exactly at the Esplanade more near the KC Das crossing, opposite Tipu Sultan Mosque.

From the KC DAS shop, walk towards Babughat. Take a right turn after a few meters, as your nose will guide you to this heaven for foodies.

# 5 Maidan Tent

Maidan, Or “Garer Math” which actually means a large open field, is a vast urban outdoor park in Kolkata, and its largest too. From Raj Bhawan in the north to the National Library in the south, this stretch of greenery acts as the lungs of the city.

The Maidan is a popular area for outdoor sports like Hockey, horse race,  football, and cricket. International stadium like the Eden Gardens, various football club tents, Victoria Memorials, Kolkata racecourse, and Royal Kolkata Golf club, there are numerous landmarks spread across here.

The whole maidan area is under the direct control of the Indian Army. It has strategic importance too with the mighty Fort Williams. With the various clubs and sports associations, the need is there for delicious and healthy food.

The century-old club canteens serve the need perfectly, and the common people can try those out too. If you are lucky, you can get a glimpse of the local sports stars too, after their practice session.

The Calcutta Referee Association Club Canteen’s vegetable stew with soya chunks, carrots, papayas, onions and a piece of potato is to die for. In Central Excise Tent, the delicious, tender mutton stew small mutton pieces can offer you the ultimate foodgasm at a pocket pinch. Deepak Ghosh’s Stall is famous for the vegetable stew to the officegoers and maidan people.

If you visit Maidan on a cold winter morning, the breakfast in the Maidan tents is a must.

# 6 Sonagachi; Largest and Oldest Red Light Area in India 

For the adult explorer, the Kolkata visit is incomplete without a glimpse of Sonagachi. The place is Kolkata’s biggest and one of the largest red-light areas of India. Sonagachi is located in North Kolkata near the intersection of Chittaranjan Avenue and Shobhabazar with Beadon Street.

To reach the place, Sovabazar Metro is the easiest option.

Why So Special?

The history of this place goes back to the colonial days. It was started by the British East India Company, to fulfill the needs of British soldiers who left their partners back home. The company used to bring local women, widows and sex workers from across the state here.

According to the legends and lore, the place was owned by Prince Dwarkanath Tagore, one of the earliest and wealthiest merchants in India.

The brothel business that started back in the day is still in full motion. The lanes stretch in every direction with houses, shops catering to the needs of sex workers and their customers.

In present times, the social and economic condition of the region has improved a lot with unionization and proper medication drives like the Gates Foundation’s HIV/AIDS prevention program Avahan.

Still, those who wish to partake in the pleasures of the place, are advised to use proper protection and settle the fees beforehand to avoid any trouble.

# 7 College Street and Coffee House; ‘The Great Indian’ Coffee House 

Literature, education, culture, and books are deeply intertwined in the history of Kolkata. The college street area is the ultimate proof of this, with the special and unique charm of the city. The place is famous as ‘Boi-para’ or Book-zone locally.

It is one of the most important gathering centers of the literary crowd with colleges and universities scattered across the whole street. College street is the largest second-hand book market in the world and the largest book market in India.

Even at the age of digital books and shopping in e-commerce sites, book shopping in college street is the best it can get.

The big and small bookstores, selling points of the publishing houses that make up the street houses many rare books which can be found nowhere else in the world. The sellers can offer a hefty amount of discount on popular books too, throughout the year.

The University of Calcutta, Presidency University, and Calcutta Medical College are the jewels in here. While the alumni gather to their institutions for reminiscing memories, the most popular place of gathering is the coffee house.

Coffee House

The Indian Coffee house is deeply rooted in contemporary Bengal culture, music and lore. The Coffee Board started a coffee joint in 1942 in the heart of College Street. Since the inception, students and intellectuals alike gathered in here.

Cheap and unique infusion coffee, good side dishes were always the major attraction.

Besides, you can spend long hours here debating with your friends or the unknown individual from the next table over political or philosophical ideologies, without being asked to leave. The place has been immortalized in a song by the famous singer Manna Dey.

The India Coffee house is a part of the cultural nostalgia of Bengal. The place has a huge rush throughout the day.

If you are visiting the place in the evening, it will be hard for you to get a seat. The place is quite easy to find though. You may take any bus from the Sealdah station or Esplanade to reach the place.

The nearest metro station is Central. Walk along College Street and bargain over books. When you reach the heart of the street, look across the road from the well-lit Presidency University. Cross the road, and follow a narrow stair to feast your eyes and also the stomach in the ambiance of Indian Coffee House.

# 8 Mallick Ghat Flower Market; Largest Flower Market in Asia 

There are numerous temples and houses across Kolkata where daily worship of the Gods takes place. A huge part of the flowers needed for this is sold and shipped from Mallick Ghat Flower Market. The place is located under the famous Howrah Bridge.

The markets wake up at the crack of the dawn, and fully functional from 5 a.m. The place is known as the biggest flower market in not only India but the whole of Asia. It was built by Ram Mohun Mallick in 1855. To see a large spread of various bright colored flowers with the first ray of sun is a visual treat itself.

To reach the place, take a bus from Sealdah station to here. You can walk in the market if you are coming from Howrah station. The nearest metro station in M G road.

# 9 Barabazar; The Real ‘Bada’ Bazaar of Colonial India 

Back when Kolkata used to be the financial capital of the country, the Barabazar market flourished. Foreign goods and wholesale markets, these two were the primary selling points of the place, whose name literally means a big market.

What Sets it Apart?

Even in its diminished state, Barabazar is the ultimate paradise for a shopaholic. It is still the largest wholesale market in the country. In the British era, the place started as a yarn and textile market.

The merchants who did business here with the British East India company became millionaires overnight.

Everything under the sun was sold here, from English broadcloth, cashmere silk or ivory from Srilanka. Even after suffering a number of calamities and fires, the market in Barabazar is still going strong.

When you visit Barabazar, you will find that the place is divided into specialized areas like Dhotipatti, Fancypatti, Tulapatti, Chinipatti etc, and further divided into Katras.

The specified divisions deal with specific goods. From clothes to ornaments, everything is sold here in wholesale and retail. There is a huge crowd throughout the year.

During the festival times, the costumes and dress for idols, Puja items, designer earthen lamps, ladoos, and other items, gift items and other novelties are also sold.

For festival dress shopping in a budget, the whole city flocks to the streets of Barabazar at that time. The place lies in between two major stations, Howrah and Sealdah. You can take a bus from either of the places to reach here. The nearest metro station is Central.

Do try the street food here, when you take a break from your shopping spree.

# 10 Rabindra Sarovar Lake

An oasis of greenery in the southern part of Kolkata, Rabindra Sarobar is an artificial lake. The place was previously known as Dhakuria Lake. It was renamed to honor the son of the city, the great Nobel laureate poet Rabindranath Tagor.

Why Special Tourist Place in Kolkata?

The only Japanese Buddhist temple in Kolkata is located on the southern fringe of the Rabindra Sarovar. The place acts as a pollution remover and carbon sink for the whole south Kolkata. It is a famous morning and evening walk spot throughout the year.

In winter, many migratory birds come and spend for a few weeks to a month in the pristine lake water as a pit stop. You can take a gander in the lake and the surrounding area at any time of the year.

There is no entry fee, and thus family and friends often gather here for a short recess or picnic. Enjoy the scenic beauty in the well-maintained garden, or visit the only Japanese Buddhist temple of Kolkata on the southern fringe of the Rabindra Sarovar.

You can get down in the Tollygunge rail station or Rabindra Sarovar Metro Station to reach the place. Early morning or late evening is the best time to see the place. You can see the rowing boats or flock of a goose floating lazily in the calm water of the lake.

# 11 Princep Ghat

One of the classic Kolkata structure, which is well-known to the locals and often ignored by the tourists, Princep Ghat is one of the major points in our list. It is a beautiful ghat, that stands tall and proud, from the surrounding dull neighbors.

It is situated between the Water Gate and St. George’s Gate of Fort William beside the Hooghly River.

The white monument is one of the finest pieces of British Architecture in Kolkata. With the turn of the river, it is now a bit away from it. Still, the sweet river breeze touches your cheek softly when you reach the place. The best time to see it is in the late afternoon.

After the sun sets, the mellow and subtle lights turn on which transforms the whole place in a fairyland.

The place was built in memory of James Princep, in 1843. He was an English scholar who founded the Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal. He also deciphered the Kharosthi and Brahmi scripts of ancient India.

The Palladian style monument was designed by W. Fitzgerald. It is a favorite place for city couples and poets. A number of social and cultural events also take place across the popular monument from time to time.

The Metro station for Princep Ghat is Esplanade. From the opposite of Oberoi Grand, you can board a minibus to reach the place in five minutes. The landmark is Netaji Indoor Stadium. You could also walk down from Oberoi Grand to All India Radio, then take a left turn by the stadium to reach here.

# 12 Indian Botanical Garden

Even with all its glory, the roads and rush of a metropolitan city like Kolkata can feel a bit tiring from time to time. Your ears deserve a rest from all the cacophony, and the lungs can soak in the fresh river breeze in the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanical Garden near the city.

Botanical Garden is actually across the river from Kolkata, located in Shibpur in the twin city of Kolkata, i.e. Howrah. The verdure paradise is spread over 109 hectares and it has a collection of over 12,000 species of plants and trees from across the world. The origin of the garden dates back to 1787, by Robert Kyd, an officer of the East India Company.

Why a must-go tourist place in Kolkata?

Botanical Garden place housed commercial plants, spices, etc. back then. It also played a very important part of introducing tea plantation in India from China.  Even after facing a few years of negligence, the place now is well-maintained and boasts an amazing collection. The most famous one attraction this garden is the Banyan tree, which is known as the biggest one and the second largest canopy in the world.

The prop roots are so thick that you cannot find the main trunk and it looks like a mini-forest.  Among other exotic collections, there is a rare water lily,  Victoria Amazonica . The leaves are so big that it can hold a child easily while floating on the water. It is also a home of a number of resident and migratory birds, as well as butterflies.

Visit the place in the early morning for a morning stroll, or take your time and spend the whole day in here.  The sculptures here even are blended with green, and they can remind you of the Goddess of Life, Te Fiti from Moana. In recent times, there was another unique development with the changing climate.

The river salinity rose, and Mangrove returned to Kolkata naturally after centuries in the Hooghly River in here, with a Mangrove project for more than one-kilometer stretch. The place is open from sunrise to sunset and closed on public holidays. To go to the place, reach Howrah station from your location. You can find a number of buses starting from there to Indian Botanical Garden easily.

# 13 Behala Flying Club

Kolkata has a very good aerial connectivity with the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, but it has a lesser-known civil counterpart in the Behala region. The Behala Flying Club or BFC has a very bright future ahead as the Airports Authority of India is planning to convert to a fully functional airport soon.

The place, located at the southern fringe of Kolkata, also has a functional flying training institute.  If you wish to experience the bird’s-eye view of the city, take an early morning ride to the place in the cab, or come from the nearest metro stations i.e. Kalighat/ Rabindra Sarovar. Under private operators, Behala Flying Club offers helicopter ride over the city.

The joyride takes place on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday at 4 p.m. and 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday at 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. at a cost of INR 1700 per person. There are other special rides organized from this place also, like Malda and Gangasagar. Also, if you wish to see the Bay of Bengal from the city within an hour, there is the most popular ride to Digha.

The romantic joyride costs INR 2000 per person one way, and the flights are on Saturday generally. To see the sea as well as the aerial city view, you may have to plan and book in advance.

Concluding Thoughts; Tourist and Un Tourist Places in Kolkata

Here we tried to present not so common tourist places in Kolkata, which never got the celebrity value from the tourist. However, these are the places make the city of joy what it is today. So, if you feel you want to see kolkata and touch the soul to understand in its totality, these are the places you should never miss.

We hope with time and with increasing interest to travel like locals, these unknown, uncelebrated places of Kolkata will gain its due importance among the travelers across the world.

If you feel we are missing out on something, or if you feel like contributing to making it much bigger and detailed work on such un tourist places in Kolkata, feel free to let us know. We would love to integrate your piece with due credit in this very article.

You may like to know about the short distance tours from Kolkata too.

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Unusual Things to Do in Kolkata

If you’re looking for something a little different on your next trip to the City of Joy, here’s our list of the top 10 unusual things to do.

1. south park street cemetery.

Cemetery, Park

Amitabh Bachchan Temple

If you are a Bollywood fan, head to Kolkata’s temple dedicated to acting legend Amitabh Bachchan who is worshipped here. Visitors can see a pair of shoes worn by Bachchan in his film, Agneepath (1990), along with his portrait and montages of stills from his pictures.

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3. Grab Breakfast in Chinatown

Grab breakfast in chinatown.

Kolkata’s historic Chinatown – the only one in India – is not to be missed. Known as Teretti Bazaar, this is one of the few places in the country where you can experience the rich cultural legacy of the Chinese-Indian community. While you’re there, grab a hearty street breakfast of momos (dumplings), sausuages or rolls to set you up for a day’s sightseeing. Tangra, Tiretti

View this post on Instagram A Chinese shopkeeper serving momos on the streets of Territy Bazar . . . . . . . . . . . . . #instagram #instamood #instapic #instalike #instaupload #instadaily #likesforlikes #traveller #travel #followforfollow #indiapictures #INDIA_CLICKS #indianphotographer #india_gram #storiesofindia #indianstories #dslrofficial #streetphotographyindia #ig_india #_soi #desi_diaries #mypixeldiary #india #incredibleindia #_coi A post shared by Apurb Singh (@naa_layak) on Oct 24, 2016 at 11:50pm PDT

Ride the Kolkata Tram

Kolkata is the only city in India where you can ride an electric tram through the streets. Introduced in 1902, the city’s tram network is the oldest one in Asia.

4. Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth

Market, Church, Market

Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth

The Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth opened its doors to worshippers in 1724. The church is a legacy of Kolkata’s once flourishing Armenian community. One of the oldest surviving churches in Kolkata, the Church of the Holy Nazareth was built to replace the original Armenian church built in 1688 that was destroyed by fire.

2, Armenian St, Bortola, Barabazar Market, Kolkata

View this post on Instagram This Christmas season I had the wonderful opportunity to celebrate Christmas twice. Once on 25th December and today that is 6th of January. Today the Armenians celebrate Christmas. This day is also very important for the Christians as its "Epiphany", the day of revelation of Jesus being God's son. #Christmas #Armenian #Kolkata #BeautifulBengal #ArmenianChristmas #Epiphany #MyIndiaCNN A post shared by Subhadip Mukherjee (@subhadipindia) on Jan 6, 2016 at 9:52am PST

5. Nam Soon Church

Church, School

Nam Soon Church

The Nam Soon Church in Damzen Lane is the oldest temple used by Kolkata’s Chinese Indian population.With its unique architecture and historical and cultural significance, this religious site is well worth a visit.

Tiretti, Kolkata

View this post on Instagram Old Chinatown in Calcutta. Nam Soon Church in Damzen Lane. #namsoonchurch #chinatown #calcutta #tirettibazar #oldchinatown #calcuttadiaries #calcuttahistory #travel #traveldiaries A post shared by Sayani Sarkar (@sayaniblue) on Oct 23, 2015 at 3:22am PDT

6. The Birla Planetarium

The birla planetarium.

Kolkata isn’t just about history, culture and the arts – there’s plenty on offer for those interested in science too. Opened in 1963, the Birla Planetarium is the second largest planetarium in the world and the largest in Asia. It houses more than 100 astronomical projects on astronomy and astrophysics and has capacity for almost 700 people.

Cathedral Rd, Kolkata

http://instagram.com/p/BOkabMthIf5/

7. Kumortuli

The narrow lanes of Kolkata’s potters’ colony, Kumortoli, are lined with stores where you can watch artists working on sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses. A stroll around this creative area is one of the city’s most scenic walks. Kumortuli, Kolkata http://instagram.com/p/BP2UtEBhUGc/

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35 Unique Things to Do in Kolkata (2024) – Your Ultimate Kolkata Travel Guide

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories INDIA , KOLKATA

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Are you looking for all the amazing and unique things to do in Kolkata? I was in your shoes before I went.  

There seems to be so much to do in this Mega City, it’s hard to get your bearings and you can get totally lost in these city streets and struggle to find the highlights!  

Kolkata is the old capital of the British Raj and has the third biggest population of any city in India.  

So expect big crowds, roaring traffic, grandeur colonial architecture and a labyrinth of bazaars with the holy Hooghly river connecting it all.  

I hadn’t heard or read great things about Kolkata to be honest. I knew there was poverty and from what I heard it was chaotic and dirty. But, I’m never one to judge a place before I have been myself.  

So I jumped headfirst into the fray.

The result? I absolutely fell in LOVE with this amazing city and already want to return.  

So, in this ultimate Kolkata travel guide, I am going to not only be going through the absolute best things you can do in this city.  

But also I’ll be covering how to get around, where to stay, top foodie places, important travel tips and some itinerary suggestions too!  

A brief history of Kolkata in West Bengal  

I think to really understand the mix of colonial architecture and culture here in Kolkata, you have to know the history of the city and its humble beginnings.  

That way, a lot of what you’re seeing will make more sense and you can understand why the city is a melting pot of cultures!

Kolkata used to be known as Calcutta and was a city that was originally developed by the British East India Company in the 17th century.  

During this time it was the centre for English trade in India and the British controlled many major villages in the regions of Calcutta.

Most of the officers were stationed at Fort William in the biggest village which had a presidency.

Later, it was established as a city and it became the capital of British India from 1711 controlled by the British East India Company.  

Then, eventually, it became the capital of the British Raj from 1858 after British Crown rule was established.

At this time, all of India became part of the British Empire. In 1911, the capital of the British Raj switched over to Delhi on the orders of King George V, so Calcutta changed to the capital of all Bengal.  

After the Indian Independence, in 1947, Kolkata remained the capital of West Bengal and still is the capital of the state to this day.  

Today, the vibrant city of Kolkata has over 4.4 million residents and that’s a whopping 24,000 people per square kilometre making it one of the most densely populated cities in India and the world. It’s also classed as a Mega City as it stretches out over 205 square kilometres (79 square miles).

What is the best time to visit Kolkata?

The best time to visit Kolkata is hands down in the winter season from around October – March.

Here is when it will not be as humid from monsoon or hot from summer;

July – September: Monsoon season. Although I visited in early October, the monsoon seemed to run a little later this year. So, it was on and off heavy rains on my visit, and the city suffered floods.

The drainage system here cannot handle all the water so you’ll be wading in polluted water sometimes. Not fun.  

October – March: Wintertime. Probably the best time to be here as the temperatures won’t be as hot and you’ll get the most sunshine! Plus, you may visit for festivals and holidays like Kali Puja and Diwali!  

April – June: Summers are brutal in India, I used to live in Delhi so I know the heat and have been really sick from it too. Many cities face temperatures up to the late 40s up to the 50 degrees Celsius mark.

As you’re by the sea the breeze may be a reprieve. But, during these times, I highly suggest air-conditioned cabs, staying hydrated all day with water and electrolytes, sticking to shaded areas etc.

Don’t take risks, sunstroke is not a great travel buddy.

How long do I need to visit Kolkata?  

It’s a HUGE city and there are so many things to do in Kolkata you’ll be spoiled for choice. I originally had planned 3 days for my visit.

But as I loved the city so much and wanted to explore it even further, I instantly extended my stay by two more days.  

I would suggest a minimum of 3 days to explore Kolkata.

This means you’ll have enough time to do everything you want at a comfortable pace. Any less time and I think you’ll try and shove too much in.

I would personally split your travel itinerary up by certain areas and aim to hit a couple of sites per day.  

My go-to strategy is to pin everything I want to look at on Google Maps. Then I look at ‘groups’ of those pins and aim to hit those sections so I’m not flying around all areas of the city. This makes the best use of your time.  

The next step, look at opening times for attractions (I include most of them below). These will be your main restrictions.

See what those are and then plan anything that doesn’t have an opening time before/after those.  

This itinerary has a Google Map I’ve made for you below with pins for all the things to do on this list. You can steal this and use it to plan your trip and itinerary!  

Tours of Kolkata  

When I landed in Kolkata, I had heard that the West Bengal Government-run guided tours of the city for a cheap fee. But, when I enquired at the desk, they weren’t running due to Durga Puja.  

If you would rather enquire for yourself you can do so here. It’s a bus tour that will take you around the main sites.

Failing that, there are plenty of tours you can book for Kolkata online if you wanted to do a half-day tour, day tour, food tour, or temple tour.

Click here and book the below Kolkata tours;

• Full day city tour with lunch
• Complete day tour

Is Kokata safe?  

100% YES, if you use caution and common sense like you would in any city.  

I know that a lot of people panic when they visit India as they think that it’s really dangerous, dirty and you’re going to be attacked on every street corner.

But, having visited 22 of 29 states in India most of them by myself as a solo female traveller, it really is just about being wary and keeping your wits about you.  

I’ve had my fair share of scams, stresses, and scares, but nothing too major. The hospitality in India is out of this world and people are really friendly.  

Don’t go out late at night alone, don’t ask men for directions and follow them down a dark alleyway, don’t tell strangers where you’re staying, wear clothes that respect the culture, learn about customs and traditions and what not to do.  

Drinking isn’t really condoned so if someone offers, be cautious.

Drugs aren’t really common either apart from Bhang Lassi (religious cannabis) which I do not recommend drinking alone.

From my years of personal experience in India now, Indian men don’t need a lot to be encouraged. A smile or a friendly face can do it.

So, make your feelings plain and stand your ground. Don’t be afraid to say NO or refuse to give out your phone number or social media details if you don’t feel comfortable doing so.    

I know you can’t avoid everyone and everything and meeting locals is one of my favourite parts of travel. I’ve made lifelong friendships in India from being open.  

Just always keep your wits and be on your guard is all. Keep these numbers handy just in case;

• 24 hours tourist help line in 12 languages: 1800-11-1363
• Womens helpline: 1091
• Police: 100

35 unique things to do in Kolkata  

So, let’s start this EPIC list of all the amazing things to do in Kolkata!

I’ve tried to group them into certain sections so you can easily organise your itinerary.

It includes colonial sites, cultural attractions, foodie things, shopping streets, market bazaars, and even things to do in Kolkata at night.   So, there is definitely something on this list for everyone!

Colonial things to do in Kolkata

1. visit victoria memorial.

This is truly the jewel in the crown of Kolkata attractions and this marble building is a marvel of colonial architecture.

The Victoria Memorial was commissioned after Queen Victoria’s death in 1901, but wasn’t opened to the public until twenty years later in 1921.  

It’s a huge domed building made from Makrana marble and massive quarries were made in Rajasthan to procure it.  

There are two parts to this attraction, the gardens which surround it and the Gallery Museum inside.  

The gardens open at sunrise and are a gorgeous way to spend a morning. You can take some of the many walking routes and admire the memorial from the reflection lagoon.

Or, you can enter the museum from 10 am that has 26 galleries and over 30,000 items in its exhibits.  

Better yet, come back in the evening to watch a light and sound show on the grounds.

Did you know that the Victoria Memorial was painted black during World War II and was funded by Indian royalty?

The gardens open from 5.30 am-5 pm. The museum is open from 10 is – 5 pm. The light and sound show start from around 6 pm, more info here. Completely closed on Mondays.

Click here to read more amazing facts about the Victoria Memorial !

2.   Step inside St John’s Church

St John’s Church was the very first public building that was erected by the British East India Company in 1787.  

The lands were kindly donated by Maharaja Bahadur and the funding for its construction was raised by a public lottery!  

The architect was James Agg who based it on St-Martin-in-the-fields in London.  

At the time, the stone was a very rare material in India, and the ones they used to build the church were actually stolen from the ancient city of Gour (Gauda)! They were then shipped down the Hooghly River.  

In the graveyard, you can see tombs of some notable people in the city such as Job Charnock.

He is often seen as the founding father of Kolkata! He was one of the first administrators of the British East India Company who landed here in 1690.

He tragically died two years later but his tireless work united villages here that eventually became the Indian trading post for the English.

Also on the grounds, you can see a memorial dedicated to the ‘smothered’ of The Black Hole of Calcutta.

A tragic incident where over 100 British officers were kept in a small cell and only 20 survived (more below).  

Inside the church are some beautiful stained glass windows, a pulpit, and architecture! While we were here it was being renovated but it was still incredible to see.  

There is also a small museum that houses old artifacts from members of the British East India Company.  

Warren Hastings’s original chair is kept here, he was the first English governor of the presidency at Fort William and laid the foundation stone of this church.

St. John’s Church is FREE to visit but donations are always appreciated. Opening times are 8 am – 5 pm Monday to Saturday. 10am – 4pm Sundays.

3. Admire the Writer’s Building

The Writers Building was constructed in 1777 and was the principal administrative office for writers of the British East India Company.  

Over time since Thomas Lyon designed it, the building has undergone many improvements and extensions and is now 150 metres long with 13 blocks!

It was home to the Fort William college and during the British Raj it served as the building for writers of the secretariat.  

One of the most notable events that happened in this building was when Lieutenant Colonel NS Simpson, the Inspector General of Prisons, was assassinated.  

Simpson was infamous for his harsh treatment of Indian Prisoners. So three Bengali freedom fighters infiltrated the building dressed as Westerners and shot him.

The busy area of BBD Bagh is named after them. Nowadays it is the home of the State Government of West Bengal.  

Although you cannot go inside, it is still a marvel to look at from the outside!

4. Enter St Paul’s Cathedral

Due to the growing numbers of British and European citizens in Kolkata, St John’s Church was getting far too small to cater to those wanting to worship.  

So, the city decided to build a brand new church that could cater to the masses. The founding stone of the church was laid in 1839 and the Gothic building was completed in 1847.  

It is regarded as an architectural wonder and the very first Episcopal Church of the Eastern world. It’s 247 feet in long and 81 feet wide, so it’s mesmerising to take in.

As well as the outside looking pretty. If you pop inside the church, you’ll be in for a treat.  

Inside there are multiple memorial statues, a beautiful nave with stained glass windows, and a bell from the old bell tower.  

I loved sitting under the cooling fans in here for a while, it was so peaceful.

As it’s the diocese of Kolkata, you can see all the notable seats with coats of arms inside.  

Fun fact: There is a legend that the first Bishop Wilson is buried somewhere beneath the church in a vault. But, to this day no one has found any evidence of it.  

St Paul’s Cathedral is FREE to visit but donations are accepted. Open daily from 10 am – 6 pm. No photos are allowed inside.

5. Look around the Indian Museum

The Indian Museum was opened in 1814 by the Asiatic Society, making it the oldest museum in all of India.

It’s set inside a wonderful colonial building that has two floors, six sections, and 35 galleries full of historic, rare, and unusual artifacts.

You can take in some antiquities sourced from Egypt, or look at prehistoric ruins and fossils on display, admire old coins or visit the art gallery.  

It was really interesting at first, but after around an hour, I got a little bored.

Some of the exhibits are dated and I saw a lot of similar stuff in the British Museum back home.  

But I have to admit it was a great place to come with the rain pouring down, so I didn’t mind the distraction!

There is no air conditioning (just fans) so it gets really hot and sticky inside. Just letting you know now.  

Tickets for Indian nationals tickets are 50 rupees, for foreigners it’s 500 rupees! You will also need to buy a photo pass for photography.

The Indian Museum is open from 10 am-6.30 pm Tuesday – Friday and 10 am – 8 pm Saturdays and Sundays. It’s closed on Mondays and public holidays. See here for more.

6. Visit the infamous Fort William at Maidan Park

I’ve mentioned Fort William a lot in this post. That’s because this place was really the beginnings of the city as we know it today.  

Job Charnock arrived on the shores of Calcutta in 1690 and in just two years he united three villages in the area. After that, Fort William was born in 1696 by the East India Company.  

It was named after King William III and took ten years to complete. It then became the seat of the presidency of Bengal in British India.  

This was the original Fort William or the ‘Old Fort William’ as it is now known.

Unfortunately, it was partially destroyed when the Nawab of Bengal temporarily sacked the city and committed the ‘Black Hole of Calcutta’.

A second Fort William was then built by the British in Maidan in 1758 and it’s now occupied by the Indian Army.  

The Old Fort was eventually restored and used as a customs house. This is now where the General Post Office (GPO) stands.

Although you cannot go inside Fort William you can walk around and see it on the grounds at Maidan Park.  

It’s a huge green space that also has the Victoria Memorial, Dalhousie Barrack, the Command Museum, and The Water Gate.

7. Take a look in the GPO (General Post Office)

If you want to see where the Old Fort William stood, you only need to visit the GPO or General Post Office which is a gorgeous piece of architecture in itself.  

On the steps outside of the GPO you can see brass lines that lead down. This marks the boundaries of the first Fort William and is the only piece that remains.  

A sign on the wall outside of the GPO marks the alley of the site of the guardhouse.

This held the dungeon where the infamous Black Hole of Calcutta happened. Although it does mark a grisly past, the GPO itself is a marvel.

This huge domed building with giant columns was designed by Walter B. Grenville in 1864. Inside you can visit the GPO Postal Museum that has original stamps and postal memorabilia from the time!

The museum is FREE, non-flash photography is allowed and it’s open from 11 am – 4 pm every day

8. Go palace and mansion hopping

Did you know that there are hundreds of old mansions and palaces dotted around Kolkata? Most of these have been repurposed into government buildings but some are completely abandoned!  

They’re often known as the Forgotten Palaces of Calcutta and a whole book was written about them by Joanne Taylor. My tour guide in Kolkata was a historian who contributed to this book!

Most of the mansions were built by members of the British East India Company or wealthy businessmen.  

Although there are many dotted around the city which is crumbling and serve merely as facades, they give you an idea of the grandeur of the time.  

One of the best-preserved of these mansions that you can actually visit today is the Marble Palace.

This neoclassical building was constructed in the 19th century by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a wealthy Bengali businessman. It is filled with amazing statues and paintings. It’s well worth checking out.  

The Marble Palace opens at 10 am and closes at 3 pm but is closed on Mondays and Thursdays. It’s completely FREE to visit!

9. Visit India’s oldest high court

The Calcutta High Court claims the title of India’s oldest high court and was built on permission by Queen Victoria in 1862.  

But this incredible red and white Neo-Gothic building was built ten years later in 1872. Although the city is no longer called Calcutta, the Calcutta High court still retains the original name.

Today, this High Court makes a striking impression on the strip and has a long line of Chief Justices.

Its remit covers the whole West Bengal area, Port Blair in the Andaman Islands, and Jalpaiguri too!  

You cannot go inside the High Court Building. But, it’s a nice photo opportunity.

10. Metcalfe Hall

Finally, our last colonial building in this list takes us to Metcalfe Hall which can be found on Strand Road.  

It’s built in the British Imperial Style with elements of the Neoclassical from the Corinthian pillars at the entrance.  

A fun fact about this museum is that it used to be the Calcutta Public Library! Lord Metcalf, the then Governor-General, transferred over 4,600 books from Fort William College.

Today, this museum is a little bit of a hidden secret and so that’s why you HAVE to go.

You can visit the hall and see its various exhibitions including rare artifacts donated by the Asiatic Society.

There are antique hand-drawn rickshaws, old boats, and galleries that celebrate the life of the people in the city.

Entry is FREE. The Metcalfe Hall is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm, and is closed on Mondays. 

Cultural things to do in Kolkata

11. visit kalighat temple – shakti peetha.

Kalighat Temple is one of the most famous temples in Kolkata and is dedicated to the blood-thirsty warrior goddess Kali.  

It’s also famous due to the fact it is home to a Shakti Peetha. If you’re not aware of what Shakti Peethas are, I’ll give you a short overview.

In the ancient texts, it reads that Lord Shiva’s wife Shakti died. Shiva was so upset and enraged he carried Shakti’s body with him everywhere he went, mourning her and performing his dance of destruction.  

Eventually, he was causing so much chaos, Lord Vishnu cut Shakti’s body up into 51 pieces and they fell all over India.  

Where each of these pieces fell, a temple is set up as a place of worship. Kalighat Temple is where Shakti’s right toe fell.

Many people come on a pilgrimage to Kolkata to visit this temple. You can find thousands of people every single day. Even more around festival times.  

Queues can take hours so Brahmin’s (higher caste priests) usually charge a ‘VIP’ fee for tourists. Although it sounds like a tourist trap, many locals do this to skip long queues.  

We felt like the 300 rupees was a good deal. It saved so much time and it included an offering, entering the temple, being blessed, and receiving our red-yellow thread or Kautuka. I still wear mine now!

Although photos are not allowed inside the temple of the idol, I saw this mural painted outside which gives you an idea of what it looks like.  

Kalighat Temple is FREE (although I do recommend the VIP fee), open dawn until dusk

12. Admire the clay statues in Kumartuli  

One of my favourite areas of Kolkata can be found in the potters quarter of Kumartuli.  

When the British East India company were here, they split up “Black Town” or the Indian quarter of Calcutta by trade.

There were wine traders, carpenters, chicken sellers etc. The Potters of Kumartuli were located in Barabazaar.

Although many of the old trades have disbanded with time, the karigars of Kumartuli still remain.

A long tradition of potters settling here started with Durga Puja that celebrates the Hindu warrior Goddess Durga.

A Raja asked for an idol to be made of the Warrior Goddess after she came to him in a dream in the 19th century and ever since it has become an annual tradition.  

Kumartuli is a labyrinth of streets that has over 500 workshops. Although the potters make idols of many Gods and Goddesses all year, the best time to visit is around Durga and Kali Puja.  

In the build-up to the festivals, people are asking for many idols to be made and so the potters will showcase their best work.  

Fun fact: the statues are made from clay that is taken from the Ganges river (Hooghly). During Durga Puja they immerse the statues into the river. So, the statue does a full cycle and Hindus believe the Goddess has returned to nature.

It’s FREE to visit but they may charge a voluntary donation during festival times. Click here to read my complete guide about the incredible potters quarter

13. Cross over the bustling Howrah Bridge

There are many iconic bridges in Kolkata, but none so famous as Howrah Bridge or Rabindra Setu.

It sounds weird, but I was so excited to see this bridge for myself.

I had heard about it long before my visit to West Bengal and it’s almost a tourist attraction in its own right.

It was commissioned all the way back in 1871 by the British but wasn’t built until 1935. It stretches over 705 metres, required 23,000 tons of steel and it’s the busiest cantilever bridge in the entire world.

Approximately 100,000 vehicles and 150,000 pedestrians cross it each day! That’s not including the cows that roam here.  

So, you must join the crowds and cross for yourself!  

If you are wondering, there are a total of 4 bridges on the Hooghly River connecting Kolkata to Howrah.

The others are the second Hooghly Bridge, which kind of reminded me of a grey Golden Gate Bridge, Bally Bridge (Vivekananda Setu), and New Bally Bridge (Nivedita Setu).

14. Visit the world’s biggest Banyan Tree  

One of the top attractions in this city is The Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden. It’s the oldest botanical garden in all of India and was commissioned by Colonel Robert Kyd in 1787.  

The only reason why this was created was to cash in on some of the tropical plants and trees like teak wood and spice trade!  

This is actually where the English first started growing tea from China, so one of India’s biggest exports had its humble beginnings here.  

The most famous resident in the whole park is The Great Banyan Tree which is the widest Banyan tree in the whole world.

It’s over 250 years old and its circumference is over 4 acres! It survives without the main trunk and it has over 3,770 aerial roots.

Read my post with my top tips for the Botanical Gardens in Kolkata

15. Marvel at Parashnath Jain Temple in Kolkata  

One of the most impressive temples that I visited in Kolkata was the Parashnath Jain Temple or Calcutta Jain Temple.  

Jain is an ancient Indian religion that has a supreme principle of ahimsa (non-violence, peace, and charitable deeds) . They also have three guiding principles of the right belief, knowledge, and conduct.  

The temple complex is actually split into four separate temples and was built in the 19th century by Ray Badridas Bahadur in honour of Parashnath.  

The most amazing part of this temple is the fact is was made of thousands of mirrors, jewels, and glass. Some even call it the temple of a million mirrors!

The work is truly exquisite inside and out and you could spend hours in this serene place admiring the architecture.  

Fun fact: There is an eternal flame inside the temple that burns with ghee. Apparently, it has been burning since it opened in 1867!  

It’s FREE to enter and is open daily from 6 am – 10 am then from 5 pm – 8 pm

16. See life on the Ghats of the Ganges

The Hooghly River in Kolkata is actually a river that falls off of the River Ganges. So many people in the city refer to it simply as ‘Ganga’.  

The Ganges river is important in Hindu religion as many believe it is personified as the Goddess Ganga.  

So, it plays a huge part in the local culture of the city. People believe if you wash in the Ganga, the water is pure and you’ll be cleared of your sins.  

There are temples lined up along the Hooghly River with ghats or stairs that lead down to the water.  

Every day you’ll see locals praying, meditating, washing clothes, and even drinking this water.  

Visiting is a great way to not only learn about Hindu culture but also see the local life on the waterways.

17.   Visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple  

Another famous temple in Kolkata is the Dakshineswar Kali Temple.

Despite the name, it’s actually dedicated to Bhavatarini, an aspect of Kali rather than the warrior goddess herself.  

In pictures, it almost looks like an etching or 2D drawing due to the trippy line patterns on the architecture of the domes! Or maybe that’s just me, haha. Either way, it’s awesome to look at.   

It was built by Rani Rashmoni in 1855 who was a devotee of Kali.  

Inside there is the main Bhavatarini temple on nine domes, then outside there are shrines dedicated to Shiva here and a temple for Rada-Krishna.

If you’re on a temple trail, this is quite close to Belur Math as a next stop.

But, you will need to cross the river to access it. The local ferries here have a direct connection over the water. Ticket prices are 6 rupees ahead.

Or, click here to book a Kolkata temples tour which includes this one

18. Visit Kolkata for Durga Puja!  

Durga Puja is celebrated all over the world for those of the Hindu faith, but it is a huge and famous celebration in Kolkata.  

Many people from around the world visit the city during this time and it has huge events going on for 10 days. It’s all about celebrating the warrior goddess Durga.  

The city goes a little crazy around this time. So, you’ll find roads are blocked off, buses and taxis are packed to the rafters and people will walk the streets all night.  

There will be raucous music, street parades, and people singing and praying in the streets.  

Temples will be rammed, attractions and shops may be closed. It really is a big deal here.

During this time, I would highly recommend booking a quiet hotel. It’s a 24-hour party and you may struggle with the endless noise.  

I stayed at the Oberoi Grand and made sure I had an indoor-facing room away from the road.

Pandals of Durga Puja  

Although it would be a bit of a scrum and you may be queuing for hours, one of the best ways to see and experience Durga Puja is to visit the many ‘Pandals’.

Pandals are a series of temporary altars that are created for the festival and usually draw many talented artists to create them.  

The city even has a competition for the best Pandals and so you’ll find those big companies shed a LOT of money to sponsor these.

Pilgrims during Durga Puja will walk the streets all night, queueing to visit and giving offerings to the Goddess here.  

We actually visited one the day after Durga Puja and it was completely empty!

I couldn’t believe the size of it. Seriously, It was like a HUGE temple in itself.

The Pandal we went to had massive gold hands, faces of the goddess, and lotus flowers the size of elephants! I couldn’t get over the epic details and talent.  

It’s definitely something I would recommend seeing if you find yourself in Kolkata during the festival. But, if you don’t like mass crowds, I would do what we did and wait til the next morning when it’s emptier.  

19. Check out College Street Book Market

Did you know that the world’s largest second-hand book market is right here in Kolkata? You can find it on College Street and it even has the nickname Boi Para or “Book Town.”

Although I loved being here over Durga Puja, I was gutted that it was closed over the festival and if we went there no stalls would be open!  

It spans over 1 million square feet and has long been associated with the universities, colleges, and learning centres in the area.

You can find rare books here, including first editions at dirt cheap prices. So keep your eyes peeled for a bargain that you could make a fortune on back home.  

A highlight of any visit here is meant to be the old Indian Coffee House. It has been the haunt of many famous writers including Rabindranath Tagore. So, sip on a chai and watch the chaos of the market.

The nearest tram stop for College street is Esplanade Tram Depot

Markets to visit in Kolkata  

20. visit mullick ghat flower market at sunrise.

Every morning, thousands of flower sellers come to Mullick Ghat to sell their freshly cut blooms by the kilo! All the while they will be bartering and making sales with locals.  

Lots of colour, chaos, petals and people await you and you’ll experience the sights, smells and sounds of this amazing market.

The best time to visit is at sunrise as this is when the flowers are freshest. So, you’ll get to see all the nice colours and the best of the bunch!  

It can be a bit of a maze making your way around. But, that’s part of the fun. You’ll see lots of conversations and money being passed around too.  

This is one of the top things that I would recommend in Kolkata. So don’t miss out!  

Click here to read more reasons why you should visit the Mullick Ghat Flower Market and top tips

21. Explore the labyrinth of New Market in Kolkata  

Another market that should be on your list is New Market. It’s a huge space that’s mainly undercover and has everything you could need from an abattoir to saaris!

As it was monsoon around here, we were pretty much ice skating on the floors and much of it was flooded. So, we were wading through dirty, murky water with entrails and eggshells floating around.

It was NOT very pretty. But, some of the markets were amazing to see like the fruit and spices stalls. Also, there were bright and colourful clothes and jewellery to admire.

We found some unexpected delights in here like the Lalit Great Eastern Bakery.

Where they sell off their amazing (quite expensive cakes) from their hotel here for dirt cheap prices. I got a mouth-watering chocolate brownie for 50 rupees!  

Although the market is undercover, there are some great food stalls around the outside too.  

We stopped off at an Islamic eatery outside. Many of the local hole-in-the-wall restaurants in India are associated with different religions due to eating requirements and cooking traditions.

For example, many Hindus don’t eat meat but Muslims do. So, there are different restaurants.  

We treated ourselves to chai and some buttered toast here as a snack and the owners were so friendly. It was only 12 rupees (15p) each!  

22. Go Shopping on Esplanade

Another colonial area is Esplanade which still uses the old shopping street buildings from years ago.  

It’s a huge area that connects with Park Street another famous shopping street. So, it’s a great place to start out.  

Esplanade has lots of mainstream Western stores like Nike and Puma, some Indian chains like Bata, and huge shopping malls. But, that’s not really the fun part about this street.

The fun part is seeing all the amazing stalls that have been set up on either side of the Esplanade and   trying to battle through the crowds here.

You’ll have guys selling sunglasses, shampoo, toys, clothes, fake designer wallets, vanity mirrors, everything you could think of really!  

My hotel, the Oberoi, was in the middle of this street. So I passed it pretty much every day.

The same sellers would be shouting at me to buy something and each day I’d still say no lol. It became a little thing.

Dark tourism things to do in Kolkata  

23. visit the mother house of the missionaries of charity.

One of the main attractions in the city is to visit Mother Teresa’s tomb in Kolkata.  

It sits in the Mother Teresa Memorial home and, although it does sound a little morbid, it’s a nice little tomb to celebrate her life.  

Inside you can visit the museum to learn all about her life’s work. People often call her Saint Teresa here.  

She came from Albania and taught in a convent in Kolkata for many years. But she was so moved by the poverty in Kolkata she started to provide charity to the city.

She eventually won the Nobel Peace Prize for her work and she rubbed shoulders with the likes of Gandhi in her time.

After the museum, you can pay respects to her tomb and even visit her bedroom which has been preserved. Inside the room are her desk and original appointment book, her writing chair, and her telephone.  

On the day of her death, she attended mass. Then she came back and died in her bed.

After your visit there is a small café outside that has some nice souvenirs if you’d like to take something home to remember your visit.  

Entry is FREE but it is by donation. All proceeds will be donated to the missionaries of charity. You will need to take your shoes off to see the tomb.  

Opening times vary throughout the week and it’s closed on Thursdays.

24. Learn about the Black Hole of Calcutta  

I have always heard about the Black Hole of Calcutta, but I didn’t really have any idea what it meant really. It sounded something similar to the Bermuda Triangle but that wasn’t the case at all.  

The Black Hole of Calcutta was a tragedy that took place for three days starting on the 20th June 1756. It started with the Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah, taking over the Old Fort William with his army.  

He then proceeded to shove over 146 men and women into a small dungeon in the fort.

This room was only around 4.3 × 5.5 metres or 14 × 18 feet. Many of the European men and women in here died of heat exhaustion and suffocation. Only 23 men survived.  

It was a terrible tragedy and it was wildly beefed up in the newspapers back home in the UK.

This was in the hope that the British would send a relief effort to rescue the men and send their armies from Madras to recapture Calcutta. Which they did and Siraj was overthrown and killed in the Battle of Plassey.

You can visit a memorial dedicated to the ‘smothered’ in St John’s Church and what remains of   the Old Fort William at the General Post Office.

25. Get spooked at South Park Street Cemetery  

Another fascinating place that is hidden away in South Park Street Cemetery.  

Often labelled as the most haunted place in all of Kolkata, there are 1600 gothic tombs that make up the graveyard. Established in 1767, it was used for European members of society, mainly the officers of the British East India Company and their families.  

It fell into disuse around 1790 and was completely abandoned in 1830. Today, it is maintained by the Archeological Survey of India.

Similar to Highgate Cemetery in London , the are lots of elaborate gothic tombs built around here. They’re all covered in green moss and there are ancient fern trees too.  

Some notable tombs are a bust of Henry Derozio, a radical Indo-Portuguese thinker, Walter Landor Dickens, Charles Dickens’ Son, and Sir William Jones, the founding father of the Asiatic Society.

Look out for the tomb shaped like a pineapple core! It was made for Rose Alymer who was just 17 years old when she died of Cholera. Walter Savage Landor, a famous poet, was in love with her and wrote a poem for her tomb.

The graveyard is open from 10 am – 5 pm and costs 50 rupees per person to enter. You must sign a guestbook. A kind volunteer here took us on a really informative tour and we tipped him for his time.  

Read my post on South Park Street Cemetery with what to expect when visiting

Foodie things to do in Kolkata

26. go on a kolkata street food tour  .

Kolkata is known for its street food, so if you’d rather go on a street food tour, there are a few that take place each evening.  

You’ll try a range of famous Kolkata street foods like;

• Fish Curry (Macher Jhol)
• Kolkata Biryani (yes each place has their own version in India and it’s almost criminal to just call it ‘Biryanai’)
• Mutton Curry (Kosha Mangsho)
• Phuchka – similar to Gol Gopan or Pani Puri
• and… so much more! (There are vegetarian options for those that do not eat meat)

So, make sure you book your food tour here to learn all about them

27. Try Hot Kati Rolls  

If you’re feeling peckish and looking for foodie ideas, you have to try one of Kolkata’s famous Hot Kati Rolls.  

There are many dotted around the city, but the original is a ‘hole-in-the-wall’ (quite literally) counter that can be found on Park Street. It’s the ultimate street food and can be compared with a kebab back home.  

You’ll get a wrap, filled with hot chicken, onions, spices, some unidentifiable sauce, and it will be all wrapped up and fried on the counter!  

It is absolutely delicious, ridiculously cheap at 50 rupees and crowds of locals come here to eat each evening.  

There are no seats inside as it’s just a street food counter, but just nearby you can sit down and enjoy.

28. Wander down Park Street

Park Street in Kolkata is a famous shopping street but it’s also the place where you can find some of the most amazing restaurants and bars in the city!

As well as the Hot Kati Roll, you have some of the most famous restaurants dotted along here like Peter Cat.  

We wanted to get in here but unfortunately, the waitlist was over an hour and we were already hungry.  

So, we popped into the famous Mocambo instead that has been open since 1956. It used to be on what was known as ‘Cabaret Row’ back then and singers used to belt out covers of US pop stars of the era.  

The whole vibe in here is vintage with low light, red tassel lampshades and the waiters are all in their historic finery.  

It serves up a great mix of classic Kolkata dishes like its famous grilled Beckty, a Bay of Bengal delicacy. Plus, it has a range of European classic dishes too.  

I had the Beckty sizzler and washed it down with a minty Mojito. It was absolutely fantastic and great value for money too!  

29. Try Sugar Cane Juice

Sugar Cane Juice can be found all over India but I found so many stalls selling it in Kolkata. So, you must try it if you get the chance.

We were watching them make it outside of Kalighat Temple. Essentially they run sugar cane through a press and then juice it!  

The result is a rather green-looking but refreshing sweet drink that will cool you down with the heat. Just be careful as they often mix it with local water.  

30. Sample the original Rasgulla

Every state has a sweet that they are famous for. Indians have a massive sweet tooth and so you’ll always find a famous shop in every city serving up sickeningly sweet sugary treats.  

In Kolkata, they are famous for Rasgulla and it’s almost a crime not to try it while you’re here!  

Rasgulla was invented right here in the city by Nobin Chandra Das in 1868. It’s a spongey syrupy dumpling made of chhena and semolina dough.

Now, it’s not only popular in Bengal but all over India too. I have tried Rasgulla many times in India, but they really are something special in this city.

The most famous sweet shop to try in Kolkata is K. C. Das. People queue up to buy boxes of the desert to take home. So, you must try some to see if they live up to the hype.  

Things to do in Kolkata at night time  

31. go on a hooghly river cruise  .

One thing I really wanted to do in Kolkata was a river cruise. Kolkata has the roaring Hooghly River, or Ganga, snaking through it and it brings together many of the cities main attractions.

We were recommended to book with Vivada Cruises who are a highly rated day cruise company in the area. We were not disappointed!

We opted for the 3-hour evening cruise, which included chai, snacks, and a stop at Belur Math for the evening aarti.

Not only were we treated to the most amazing colourful sunset over the river, but we also got to see a lot of the local life on the river and wave to people under the Hooghly Bridge.

It was an unforgettable experience and those ‘snacks’ were pretty much a whole meal. We were so stuffed we couldn’t eat another bite!

It only cost 1,000 rupees plus GST which is incredible value for money. They also do a lunch and dinner cruise for 1,500 rupees + GST.

Click here to read my full review of my Hooghly River Cruise

32. Visit Belur Math Temple Complex

One of the highlights of my evening cruise was a visit to Belur Math . It’s a HUGE temple complex that spans 40 acres on the banks of the Hooghly River.  

It’s the Headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and the Ramakrishna Mission who is a spiritual organisation.  

It was founded in the 19th century by Sri Ramakrishna, known as the Prophet of the Modern Age, and his chief disciple Swami Vivekananda, a forward thinker, and religious leader.  

Although there are 4 temples, plus education and medical centres in Belur Math, the Sri Ramakrishna Temple is the jewel in its crown.

Here, we got to see the magical evening aarti. Where the priests of the temples lead the local pilgrims in prayer.  

Women must observe in one section and men must be on the other as is the custom. You’ll quickly be ushered on by security if you end up in the wrong place.  

You can also buy all sorts of books with the teachings of Swami Vivekananda in the library afterward.

33. Watch the sound and light show at the Victoria Memorial  

If you’re looking for something unique to do in the evenings, why not visit the Victoria Memorial for a sound and light show?

By day, this incredible building is gleaming white in the sunshine, but after the sun sets it’s lit up beautifully against the night sky in all different colours.

In the memorial gardens, there is a sound and light show that has a magic water fountain with music and commentary.

One show is in Bengali and one show is in English, so make sure you get the right time!

34. See the city light up at night  

Something that I really didn’t expect to love so much was the city lit up at night time.

Although the colonial architecture is lovely in the day, it really comes alive at night when it’s all lit up.

The Howrah Bridge is also lit up and many of the buildings on the Hooghly come alive in different colours, so they make an amazing reflection on the river.

After our cruise, we were in for a real surprise as they had a street parade as part of the celebrations.  

We got to see all sorts of Durga floats, heading down the strip. Some were decorated with massive idols and others had dance troops performing scenes from sacred texts.

Kolkata at night time is really something special and you don’t know what surprises you may find!  

Day trips from Kolkata  

35. visit the sundarbans national park  .

The Sundarbans National Park is a treasure in West Bengal and is somewhere you should definitely visit if you’re in the area.

It’s a huge mangrove forest and bio reserve that is also inhabited by tigers. It spreads over both Bangladesh and India on the Ganges Delta.  

Personally, I would recommend a two-day one night trip as a minimum. Day trips are possible from Kolkata but depart at 4 am!

I went on an overnight trip to the Sundarbans with Sundarbans Chalo !

They are a budget tour company but came highly recommended and the value for money was crazy.

My trip cost 4500 rupees (£48 /$56 USD) which is a total bargain. This included;

• Return transfers to the Sundarbans (4 hours each way)
• A sunset cruise 
• A double room with private bathroom
• All meals (2 lunch, 2 breakfast and 1 dinner, tea & snacks) 
• A cultural dance performance
• A full 8 hour day cruising on the Sundarbans
• All my permits, photograhpy and entrance fees too.

You can’t really turn your nose up at that!

The things you absolutely cannot miss in the ‘City of Joy’  

I know that 35 things to do is a LOT and maybe you just want to prioritise the most important attractions.  

So, I’ll suggest some of the MUST DO sites to limit down your options;

• Victoria Memorial
• Mullick Ghat Flower Market  
• Kalighat Temple  
• Howrah Bridge
• The Mother House  
• South Park Street Cemetery  
• Dakshineswar Kali Temple

My top travel tips for Kolkata  

1. plan to stay connected  .

Buying an Indian SIM card in Kolkata: Getting an Indian SIM card for your phone is really simple. You can even do it on arrival at Kolkata Airport.

I would recommend an Airtel SIM for West Bengal and the North East. You’ll get packages where you’ll receive 1GB per day for 30 days. It’s recommended as it has the most signal.  

Use a WiFi hotspot: Failing that, you can stay connected with a WiFi Hotspot . I use Keepgo to stay online without the fuss of buying a SIM card.  

2. Don’t forget travel insurance

While you think of it, if you haven’t yet, make sure you have travel insurance!  

It’s always a necessary thing to have for peace of mind. I always use World Nomads for their reliable policies.

3. How to get exchange money in Kolkata  

I have never actually exchanged British currency in India itself. I’ve always just rocked up and got my money out of an ATM when I got here.  

I always use SBI, or State Bank of India as they give you FREE withdrawals and I’ve never had an issue with International Cards.

I know that sounds reckless to some but I really hate having to exchange money in India. I’ve been ripped off in the past.  

My biggest tip would be to NOT use the services at the airport. They have ridiculous rates.

Go to a currency converter in the city and use the ‘Currency Converter’ app to check the rates for the day. Then see what exchange they will give you.  

4. Prepare for some uncomfortable sights

Kolkata is a densely populated city and has a lot of poverty, so you can expect to see sights that may make you feel uncomfortable.

It cannot be avoided and many times I feel totally helpless as I wish I could help in some way.

More than 24% of India’s people live below the poverty line.

But, there are ways that you can support the people in the city. Supporting local businesses, buying products from people who are selling on the street, giving any money you can, and donating to organisations like the Missionaries of Charity all help to improve livelihoods.  

5. Always remember to haggle and look out for scams

Although I found that Kolkata had a lot fewer scams than the likes of Delhi, it wasn’t completely immune. Especially with things like transport.

Yellow Ambassador Cabs were an awesome way to get around. But, I found they were constantly overcharging.

At one point, a local even got involved and told him he was ripping us off (thank you to whoever you were!). My biggest advice here is to make sure the meter is switched on. Or, agree on a price before you get in.  

The same goes for auto-rickshaws (three-wheeled tuk-tuks), it was always a hassle to get a good price! So, there are a few ways to get around it.

I would use Uber for cabs, as it’s cheaper and you get a fair price. Or, get the metros and trams which are far more economical.  

The buses here looked like a death trap to me.   I’ll go through some more transport options below;  

How to get around Kolkata while you’re here

Getting from kolkata airport to kolkata city.

When you land at the airport, if you haven’t already scheduled a pickup, you have some choices.

All the locals gravitate over to the Pre Paid Taxi counter owned by the Bidhannagar City Police.

It’s an awesome service with cheap non-air-conditioned ambassador city cabs. They are a union, so you’ll pay a fixed price and get given a receipt/ticket that you’ll hand to the driver.  

But, they only take cash, so make sure you have rupees on you.

For me, a ride from the airport to my hotel on Esplanade in the centre cost 300 rupees! If I booked a transfer with my hotel directly they charged 4000.

If you’d prefer, there is both an Uber and an Ola (a competing app) counter here but it’s more expensive.  

Both counters will give you access to a WiFi hotspot so you can book one if you don’t have data.  

Then you just wait out at their collection point. You do need the app on your phone to use the service. So, make sure you have it.  

Click here to get a special discount on your first ride with Uber.

Transport options in Kolkata  

While you’re in the city, there are plenty of ways to make your way around.   As one of the most populated cities in India, you’ll find the city has thousands of buses, trams, ferries, rickshaws, taxis, and even an underground metro to help everyone get moving!

By Bus: Buses were plentiful here, but they were also crazy. They would zoom around the city shouting for passengers, while locals chased after the bus and hopped on.

Same as most of India, but I really struggled with the local language here (Bengali). So, I didn’t even attempt it. But, it is a cheap way to get around if you know where the bus is headed.

By Tram: Kokata is famous for its trams and its the only tram network in the whole of India. So, if they are running you must hop on. Unfortunately for us, these were under construction on our visit.

By Metro: The underground metro in Kolkata is really cheap and efficient. But, it only has one line that runs through the central spine of the city.

You pay per kilometre and tokens start out at 10 rupees for 5 kilometre and max out at 25 rupees for 25 kilometres. It’s quick but there’s no air con so it’s pretty sweaty.  

By Rickshaw: You can get private and shared rickshaws here. Private will be the more expensive option. Always make sure that you haggle for a price before you get in or ask for the meter to be switched on. At night, if you’re in a private rickshaw, DO NOT allow anyone else to get in.

By Taxi / Uber: Yellow ambassador cabs are king in this city and they are plentiful but can rip you off! I preferred Uber, click here to read my article on how to use it with a discount code.

By ferry: The Hooghly River is the way that many people travel around the city. There are public ferries that run every 15-20 minutes throughout the day until around 9 pm at night. Tickets cost 6 rupees a journey and have many stops along the river.

A small note on hand pulled rickshaws in Kolkata

Kolkata is the only city in India where hand-pulled rickshaws are still running.  

Although I struggled morally to see it and it’s not something I would personally support. I understand it’s their livelihood and they’re struggling for trade. Many live hands to mouth.  

So, if you feel like it, you can use them for short journeys. They would be more than happy to have you.  

Outside Kalighat temple I simply tipped them without a ride as I felt heartbroken to see them ask so many for work and everyone pass by.  

Where to stay in Kolkata  

I stayed in the beautiful Oberoi Grand Kolkata. This was like an oasis to return to after a hot sweaty day out exploring in the monsoon!  

Their hotel is almost an attraction in itself and an icon of the city as it’s the second oldest hotel.

You can stay in one of their beautiful deco-like rooms with four-poster beds and it has a gorgeous washroom with a bathtub.

I would highly recommend booking a room indoor facing as the traffic is quite loud, especially during festivals.

Their delectable buffet breakfast at ThreeSixtyThree comes included and they have a refreshing pool with free smoothies!  

Click here to book your stay at Oberoi Grand for the night

Heading to North East India? Read more of my articles!

Top things to do in North East India

A complete guide for Hornbill Festival

Longwa Village travel guide

Best places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh

Top things to do in Dirang

My ultimate Tawang travel guide

How to find the double-decker root bridges in Meghalaya

A complete travel guide for Guwahati

Kamakhya Temple guide

A complete Kaziranga Safari guide

Majuli Island tips

My top North East India travel tips

Save these things to do in Kolkata for later!

Thursday 8th of December 2022

Nice post,Kolkata is full of beauty and culture.

Sophie Pearce

Hi Survi, yes I completely agree! Sophie x

Leandro Starling

Sunday 27th of September 2020

I agree with you

Tuesday 6th of October 2020

Thanks Leandro! Sophie x

Sameer Patel

Friday 6th of March 2020

Great post, Kolkata is one of the most beautiful city and has the third biggest population of any city in India. You are a great travel blogger, thanks for sharing an interesting article with us. Keep share more!

Saturday 7th of March 2020

Hi Sameer, I completely agree with you! Kolkata is one of the most amazing cities :) more to come ! Thank you for reading. Sophie x

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17+ Unique Places to Visit in Kolkata: India’s Cultural Capital (2024)

• Last Updated: April 7, 2024
• Asia , Destinations , India

Looking for some unique places to visit in Kolkata? You’re in luck! I’ve been to Kolkata several times, have spent almost a month in the city in total, and also have several friends from there.

Often described as the cultural capital of India, there’s something about Kolkata that’s hard to describe, and incredibly special.

Perhaps it’s the crumbling, faded grandeur. The giant gnarled trees with snaking vines, pushing up through uneven pavements. Or maybe it’s the unique mix of old and new. Or the city’s huge wealth of culture and history.

Whatever it is, there’s something magical in the air here.

Table of Contents

Kolkata is a must-see destination for any adventurous traveller . Many people pass through on their way up to the tranquil  hill stations of north-east India , or the spectacular trekking paradise of the eastern Himalayas .

But it’s definitely worth spending at least a couple of days in the city, too.

In this post, I’ll share with you some of the best places to visit in Kolkata. From historical landmarks, to trendy neighbourhoods, to natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

Popular Places To Visit In Kolkata

There are so many unique places to visit in Kolkata, you could spend weeks here exploring them all.  Here are some of the best-known spots.

1. Victoria Memorial

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Kolkata is the Victoria Memorial, a large marble monument that was opened in 1921 and is dedicated to Queen Victoria.

The Victoria Memorial is located in the Maidan, an enormous central park that’s the biggest urban park in West Bengal and one of the largest in all of Asia. It’s surrounded by 64 acres of beautiful grounds and ornamental gardens which visitors can explore.

Calcutta was the former British capital of India, and this monument was built as a symbol of imperial power and opulence.

Inside the Victoria Memorial Hall, there’s a museum with exhibitions on the history of Kolkata and India under British rule, as well as several other galleries.

It’s well worth a visit, and is filled with interesting artifacts and exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, and other memorabilia from the colonial period.

There’s a small but very reasonable entry fee of 20 rupees per person for Indian citizens and 200 rupees ($2.50 USD) for foreign tourists.

Address: 1 Queens Way, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India

Opening hours: 10am-5pm, monday-sunday, 2. dakshineswar kali temple.

Located on the banks of the Hooghly River north of the city centre, the Dakshineswar Kali Temple is one of the most important religious sites in Kolkata. The temple was built in 1855 and is dedicated to the goddess Kali.

It’s a popular place with Hindu pilgrims, many of whom travel from all over West Bengal and other parts of eastern India to come and worship here.

All visitors, Hindu and non-Hindu alike, are welcome and there’s usually somebody at the entrance who will be happy to explain about the history and significance of the temple.

The temple complex consists of a large central walled courtyard, the main temple itself, plus several shrines and other rooms.

Visitors can also enjoy views of the Hooghly from the complex, and there’s a ghat (a set of steps) leading down to the river where local people come to wash and bathe.

The Dakshineswar Kali Temple is very atmospheric, and one of the most unique places to visit in Kolkata.

Address: Dakshineswar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700076, India

Opening hours: 6am–12:30pm + 3pm–8:30pm, mon-sun, 3. howrah bridge.

Another iconic landmark in Kolkata is the Howrah Bridge, which spans the Hooghly River and connects the city centre to the district of Howrah.

The bridge is one of the largest cantilever bridges in the world, as well as being one of the busiest, and is an impressive sight to behold. Amazingly, Howrah Bridge was built without using any nuts or bolts.

To get a good view of Howrah Bridge, you can take a boat ride underneath it, walk across it, or simply enjoy the views from either side.

Also, if you take a taxi from central Kolkata to Howrah railway station (on the western bank of the Hooghly), you will almost certainly pass over the bridge.

At night, Howrah Bridge is lit up with brightly coloured lights, which change colour from time to time. This is also one of the best places to view the city’s illuminated skyline.

4. Marble Palace

For a taste of old-world luxury, visit the Marble Palace, one of the most opulent homes in North Kolkata.

The Marble Palace was built in 1835 by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a prominent and wealthy merchant from West Bengal.

Today, the palace is still owned by Mullick’s descendants and is one of the grandest and best-preserved houses of nineteenth-century Calcutta.

Built largely in Neoclassical style, and incorporating various features of traditional Bengali and Chinese architecture, the palace has marble floors and walls, and a number of ornate marble sculptures.

It now houses a museum containing Mullick’s large collection of art and sculpture, including portraits, statues, and paintings by various famous European artists.

You can explore the many rooms and halls of the palace, and also enjoy the tranquil landscaped gardens.

The Marble Palace is a unique and fascinating place to visit in Kolkata, don’t miss it.

Address: 46, Muktaram Babu St, Raja Katra, Jorasanko, Kolkata, West Bengal 700007, India

Opening hours: 10am-4pm, tues-weds + fri-sun (closed mon + thurs), 5. kolkata botanical garden.

For a perfect break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the Kolkata Botanical Garden, formally known as the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden.

It’s one of the largest botanical gardens in India, and is home to over 12,000 species of plants, flowers, and lush green trees.

The whole place is well landscaped and nicely maintained. It’s incredibly green and peaceful, with a number of small lakes, lawns, tropical plants and trees, including a giant banyan tree that is thought to be 250 years old.

On the shores of one of the larger lakes, you can hire little boats and potter around at your leisure.

A taxi from the city centre to the Kolkata Botanical Garden typically takes around 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Address: Botanical Garden Road, B Shalimar Area, Howrah, West Bengal 711103, India

Opening hours: 5:30am–7:30am + 9am–4pm, tues-sun (closed mondays), 6. birla planetarium.

Another popular tourist attraction in Kolkata is the Birla Planetarium, which is located on the edge of the Maidan, next to St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Opened in 1962, this enormous planetarium is the largest in Asia, and the second largest in the world. It has a large circular gallery with over 500 reclining seats, and a state-of-the-art 360-degree projection system.

Here you can watch incredible virtual-reality shows on a range of topics, including space exploration, the constellations, cosmic collisions, and phenomena such as nebulae and black holes.

You can even take a guided virtual starship tour of our solar system.

Shows are conducted daily in English, Bengali and Hindi.

There is also a museum with exhibits on the history of astronomy and space exploration, detailed celestial models, as well as a space research laboratory.

The Birla Planetarium is a really fantastic and unique place to visit in Kolkata and offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of astronomy and the immense scale of the universe.

Address: 96, Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India

Opening hours: 12:30pm–6:30pm, mon-sat; 10:30am–6:30pm, sunday, 7. park street area.

One of the trendiest and liveliest places to visit in Kolkata is the Park Street area , which stretches from east of the Maidan to Park Circus 7 Point.

In this district you’ll find chic cafes, trendy bars, and upscale restaurants. It’s the perfect place to people watch and enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

The Park Street area is also home to some of Kolkata’s best nightlife, with buzzing live music venues, bars with DJs and a number of other fun places to hang out in the evening.

For food, you’re spoilt for choice here, with a huge range of options ranging from street food stalls selling kati rolls and chaat to fancy restaurants serving food from all over the world.

I particularly love the  Nepali street food  stands where you can buy delicious momos (dumplings), thukpas (noodle soup), and baras (fried lentil pancakes).

South Park Street Cemetery / South Park Cemetery

Near the eastern end of the Park Street area is the  South Park Street Cemetery , a peaceful 18th-century Christian graveyard, containing the large, ornate tombs of many of the city’s former colonial rulers.

South Park Cemetery is open every day from 10am-5pm.

8. St Paul’s Cathedral

Located next to the Birla Planetarium, St Paul’s Cathedral is the most important Christian church in Kolkata and the first Anglican cathedral in Asia. It’s also one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.

The cathedral was built in 1847 in Indo-Gothic style, with stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and Florentine Renaissance-style frescoes.

It’s a very large and impressive building, with the nave measuring 75 metres in length and 25 metres in width.

The cathedral has a square tower, modelled on the 12th century Canterbury Cathedral in England, with a central spire that’s 61 metres tall.

Visitors can explore the inside of the cathedral, and even take a tour of the bell tower for stunning views of the city. The views of the Victoria Memorial that you get from up here are fantastic too.

Address: Cathedral Rd, Maidan, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071, India

Opening hours: 10am-6pm, mon-sun, 9. sudder street.

Popular with budget travellers, Sudder Street is a narrow road in central Kolkata, close to the Indian Museum, that’s famous for its super-cheap hostels and budget hotels.

The street rose to fame on the hippie trail in the 1960s, and has been a well-known destination for backpackers ever since.

I first visited Sudder Street as a penniless backpacker in 2011, and stayed at the Hotel Maria , one of the better-known budget hostels in the city.

I paid less than £4 GBP for my own room. The place was pretty grimy to say the least, though I’ve heard that it’s (slightly) nicer today.

As well as cheap accommodation, Sudder Street is famous for its second-hand bookshops and vinyl record sellers, plus vendors selling clothes, shawls, and a range of souvenirs.

Even if you don’t stay here, I’d still recommend checking out Sudder Street – it’s a very iconic place to visit in Kolkata.

And while you’re in the area, the Indian Museum is also worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in Indian art, archaeology and anthropology. It’s open from 10am–5pm every day except Monday.

10. Fort William

Fort William is a large fort located on the Hooghly River’s eastern banks. It was built by the British East India Company to protect against attack from the French and Dutch.

It was named after King William III, otherwise known as William of Orange , and is one of the most famous historical places in Kolkata.

Fort William is the site of the infamous “Black Hole of Calcutta”, a tiny dungeon in which hundreds of British prisoners of war were held in conditions so cramped that many died from heat exhaustion and suffocation.

Today, Fort William is used by the Indian Army as a regional headquarters.

Sadly, visiting Fort William is not usually possible. You can usually only view the fort from the outside, due to it being a military facility. However, those interested in the history of Kolkata will still find this a fascinating place to see.

Address: Fort William, Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal 700021, India

Opening hours: n/a, 11. eden gardens.

Eden Gardens is the name of a much-loved park just north of the Maidan and south of B.B.D. Bagh, the busiest commercial district in the city and Kolkata’s buzzing nerve centre.

It’s also the name of the enormous 19th-century cricket stadium located inside the park next to the Netaji Indoor Stadium, an indoor multi-purpose sports arena.

Eden Gardens park itself is peaceful and picturesque, home to a wide range of plant species, and is dotted with ornamental lakes, temples and shrines.

It’s a great spot for a picnic on a sunny afternoon, and is popular with people of all ages.

The iconic Eden Gardens stadium is the oldest in India, and is often referred to as the home of Indian cricket.

With a capacity of 66,000, it’s also the third-largest cricket stadium in the world and regularly hosts major Indian Premier League and international cricket matches.

For fans of cricket, this is a must-visit place in Kolkata!

I once got caught up in the enormous wave of fans leaving a match here. The atmosphere was really electric, like a giant carnival, with people singing, dancing and just having the best time. And India had actually lost the game.

Watching a match here is high up on my bucket list!

12. Mother House

Another interesting historical site in Kolkata, the Mother House is a convent and the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity.

It’s famous as being Mother Teresa’s house, the place where she lived and worked, and is also where she was buried.

Mother Teresa was an Albanian-Indian nun who founded the Missionaries of Charity to look after orphaned street children and abandoned babies in the city.

She died in 1997, aged 87, and was officially declared a saint by the Catholic church for her work.

Mother House is now a popular pilgrimage and tourist destination in Kolkata. There is an on-site museum with exhibits on Mother Teresa’s life and work, and a small chapel.

Address: 54A, Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Rd, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016, India

Opening hours: 8am-12pm + 3pm-6pm, fri-weds (closed thursdays), less visited & off-the-beaten-track places to visit in kolkata.

As well as seeing the famous attractions in Kolkata, if you have time I recommend heading off the beaten track a little during your time here. This is a city unlike any other, and the longer you spend exploring the more it gets under your skin.

Here are some additional unique places to visit in Kolkata that are a little less well-known, but still definitely worth seeing.

13. Chinatown, Tangra

Another unique place to visit in Kolkata is the city’s Chinatown, located in the neighbourhood of Tangra. This is particularly noteworthy as being the only Chinatown in India.

This area of Kolkata has had a Chinese population ever since the 18th century, when merchants from all over southern China established themselves here.

The streets are busy and vibrant, and mouthwatering aromas accompany you wherever you go. You’ll probably see Chinese residents selling spices, street food, homemade sauces, and other items.

Here you can explore narrow alleyways lined with Chinese restaurants, grocery shops and temples, and eat delicious authentic “Hakka”-style Chinese cuisine.

14. Science City

Science City, on the eastern edge of Kolkata, is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and technology.

The complex is the largest science centre in Asia, and one of the best science museums in the region.

It has a number of interactive, hands-on exhibits on a range of topics including the evolution of life, emerging technologies, space, and physical geography.

There’s also an IMAX cinema, where you can watch amazing high-definition films, and a few theme park-style rides.

Science City is a great place to spend a day, and is fun and educational for people of all ages.

Address: JBS Haldane Ave, Mirania Gardens, East Topsia, Kolkata, West Bengal 700046, India

Opening hours: 10am–6pm, mon-tues + thurs-sat; 10am–7pm, weds; 10am–8pm, sun, 15. rabindra sarobar.

Rabindra Sarobar is a large artificial lake located in South Kolkata.  The lake is surrounded by over 100 acres of parks and gardens. It’s a great spot for a run, a walk or a picnic.

Previously known as Dhakuria Lake, it was initially constructed in the 1920s, and is a peaceful, green oasis amidst the urban sprawl. Some local residents also come here to watch the sunrise, meditate and pray.

On the north-western side of the lake is the Rabindra Sarobar Football Stadium, and in the north-east is Nazrul Mancha, an outdoor music venue.

On the south side there is the Durga Exhibition Museum, a gallery that houses artwork and a number of carvings and idols from previous annual  Durga Puja  festivals held in the city.

The parks and gardens surrounding the main lake also have a number of other sights and facilities, including a Japanese Buddhist temple, a swimming lake, cricket and archery training areas, a rowing club, and various playgrounds.

Rabindra Sarobar is popular with people who live in this part of the city, but very few tourists make it here. If you have the time, I think it’s well worth the effort to see a different side to the city.

16. Shahid Minar

Shahid Minar is a large monument on the northern edge of the Maidan. It was originally built in 1828 and named the Ochterlony Monument, to commerorate Sir David Ochterlony of the British East India Company.

However, in 1969 the monument was re-dedicated to honour those who died fighting for Indian independence. “Shaheed Minar” translates to “Tower of Martyrs”.

Mark Twain visited Shahid Minar during his time in India, and described it as the “cloud-kissing monument”. It is 48 metres tall and was designed and constructed with inspiration from traditional Turkish, Syrian and Egyptian architectural styles.

Best Places To Visit Near Kolkata

There are also several fantastic places to visit near Kolkata that make great day trips from the city. These are two of the most popular options.

17. Sundarbans

Located about 90 kilometres south-east of Kolkata, the Sundarbans is the world’s largest mangrove forest.

Covering an area of 10,000 square kilometres (3,900 square miles), these vast wetlands and tidal flats straddle the border between India and Bangladesh.

The whole area lies in the delta formed by the confluence of a number of rivers, which then flow into the Bay of Bengal. It’s an important habitat for hundreds of species of birds, fish, mammals and reptiles.

This is one of the best places in the world for seeing Bengal tigers in their natural habitat. Several companies offer safari tours, nature walks and boat trips, and if you’re lucky you might get to see one of these magnificent creatures up close.

Click here to book a tour of the Sundarbans from Kolkata.

Four sections of the Sundarbans are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including (on the Indian side) the Sundarbans National Park . This is the closest part of the forest to Kolkata and the easiest area to access from the city.

Can I stay in the Sundarbans?

Yes.  You can either visit the Sundarbans National Park as a day trip from Kolkata, or spend the night in one of the various eco-lodges and guesthouses in the area.

This  is an excellent homestay-style guesthouse located on the edge of the jungle.

It has great facilities, a garden, swimming pool, sauna, restaurant, bar, 24-hour front desk, and is surrounded by lush green nature.   Click here to book.

How to get to the Sundarbans

It is possible to travel independently to the Sundarbans, although it does take the best part of a day to get there.

First, you need to take a suburban train to Canning station, then a bus to one of the villages on the edge of the delta, such as Sonakhali (the most popular option), Nazat, Raidighi, or Namkhana.

From there, you must then take a boat along the waterways and into the forest itself.

A much easier option would be to book a tour that includes transport to and from Kolkata. I don’t usually take tours, but in this case I think it makes sense and will save you a lot of time and effort.

includes private transportation to and from the national park, a boat ride, and a traditional Bengali lunch.  Click here for more information and to book.

18. Nicco Park

Much closer to Kolkata, Nicco Park is an amusement park located on the eastern outskirts of the city.

The park features over 30 different rides and attractions, including a water park, and spreads over 40 acres.

It’s known as the “Disneyland of West Bengal”, and is a fun place to come if you fancy a day out of the city, especially if you have children.

From the top of some of the taller rides, you get fantastic views out over Kolkata and the surrounding area.

One thing I really like about Nicco Park is that it aims to offer an educational, as well as a fun, experience.

Throughout the park there are boards displaying a range of educational content, and next to each ride there is an explanation of the science behind the rides.

There’s also a Solar Energy Village inside the park, which showcases the various uses of solar and other types of renewal energy.

Address: Salt Lake Bypass, Jheel Meel, Sector IV, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700106, India

Opening hours: 10:30am–7:30pm, mon-sun, tours of kolkata.

Here are a few well-reviewed tours that will help you get the most out of your time in the city.

I recommend booking yourself onto one or two of these. Then, spend the rest of your time in the city exploring by yourself.

• Street food tour – explore Kolkata’s narrow backstreets and taste some delicious, high-quality street food.  (If that one’s fully booked, this similar tour is an excellent alternative.)
• Culture kaleidoscope walking tour – scratch under the surface and learn about Kolkata’s rich and vibrant mix of cultures, religions, and communities.
• Full-day sightseeing tour – this tour takes you to many of the places mentioned in this post, and would be perfect for those who only have a small amount of time to see the city.
• Raj heritage walking tour – perfect for those interested in the colonial history of Calcutta, the former capital of British India.

Final Thoughts

Whenever I am in India, I always try to visit Kolkata. It’s an amazing, vibrant city with so many places to visit and so much to offer.

From historical landmarks to trendy neighbourhoods, there’s sure to be something that interests you in this fascinating destination.

Have you ever been to Kolkata? What’s your favourite place in the city?

Check out some of my other posts on India, including:

• 6 Best Hill Stations Near Kolkata, India: A Helpful Guide
• Trekking In Sikkim: A Secret Himalayan Paradise
• Best Time To Visit Kerala: A Comprehensive Guide

Related Posts

• Best Time To Visit Kerala: A Comprehensive Guide (2024)
• 9 Best Hill Stations Near Kolkata, India: A Helpful Guide (UPDATED 2024)

Best Places To Visit In Northern Turkey (2024)

Alex Tiffany

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5 'Hidden' Gems Of Kolkata That You Can't Afford To Miss

Here are 5 offbeat places in kolkata that you must certainly visit, whether you are a local or not, to witness the city of joy in a whole new light..

By: Priyanka Chakrabarti Published: Jul 28, 2020 07:00 AM IST

Victoria Memorial , Howrah Bridge, and the quintessential Ballygunge Lake — while these are definitely some of our favourite spots in the ‘City of Joy’, here are five offbeat places you can visit in Kolkata on your next day out. By Amitha Ameen

1. chor bazaar.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mahnoor. ???? (@thegunnerfly) on Jul 3, 2018 at 6:36am PDT

Anyone who lives or arrives in Kolkata will tell you that they feel like they are equipped with a time machine that lets them travel back and forth through the ages. So, it is only natural that one would want to take back something that reminds them of this timeless city. And this is where Chor Bazaar comes in the picture. Don’t get fooled by the name! From electronics to antiques, you can be sure to find some valuable gems at throwaway prices here.

2. Behala Flying Club

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by sariful haque (@sarifulhaque) on Dec 4, 2016 at 9:45am PST

How about a helicopter ride over the city? The Behala Flying Club or BFC is offering stunning birds-eye-views of the city through helicopter rides organised by private operators. Whether you want to ride solo or enjoy a romantic ride, you will agree that it is definitely one of the best offbeat experiences in Kolkata.

3. Park Street Cemetery

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Romit Kr. Prasad (Romie) (@romitkr.prasad) on Apr 20, 2020 at 5:30am PDT

Definitely not your average cemetery, Park Street Cemetery is a must-visit especially if you are interested in the history of India. It is a great place to head to experience calmness and spend time exploring the few monuments and learning about age-old interesting stories.   The cemetery even has its own nursery inside with an array of colourful plants on display.

4. Mallick Ghat Flower Market

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sue Batten (@batshots) on Jul 6, 2020 at 12:34am PDT

Imagine walking into a field full of beautiful flowers for as far as the eye can see, surreal right? This is exactly how you will feel while walking into this flower market , the largest one in Asia. It provides for a unique experience in the city and amazing photo-ops that you can brag about later to friends and family. Trust us when we say it’ll be worth it to wake up in the morning at 05:00 am to see a plethora of colourful flowers and catch a whiff of magical fragrances.

5. Tiratta Bazaar

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Subhashish ‘Roy’ Sarkar (@subhashish_23) on Jan 29, 2017 at 9:08am PST

Whether you are a local or not, Tiretta Bazaar must be on everyone’s itinerary when exploring the City of Joy . According to certain historical records, the place got its name from an Italian man named Edward Tiretta who lived and owned many plots in this area. Today, it is one of the most well-known Chinatowns in India, and not to mention one of the oldest as the first Chinese people settled here in the late 18th century. The bazaar operates like any other local bazaar but what sets it apart is that it lets you deep-dive into a slice of delicious Chinese cuisine through its hole-in-the-wall places that serve yummy spreads.

Related: Art Connoisseur Shalini Passi Picks Kolkata’s Top 5 Art Galleries And Museums

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Priyanka Chakrabarti

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• Destination
• Journey Through Kolkatas Hidden Beauties Top Must Visit Tourist Spots In Kolkata

Journey Through Kolkata's Hidden Beauties: Top 9 Must-Visit Tourist Spots In Kolkata

Web Desk Updated: Mar 11, 2024 11:48 AM IST

Top 9 Must-Visit Attractions for Travelers in Kolkata, India

As India's cultural hub, Kolkata presents an alluring fusion of colonial heritage, artistic flair and religious diversity. When visiting the City of Joy, be sure to include these top attractions:

1.Victoria Memorial Hall

• Stunning white marble building and museum inaugurated in 1921 dedicated to Queen Victoria
• Surrounded by 64 acres of immaculate gardens dotted with statues and fountains
• Houses British Raj artifacts plus paintings, manuscripts and miniature portraits of Indian life
• Light and sound shows dramatize British rule and the fight for independence

2.Howrah Bridge

• Enormous 705m cantilever bridge crossing the Hooghly River that opened in 1943
• Striking steel structure balancing almost half a million rivets painted red and white
• Epic views of riverfront with nonstop ferry and trade activity below
• Spectacular lighting scheme at night with multicolored sequential flashes

3.Indian Museum

• Oldest and largest museum in India established in 1814
• Massive collection spread across art, archaeology, anthropology, geology and zoology sections
• Ancient Egyptian mummies, 2nd century Buddhist statues, Mughal empire miniatures, fossils
• Surrounding gardens dotted with British Raj monuments

4.Dakshineswar Kali Temple

• Stunning 19th century temple complex dedicated to goddess Kali beside Hooghly River
• Features traditional Bengali architecture with 13 minaret-topped shrines interconnected by arches
• Home to famed mystic Ramakrishna Paramhansa now commemorated by a museum onsite
• Witness dawn arati rituals with oil lamps, incense and Hindu chants

5.Park Street

• Iconic vibrant street famed as epicenter of Kolkata's restaurants and nightlife
• Christmas light displays, jazz clubs and eateries span Art Deco to modern standalone patisseries
• Historically upmarket European area contrasting chaotic Old City
• Landmark Gothic style St. Xavier's College and stately Assembly of God Church

6.Kalighat Kali Temple

• Ancient Hindu shrine from the early 16th century dedicated to the goddess Kali
• Original 100+ meter spiral tower destroyed, main temple rebuilt 1809 mingling Hindu, Islamic architecture
• Alive with pilgrims offering flowers and goat sacrifices at the alter
• Next to vibrant Kalighat market selling clay idols, sweets, flower garlands and curios

7.Sunderbans Tiger Reserve

• Largest mangrove ecosystem in world and UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Home to famous Royal Bengal Tigers plus endangered Irrawaddy dolphins and giant lizards
• Hundreds of serpentine creeks cutting through thick forests only navigable by boat
• Expert guides lead small craft safaris to spot wildlife including 250 bird species

8.Prinsep Ghat

• Majestic Gothic palladian style ghats built in 1843 along Hooghly River
• Named after imperial scholar James Prinsep famed for deciphering ancient scripts
• Offering splendid sunsets, strolls and boating daytrips with views of Imperial Library across
• North to site where Job Charnok founded Kolkata in 1690

9.Jorasanko Tagore Estate

• Stately 1784 mansion where famed writer Rabindranath Tagore was born
• Explore family wings, theatre, music room and inner gardens
• Museum displays Tagore memorabilia from Nobel Prize to musical compositions
• Part of lively university campus centered around cultural performances and events

From mighty rivers to elegant lakefront promenades, regal monuments and buzzing markets, Kolkata tempts visitors to slow down to indulge in its enduring splendor. Follow this essential attraction list to unlock an unforgettable experience of India's cultural heart.

• Topics News">Attractions
• Topics News">Dakshineswar Kali temple
• Topics News">Howrah
• Topics News">Howrah Bridge
• Topics News">Kolkata
• Topics News">museum
• Topics News">Park Street
• Topics News">Sunderbans Tiger Reserve
• Topics News">Top 9 Must-Visit Tourist Spots In Kolkata
• Topics News">Victoria Memorial

Unveiling Kolkata’s Hidden Gems: Top 10 Offbeat Destinations

Best kolkata (calcutta) hidden gem attractions.

While Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is renowned for its historical landmarks and vibrant streets, it also harbours lesser-known treasures waiting to be discovered. Venture beyond the well-trodden paths of Kolkata city, and you’ll encounter hidden gems that offer a unique perspective on the city’s rich heritage. Here are the top 10 offbeat destinations A-Must-Visit in Kolkata with Trip Adventurer!!!

• Rabindra Sarobar: Tucked away amidst South Kolkata, Rabindra Sarobar is a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery. An ideal spot for nature lovers, it offers walking trails, birdwatching, and boat rides, providing a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle. Explore the walking trails, enjoy a boat ride, or bask in the serenity of this urban oasis. Nearby, the Tollygunge Club offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past.
• Kumartuli: Known as the potters’ quarter, Kumartuli is a fascinating neighbourhood where skilled artisans craft exquisite clay idols, especially during the Durga Puja season. Witness the artistic process and immerse yourself in the cultural vibrancy of this area. Witness the creative process and delve into the heart of Kolkata’s artistry. Nearby, the Sovabazar Rajbari adds a touch of royal splendour to your journey.
• Jorasanko Thakur Bari: The ancestral home of the Tagore family, Jorasanko Thakur Bari is a cultural oasis in the heart of the city. Explore the museum within the premises, showcasing artefacts, paintings, and personal belongings of the Nobel laureate, Rabindranath Tagore.

• Cossipore Math: Discover the spiritual serenity of Cossipore Math, an ashram associated with Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa. The peaceful surroundings and the Math’s historical significance make it a hidden retreat in the northern part of the city.
• Elliot Park: Escape the urban bustle at Elliot Park, a less-explored green space with well-maintained gardens, a serene lake, and walking paths. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon or a quiet retreat.
• Putul Bari (Doll House): Nestled in North Kolkata, Putul Bari is a charming doll museum displaying a vast collection of dolls from different cultures and eras. The museum provides a nostalgic journey through the world of dolls and toys.
• Cafe #377: Unearth the hidden gem of Cafe #377, a cafe and art space that advocates for LGBTQIA+ rights. Besides offering a cosy ambience and delightful treats, it serves as a platform for dialogue and artistic expression.
• Marble Palace: While not entirely hidden, it often doesn’t receive the attention it deserves. This 19th-century mansion houses a remarkable art collection, including sculptures, paintings, and rare artefacts, creating a captivating blend of opulence and culture.
• The Asiatic Society: Explore the treasures of knowledge at The Asiatic Society, a scholarly institution founded in 1784. The library houses rare manuscripts, books, and artefacts, providing a haven for history enthusiasts and researchers.
• Princep Ghat: A Riverside Spectacle : While Prinsep Ghat is known, its beauty at sunset is often overlooked. Enjoy a stroll along the Hooghly River and witness the stunning transformation of the sky. Nearby, the Vidyasagar Setu offers panoramic views of the river.
• Bosepukur Sitala Mandir: A Heritage Gem in South Kolkata : This lesser-known temple in Bosepukur is a marvel of terracotta artistry. Admire the intricate carvings that tell tales of mythology and history. Nearby, Gariahat Market offers a bustling shopping experience.
• A Literary Haven: Explore the hidden bookstills of College Street, the world’s largest second-hand book market. Dive into literary treasures, engage with passionate book vendors, and soak in the intellectual atmosphere. Nearby, Coffee House beckons for a cup of nostalgia.

Cultural Essence of Kolkata:

Kolkata’s hidden destinations are not just about physical spaces; they embody the spirit of the city’s culture. From the artistic fervour of Kumartuli to the intellectual buzz of College Street, each location reflects Kolkata’s. Plan your next Trip with Trip Adventurer Now!

• Artistic Heritage: Expressed through Kumartuli’s clay sculptures and the architectural marvels of Chitpur Road.
• Literary Legacy: Evident in the book-lined alleys of College Street, where the love for literature permeates the air.
• Spirituality: Embodied in the serene corners of Dakshineswar Kali Temple Complex and the sacred gardens of Raj Bhavan.
• Culinary Diversity: Discovered in the vibrant markets surrounding these hidden gems, where local flavours and street food beckon.

Tips for Visitors:

• Embrace Street Food: Kolkata is a paradise for street food lovers. Try iconic snacks like kathi rolls, phuchka (pani puri), and kulfis from street vendors for an authentic culinary experience.
• Heritage Walks: Explore Kolkata’s rich history by taking heritage walks. Discover colonial architecture in areas like Dalhousie Square and explore the charming lanes of North Kolkata.
• River Cruise on the Hooghly: Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Hooghly River, especially during sunset. It offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline and iconic structures like the Howrah Bridge.
• Attend a Cultural Performance: Immerse yourself in the cultural vibrancy of Kolkata by attending a traditional dance or music performance. Check schedules at venues like Rabindra Sadan and Nazrul Mancha.
• Explore South Park Street Cemetery: Visit the South Park Street Cemetery, one of the oldest in the city. The serene ambience and historic graves offer a unique perspective on Kolkata’s colonial past.
• Take a Tram Ride: Experience the nostalgia of Kolkata by taking a tram ride, especially on routes like Esplanade to Shyambazar. It’s a charming way to witness the city’s daily life.
• Join a Durga Puja Celebration: If visiting during October, don’t miss the grandeur of Durga Puja. Join a local celebration, visit beautifully decorated pandals, and witness cultural performances.
• Shop at New Market: New Market is a bustling shopping destination. From traditional Bengali sarees to handicrafts, it’s an ideal place to explore and buy souvenirs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

What are the must-visit attractions.

It boasts a rich cultural tapestry. Must-visit attractions include the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Indian Museum, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and Marble Palace.

How can I experience the cultural essence of the City?

Immerse yourself in culture by attending a traditional Bengali dance or music performance, exploring local markets like New Market, and trying authentic Bengali cuisine.

What is the best time to visit?

October through March is a good time of year to go sightseeing because of the nice weather. But celebrations such as October’s Durga Puja offer a distinctive cultural experience.

How is the transportation system?

There is a comprehensive public transit network in Kolkata that consists of the Metro, buses, and trams. There are also plenty of rideshare and taxi services to choose from.

What are some famous festivals celebrated in Kolkata?

Durga Puja is the most significant festival, marked by elaborate decorations, processions, and cultural events. Diwali, Holi, and Christmas are also celebrated with enthusiasm.

Where can I find traditional Bengali sweets?

Explore sweet shops like KC Das, Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick, and Nakur Nandy for authentic Bengali sweets like rasgulla, Sandesh, and mishti doi.

Are there any cultural events or festivals that visitors can attend?

It hosts various cultural events throughout the year. Don’t miss the Kolkata International Film Festival, Kolkata Book Fair, and the Boi Mela (Book Fair).

How can I explore the literary heritage of Kolkata?

Visit the College Street area, known as Boi Para (Book Town), housing numerous bookstores and the iconic Coffee House. Attend literary events and explore the Literary Festival.

Kolkata’s hidden destinations offer a kaleidoscopic journey through its diverse cultural hues, making every exploration a celebration of the city’s soul. As you venture beyond the well-trodden paths, you’ll discover that the true charm lies in the stories waiting to be unfolded in its hidden corners. As you weave through these lesser-known spots, you’ll uncover the city’s diverse facets, each contributing to the tapestry of Kolkata’s rich heritage.

Sanjay Jangid

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18 Best Places to Visit in Kolkata to Discover the City

Kolkata, though often associated with poverty, is commonly overlooked by tourists when visiting India. This friendly, intellectual and vibrant city is full of history and culture, with many faded remnants of the British Raj (British rule of India from 1757 to 1947). Kolkata is a city that requires immersion rather than quick sightseeing to really get a feel for, and appreciate, it. Start with these places to visit in Kolkata. One of the best ways to discover them is on a  Kolkata walking tour.

Park Street

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Kolkata's famous Park Street (formally renamed as Mother Teresa Sarani) runs from Chowringhee Road to Park Circus and is renowned for its entertainment, restaurants, and prominent historical landmarks including old colonial mansions. This iconic street was home to India's first independent nightclub and has been the center of Kolkata's nightlife since the glory days of the swinging 60s when venues overflowed with jazz, cabaret, and floor shows. Head to Mocambo, Moulin Rouge and Trincas for a rush of nostalgia.

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One of the top places to go shopping in Kolkata , New Market is a historic bargain hunter's paradise, built by the British in 1874. This sprawling maze of more than 2,000 stalls, grouped together according to the type of goods sold, offers almost everything imaginable. The entrance is on Lindsay Street, just off Chowringhee Road. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 10:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. Saturday, until 7 p.m. Closed on Sunday. Those who are after something special, shouldn't pass up the services of one of the many guides (known as coolies) that congregate around the market entrances. They live and breathe the market, and can effortlessly lead you to the best goods for the best price. Alternatively, it's possible to go on a walking tour of New Market such as this one offered by Kolkata Magic .

Mullick Ghat Flower Market

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The colorful chaos of Kolkata's flower market presents a fantastic photo opportunity. More than 130 years old, it's east India's largest wholesale flower market with thousands of flower sellers visiting it every day. The market is dominated by sacks overflowing with long garlands of marigolds, popularly used in Hindu devotional rituals. Find it along Strand Bank Road, starting from below Howrah Bridge on the Kolkata side. Take Calcutta Photo Tours' Hooghly's Flower Fest walking tour for a memorable immersive experience.

Prinsep Ghat

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Built beside the Hooghly River during the rule of the British Raj in 1843, Prinsep Ghat features one of the city's best known columned Colonial monuments dedicated to English scholar James Prinsep. The ghat was made to replace Chandpal Ghat as the principal point of embarkation for important visitors to the city. Now, it's a popular place to relax and go for a stroll by the river bank. It's possible to walk all the way from Prinsep Ghat to Babu Ghat, along a 2 kilometer (1.2 mile) stretch of landscaped riverfront. Prinsep Ghat is located next to Vidyasagar Setu, on Strand Road between Water Gate and Saint George's Gate of Fort William.

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Kolkata's massive urban park, known as the Maidan, is where locals go to spend their leisure time playing cricket and other sports, or relaxing with a picnic or snack from one of the food stalls. The Maidan extends south from the Esplanade, and is bordered by Chowringhee Road and the Hooghly River. All up, it covers about 1,000 acres. Fort William, Victoria Memorial, Eden Gardens cricket stadium, and Kolkata Race Course are some of the notable structures inside it. On the northeastern edge, the Glorious Dead Memorial is a monument honoring Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.

Victoria Memorial

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Imposing white marble Victoria Memorial at the southern end of the Maidan was completed in 1921 and currently serves as a museum . Constructed in memory of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom, it houses a fine art history collection and a gallery from the British Colonial period including many impressive paintings, sculptures, and books. The building's exterior is evocatively illuminated at night, and its surrounded by a vast garden that's an attraction in itself. The museum is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday (closed Monday). Tickets cost 30 rupees for Indians and 100-500 rupees for foreigners.

Mother Teresa's Mother House

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Mother Teresa is highly regarded for founding the Missionaries of Charity and devoting her life to helping ill and outcast people in Kolkata. Visit the Mother House to see her tomb, the bedroom where she lived, and a small museum dedicated to showcasing her life. It displays items such as her handwritten letters, spiritual exhortations, and personal belongings including saris, sandals, and crucifix. The Mother House is a place of silence and contemplation. Many people choose to meditate there while visiting because of its serene, uplifting energy. Opening hours are 8 a.m. until noon and 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. daily except Thursday, August 22, Easter Monday, and December 26.

White Town (Colonial Kolkata)

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Many of Kolkata's notable British-era buildings are situated in the BBD Bagh central business district, formerly called Dalhousie Square after Lord Dalhousie who ruled India from 1848 to 1856. These include 19th century St. Andrew’s church, 18th century Writer's Building (previously the administrative office of the British East India Company), General Post Office, Greek-architecture inspired Metcalfe Hall (previously home to the Imperial Library), and the Town Hall. Calcutta Walks' Dalhousie Square Walk provides insight into the district's Colonial heritage.

Black Town (Bengali Kolkata)

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Get acquainted with the city's Bengali heritage by exploring what's known as "Black Town" in north Kolkata—the area inhabited by Bengalis during the time of British rule. Many were wealthy landowners and merchants. Sovabazar is a particular atmospheric neighborhood in this part of the city, with a captivating blend of old-world architecture. You can even stay in an immaculately restored 1920s Bengali townhouse. You'll agree that Calcutta Bungalow feels like a home away from home. Walk through the surrounding lanes and you're likely to spot some eye-catching street art. Calcutta Walks' Star Still Shines walking tour of Sovabazar is very informative.

Grey Town (Immigrant Kolkata)

Sandwiched between Black Town and White Town, Grey Town is where an eclectic mix of immigrants has settled—Buddhists, Parsis, Muslims, Chinese, Portuguese, Jews, and people from elsewhere in India. It's fascinating to discover the communities that co-exist together there. Attractions include Bow Barracks (apartment blocks that housed military officers during World War I), a Chinese church built in 1905, a Parsi fire temple, and Magen David Synagogue built in 1884. Calcutta Photo Tours' Culture Kaleidoscope walking tour is recommended for exploring the district in depth.

Indian Coffee House

One of the most historic restaurants in India , the Indian Coffee House on College Street harks back to the days of India's struggle for independence from British rule. It was a popular meeting place for intellectuals, freedom fighters, social activists, revolutionaries, and bohemians. These days college students often hang out there to converse and exchange ideas. Opening hours are 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. College Street is also renowned for having the largest second-hand book market in the world. Go on this Bengal Renaissance Walk conducted by Kolkata Magic if you're interested in the street's history.

Hindustan Park

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This middle-class South Kolkata residential neighborhood has transformed into a trendy locality with its leafy streets now home to buzzing boutiques and cafes. Go there to shop for hip handicrafts, folk art, pottery, and exclusive textiles. Byloom and Sienna Store and Cafe are popular. It's situated near Gariahat Road, about 20 minutes south of the city center.

South Park Cemetery

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Visiting a cemetery isn't usually high on the itineraries of tourists. However, this one is worth seeing, especially if you're interested in India's colonial history! Established in 1767, this poignant grand old British cemetery was used up until 1830 and is now a protected heritage site. Overgrown and disheveled, its tombs are an elaborate mix of Gothic and Indo-Saracenic design and contain the bodies of many remarkable men and women from the Raj era. It's intriguing to spend some time wandering around and reading the stories of their lives on the headstones. One of the people buried there is English trader Job Charnock, who is regarded as the founder of Kolkata. The cemetery is located on Park Street, at the intersection of Rawdon Street. It's open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Entry is free. There's no cost for phone cameras but you'll need to pay 50 rupees for large digital cameras. Contact Immersive Trails for a guided walking tour of the cemetery.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple

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This old and very popular Hindu temple, dedicated to Bhavatarini ("savior of the universe", an aspect of Goddess Kali), was founded in 1855 by Rani Rashmoni. Widowed at a young age, she very successfully took over her wealthy husband's zamindar (land ownership) business. Apparently, the idea to establish the temple came to her in a dream before a pilgrimage to Varanasi. The temple was made famous by spiritual leader Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, who was appointed as its chief priest. It's situated alongside the Hooghly River on the northern outskirts of Kolkata, making it best accessed by ferry. Opening hours are October to March, daily from 6:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. until 8.30 p.m. April to September, daily from 6:00 a.m until 12.30 p.m and 3:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.

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Downriver from Dakshineswar Kali Temple, peaceful Belur Math is set on 40 acres of land and is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda (a chief disciple of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa). The main shrine, dedicated to Sri Ramakrishna, has unique and distinctive architecture that combines Hindu, Buddhist, Christian, and Islamic styles. It's worth experiencing the evening aarti  ceremony, which beings at sunset. Unfortunately, photography isn't allowed on the premises. Opening hours are October to March, daily from 6.30 a.m. until 11.30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. From April to September, the temple opens at 6 a.m.

Kalighat Kali Temple

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Recommended only for those who are ready for surrounding poverty, surging crowds, filth and pandemonium (otherwise visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple as an alternative), the temple at Kalighat in south Kolkata is dedicated to the city's fearsome patron goddess Kali — the dark mother—and is integral to the city. Hidden in a maze of alleyways, the temple is known for its animal (particularly goat) sacrifices, which although outlawed are still performed regularly inside its enclosure to appease the blood-drinking goddess. Prepare to be approached by pushy temple priests who will try and extract as much money as possible from you. The temple can be easily reached from Kalighat Metro train station. It's open daily from 5:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.

The settlement of Kumartuli, meaning "potter locality" ( Kumar = potter. Tuli = locality), is over 300 years old. It was formed by potters who came to the area in search of a better livelihood. Nowadays, around 150 families live there, earning a living by sculpting idols for various festivals. Most of the idol-making happens from June to January, with the biggest occasion being Durga Puja. There's usually a frenzy of activity around 20 days before the Durga Puja festival begins , in order to get all the work finished. Kumartuli can be entered from Banamali Sarkar Street in north Kolkata. The nearest Metro railway station is Shobhabazar-Sutanuti.

Old Chinatown (Tiretti Bazaar)

Kolkata is the only city in India to have a Chinatown (actually it has two, Old Chinatown in Tiretti Bazaar and newly established Tangra). Many migrants came from China in the late 18th century to work at the old Calcutta port. As the sun rises, the stoves are fired up and knives start chopping to produce the legendary Chinese breakfast that Old Chinatown is notorious for. Feast on fresh delicacies such as momos, dumplings, prawn crackers, pork sausages, and fish ball soup. Unfortunately, the authenticity has waned in recent years. You'll need to get there early as it's only on from 5.30 a.m. until around 8 a.m. Most of the action happens on Sunday mornings. Tiretti Bazaar is on the corner of Bentinck Street and India Exchange Place Road, in the central business district area next to Bow Bazaar. It's near Poddar Court.

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Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata: ✔Unusual Activities, Location

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Kolkata > Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata: ✔Unusual Activities, Location

The city of maach bhaat , of laidback charm, of culture and of joy – Kolkata is a beauty to discover. As is typical with all holidays, we tend to concentrate on known places because, well, let’s admit it, they’re easier to find on Google! One traveller understands the woes of another, and so I decided to list down my favourite offbeat things to do in Kolkata. Do make sure you have your hotel in Kolkata booking taken care of, so lodging is not on your mind, and you can indulge in a fruitful time. Also, from one traveller to another, choose a place which is in the midst of the town, even if you like staying in quieter places; it’ll save you a ton of travel time AND money.

The best way to get around Kolkata is by the iconic yellow taxi, metro and bus, and their public transport is smoother than one would expect. So, here these are, some less popular, but incredibly rewarding activities in Kolkata:

1. Breakfast in Chinatown

#1 of 11 Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata

We’ve all heard of Chinatowns across the world…this is India’s Chinatown, and it’s a cacophony of sounds and colours you won’t find anywhere else. Locally known as Tiretti Bazaar, it’s best not to head here if you are a vegetarian. Since Kolkata is primarily a fishing community, seafood here is the staple. You will be able to see fishermen prepping their fish and meat cutters getting ready to get their products out in the market. Tiretti Bazaar offers a glimpse of life in Kolkata, the daily humdrums of hundreds of immigrant Chinese workers, generation after generation. Make sure to have breakfast here for a truly out-worldly experience.

From fried momos and steamed momos to egg bhurjee in a bun, food lovers will find happiness here in various forms. On the other side, for vegetarians, the popular Nashtha Bazaar in Kankurgachi is a good option.

• Must-visit Restaurants : Beijing, Kim Ling, Golden Joy, Big Boss, Fung Fa and Kafulok
• Must-try Dishes : Peking duck, Schezwan fried rice, Shanghai fish, shrimp chili ball, Funga Fa soup, vegetable chow, Beijing special rice noodles

2. History Tour at Swami Vivekananda’s Ancestral House

#2 of 11 Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata

It’s said that you can tell a lot about a person if you re-visit their childhood, and Swami Vivekananda’s ancestral house offers one such opportunity. If you are looking for a quiet and relaxed afternoon going back in time, you are in the right place. Keep aside at least a couple of hours for this, since you can easily lose track of time in the serenity.

Ensure that you have a guide to take you through the house. Though, generally, guides tend to be intrusive, those in Kolkata know how to keep their distance and let you enjoy the place in peace. Also, no photography is allowed inside the house, and while that is quite a bummer, it allows you to absorb the energy and positive vibes of the house on your exploratory tour.

• Location : Vivekananda Road
• Timings : 10:00 am to 12:30 pm; 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm (closed on Monday)
• Entry Fee : ₹ 5

Also Read- Top 34 Things to do in Kolkata

3. Visiting Old Churches

#3 of 11 Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata

If history and art are your vacation favourites, Armenian Church and St John Church will keep you busy for a few hours. Among the oldest surviving churches in Kolkata , these hold stories of a time long gone by.

The former, managed by a small Armenian community, survived a massive fire. The church was reopened in 1724 after restoration and stands tall today to offer history enthusiasts a glimpse into the Armenian belief system.

St. John’s Church is an architect’s dream, built with a rare combination of stones and bricks. Standing on a burial ground, it was one of the first construction projects approved by the East India Company.

Armenian Church

• Location : Armenian Street
• Timings : 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

St. John’s Church

• Location : Council House Street
• Timings : 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

4. Boating at Babu Ghat

#4 of 11 Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata

I was repeatedly asked to visit Millennium Park and Princep Ghat for a glimpse of Kolkata, and I made sure that these two places were NOT part of my itinerary! Instead, I spent my time exploring the lesser-known Babu Ghat and I’m so glad. The bonus here is that there is no line for a boat ride, and the ride itself is leisurely and the views overwhelming. Ask the person to take you where you can capture the best views of the setting sun and be pleasantly surprised!

• Timings : 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
• Ticket Price : ₹ 650 (approx.)
• Duration : 2 hours (approx.)

5. Capturing the Sunset at Belur Math

#5 of 11 Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata

Yes, a place of worship, but trust me the temple at Belur Math is unlike others and it doesn’t see a barrage of visitors. The best way to reach Belur Math is by taking a boat from Dakshineshwar Kali Temple. Devoted to Sri Ramakrishna, the monastery is an architectural marvel. Read also – Temples in Kolkata

As the sun gradually sets, prep your camera and get ready for a sight to behold. I spent over an hour here admiring the setting sun, and I truly do wish I had a few more moments.

• 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm (April to September)
• 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm (October to March)
• Entry Fee : None

6. Flower Shopping at Mullick Ghat

#6 of 11 Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata

From the first rays of the sun to midnight, this market is abuzz with so much activity, the energy is almost palatable. Even if flowers are not part of your shopping list, you’ll be taking home bundles only because they are irresistible! As with all places close to the ghat, it can get quite muddy, so make sure you wear your sturdiest walking shoes. The views of the ghat from here are stunning, and it’s best to reach early morning to capture the rising sun.

7. Meditating at Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Monastery

#7 of 11 Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata

Myohoji Monastery is so breath taking, you’d wonder why more people don’t know about it. Built in an effort to spread the teachings of Buddhism in India, the monastery houses stunning artefacts that take you closer to the faith. If you are looking to attend the prayers, make sure you reach between 5:00 am and 6:30 am in the morning and 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm in the evening. It is advisable to maintain the sanctity of the monastery by following their practises when inside.

• Location : Hemanta Mukherjee Sarani, Lake Marke
• Timings : 5:00 am to 8:00 pm

8. Exploring the Town of Serampore

#8 of 11 Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata

Art, architecture and serenity – all wrapped together make Serampore sound like a town out of the books. The ghat in Serampore is quiet, offers views of the entire town, and if you are lucky, you might also catch a glimpse (and sound) of a lone musician strumming his/her instrument. There is almost something poetic about Serampore, and not many people know but the great guru, Shri Yukteswar Ji resided here in a humble house for many, many years.

You can visit his house with prior permission from the ashram and spend some time understanding the simplicity and beauty of his life. About 40 km from Kolkata, Serampore is a small, picturesque town waiting to weave a million stories. For all you Instagram lovers out there, this one is going to give you many stories to capture.  

9. Discovering the Sculptures of Kumortuli

#9 of 11 Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata

An artist’s paradise, Kumortuli is an alley of beauty, colour and art that can’t be expressed through words. There are many tours that take place in Kolkata, taking you through this vibrant neighbourhood, but trust me, if you want to truly discover the bazaar; you need to explore it on your own.

The street is home to hundreds of artists, and a visit here can almost be compared to a visit to someone’s home. The intimacy these streets provide is incomparable to any other experience. It is always buzzing with activity; however, if you happen to go before Durga Puja , you’ll be in for a real treat.

10. Paying Respect at Amitabh Bachchan Temple

#10 of 11 Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata

India’s perhaps the only place where temples are dedicated to celebrities! Amitabh Bachchan Temple is as unusual as it gets. The temple altar has a throne from his movie, Aks and a pair of shoes from Agneepath . Whether or not you are a movie buff, this experience is going to make you one! Built by a fan, the temple sees quite a few visitors for its sheer uniqueness.

• Location : Shri Dhar Roy Road, Kustia
• Timings : Morning to Evening

11. Satisfying the Bookworm in you at College Street

#11 of 11 Offbeat Things to Do in Kolkata

If you are a bookworm, this has to be part of your bucket list. A walk through College Street gives you the freedom to unabashedly geek out and look for your favourites. The word in the book world is that most first editions are available here at reasonable prices, and you just can’t ask for more!

• Location : Bowbazar

I hope the above list was helpful; though if one were to describe Kolkata, it is a melting pot of cultures, music, art and stories. Discovering it is similar to unravelling a great fiction, and if you are someone who travels without a planned itinerary, the city won’t disappoint. The best way to discover it is on a whim, and not miss a single thing that seems interesting. Trust me, the number of art galleries I visited, only because the art outside was so intriguing, surpassed the number of planned spots!

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Things to do in Kolkata: Exploring the City of Joy

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Here is the list of 33 things to do in kolkata: exploring the city of joy, 1. visit the classic victoria memorial.

Another symbol of the British Raj in India, the Victoria Memorial is located in the heart of Kolkata , which was formerly known as Calcutta, in West Bengal , India. This white marbled beauty, which can rightly be called the epitome of grace and elegance, was built in memory of Queen Victoria to celebrate her 25 years of rule over India. Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India, undertook the task of putting up this magnificent monument for people to see and appreciate, and today visting the Victoria Memorial is counted as one of the best things to do in Kolkata.

2. Take a Ferry Ride near Howrah Bridge

The iconic landmark of Kolkata , Howrah Bridge is a massive steel structure which is considered as one of the longest cantilever bridges of its type in the world. Also called as Rabindra Setu, it extends across the Hooghly River and connects Howrah and Kolkata. For those who wish to see the grandeur of the bridge, you are recommended an excellent ride in the ferry services between Kolkata and Howrah, offered from Launch Ghat. The view of the city from the ferry, especially in the night, is priceless, to say the least, and riding the ferry is one of the best things to do in Kolkata.

3. Enjoy a Vintage Tram Ride

When in the City of Joy, do not forget to enjoy a dainty tram ride across town. The activity is one of the top things to do in Kolkata and the experience is going to be one of the most funnest experiences ever. The rusty trams maintain the very vintage charm and are equipped with a TV and FM radio. Although it was originally an important medium of transport, the trams have lately become really popular with tourists.

4. Wildlife Trek in the Sundarbans

Known For : Marichjhanpi Ghoramara Island New Moore Island

Known for hosting the biggest mangrove forests in the world, Sundarbans National Park is located in West Bengal, India. It is also a Tiger Reserve and a Biosphere reserve that provides a complete nature's circle to the tourist right from 'Royal Bengal tigers' to roaring rivers and beautiful estuaries. Sundarbans National Park is a part of Sundarban delta that is covered with Mangrove Forest and the largest population of the Bengal Tigers. It is a UNESCO world heritage site with a large variety of birds and reptiles including salt-water crocodile. If you have time at hand, you should definitely put this under your list of things to do in Kolkata. The experience is going to be absolutely surreal.

Best Time: September to March

3 Sundarbans Attractions

Top Hotels In Kolkata

₽ 1,614 onwards

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5. Reminisce the Historical Times in Fort William

The mighty edifice of Fort William is situated in the city of Kolkata , on the eastern bank of the  Hooghly River. Built in the year 1696, the fort gets its name from King William III and was the first stronghold of the British in the country. The imposing structure of Fort William is embellished with hundreds of archlike windows and overlook lush green gardens. Meticulous stonework adorns the surface of the building and took as long as took ten years to reach completion. Along with a myriad other things to do in Kolkata, visiting here is one of the topmost.

6. Tour the Cosmos at Birla Planetarium

Kolkata's Birla Planetarium is a magnificent edifice set up by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on 2nd July 1963. This one in Kolkata is one of the three planetariums present in India and is hailed as the largest of its kind in the world. Also known as Taramandal, the Birla Planetarium regularly hold many programs are in various languages including Hindi, English, Bengali, and other regional languages. It airs several Sci-fi shows themed on the cosmos and watching one of them is truly one of the most unique things to do in Kolkata. The planetarium also houses numerous innovations and creativity, giving out knowledge to its fellow visitors.

7. Pay Your Respects at Belur Math

Sprawling over forty acres of land on the west bank of the Hooghly River, Belur; the Belur Math in Kolkata is a place of pilgrimage and also the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission. People from all over the world, irrespective of the religion that they believe in, visit this temple to enjoy the tranquillity and serenity that it imbues. The temple is noted for its excellent architecture, which skilfully and artistically fuses Hindu, Christian and Islamic motifs together as a symbol of unity of all religions.

8. Spiritual Retreat at St. Paul's Cathedral

Located in the heart of the City of Joy Kolkata, St Paul's is an Anglican cathedral under CNI ? Church of North India. It is a must-visit for those who seek enriching historical and architectural pleasure in their vacation trips. Right in the middle of the busy buzzing metro city, this colossal structure reminds you of the colonial times and takes you down the lane of history. Travellers keep this among the top things to do in Kolkata when they come here. It looks most beautiful during the Christmas holidays, when the cathedral, the garden around it as well as the surrounding streets are all bathed in light and festivities.

9. Marvel at the Architecture of Birla Mandir

Birla Temple is a glowing structure that adorns the streets of Kolkata and is a shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna and Goddess Radha. An imposing structure amalgamating traditional style of architecture with modern reflections, the temple is the perfect specimen of craftsmanship and engineering genius. The construction of this splendid edifice began in the year 1970 and after meticulous work spanning over 26 years, it reached its completion on 21st February 1996. The unique patterns on the wall of the temple are sculpted by the artisans specially called from Agra, Mirzapur and Muzaffarpur.  Make sure you put this under your list of things to do in Kolkata and we promise you will be awed by the magnificent architecture and genius craftsmanship.

10. Taste the Savoury Street Food

Kolkata - the Cultural Capital of India is a heaven for foodies and especially for people with a sweet tooth. Bengali sweets are famous and certainly needs no introduction, however; the spicy, tangy and absolutely mouth-watering dishes that Kolkata has to offer will leave you undecided on whether you like the spicy Bengali cuisine more or the melting flavors of the sweetmeats. Add to that the traditional Chinese and Tibetan food that are found here and you're spoilt for choices. Tasting the local street food is one of the top things to do in Kolkata.

11. Visit the Iconic Eden Gardens

The Eden Gardens is a beautiful, well- maintained garden and cricket stadium located in Kolkata's B. B. D. Bagh area, near State Secretariat and Calcutta High Court. It was established in the year 1864 and was laid by Governor- General Auckland, who named them after his sisters Emily and Fanny Eden. Stretched over 50 acres, this cricket stadium has the capacity to seat about 66,349 people and is the second largest stadiums in the world. Touring the magnificent garden is one of the top things to do in Kolkata. When it is not hosting some of the most nail- biting sporting events, Eden Gardens also doubles up as a quaint destination for nature lovers. The subtle pathways of Eden Gardens are shaded by huge mahogany, mango and banyan trees that make it a peaceful place to sit and enjoy the marvels of nature.

12. Watch Sunset at Prinsep Ghat

Prinsep Ghat, located on the banks of River Hooghly, is a majestic structure famous for its Greek/ Gothic inlays. The beauty of Princep Ghat draws architecture and history buffs in large numbers, but even locals visit to absorb the regal vibe of the attraction. With the magnificent Howrah Bridge in the background, watching the sunrise or sunset and taking a long walk in the cool air on the banks of the river are some of the preferred recreational activities here and some of the top things to do in Kolkata.

13. Roam the Park Street

Park Street is a major access route in Kolkata, also officially known as Mother Teresa Sarani. The street begins at Chowringhee Road or JL Nehru road and stretches till Park Circus crossing. It is said that Park Street never sleeps and is always bustling with activities. Being a major hangout spot in the city, it has many pubs and restaurants. Several important routes intersect or originate from Park Street. The street has been a crowd puller since the reign of the British Kingdom and undergone modifications that make it a fashionable hangout spot and hanging out here is one of the best things to do in Kolkata. Park Street is one area in the city where one will find 5-Star restaurant and hotels, nightclubs/pubs, malls and several eateries. It is one of the prime entertainment and recreational zone in Kolkata.

14. Shop Your Heart Out at Chowringhee

Chowringhee, officially known as Jawaharlal Nehru Road, is a happening hub and frequently visited by locals for recreational activities and shopping. It is one of the few localities in the city with top end boutiques, hotels, malls, shops and restaurants. The region also has several heritage buildings nearby that tourists can explore. These buildings were built during the British era and are famous for their architecture and historical importance that photographers shouldn't miss at all. It is one of the places for the night owls searching for nightclubs/ pubs. With the Chowringhee Market nearby, the area is a paradise for shopaholics and you should definitely put this under your bucket list of things to do in Kolkata.

15. Haunted Adventures at South Park Street Cemetery

South Park Street Cemetery is an 18th-century non-church cemetery, one of the earliest in the world. It is now a heritage site in Kolkata and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India. Most of the tombs in the South Park Street Cemetery are aesthetically beautiful and very attractive. It, thus, has a unique charm that draws tourists in large numbers. Some tombs have a mysterious while some have a soothing vibe. One such tomb is grave number 363 which is the oldest and belongs to a woman who never wished to have her name revealed. The tomb architecture is mostly a mix of Gothic and Indo-Saracenic with miniature replicas on stone. The cemetery has an unusual charm that is attractive as well as unsettling. And if you are an adventurer at heart, you should definitely put this in your bucket list of things to do in Kolkata.

16. Take a Day Trip Santiniketan

Known For : Tagore's ashrama Poush Mela Amar Kutir

Known to few, mainly as Rabindranath Tagore's home and now a university, Santiniketan is a small town located in the Birbhum district of West Bengal , 160 kms from Kolkata. The town comprises mainly of Visva Bharati University. The University was set up by Rabindranath Tagore's father and later popularized by him to radically change the concept of education in India. Today, this beautifully laid out university and small sleepy town has acquired the status of a unique tourist haven, where lines of knowledge and aesthetic brilliance merge.

Best Time: Mid August to March

15 Santiniketan Attractions

17. Natural Retreat at Sonajhuri Forest

Away from the mell pell of the city lies a hidden gem in the state of West Bengal. Considered to be one of the most clean forests in India, Sonajhuri Forest is a great retreat to be close to nature. The Sonajhuri Forest is replete with lush green trees that has blooming flowers. This place is picturesque with quite a number of mesmerizing places to see and explore. This place is untouched by industrialization and is a inhabited by tribal who lead simple lives. The pristine river flowing alongside the forest makes the whole place look even more magical. Just like Tagore, after seeing its beauty, this place might invoke the poet in you. If you are a nature lover, it is definitely one of the best things to do in Kolkata and will keep you calling back for more.

18. Find Peace at St John's Church

St John's Church is one of the oldest churches in Kolkata that was built during the reign of the British Kingdom when the city was the capital of British India. The church served as Anglican Cathedral till St. Paul's Cathedral was made the Anglican cathedral in 1847. It is a splendidly well-maintained structure that draws history and architecture buffs for its uniqueness and ancient features. One may notice the unique tall features of St John's Church which is a characteristic part of the neoclassical architecture. The colour scheme and the stained glass windows add to the character of the structure. The church maintains utmost silence to allow the visitors to sit in peace for at least a moment and visiting this remarkable structure is one of the top things to do in Kolkata.

19. Embrace the Scientist in You at Science City

One of its kind in India, the Science city was inaugurated on 1st July 1997. It is a major attraction for the residents of Kolkata as well as for the people visiting Kolkata. It is one of the finest and the largest science museums in the world and provides a fun way of learning science. The science city is a perfect blend of education with fun. There is a special section dedicated to the aquatic world wherein you can learn every minute detail about the various fishes and insects in the aquatic world. All in all, science city is going to offer you a phenomenal experience with your friends and family and totally make your holiday worth it. You should definitely put this in your list of top things to do in Kolkata.

20. Shop Till You Drop

Shopping is always fun, isn't it? Clinically proven to be a great stress buster, shopping helps you to de-stress after a long day at work. And when you visit a place it almost becomes mandatory to bring back knick- knacks for friends and family. Well, here we are, ready to take you all on a virtual tour around the markets surrounding Kolkata- the city of joy. Kolkata is also famous for the cheap stuff available owing to its proximity to all the major ports around the globe. So make sure you absolutely put market hopping under your top things to do in Kolkata.

21. Picnic in the Eco Tourism Park

Eco Tourism Park is an expansive urban park designed to promote eco-tourism in the city. It is the biggest urban park in India and occupies over 475 acres of land. The beauty of the location increases ten folds because of a water body that surrounds the park and forms an island in the middle. It is often visited by picnickers or those who want a quick escape from the mundane lives. The beautiful and well-maintained landscape is a perfect retreat for nature lovers and visiting here is one of the top things to do in Kolkata. All the facilities provided inside the park are designed to decrease the adverse effects on nature through non-pollution and preservation of the natural landscape.

22. Revisit History at the Indian Museum

The ninth oldest museum of the world and largest in India, the Indian Museum is located in the old city of Kolkata . The foundation stone of the Indian Museum was laid down in the year 1814 and has been a centre of multidisciplinary activities ever since. Popularly known as 'Jadughar', it exhibits some of the finest collection of historical importance ranging from contemporary paintings and a sacred relic of Buddha to Egyptian mummies and ancient sculptures. In addition to these, the Indian Museum boasts of some of the most exquisite collections of ornaments, fossils, skeletons, antiques, armours, and stunning Mughal paintings. Make sure you put this on your list of things to do in Kolkata as it is one of the topmost experiences.

23. Tour the Birla Industrial & Technological Museum

Being the first scientific and industrial museum in India, Birla Industrial and Technological Museum (BITM) is one of the prime attractions of Kolkata. The museum was set up on 2nd May 1959 and opened to the general public. Dr B.C. Roy, who was the chief minister of Bengal at that time, followed the idea of opening the museum. It was first known as Birla Park and within three years was converted into a museum. Situated on the Gurusaday Road in Kolkata, the palatial museum has become a famous tourist attraction visited to view the galleries and 3D shows organized in the premises.

24. Birdwatching at Rabindra Sarovar

The erstwhile Dhakuri lake is an artificial tank spread over 75 acres and is home to various migratory birds from Siberia and Russia. The lake is surrounded by gardens, children's park an auditorium, making it a popular recreational spot perfect for idyllic picnics. You can also carry your binoculars to spot the exotic birds while you are out there picnicking. If you are a wanderer or a nature lover, visiting this place should definitely be there on your list of top things to do in Kolkata.

25. Art Tour at the Marble Palace Mansion

The Marble palace near the Chorbagan in North Kolkata built in 1835 by Rajendra Mallick is famed for its art collection of masterpieces by Reuben and paintings by various renowned international artists such as Reynolds, Van Gogh and Rembrandt. The Palace also boasts of a Zoo with different rare birds and animals. Along with several other myriad things to do in Kolkata, you should try this one too, especially if you are an art connoisseur.

26. Soak in the Sun in Tajpur

One of the most secluded beaches of the country and one of the newest entrant in the tourism scene of West Bengal, Tajpur is slowly carving out a niche for itself as the stopover destination between the two major centers Digha and Shankarpur. The red crabs that are found here in plenty and the gentle breeze that lulls idle strolls by the sea make Tajpur a perfect place getaway. One of the most sequestered stretches of sands, this beach, has seclusion only adding to its aura, leaving its visitors spellbound by its freshness, its vastness and the beauty of the sea. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Kolkata.

27. Relax and Unwind at Botanical Gardens

The Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, better known as the Botanical Garden, is a sprawling garden spanning a total area of 273 acres that is located in Shibpur, Howrah, near Kolkata. The gardens were established in the year 1787 and were commonly known as the Company Garden in that time. Today, the vibrant garden is considered to be one of the most stunning landscaped gardens in the entire country with undulating land topography and astonishing artificial lakes. It is a pure delight for nature lovers to visit this area and to spend some quiet and peaceful time in the lap of nature at the gardens and visiting here is one of the topmost things to do in Kolkata.

28. Take a Walk Down the Hooghly Riverfront

The very picturesque Hooghly Riverfront is situated along two banks of River Hooghly in West Bengal- Kolkata in the East and Howrah on the West. The mighty river offers mesmerising sunrise and sunset views. After the beautification of the East promenade in 2011, the spot has become a major tourist attraction. Talking a walk down the Riverfront is one of the topmost activities here and you should definitely put it under your list of top things to do in Kolkata.

29. Religious Retreat at Calcutta Jain Temple

Pareshnath Jain Temple is a temple complex dedicated to four Jain Teerthankaras. The complex is a beautiful arrangement of these shrines and draws tourists from all over the world. The architecture of the temples consists of intricately carved marbles and glass work and is indeed one of the few temples that have a charismatic vibe. The complex expands over a vast piece of land and is mostly visited by followers of Jainism. The temple complex also houses extremely well-maintained gardens and fountains. Many visitors claim it is not just a religious retreat but also a recreational one because of its architecture.

30. Visit the Mother House

Mother House or Missionaries of Charity is a religious congregation that was established by Mother Teresa in 1950. It is a Latin Church or a Roman Catholic religious congregation known as Saint Teresa of Kolkata. The members of the Mother House provide free services to the ones stricken by poverty. An area of the house is reserved for followers to pay their respect to Mother Teresa. Here, one can find Mother Teresa's Tomb and an exhibition that displays her work through photographs, awards and articles. Some of her belongings like her sarees, her sandals and her bag are also displayed. Visiting the Mother House is one of the topmost things to do in Kolkata.

31. Visit Jorasanko Thakur Bari

The Bengali name for the House of the Thakurs, the Jorasanko Thakur Bari is the ancestral home of the Tagore family that is located in Jorasanko, in the north of Kolkata in West Bengal in India. This is an enjoyable and exciting place to visit, especially for lovers of history and Bengali literature. The 700 paintings that are exhibited in this ancestral home especially capture the attention of the visitors. What enthrals them, even more, is the self-composed invite of Rabindranath Tagore's wedding. The museum also houses three different galleries, manuscripts, books and other antique items.

32. Offbeat Tour to Deulti

Situated on the bank of river Roopnarayan, Deulti provides for an ideal picnic spot. This small village picnic destination is also accompanied by a handful of tourist attractions, like Samtaber, the hometown of renowned Bengali author Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay and the temples of Madangopal and Radha, adorned with embellishments of Terracotta art. If you are a bird lover, keep an eye (read ear) for the chirps of different birds, while you take a walk on the clay paths of the villages.

33. Mullick Ghat Flower Market, Howrah

The Flower Market in Mullick Ghat is one of the few places where tourists can experience a different Howrah so to speak. The lane is lined by vendors who get a wide variety of flowers ranging from Marigold, Jasmine, Roses, Sunflower, Daisies, Lillies, Chrysanthemum, Lotus, Orchids etc., which are sourced from the farms nearby. They are displayed all along the street for the customers interested in buying.

This post was published by Aqsa Aleem

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Home » Lifestyle » Travel » Top 15 unique places to visit in Kolkata

Top 15 unique places to visit in Kolkata

Kolkata is the third most populous metropolitan in India. The city is the capital of West Bengal which is located in Eastern India. The city has been a former capital of India and a population business hub during colonial times. The rich cultural heritage of the city is truly unmatched. The city has also been the home of many renowned scholars and poets who are known across the world. Historically rich and with a ton of places to visit, Kolkata’s famous places should be explored by all tourists who travel to the Eastern part of India.

Table of Contents

Here’s how you can reach Kolkata:

By air: Kolkata is well connected by air with all major cities in India and abroad. The Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is located within the city and receives countless domestic and international flights here everyday. Tourists who want to travel to Kolkata can easily take the air route to reach Kolkata Airport without hassle.

By rail: The best way to reach Kolkata will be to travel to Howrah railway station. This is a major railway station in Eastern India and is well connected to all parts of the country. Direct trains are available here from all major Indian cities. From Howrah station, you can take connecting trains to all parts of Kolkata.

By road: Kolkata also has an elaborate system of roads which makes it easy to travel here from other states. To reach Kolkata from Delhi, you can take the NH19 highway, which connects the two cities. Alternatively, you can also travel here from Mumbai via NH53.

15 Kolkata famous places with name

If you are a resident of Kolkata and are looking to explore the tourist places in Kolkata, look no further. Here are some of the top Kolkata tourist places with images and names, to help you plan your itinerary.

Victoria Memorial 

Source: Pinterest  

Victoria Memorial is a royal memorial dedicated to Queen Victoria. This spectacular monument is completely built of marble and casts a brilliant white hue against the green backdrop of Maidan. The monument is the largest one in the world which has been made for a royal. The awe-inspiring architecture of colonial India is reflected through the Victoria memorial and it remains to be one of the best places to visit in Kolkata. 

You can reach Victoria Memorial by public and private transport and explore the 20th-century monument from within. The inside of the memorial holds a museum that contains some antiques belonging to the queen herself. Additionally, you can also visit the green pastures of Kolkata’s Maidan located just behind the monument.

Victoria Memorial is open everyday from 10 am to 5 pm. The entry fees to the monument is Rs 30 for Indians and Rs 300 for international visitors.

Indian Museum 

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The Indian Museum of Kolkata is among the top 9 oldest museums in the world. This museum has an amazing collection and displays which should be explored by every tourist who visits Kolkata. It is the largest museum in India and houses several artefacts like antiques, armour and ornaments, fossils, skeletons, mummies, and paintings. It has dedicated sections for fossils, coins, textiles, extinct animal species, and many more. It will take you hours to complete the tour of the museum and examine every section with great detail. 

You will also find sculptures and temple structures that are centuries old and have been beautifully preserved by the museum. We recommend starting early so that you can study every display properly. The museum is open to visitors everyday except Monday from 10 am to 5 pm. The entry fee varies from Rs. 10 for Indians to Rs. 150 for foreigners.

Princep Ghat

The Princep Ghat in Kolkata is located on the edge of the Ganges and overlooks the riverside. It was constructed in 1841 in the memory of the eminent Anglo-Indian scholar and antiquary James Prinsep. The monument, designed by W. Fitzgerald, is still among the top visiting places in Kolkata. 

Princep Ghat also offers a beautiful view of the Ganges and the second Hooghly Bridge. There is ample seating available nearby for travellers who want to wind down and relax by the Riverside. You can also enjoy some amazing fast food from the nearby stalls while marvelling at the monument and the river nearby.

Birla Planetarium 

Birla Planetarium is among the famous places in Kolkata, frequented by travellers and locals alike. The building draws its inspiration from the famous Buddhist Stupa at Sanchi. It is located beside the St. Paul’s Cathedral in Maidan and near Victoria Memorial. Inaugurated in 1962 by Jawaharlal Nehru, the Planetarium is still active and invites tourists to explore its premises. You can opt to browse through its galleries and even sit for shows regularly conducted inside. The place is easily accessible by roads and even the metro. You can visit Birla Planetarium everyday from 12:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The entry fee is priced at INR 100 per head.

Alipore Zoological Garden

The Alipore Zoological Garden is India’s oldest zoo and one of the best places to visit in Kolkata. The zoo was established in 1876 and covers an area of18.811 ha (46.48 acres). The zoo receives a huge number of tourists who come to explore all the animals. The zoo has a rather impressive collection of reptiles, mammals, birds, and more. Some of the important animals at Alipore zoo are the royal Bengal tiger, African lion, Asiatic lion, jaguar, hippopotamus, great Indian one-horned rhinoceros, reticulated giraffe, etc. 

Additionally a great number of birds are present within its premises, such as macaw species, conures, lories, and lorikeets; other large birds like turacos and hornbills; colourful game birds like the golden pheasant, Lady Amherst’s pheasant, and Swinhoe’s pheasant. You can visit the zoo every day except Thursday from 09:00 a.m. to 04 -30 p.m. The ticket price will cost you INR 30 per person.

Science City

The Science city of Kolkata was the only one in India when it was inaugurated on 1st July 1997. It is now a significant Kolkata tourist place for locals and tourists. The Science City is a brilliant science museum and explores science in a more fun and interesting way. There are several sections in the science city, and even the park grounds are landscaped into mazes to make it interesting. You can participate in some fun games at the park and watch shows which are conducted daily. The dinosaur world will take you through a ride while you look at replicas of these majestic creatures. 

Additionally, there is also a large aquarium section with various rare fish. You can take a ropeway ride within the premises and enjoy some food at the park as well. The timings for visiting Science city is 10 am to 6 pm and it is open everyday. The entry fee is priced at INR 80.

St Paul’s Cathedral

St Paul’s Cathedral in Kolkata is located close to Birla Planetarium and Victoria Memorial. It is an old cathedral from the 19th century. The church was inspired by neo-gothic styles and is the biggest church in Kolkata. It is an Anglican Church that allows visitors during church hours. The cathedral also celebrates Christmas with great festivities and receives hundreds of locals and travellers here. 

You can combine a tour of the cathedral with Birla Planetarium and Victoria memorial to make the most out of the day, exploring places to visit near Kolkata. You can also stroll around the streets and rest within its premises to escape the summer heat.

Birla Temple

The Birla Temple is located in the Park Circus area of Kolkata. This beautiful temple was built in the late 20th century and dedicated to Radha and Krishan. The temple draws a large number of devotees from the Vaishnava sect of Hinduism. The beautiful temple Architecture is a true Marvel of Indian art. 

You can explore the Mandir premise which also houses various other deities from Shaivite and Shakti sects. Easily accessible by road, you can pay your respects at the temple and spend some time in its peaceful and spiritual ambience before heading to your next destination. The nearby Quest Mall can also be explored if you want to shop from major international brands.

Rabindra Sarobar

Rabindra Sarobar is a large artificial lake in Kolkata. It covers a stretch of 73 acres. The lake has been named after the famous Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, who was a resident of Kolkata. The beautiful lake has an extremely peaceful ambience and is perfect catching the sunset while relaxing with your family. There are plenty of seating arrangements in the lake for people to enjoy the peace and quiet. 

You can enjoy some goods from the stalls within the premises and take a short walk through the lake grounds to catch a glimpse of its beauty entirely. The lake is also a famous Kolkata place to visit for photography enthusiasts, and you can take some stunning portraits while you relax and unwind after covering a hectic itinerary.  The Gariahat markets are situated close by for budget shopping expeditions and some amazing street food.

Kalighat Temple

The Kalighat temple is located in the Kalighat area of Kolkata. This famous temple is among the unique places to visit in Kolkata. This Hindu temple was constructed in the early 19th century and receives thousands of devotees every month. It is one of the 51 Sati Peethas in the world and a highly spiritual place for Hindus. You can opt to offer a puja at the temple for a nominal price or simply roam about the premises to explore its beauty. It is located close to the Kalighat Metro station and can be combined with a visit to the nearby zoo.

The Eco Park at New Town is a recently developed tourist place in Kolkata. This amazing park has a large number of amenities for everyone. Located close to the airport, the park covers a large area that cannot be completed in a single day. The most notable section of the park contains replicas of the seven wonders of the world. 

You will also find various other sections like the Japanese Garden, Bengali Village section, and many more. The lake, around which the park is constructed, offers water sports like boating and inflatable balloon rides. You can also enjoy some lip-smacking food, ranging from street food to Chinese cuisines. There are also resorts within the park to host travellers and let them enjoy the beauty of the park at night. Eco Park is open on all days except Monday from 2:30 pm –8:30 pm. The entry fee is priced at INR 50 per person.

Botanical Gardens

The Botanical gardens are one of the top tourist places in Kolkata for nature enthusiasts. This garden covers an area of 273 acres and has a variety of flora not seen elsewhere. It was established in the 18th century and is also called the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden. 

The garden is a special delight due to its beautiful landscaping and home to around 12,000 living perennial plants. The great banyan tree here is the second most extensive tree canopy in the world. You can take a stroll through the garden and spot your favourite plants. If you are visiting in the winter, you will see a huge variety of flowering plants, which are a treat to the eyes. You can visit the garden from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days of the week except on Mondays. The entry fee will cost Indian Nationals INR 10 and INR 100 for Foreign Nationals.

Calcutta Jain Temple

The Calcutta Jain Temple is an amazing piece of architecture. The temple was built in the 19th century by Sir Rai Badridas Bahadoor Mookim to honour the 23rd Tirthankara Parshvanatha. The temple houses a statue of the deity with his head encrusted with diamonds. The beautiful gardens and numerous big fountains in the complex are special attractions of the Temple. The interiors of the temple are also beautifully done with glass works and mirrors. You can visit the temple any time you like and marvel at its beauty in person.

Boat ride on the Ganges

A boat ride on the Ganges is among the top things to do in Kolkata. The boat rides will take you through the sacred Ganga river and give you spectacular views of the Hoogly bridge and the Howrah bridge. You can also take a government-arranged boat ride on the river and enjoy the beautiful sunsets. 

You will see some of the famous buildings of Kolkata from the river itself. These boat rides are recommended during sunsets so that you can catch the beautiful orange glow from the setting sun on the horizon. You can carry some munchies with you and enjoy them on the ride.

Local cuisine of Bengal 

Kolkata is known for its delectable cuisines, which will leave you amazed. The food of Bengal has a beautiful picture of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisines. The street food of Kolkata is well known for its variety and taste. You can also opt to dine at some amazing luxury restaurants for some continental cuisine. If you are in Kolkata, we recommend taking food walks in Park Street, Esplanade, Bara Bazar, Vardaan Market, and Hindustan Park. 

You will also find a variety of western dishes ranging from American, Italian, French, and British dishes. The pocket pinch is also minimal for street food, so you can snack without worrying about the budget.

Is Kolkata worth visiting?

Kolkata is a beautiful city with a rich historical and cultural heritage. The beautiful tourist places like museums and parks, along with its delectable local cuisine definitely, make it worth visiting.

Which is the best time to visit Kolkata?

The best time to visit Kolkata is in the months of October to February. In the summers and monsoons, the weather is not suitable for extensive tours.

Are two days enough to visit Kolkata?

Tourists can explore Kolkata within two days. However, it is recommended to have an itinerary of 3 days to cover all important places.

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Unexplored Places to visit near Kolkata

Kolkata is one of the biggest cities in India having a huge number of residents and even a greater number of people visiting the city. The City of Joy, named as such after the famous book by the famed author Dominique Lapierre, is a wonderland filled with relics of the British Raj. Even though many of the tourist places are well-known and often visited by road with your own vehical or with a rental car , the city hides many gems in form of unexplored places in Kolkata. Let us tell you about a few that have remained hidden from the public eyes.

Some of unexplored places near Kolkata

• Subhash Sarovar
• Nipponzan Myohoji
• Jetty by the Hooghly
• Jessop Factory
• Baguran Jalpai

1. Subhash Sarovar

Subhash Sarovar makes to our list of Kolkata unexplored places which is apt for all those people who want to be in a peaceful surrounding for some time. The pristine lake surrounded by verdant greenery and chirping of birds, makes this place perfect for the solitude lovers.

Location: Subhas Sarobar Park, Phool Bagan, Beleghata

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2. Nipponzan Myohoji

This is a Japanese Buddhist temple which is not known to many yet. There are statues of Buddha and pillars with lions on the temple. People visit this temple to meditate and find inner peace.

Location: 60, Kabi Bharati, 1, Lake Terrace Rd, Hemanta Mukherjee Sarani, Lake Market

3. Jetty by the Hooghly

This jetty was once a part of the Army base camp from where their freight would load and unload. The place is calm and quiet, where you can only hear the sound of the River and birds chirping around.

Location: Bidhan Ghat at Napier road, Hastings

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4. Jessop Factory

One of the Kolkata’s unexplored places, Jessop Factory once was a lively place where workers would come every day to earn their wages. However, the factory was shut down several years ago. It is said, one can still hear the sound of machines in the factory at night, while there is no worker in there. Spooky, eh?

Location: Satgachi, South Dumdum

5. Baguran Jalpai

Baguran Jalpai is one of the unexplored places near Kolkata where you can reach in just four hours from the city. The golden sandy beach here, surrounded by Casuarina trees is a perfect place if you want to unwind. The sunset here is something you must witness.

Distance from Kolkata: 160 km

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Gangani is mostly popular for the wonderful gorge of red soil that stands on the banks of Silabati River. Gangani is also called as the Great Canyon of Bengal. During the monsoon season, you can see how beautiful the entire region looks when the river flows through the 70 ft deep gorge.

Distance from Kolkata: 136 km

7. Monchasa

You can visit this place if you want see how rural life works. You will find a river constantly flowing by, while abundant greenery surrounds it. While you are here, you can visit the plantation area, where the villagers grow fruits, vegetables and medicinal plants

Distance from Kolkata: 140 km

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8. Makaibari

Makaibari is one of the oldest tea estates in the country, which spreads over an area of 1575 acres. You can get inside the premises to see how tea is processed or even take part in the tea tasting session.

Distance from Kolkata: 585 km

9. Bhalukhop

Located at an altitude of 5300 feet, Bhalukop mostly remains covered with fog. The weather here is truly pleasant during the summers and freezes during the winter. The clean air, healthy food, and chirping of birds will make your stay here a memorable one. Some of the attractions here are the Delo Park and viewpoint, Hanuman Temple, Buddha Statue, etc.

Distance from Kolkata: 624 km

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10. Bidyang

Perched at an altitude of 3000 ft. and surrounded by dense forest of oak, pine and fir, you can spend your time at Bidyang in absolute tranquility. Try to visit the place on any moonlit night to witness how the moonlight falling on the bamboo bushes enhances the beauty of the village and makes it look like a dream.

Distance from Kolkata: 645 km

11. Bijanbari

It is a small village near Darjeeling where you can experience the countryside life. While on the way to Bijanbari, you will pass through sprawling tea gardens, the beautiful Hima waterfalls, the gorgeous mountain streams, and verdant forests.

Distance from Kolkata: 640 km

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With Himalayas at its backdrop, you can stay at a cottage in Borong among the pines and firs. The sunrise over the mighty Himalays range is a spectacular sight that you must not miss. You can also experience the hot water springs at the banks of Rangit river.

Distance from Kolkata: 680 km

13. Charkhole

Wrapped in the lap of nature, Charkhole is a place that is visited by people who appreciate natural beauty, clear sky, and clean air. You can find varieties of orchids, beautiful butterflies, and birds chirping around. You can admire the view of the majestic Himalayas from any corner of the village.

Distance from Kolkata: 625 km

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14. Chuikhim

A place where life starts as early as 4 am, where people grow their food in the fields or their kitchen garden, where locals are warm; you can experience all of these in Chuikhim. You can try the delicious home-cooked food here. Amidst unadulterated nature, you can find serenity which is hard to get in cities.

Distance from Kolkata: 641 km

15. Kolakham

Kolkham is blessed with nature at its abundance. You can see snow-capped Kanchenjunga ranges from any nook of the village. Surrounded by pine trees, the village is the perfect weekend retreat.  

Distance from Kolkata: 662 km

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As we see from the few examples above, Kolkata can prove to have a great base for exploring some of the lesser known places whether they are in or around the city. These places can help you fulfill your urge to explore some new attractions without leaving the creature comforts of the city far behind. Do get ready to click a lot of pictures for showing off the highlights of your upcoming adventures.

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52 Offbeat Weekend Destinations from Kolkata

Weekend Getaways from Kolkata , Featured

Last Updated on: Feb 10, 2023  

There is no doubt that Kolkata is a beautiful city and the best part is that there are many offbeat weekend destinations near Kolkata. You will be spoilt for choice when it comes to weekend getaways from Kolkata. You can visit the mountains, the rural villages, beaches or the forests to simply relax and spend quality time with your family. So we have decided to collate a list of some great offbeat weekend destinations from Kolkata for you.

These days with more work pressure, lesser family time and stress, it becomes difficult to strike a balance between work and travel . It is best to use the weekends to this cause and plan a short getaway to the place of your choice. You come back rejuvenated for the next week.

The most visited weekend getaways near Kolkata are undoubtedly Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Shantiniketan and the beaches of Puri , Digha and Mandarmani. I am sure all the Bengalis are very familiar with the term Di-Pu-Da. In this list, we are excluding these better-known places.

Offbeat Weekend destinations from Kolkata

We have collated 52 weekends getaways from Kolkata for the 52 weeks of the year. We have arranged these offbeat weekend destinations in alphabetical order. The distance from Kolkata is an approximate one. There are obviously many more places to visit during the weekends. These are only a few. If you want to know more about offbeat weekend destinations from Kolkata, wait for our e-book to be published. We promise it is going to be published soon!

Bagora, North Bengal

Mountains, mist and pristine nature – that is what Bagora is. A beautiful hamlet tucked at an altitude of 7150 ft above the sea level, Bagora is a place where you can simply relax and rejuvenate. The mountains are there for your eyes only and the carpet of green grass is to soothe your souls. Here no one is in a hurry and you too can enjoy this slow pace. You can simply walk down the village and explore the place in your own ways.

Distance from Kolkata: 600 km

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

How to reach: From Siliguri / NJP, take a shared sumo towards Darjeeling. Get down at Dilaram. From there you have to take a car to Bagora.

Things to do: Visit the Zero Point, walk through the village, bird watching. There are several trek routes from Bagora to Chimeni (4 km), Latpanchar (19 km), Mongpu (12 km) or Chatakpur (8 km).

Nearby places: Chimeni, Latpanchar , Mongpu , Chatakpur, Dilaram

Baguran – Jalpai, Medinipur – West Bengal

Baguran Jalpai is an unexplored and tranquil beach destination under the Contai subdivision of Purba Medinipur. This lesser-known destination is just 4 hours away from Kolkata. Surrounded by casuarina trees, the long beach with golden sand is just the place to relax and rejuvenate. Time will simply pass by here as you look at the waves crashing down the sandy beach. Dusk is a very beautiful time here. After exploring the beach, you can visit the fishermen village and get a glimpse of their life.

Distance from Kolkata: 160 km

Best time to visit: All through the year

How to reach: From Howrah, you can take a train to Kanthi. The place is 10 km from Kanthi and can be reached by hiring a car or auto from Kanthi Railway Station or Bus Stand.

Things to do: Walk on the beach, visit the fishermen village, watch the sunset.

Nearby places: Digha, Junput, Bankiput, Mandarmani

Bangriposi, Odisha

Bangriposi literally means ‘the beautiful daughter of the hills’ and the place lives up to its name. Situated in the Thakurani ranges of Odisha, Bangriposi has been immortalized in the novel by Buddhadeb Guha. The place is known for the hills, beautiful forest and the rivers. Overall, it is a great place for seclusion and relaxation.

Distance from Kolkata: 220 km

Best time to visit: Any time of the year

How to reach: The nearest Railway station is Balasore. From Balasore, take a trekker to Bangriposi, 110 km away.

If you are travelling by car, then take the Bombay Road (NH6) and drive straight, past Kolaghat, Kharagpur, the Baharagora check post and Jamsola. The drive is quite pleasant on winter mornings.

Things to do: Visit the Buribalam waterfalls, the river side, take blessings from Kanak Devi Temple. Take a day trip to Kuliana, the dokra village of Odisha. During winter, the place becomes the home to a number of migratory birds.

Nearby places: Simlipal Forest, Puri , Chilika and Gopalpur-on-sea.

Baranti, Purulia – West Bengal

Baranti is one of the most beautiful places of Purulia. Surrounded by Biharinath Hill on one side and Panchkot Hills on the other side, Baranti is ideal for those seeking tranquility away from the chaos of the city. The Muradi Lake in Baranti has been created by a mud dam. The view of the sunset with the lake in the background looks breathtaking. From Baranti, you can visit the other attractions of Purulia like Ayodhya Hills, Biharinath Hills etc.

Distance from Kolkata: 265 km

Best time to visit: October to March

How to reach: From Howrah station, take a train to Asansol. From Asansol, Baranti is 40 km by car.

Things to do: Enjoy the sunset at Baranti Dam, Go sightseeing to Ayodhya Hills, Biharinath Hills and Susunia hills.

Nearby places: Ayodhya Hills, Asansol

Bhalukhop, North Bengal

Bhalukhop is a small village near Kalimpong offering magnificent views of the Kanchenjunga ranges. Perched at an altitude of 5300 feet, the place is a great alternative to Kalimpong for those who want some solitude and peace. Here you can wake up to the call of chirping birds, enjoy the fresh air and roam around the village admiring the quaint village. The best views of the Kalimpong hills are located within a few kilometers from Bhalukhop. The Delo Park and viewpoint, Buddha Statue, Hanuman Temple, Guru Padmasambhava statue are all within 10 km from the village. As it is located on the outskirts of Kalimpong, you can get the best of nature here without having to face the crowd of Kalimpong.

Distance from Kolkata: 624 km

How to reach: From New Jalpaiguri, take a sumo towards Kalimpong. From there reserve a car to Bhalukop.

Things to do: Visit Delo Hill, Buddha Statue, Hanuman Temple, Kalimpong Arts & Craft Center and other attractions in Kalimpong from here. You can enjoy nature, explore the village and take small walks in the forest.

Nearby places: Kalimpong

Bidyang, North Bengal

Bidyang or Bidhyang is a beautiful offbeat destination situated beside the Relli river very close to Kalimpong. Situated at an altitude of 3000 ft, the place is a perfect choice for spending a weekend among the forests of oak, pine and fir. It is a small village around 15 km from Kalimpong. The village is surrounded by dense forests. The only sound you hear is the chirping of the birds in the morning and the sound of insects at the night. And if it is a moonlit night, the place looks ethereal with the moonlight falling on the bamboo bushes.

Distance from Kolkata: 645 km

How to reach: From NJP/ Siliguri take any vehicle to Kalimpong. From there, you have to hire a car to go to Bidyang.

Things to do: Village walk, bird watching, butterfly watching, visit the Relli River.

Nearby places: Kalimpong, Lave, Lolegaon, Rishop

Bijanbari, North Bengal

Bijanbari is a small town located near Darjeeling where you will find peace and solitude in immense measure. The road towards Bijanbari from Ghoom is quite scenic with the sprawling tea gardens all along. On the way, you will also pass through the Hima Falls, a beautiful waterfall, some lovely mountain streams, tea gardens and green forests.

Distance from Kolkata: 640 km

How to reach: The nearest Railway station is NJP. From Siliguri you can take a shared sumo towards Darjeeling and get down at Ghum. From there hire a car to Bijanbari. Bijanbari is about 30 kms from Darjeeling town and can be approached via Ghum. There are also Darjeeling-Bijanbari buses that leave from the bus stand early in the morning.

Things to do: Enjoy the natural beauty of the place, visit the Hima Falls

Nearby places: Ghum, Darjeeling

Biksthang, Sikkim

Biksthang is a small pristine village situated around 120 km from Gangtok in West Sikkim. Folklore says that the word ‘Biksthang’ is derived from the Lepcha words ‘bikmon’ meaning ‘the place where a tiger ate a cow.’ Bhutias, however, say that ‘Biksthang’ means a place with a wide variety of special stones. A serene village with spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga ranges, Biksthang is a beautiful weekend getaway.

Distance from Kolkata: 664 km

Best time to visit: October to May

How to reach: From Siliguri, take a shared sumo to Jorethang. From there you have to take a car to Biksthang.

Things to do: Enjoy the views of Kanchenjunga ranges, birdwatching, village walks and trekking to the Lheuntse Monastery

Nearby places: Pelling, Rinchenpong, Kaluk

Borong, Sikkim

Borong is an abode of peace and tranquility with the Himalayan mountains at its backdrop. Just imagine staying in the cottages among the pines and firs and capturing the beauty of a morning sunrise over the mighty Himalayan ranges! The Pandim, Narsing and the Sinochlu peaks are visible from here. Borong is also famous for its hot water springs at the banks of Rangit river. These hot water springs or Tsa-chu as known locally are traditional winter spas and are said to have medicinal properties.

Distance from Kolkata: 680 km

How to reach: Nearest Railhead is New Jalpaiguri. Borong is about 117 km from Siliguri. You can go to Borong by car via Ravangla. Borong can also be reached from Pelling, Gangtok and Rinchenpong.

Things to do: Visit the hot springs, local Monastery, hand-made paper factory. Go for birdwatching and enjoy the views of the Kanchenjunga ranges,

Nearby places: Ralang, Ravangla

Bunkulung, North Bengal

Tea gardens, rivers and a quaint village with acres of paddy field – this is what Bunkulung look like. Crisscrossed by the Balasun and Murmah Khola rivers, the place is a paradise for nature lovers. Visit the tea gardens, enjoy the silence of the place – this might be one of the best weekends that you have spent.

Distance from Kolkata: 577 km

How to reach: Bunkulung is 15 km from Mirik. From Siliguri / NJP or Darjeeling, take a shared sumo to Mirik. There are shared cabs to Bunkulung from Mirik, but they are very limited and runs on fixed time.

Things to do: Go for village walk, hike to the tea gardens, walk across the old cantilever bridge and visit the Balasun river bank.

Nearby places: Mirik, Soureni

Charkhole, North Bengal

Nestled in the laps of the eastern Himalayas, Charkhole is like a painting in nature’s canvas. This little village only 34 km from Kalimpong is known for its virgin and unadulterated natural beauty. During the winter season when the skies are clear, you will see majestic views of the Kanchenjunga ranges from here. Exotic Himalayan birds, a number of orchids and colourful flowers and butterflies will welcome you in Charkhole. With the advent of ecotourism, Charkhole has become one of the coveted destinations for the travel-loving Bengalis.

Distance from Kolkata: 625 km

How to reach: From Siliguri, take a shared sumo to Kalimpong. From Kalimpong hire a car to Charkhole. You can also reach Charkhole by hiring a car from Lava or Lolegaon.

Things to do: Birdwatching, village walk, enjoy the nature

Nearby places: Chuikhim, Nimbong, Kalimpong, Lava, Lolegaon

Chuikhim, North Bengal

Tucked away in the hills of North Bengal lies a wonderland called Chuikhim. This beautiful hamlet located at an altitude of 3500 feet has a unique endeavour. The road to Chuikhim is a bumpy ride dotted through the forest land. Here you can enjoy the simple pleasures of life like the warm, unvarnished hospitality of the locals, simple home-cooked meals savoured out in the open; the sight of terraced fields that glowed green and sun-stunned valleys that stretched before us. Life starts early at Chuikhim with the villagers waking up as early as 5 AM in the morning and going for their daily chores. It is interesting to watch them and also to enjoy the joys of unadulterared nature at Chuikhim. The place can be an ideal extension to the Darjeeling-Kalimpong circuit or can be visited singularly as well.

Distance from Kolkata: 641 km

Best time to visit: All through the year.

How to reach: The nearest Railway station is New Jalpaiguri. From there, you can hire a car to reach Chuikhim. The place is located around 13 km from Bagrakote.

Things to do: You can go trekking down the Lees river, go hiking in the forest and indulge in bird watching. Visit the sunrise point to get great views of the sunrise.

Nearby places: Lava, Lolegaon, Charkhole

Daringbadi, Odisha

A relatively unexplored destination with immense scenic beauty, Daringbadi is often known as the Kashmir of Odisha. Situated in the tribal populated Kandhmahal district, Daringbadi is like a dreamland wrapped entirely in green. Stretches of palm, eucalyptus and other trees are found all around the place. There is no dearth of attractions in Daringbadi. You will find coffee and spice plantations in a major part of the area. You will really enjoy taking small walks along the winding roads or along the coffee plantations. There is a sunset point from where you will get a panoramic view of the valleys and the forest. Daringbadi is the perfect weekend destination from Kolkata as well as Bhubaneswar. Generally, mercury drops to zero every winter at this hill station in Odisha.

Distance from Kolkata: 687 km

How to reach: The nearest station is Berhampur. You can take a train from Howrah to Berhampur (Falaknama Express, Coromondel Express and Howrah-Chennai mail). You can also take any train to Bhubaneswar and then take another train to Berhampur. From Berhampur, you have to hire a car to Daringbadi.

Daringbadi is 335 km from Bhubaneswar and 198 km f rom Berhampur.

Things to do: Visit Hill Viewpoint, Lover’s point, Belghar, Botanical garden, Ludu waterfall. Take a walk amidst the coffee plantations.

Nearby places: Gopalpur-on-sea

Dawaipani, North Bengal

Dawaipani is a village filled with tranquility of the mountains. This offbeat village is situated only 15 km from Darjeeling. Dawaipani offers a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga ranges. Not only that, the area is also surrounded by verdant forests full of the Himalayan flora and fauna. It is a perfect place for spending a weekend.

Best time to visit: September to May

How to reach: The nearest railway station is NJP is 76 km from Dawaipani. From NJP or Siliguri, you can hire a car which takes about 2 hours and 50 minutes to reach depending on the road condition.

Things to do: Get a majestic view of the mountain ranges, go for hiking in the forests, do bird watching.

Nearby places: Darjeeling, Lamahatta , Takdah

Dzongu, North Sikkim

Dzongu is undoubtedly nature’s paradise. Tucked away in the fringes of the Kanchenjunga National Park, Dzongu is the only Lepcha Reserve in the country. The place is divided into Upper Dzongu and Lower Dzongu. The beauty of Dzongu lies in its simplicity. Quaint little houses, cardamom fields and fluttering prayer flags adorn the place. On a clear day, you will see the mountain ranges from here. You can visit different villages like Tingvong , Lingthem and Hee Gyathang. Exploring these places on foot is going to be an enjoyable experience. Visit the Lingzya waterfall, get to know about the medicinal properties of the hot water spring, visit the Tholung monastery or marvel at the engineering of the Lepcha traditional bamboo bridge, there is no dearth of things to do at Dzongu. You can stay at any of the villages and explore the rest of Dzongu by hiring a car. And of course, Dzongu is a great place to witness the traditional life of the Lepcha community and experience their hospitality.

Dzongu can be a stopover before visiting the Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang valley in North Sikkim.

Distance from Kolkata: 741 km

How to reach: Dzongu is about 70 km from Gangtok. Take a shared sumo from the Vajra Taxi Stand in Gangtok to Mangan. From Mangan, you will get shared jeeps to the different villages in Dzongu.

Remember, you will need to get permits to visit Dzongu. The permits can be arranged by the homestay.

Things to do: Explore and enjoy the nature, get an insight into the traditional ways of the Lepchas, visit the Lingzey waterfall, the Lepcha traditional house, the Lepcha traditional bridge, Tholung Monastery and the hot water spring. You can explore the other villages like Tingvong, Passingdang and Lingthem.

Nearby places: Lachen, Lachung, Phodong

Gangani, Paschim Medinipur – West Bengal 

Known as the Grand Canyon of Bengal, the main attraction of Gangani is the amazing gorge of red soil standing on the banks of Silabati River. Located near Garbeta, you can club your visit to Garbeta, Gangani and Bishnupur together. The river flows through the 70 ft deep gorge during the monsoons and the whole region looks spectacular.

Distance from Kolkata: 136 km

Best time to visit: Monsoon

How to reach: The nearest Railway station is Garbeta from where you can get cycle vans to Gangani.

Things to do: Visit the gorge. Do sightseeing at Garbeta and visit the many old temples there. Kameshwar Temple and Radhaballav Temple, Raghunathji Temple & Raghunath Bari and Uriyasaier Temple are other places of attraction here

Nearby places: Bishnupur, Gopegarh, Salboni

Icchey Gaon, North Bengal

Icchey Gaon or Ecchey Gaon is a lovely village in the Kalimpong Hills of West Bengal. True to its name that means “wishing village”, Icchey Gaon is such a place where your wishes come true in the midst of pure and immaculate nature. At IccheyGaon you can get an all-encompassing view of the Mt, Kanchenjungha. Icchey gaon can be your first stop for the Sikkim Silk Route tour.

How to reach: From Siliguri, take a sumo to Kalimpong. From Kalimpong, IccheyGaon is about 17 km. Hire a private car to reach Icchey Gaon.

Things to do: Watch the sunrise, go for jungle trekking to SilleryGaon. Visit Ramitey Dara viewpoint, Damsang Fort and Jalsa viewpoint.

Nearby places: Pedong, Reshikohola, Rikisum

Kewzing, Sikkim

Kewzing is located about 76 km from Gangtok in South Sikkim. Standing at an altitude of 4600 feet against the backdrop of the magnificent Kanchenjunga ranges, this typical Bhutia village is a delightful place to visit. Like most of Sikkimese village, Kewzing is covered with a rich cover of cardamom plantations. The air is unadulterated here with almost zero pollution. The best part about Kewzing is that it is also the home to a number of exotic Himalayan birds. The location of Kewzing is such that it has monasteries on al its four sides – the Tashiding Monastery, Mangbrue and Pemyangtse Monastery, Ralong monastery, Doling Monastery and Bon Monastery. Visit Kewzing for spending some quiet and relaxing time amidst the nature.

Distance from Kolkata: 682 km

How to reach: Nearest Railway station in New Jalpaiguri. From there you can hire a car to Kewzing. You have to drive via Ravangla and Namchi to exit out of Melli checkpost. The place is located 10 km south of Ravangla between Rabong and Legship. Kewzing is also easily accessible from Gangtok.

Things to do: You can enjoy nature, go for village walks, go for hiking in the forest, visit the cardamom plantations and indulge in bird watching. Visit the nearby monasteries.

Nearby places: Ravangla , Namchi

Kiriburu-Meghataburu, Jharkhand

Not the quintessential weekend getaways, Kiriburu and Meghataburu are twin towns near the Odisha-Jharkhand border. Situated within 4 km from each other, these two hilly destinations mainly falls in the mining area under SAIL. Both the towns boast of hills and jungles with the sparkling blue sky above them. The weather remains pleasant throughout the year and these two places can be an ideal weekend getaway from Kolkata.

You can stay at either of the towns and visit the attractions from there. There are a couple of beautiful waterfalls here. From the Kiriburu viewpoint, you will get a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and valleys, while the from the Meghataburu viewpoint, a glorious sunset can be seen. If time permits, you can also visit the jungles of Saranda. Manoharpur is one of the entry points of Saranda and is 54 km from Kiriburu. Thalkobad and Kumdi are two other entry points of the Saranda forest that can be visited.

Distance from Kolkata: 406 km

How to reach: From Howrah, take any train to Tatnagar. From Tatanagar, you will get direct buses to Kiriburu.

Things to do: Enjoy the nature, visit the Jhikra Falls, Pacheri falls, Fulbari Temple, Fulbari River, Jindal Shiva Temple, Kiriburu Sunset Garden, watch the sunset from Meghataburu viewpoint and visit the jungles of Saranda.

Nearby places: Manoharpur

Kolakham, North Bengal

Kolakham is one of the most beautiful villages near Kalimpong. It is as if nature has given her best to this quaint village. With the Kanchenjunga ranges at the backdrop, this picturesque village is a treat to the eyes. The village is surrounded by pine trees and you can often hear the mellifluous chattering of the birds. The snow-clad ranges can be viewed from almost all the houses in the village. A beautiful rivulet flows through the village. Kolakham is the best place to enjoy nature t your own pace and spend a relaxing weekend away from the humdrum of life. You can also visit Lava, Lolegaon and Rishop from here. Lava is only 12 km from Kolakham.

Distance from Kolkata: 662 km

How to reach: From Sealdah, you can take a train to reach NJP. From NJP, Kolakham is about 117 km. From Siliguri, you can hire a car to Kolakham. You can also take a shared car to Kalimpong and from there, hire a car to the village. You can also take a train (Kanchankanya Express) to New Mal Junction. Kolakham is only 52 km from there and you can hire a car to Kolakham.

Things to do: Enjoy the nature, do bird watching, visit the Changey falls, go for village walk and hiking.

Nearby places: Lava, Lolegaon, Kaffergaon, Charkhole

Kumai, Dooars

One of the lesser known destinations of North Bengal, Kumai is a small village perched on a hilltop at a height of 3000 ft overlooking the Jaldhaka River Valley and the endless stretches of the luscious greenery of the Dooars region. Kumai has a unique blend of forests, tea gardens and farmlands and can be an offbeat weekend getaway from Kolkata.

Distance from Kolkata: 644 km

Best time to visit: October to April

How to reach: The nearest Railway station is New Mal Junction, from where Kumai is 25 km. from Siliguri, you can reach Kumai via Coronation Bridge, Bagrakote and Chalsa.

Things to do: Kumai has nearly 8 viewpoints. Visit the Halley viewpoint, Laliguras View Point, Kumai peak, Gudaray viewpoint to get a panoramic view of the entire Dooars region. On a clear day, you will be able to see all the 8 rivers of the Dooars region from the viewpoints. You can also go for trekking and angling. Visit the tea gardens.

Nearby places: Samsing, Suntalekhola, Jhalong, Bindu and Mongpong

Latpanchar, North Bengal

Latpanchar is a paradise for bird-watchers. Situated in the Darjeeling district, this village is the highest point in the Mahananda wildlife sanctuary having an altitude of about 4200 ft. The elusive Rufous-necked hornbill can be seen at Latpanchar along with the more common great Hornbill.

Best time to visit: October to April. February and March for birdwatching.

How to reach: From New Jalpaiguri (NJP), Latpanchar is at a distance of about 44kms and takes about one and half hours by car. You will need to take the Sevoke road. Once you reach the place Kalijhora (after about an hour’s drive), there is a narrow winding road that goes uphill on the left. From this point Latpanchar is another 13kms, the last stretch is quite steep. There is hardly any traffic on this narrow road, but often the road is not well maintained and gets full of potholes particularly during monsoon.

Things to do: Bird watching and enjoy nature. Also visit the Ahaldara viewpoint, Namthing Pokhri and the 150 years old monastery.

Nearby places: Ahaldara, Sitong , Mongpu and Bagora

Lingsey, North Bengal

This lesser explored village near Kalimpong is located at an altitude of 4800 feet. Lingsey is an ideal eco-tourism destination where you can enjoy the bounty of nature. Lingsey is also the starting point of the Mulkharka Lake Trek. Well designated trails through the village are decorated by beautiful flowering plants and orchids. The panoramic vistas add on to the beauty of the landscape. You can take short walks around the village and explore the paddy and cardamom fields, visit the lakes and waterfalls.

Distance from Kolkata: 663 km

How to reach: From Siliguri, take a shared sumo to Kalimpong. From Kalimpong, hire a cab to Lingsey.

Things to do:  Go for hiking to Mulkharka lake, visit the Lepcha Monastery, traditional Lepcha house, hot spring and the waterfalls.

Nearby places: Aritar

Lossing, East Sikkim

Lossing is situated at the banks of the mountain river Rongpo Khola, only 8 km from Rongli. Just imagine a mountain hamlet with clouds descending now and then! There is a small rickety wooden bridge across the river. The place surely has a charm of its own. These offbeat and yet unexplored places are the best to spend a serene weekend away from the city.

Distance from Kolkata: 674 km

How to reach: from Gangtok, you will get shared sumo to Rongli. From Rongli, you will get another shared sumo towards Lossing.

Things to do: Enjoy the riverside, take a village walk, experience Sikkimese hospitality

Nearby places: Rongli, Gangtok

Makaibari, North Bengal

Founded in 1859, Makaibari is one of the oldest and most prestigious tea estates of India. It spreads over a sprawling area of 1575 acres at a height of 4600 ft. the river Balasun flows past the Makaibari tea estate. So if you want to spend some time in the middle of the tea gardens seeing how tea is processed, the Makaibari can be one of the best places for a weekend trip.

Distance from Kolkata: 585 km

Best time to visit: You can visit Makaibari any time of the year. but if you want to try your hand at tea plucking, then visit during March and April for first flush plucking, April to May for the second flush, June to August for Monsoon flush and October to mid-November for the Autumn flush. Plucking does not occur during the winter seasons.

How to reach: You can get shared jeeps from NJP/Siliguri to Kurseong. From there, you can take a shared vehicle or hire a cab to get to the village.

Things to do: Guided tour to tea gardens and the tea factory, tea tasting session, nature walk, bird watching and visit the local monastery.

Nearby places: Kurseong, Bagora, Chatakpur

Martam, West Sikkim

This serene village in West Sikkim is a delight for nature lovers. Martam surrounded by terraced paddy fields and the cardamom plantations is a paradise for nature lovers. Stay at the homestay, visit their organic farm and walk around the village. You will surely enjoy the hospitality of the homestay and the beauty of nature around.

Distance from Kolkata: 652 km

How to reach: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri. From Siliguri or Gangtok, take a shared sumo to Jorethang. From Jorethang, you will get shared sumo towards Martam.

Things to do: Enjoy the nature, go for village walk, visit the nearby waterfall and enjoy delectable Sikkimese cuisine.

Nearby places: Sribadam, Hee-Bermiok, Dentam

McCluskieganj, Jharkhand

McCluskieganj was built as a home for the Anglo Indians during 1933 and you will get a glimpse of the British past here in this small town. McCluskieganj, situated 70 km from Ranchi is dotted with British bungalows, churches and other architectures. Today, it is a sleepy town still retaining the British charm. If you are seeking a different kind of experience other than mountains and beaches, then McCluskieganj can be just the place.

Distance from Kolkata: 475 km

Best time to visit : October to February.

How to reach: The best way to reach the place is via Ranchi which is well connected by trains from Howrah. From Ranchi, you have to take a bus or car to McCluskieganj. The distance from Ranchi is 70 km and takes about 3 hours time. You will love the road journey as it passes through scenic forest and plateau areas.

Things to do: Explore the village, visit the Dugdugi River. You can also the nearby Duli village where a temple, mosque and Gurudwara are built in the same premise.

Nearby places: Ranchi, Hazaribagh

Monchasa (Paushi), East Medinipur – West Bengal

Enjoy the warmth and simplicity of rural Bengal at Monchasa in Medinipur. The place has been developed as an ecotourism initiative at village Paushi, on the banks of Bagda river East Midnapore. The complex is sprawled over a huge location beside the river and is full of greenery and beauty all around.

There is a plantation area where a variety of fruits, vegetables and medicinal plants are grown. An orphanage is also present there.

Distance from Kolkata: 140 km

Best time to visit: October to February

How to reach: The nearest Railway Station is Kanthi. You will get any Digha bound train from Howrah and get down at Kanthi. From there, pick-up and drop services are available. Trekkers are also available to Paushi village, but the service is not regular.

If you are driving by car, then you have to take the following route: Kona Expressway – NH6 – NH41 – Kolaghat – Henria _ Kalinagar. From Kalinagar, take the road to Monchasa (23 km from Contai).

Things to do: Village walk, visit ShyamoliBithi, the village plantation, visit the huge fish tanks Ishani and Naitri where a large number of fishes are bred. You can make a day trip to the century old Bahiri Temple.

Nearby places: Tamluk, Mandarmani

Mousuni, 24 Pgns (s)

A virgin beach and a friendly village, Mousuni Island is one of the newly found weekend destinations near Kolkata. Mousuni is a wonderful place – a perfect combination of the sea, sand and solitude along with the river. Mousuni is located in Namkhana adjacent to the Sunderbans delta. The place is an ideal getaway for bird lovers. Kakramarir Chor is the best place to do bird watching. Sunset from the beach is no doubt mesmerizing. There are plenty of fishermen’s villages on the island. You can explore these villages and get to know about the hardships of these people. For accommodation, there are tents available on the beach. In the evening, just enjoy the beautiful sunset by the beach and in the night spend some wonderful moments by the campfire.

How to reach: From Sealdah South, take a local train to Namkhana. Get down at namkhana and take a rickshaw/ toto to the Jetty. Cross the Hatania-Doania River by ferry and take a Magic Van to Bagdanga Kheya Ghat. Cross the river by ferry and get down at Bagdanga. From here, you have to hire a vehicle (you can prearrange it from the Baliara Beach Tent) to Baliara Beach Tent at Mousuni.

Things to do: Stroll around the beach, watch the sunset, visit the fishermen village and bird watching

Nearby places: Bakkhali

Mozauley, North Bengal 

If you want to stay beside a mountain river amidst peace and seclusion, then Mozauley can be a great destination. Mozauley is about 4 km from Reshikhola in Sikkim and boasts of picturesque beauty. From here, you can also go for the Sikkim Silk Route trip. The place also has a number of hiking routes.

Distance from Kolkata: 654 km

How to reach: From NJP or Gangtok, you have to hire a car to Mozauley.

Things to do: Village walking, hiking

Nearby places: Reshikhola, Pedong

Muruguma, Purulia

Murugama is a beautiful tribal village in the Purulia District very near to the Bengal-Jharkhand boundary. The vast Murugama Lake is a treat to the eyes and with the surrounding hills; it provides a very picturesque and serene landscape. The nearby Kenkechi Hills and the Ayodhya Hills and the forests enhance the beauty of this place and will also make your trip one of the best.

Distance from Kolkata: 330 km

How to reach: The nearest Railway Station is Purulia. From Purulia, you can hire a vehicle to reach Muruguma. It takes about one and a half hour to reach.

You can also take a train from Howrah to Muri Junction (Jharkhand). The place is 35 km from Muri.

Things to do: Visit Muruguma Lake, the tribal villages and enjoy the beauty of nature. You can go for sightseeing to the nearby places like Bamni & Turga Falls, Ayodhya Hills etc.

Nearby places: Kenkechi Hills, Ayodhya Hills

Nagi Village, Sikkim

A small hamlet in Sikkim following the pitch black serpentine roads of the hills. The beautiful roads will lead to Namthang Bazar and from there Nagi village is just a few kilometers away. There is a beautiful monastery at the Nagi hilltop named Norbu Choeling monastery. From the monastery, there is a hiking route to Nagi Pokhara, a serene lake considered sacred by the Buddhists. A relatively unknown place, Nagi village is known for its tranquility and natural beauty.

Distance from Kolkata: 665 km

How to reach: Take a shared sumo towards Rangpo. From Rangpo, you will get a shared vehicle to Namthang. From there, you have to hire a car. Or you can contact the homestay for the arrangement of a car from your desired destination.

Things to do: Village walking, visit the monastery, hike to the Nagi Pokhri, birdwatching.

Nearby places: Ravangla, Namchi

Okhrey, Sikkim

Okhrey is situated near the Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary . This is the best place to stop for the night if you want to visit Varsey. The mountain ranges on the northern side of the village beckon the tourists to take short hikes and rambling walks. During the month of April, the blooming season of rhododendrons, the place is full of rhododendrons, orchids, primulas, aconytes, foxgloves & bluebells. You will also get amazing views of the mountain ranges from here.

How to reach: The distance from Siliguri is about 130 km and takes about 6 to 7 hours to reach. The route follows Teesta Bazar, Jorethang and Sombaria. You can take shared vehicle to Jorethang. From Jorethang, shared vehicle to Okhrey is available. But you have to reach well before afternoon.

From Gangtok, the distance is around 160 km.

Things to do: Visit the Ugen Thon Meon Ling monastery, run by the Tibetan missionaries. Go for trekking at the Varsey rhododendron sanctuary and other small treks. Go for sightseeing tours to JureliDara (18 kms), the AndenOlong Monastery (20 kms), Kitan Falls, Dodak Helipad and Butterfly Shape Valley.

Nearby places: Daramdim, Sombaria, Varsey

Paren, Dooars

Dooars is full of beautiful and charming village getaways. Paren is one such place in Dooars situated near the Indo-Bhutan border. Blessed with hilly areas with lush green forests, meandering rivers, stretches of agricultural fields, Paren offers spectacular views of the surroundings. Paren consists of three villager – Lower Paren, Upper Paren and Paren Compound.

Distance from Kolkata: 655 km

How to reach: The nearest Railhead is Malbazar. From there, go to Chalsa and then take a jeep to Paren.

Things to do: Village walks, relax in nature, excursion to Todey and Tangta, nearby villages offering spectacular views of the mountains and valleys.

Nearby places: Bindu, Jaldhaka

Parkha, Sikkim

Nestled in the valleys of East Sikkim, Parkha just looks like a dreamland. A small village, Parkha will treat you with the best of Sikkimese hospitality. Wake up in the morning listening to the chirping of birds, take a walk in the village and enjoy the nature. The view from the Parkha hilltop is simply incredible, a perfect communion with the Himalayas.

Distance from Kolkata: 713 km

How to reach: Shared sumo towards Parkha is available from Gangtok, but the number is less.

Things to do: Village walk, bird watching, hike to the Parkha hilltop, visit the suicide point.

Nearby places: Gangtok, Rolep

Rangaroon, North Bengal

A sleepy hamlet among the clouds, Rangaroon is situated only about 16 km from Darjeeling. Surrounded on three sides by the forests, its western side has Aloobari, Fulbari and Pandam Tea Estate with the Rungdung river taking a turn. Rangaroon is thus a perfect destination for adventure, wildlife and the tourists who just want to spend a few days away from the busy city life. And the best part is that you can see Darjeeling town and Kanchenjunga ranges together.

Distance from Kolkata: 613 km

How to reach: From Siliguri, drive till Jorebungalow (60 Km from Siliguri) and then take a turn to reach the 3rd mile. From 3rd mile, there is a route downhill to Rangaroon. Rangaroon is about 8 km from Jorebungalow.

Things to do: Walk around the village and tea gardens, take a visit to the abandoned tea factory, take blessings from the Mata Singha Temple. Trek to the Rundung Riverbank for a half-day picnic.

Nearby places: Darjeeling , Lepchajagat

Rangbull (Kalej Valley), North Bengal

Situated near Darjeeling, Rangbull is beautiful in its own right. Enchanting valley with luscious tea gardens, endless layers of mountains and a very beautiful waterfall makes the place unique. The best part, however, is the village resort that is spread across acres of land. Rangbull can be your alternative place to Darjeeling to spend a serene weekend in the mountains.

Distance from Kolkata: 612 km

How to reach: From Siliguri, take shared sumo (the ones going towards Darjeeling) to Rangbull Bazar. From there, it a 5 km downhill drive.

Things to do: Walk amidst the tea gardens, visit the Kalej Valley tea estate, hike to the Rainbow Falls to see the rainbow at the base of the waterfall.

Nearby places: Batasia Loop, Ghoom, Darjeeling .

Rangeet Majuwa, North Bengal

Yet untouched by the maddening rush of crowds, Majuwa is a picturesque hamlet near Maneybhanjan. Mountain views, chirping birds and Shaujikhola, the mountain river flowing through the village makes the place ideal for a weekend trip. Simply laze around Rangeet Majuwa and spend your time idyllic bliss.

Distance from Kolkata: 660 km

Best time to visit: Any time of the year except monsoon.

How to reach: Take a shared car from Siliguri/NJP and reach Ghoom and then Manebhanjan. From Manebhanjan, 4-wheel vehicle is required to go to RangeetMajuwa.The distance is only 5 km, but due to the road condition it takes almost 30-40 minutes to reach.

Things to do: Enjoy nature, birdwatching and village walks

Nearby places: Maneybhanjan, Darjeeling

Rongo, Dooars

A small picturesque hamlet near the hills of Bhutan, Rongo will simply take your breath away. We recommend the place for its tranquility and peace. Take a village walk, hike to the monastery or interact with the local, whatever you do at Rongo will simply charm you.

Distance from Kolkata: 656 km

Best Time to visit: All through the year

How to reach: You have to reach New Jalpaiguri (96 km from Rongo) or New Mal Junction (33 km). From either of the stations, you can hire a car to Rongo.

Things to do: Village walk, hike to the monastery and the waterfall

Nearby places: Bindu, Paren, Jaldhaka

Singi, Barddhaman

Singi or Singee is a serene village getaway, not very far from Kolkata. This quaint Bengal village is one of the best places to spend a weekend. Singi is known not only for its tranquil beauty but also for its rich history. It is believed that Maharaj Singheswar had settled here and named the place Singhapur. Singee is also the birthplace of Kashiram Das, the translator of Mahabharata in Bengali.

Singee epitomizes everything that you are reminded of when talking about Bengal village. Green paddy fields are seen all around and the beautiful Brahmani rover flows through the village. The air here is crisp and unpolluted. Spending a couple of days here is going to be an exhilarating experience. There are a few terracotta temples in Singee. You can visit the birthplace of Kashiram Das and the library named after him. If not anything, simply strolling around the village is going to be a rewarding experience. But the best part of Singee is going to be your stay at Shantiniketan Homestay. Not only their hospitality is amazing, but also the food served. And for the gourmet Bengalis, what can be better than good food?

Distance from Kolkata: 134 km

How to reach: From Howrah, board any train towards Katwa. From Katwa, you can take an auto, van or hire a car to Singi.

Things to do: Walk along the village, visit the birthplace of Kashiram das, terracotta temples and the nearby village of Sribati.

Nearby places: Nabadwip, Purbasthali

Singling, Sikkim

Singling is a picturesque village in the buffer area of the Varsey rhododendron sanctuary. Surrounded by greenery all around, this hamlet is also the heaven for a number of Himalayan birds. Not only that, Singling has historical significance too. There used to be an ancient route between India and Bhutan in this village. Singling has an ancient monastery and a beautiful lake. On a clear day, the view of sunrise from the village is simply breathtaking.

Distance from Kolkata: 666 km

How to reach: From Siliguri SNT Stand, you will get shared jeep to Soreng. From Soreng, you have to reserve a car for the 8 km uphill route. You will also get shared jeep to Soreng from Jorethang.

Things to do: Visit the monastery, go for hiking, enjoy the nature and birdwatching

Nearby places: Varsey, Okhrey

Sribadam, West Sikkim

Along with the natural abundance and beauty, Sribadam is also known for its meditation centre. The place is a forest village well maintained with a population of about 300 families mainly comprising of Bhutia, Subba and Gurung. The village overlooks Samdruptse in Namchi on the opposite hills and the Reshi River flows through the village. The Monastery at Sribadam has a meditation centre that is famous all over Sikkim as well as in Nepal and Bhutan . The monastery is also known for healing people from any kind of sickness.

How to reach: From Siliguri, take a shared sumo to Jorethang. From Jorethang, shared jeeps are available to Sribadam.

Things to do:  Visit the two monasteries at Sribadamand the waterfalls. Go for village walks.

Nearby places: Martam, Rinchenpong, Kaluk, Hee-Bermiok, Zoom

Tabakoshi, North Bengal

If you want to spend time amidst the tea gardens and experience amazing hospitality, then Tabakoshi is just the place for you. Tabakoshi is situated just 8 km downhill from the GopaldharaTea estate. Surrounded by luscious green tea gardens and brooding hills, Tabakoshiis the place to bask in nature’s splendour while you listen to the chirping of birds and soothe your eyes seeing the greenery around you.

Distance from Kolkata: 601 km

How to reach: Take a shared Sumo from Siliguri to Mirik. From Mirik, you have to take a private car to Tabakoshi

Things to do: Walk amidst the tea gardens, camp along the Rangbhang River and visit the tea estates like Gopaldhara, Thurbo and Sangma.

Nearby places: Mirik

Takdah, North Bengal

Dreamy and misty, Takdah is a place for the romantic at heart. True to its name, the place is often surrounded by fog amidst the meandering roads and the trails through the dense coniferous forests. It was a cantonment area and has a number of century-old British bungalows many of which are now renovated as guesthouses. The tea gardens add to the charm of the place.

Distance from Kolkata: 628 km

How to reach: Takdah is 60 km from Siliguri and 28 km from Darjeeling. Shared jeeps are available from Darjeeling.

Things to do: Stay at the century-old heritage bungalows, visit the famous tea gardens like RungliRongliot, Takdah Tea Estate, Gielle, Namring, Jinglam, Poomong, and Teesta Valley estate. Also, visit Takdah Orchid Centre to see rare orchids.

Nearby places: Tinchuley, Chhota Mangwa, Bara Mangwa, Lamahatta

Tarkhola, North Bengal

Tarkhola, a picturesque hamlet near Kalimpong surrounded by Delo hills is located at an altitude of 4000 feet. Known for its immense natural beauty and breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga ranges along with the Teesta Valley, Tarkhola can be a great offbeat weekend getaway from Kolkata. The village is just 80 km away from NJP and 12 km from Kalimpong. Only a few homestays are available in this village. Visit Tarkhola to enjoy the pristine beauty of nature along with enjoying the great hospitality of the mountain people. Tarkhola can be a great place for those who are looking for some peace and solitude. You can get the beauty of Kalimpong without the crowd, thus the village can be a great alternative to Kalimpong.

Tarkhola can also be reached by a half day’s trek originating from the quaint Kalimpong town and via the remote village of Sangsey. This lovely trek takes one through lush green fields and dense forest and hundreds of butterflies can be seen enroute.

Distance from Kolkata: 623 km

How to reach: From NJP/ Siliguri, take a shared Sumo to Kalimpong. From there, you have to reserve a car to Tarkhola.

Things to do: Explore the village, go for sightseeing at Kalimpong, go for short treks.

Nearby places: Kalimpong, Delo, Ramdhura, Sangser.

Temi, Sikkim

Temi Tea Garden is the only tea estate of Sikkim . Lying in between Damthang and the Temi Bazar along the way to Singtam, the beauty of the undulating tea garden is extraordinary. The lush manicured tea gardens covering an area of 440 acres along with the panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga ranges and the Teesta river gorge 8000 ft below, the beauty of the lone tea estate of Sikkim is unparalleled.

Stay at the homestays and experience the unparalleled hospitality of the hosts and enjoy your weekend amidst the tea gardens.

How to reach: Nearest Railhead is New Jalpaiguri. You can reach Temi tea gardens from Siliguri by rented car. The distance is approximately 117 km. You can also hire cars from Namchi, Pelling, Ravangla, Pelling or Gangtok to reach Temi.

Things to do: Visit the tea gardens and the tea factory, indulge in adventure sports, visit Rayong Viewpoint and go for birdwatching.

Tendrabong, North Bengal

A beautiful hamlet just 20 km from Kalimpong, Tendrabong is a respite for the tired souls. The village is known for its beautiful flowers and orchids and the view of the valleys. Visit Tendrabong for a serene weekend.

Distance from Kolkata: 643 km

How to reach: From Siliguri, take a shared sumo to Kalimpong. From there, you have to hire a car to Tendrabong.

Things to do: Village walk, Enjoy the nature, relax and rejuvenation

Nearby places: Kalimpong, Bidyang

Turuk, Sikkim

This is another offbeat destination in Sikkim. There is a beautiful century-old bungalow known as Turuk Kothi that has been converted as a guesthouse for the visitors. TurukKothi as it is called now was the home of the first minister of Sikkim, Laxmi Das Pradhan and it also served as the District Headquarters for many years. The place has all the beauty of Sikkim with serene nature, view of sunrise over the mountains, birds and blooming flowers.

Distance from Kolkata: 780 km

How to reach: From Siliguri, take a sumo towards Gangtok and get down at Melli Bazar. It is a 30 minutes drive to Turuk from Melli Bazar.

Things to do: Enjoy the nature, go for birdwatching, and visit TareyBhir. You can also go for short treks.

Nearby places: Namchi, Ravangla, Temi Tea Garden

Yakten, Sikkim

Yakten is a picturesque, pristine hamlet situated around 35 km from Gangtok city in east Sikkim. Surrounded by towering pine forests and situated at a height of approximately 5000 ft, this village has a unique charm of its own. The village offers a panoramic view of Mt. Kanchenjunga ranges with the rolling dense forests, beautiful orchids and the sweet chirping of Himalayan birds.

Distance from Kolkata: 650 km

How to reach: From Siliguri, take a shared sumo towards Gagntok and get down at Ranipool. From there, you have to take a vehicle to Yakten.

Things to do: Explore the jungle trails, enjoy the view of mountain ranges, enjoy Sikkimese cuisine and go for trekking at Jhandi Dara viewpoint.

Nearby places: Rolep, Gangtok

Yangsum, Sikkim

Yangsum is a small rustic village in West Sikkim. Here the beauty of Kanchenjunga ranges is unparalleled. Life is slow here without the hustle bustle of the city life. You can simply walk around the cardamom and rice fields and the orange orchards. During spring, a number of flowers bloom making the entire region quite colourful. There is an ancient chorten in the village and a viewpoint from where you will get an all-encompassing view of the mountain ranges.

Distance from Kolkata: 670 km

How to reach: Yangsum is only 3 km from Rinchenpong. From Siliguri SNT Stand, you will get shared jeeps to Rinchenpong, but their numbers are quite less. Alternatively, you can reach Jorethang and then take a cab from there to Yangsum.

Things to do: Nature walk, hiking, birdwatching, visit the view point.

Nearby places: Rinchenpong

Yelbong, North Bengal

Yet unexplored, Yelbong is an idyllic and virgin weekend getaway from Kolkata. It enjoys a bucolic climate along with the serenity of the hills and lush greenery. For trekking enthusiasts there is a trek route starting from Oodlabari and reaching Bodaganj, passing through a number of picturesque hamlets.

Distance from Kolkata: 615 km

Best time to visit: October to June

How to reach: The nearest Railway station is at New Mal Junction. You can also come from Siliguri by road and take a sharp left turn from NH 31 at Bagrakote.

Things to do: Take a village walk, go for trekking in the jungles and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

Nearby places: Chuikhim, Nimbong and Charkhole

Zoom Valley, Sikkim

This place is situated very close to Jorethang in Sikkim. The place is extremely beautiful with cultivation farms all around.You will get a panoramic view of the mountain ranges from the village. The Himalayas will seem to beckon you from a distance. Also, the view of sunrise from the village is simply breathtaking. Zoom is also the where you can see a rare animal species pika (Scientific name -Ochotonasikkimaria). It is a hybrid of rabbit and rat.

How to reach: From Siliguri, take shared sumo to Jorethang. From Jorethang, Zoom is only 20 minutes drive. You can get shared jeeps if you reach before afternoon.

Things to do: Village walk, watch the sunrise, enjoy the nature

Nearby places: Martam , Hee-Bermiok, Kaluk, Pelling, Rinchenpong

So did you like the list of offbeat weekend destinations from Kolkata? If you want to know about more offbeat weekend getaways from Kolkata, please wait for our e-book. Well, the e-book will also have the names of the homestays along with their contact numbers of the weekend destinations! Excited? 

Agni Amrita

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Planning Your Trip to Myanmar

21 comments.

Excellent places mostly from NJP. Please are well covered in brief. Will be delighted to see some more places in and around West Bengal. How do we get your ebook??

Thank you so much! Right now we do not have any ebook. Will let you know once we have one. Thanks again.

Hello there, I read your blog. I’m inspire with your writing, Keep it up.

I have gone through all the 52 places in details..Most of them are like a heaven on earth…Thanks for nicely capturing the most offbeat places…We were actually looking for some offbeat places to visit in puja holidays..This post will help us a lot. Once again Many thanks for the superb information…want some help on the lodging rates information to plan to visit for those places…

Thank you so much Sampad. Please send us a mail if you need any help regarding these places.

Amazing blog !!

Thank you so much, Tanumeeta! Please keep reading and supporting us. 🙂

Have gone through your 52 offbeat destinations from Kolkata. It is great. Me, at 60, am inspired and would chose to self-drive to all these places, nowthat I would beretiring from service. It would ofimmense help if you can share the places where you stayed, as that, at my age, is a must.

Thank you Mr. Datta. We have not visited all the 52 destinations, only most of them. It is quite nice that you are thinking of self driving to these places. If you want any contact of these homestays, please send us a mail or drop a message at Instagram. We would be happy to help.

wonderful blog. But no information on lodging aspect.

Thank you so much. Please drop us a mail for information on lodging.

Lovely read…. exciting to realise there is so much more to see. Thank you

There are so many more to be added! Thank you for the comment.

very nice post . please tell me can i travel with my Tata Nano. i have not any experience

Thank you for stopping by our blog. Some of the places, you can travel with your Tata Nano.

very nice blog, I am already dreaming about these places, and photos, they are superb.

Hi the blog is simply amazing but there is no mention about the places to stay. If someone has to stay at these places specially the remote village areas where will one find accomodation ?

Thank you Rounak. We are coming up soon with an ebook having the contact numbers of the homestays in these destinations.

Hi Amrita and Agni. First of all thanks for this amazing post. I’ve been looking for offbeat weekend gateways from Kolkata for a while now and this post is gonna help me a lot. So, my question is, for North Bengal and Sikkim offbeat destinations, did you opt for a tour operator or went on your own? And how safe are these places!? Because I’m a solo girl and want to cover all of (almost all of) offbeat destinations in Sikkim and North Bengal, so those informations will be quite helpful. Thanks again 🙂

Hi Riya! Thanks for stopping by our blog. We did not go through any travel agents but on our own. Sikkim is absolutely safe. Infact, I regard Sikkim as one of the safest places in the country for solo travellers. Well, it would take quite a lot of time to cover all these destinations! Have a good trip and if you need any help, you can contact us at our email [email protected]

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