Kolkata
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Kolkata, formerly Calcutta also known as the City of Joy is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is located in eastern India on the east bank of the River Hooghly. The city has a population of almost 5 million, with an extended metropolitan population of over 14 million, making it the third-largest urban agglomeration and the fourth-largest city in India. The people of Calcutta are known to be connoisseurs of art and sports. Their passion for football and cricket is hardly unknown to anyone. A person who visits Calcutta for once can never forget the city. Such in the magic of the city. While the city was always pronounced either "Kolkata" or "Kolikata", in the local Bengali language, its official English name was only changed from "Calcutta" to "Kolkata" in 2001, reflecting the Bengali pronunciation, as a largely political move to erase the legacy of British rule in the city.
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CouchSurfers
Like CouchSurfers all over the world, CSers in Kolkata do not appreciate freeloaders. Especially freeloaders who do not interact with the family they are staying with and just use the room to save on the hotel bills. While requesting for a couch, try and write to members individually based on interests instead of mailing the Top 10 hosts.
Festivals
Ganga Sagar Mela (January)
This festival is celebrated at Sagar which is about 105km south of Kolkata
where the Ganga and the Bay of Bengal form a nexus. Hence the name Gangasagar Mela.
Vast number of Sadhus and pilgrims congregate here from all over the country to visit the Kapil Muni Temple and to take a holy dip in the sea particularly on the Makara Sankranti day when the sun makes a transition to Capricorn from Sagittarius and this town becomes home to vast fairs, drawing visitors and recluses from all over the state. It is one of the largest annual assemblage of devotees in India.
Holi (March)
Holi which is also known as Dol Purnima is the spring festival widely observed across India with the spraying of coloured water, paint and powder. more..
Ratha Yatra (June - July)
This car festival at Mahesh Near Srirampur which is 25km from Calcutta is very famous.
Id (June - July)
Id is celebrated by thousands of the city’s Muslims in congregational prayer on the Maidan. During Muharram, they process beating their chests, chanting the names of Hassan and Hussain, the two martryed grandsons of Muhammad. They carry replicas of the Mecca tombs.
Durga Puja (September-October)
The worship of the ‘Clay Goddess’ (Durga) is the most important Hindu festival of Kolkata (Calcutta). The city livens up with celebrations of music, dance and drama which last for 15 days. The celebrations end with the immersion of clay idols of Durga Devi in the river Ganges on the evening of Dashami. This is one of the best times to come to Kolkata. During this time the whole city is illuminated with lights and every locality builds up a Pandal(Life size models of different things and themes). People are on the streets 24 hours non stop and Kolkata transforms into a Giant Fairground.
Diwali (Oct-Nov)
Diwali or Kali Puja is the festival of lights. It is observed in Calcutta as elsewhere in North India. It is celebrated with lots of pomp and show. The highlight of the festival is the bursting of the fireworks by children and grown ups. In many localities they have competitions amongst neighbours as to who has the biggest and also the most unique of fireworks.
HOW TO...
TRAVEL AROUND KOLKATA
Airlines
Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Airport at Dum Dum, is the international and domestic airport of Calcutta, and is located at around 16 km from the heart of the city. The Dumdum metro station is about 5 kms from the airport. Recently a new train line connection with a station adjacent to the airport has been started operating. Taxi-cab is the popular mode of communicating to and from the city.
Train
There are two major train stations in the city: Howrah and Sealdah. Recently, some long distance trains are starting from Biddhannagar and other stations too. Howrah station is located on the other side of river Hoogly. Local trains spanning through a network of around 100 kilometres carry millions of commuters every day to and from the city.
METRO (undergound railway)
India's first underground railway connects between southern and northern part of the city (between Tollygunge and Dumdum ). The track passes through the heart of the city. Some stations are well decorated with art works based on themes related to local area. . Tickets are priced for Rs. 4, 6,8 depending on the distance.
BUS
The most widely used mode of transportation between suburbs and the main city. Buses come in different types, like, CSTC (Calcutta State Transport Corporation) Govt. buses, privately owned bus routes (majority of the buses are privately owned), mini buses, specials, limited stops, express service etc. Fares start from Rs.4 ( as of 2005 Jan, the fare changes frequently) . Some special buses' fare start from Rs.5/6 . Most buses have two doors, some have one. All buses have some seats reserved for ladies and elderly people (senior citizens). In most of the cases, ticket collector (conductor) collects the ticket after boarding. Long distance buses are available from Esplanade and Howrah. Some long distance buses have luxury elements like video displays, sleep berth etc.
Trams
Though decommissioned in some part of the city, electric trams (runs on track) are still one of the means of traveling between places within the city. They move slow on the laid tracks in traffic jammed streets, but they are environment friendly (no emission). The most picturesque tram route in Kolkata is the one that runs from Esplanade to Khidderpore. It passes through the Maidan(The Green Lung of the City) and the Victoria Memorial and the Race Course. The fares start at Rs 3.50 and Rs 4 for 1st Class.
Taxi (cab)
There are plenty of them through out the city. Prepaid taxis are available from Airport and Howrah train stations. Taxi fares are confusing as the taxis are equipped with different kinds of meters. Some have old meters where the fare is usually 200-300% on the top of the metered price. Taxis with new electronic meters have less confusion, but usually 150% of the amount displayed is payable. Whatever it is, the passenger can ask for a rate conversion chart which displays the conversion list between metered amount and the payable amount. The minimum payable amount is Rs 20 for a distance of 1-2 km
PLACES TO VISIT
VICTORIA MEMORIAL
In memory of Queen Victoria and was formally inaugurated by the Prince of Wales in 1921 who later became King Edward VIII of England. The stately bronze statue of the queen near the entrance, the brass canons, wrought iron street lamps, manicured lawns, gardens and pathways, the magical lighting effect in the evening and a fairy tale ‘Fountain of Joy’ facing the memorial building create an atmosphere of unforgettable charm. It is also a museum where people could see before them pictures and statues of men who played a prominent part in the history of India and develop a pride in their past especially in relation to the history of Calcutta . Lord Curzon conceived it. Presently it is the finest and most prominent building and art museum of Calcutta, India, under the Department of Culture, Government of India. The Memorial consists of numerous hybrid features: it has Italian-style statues over its entrances, Mughal domes in its corners and tall elegant open colonnades along its sides. The building was designed by Sir William Emerson and its construction was completed in 1921. The main attraction at the memorial is the huge somber statue of the Queen, which is flanked by two ornamental tanks. Made of Makrana marble from Jodhpur, the Memorial is capped by a dome bearing a revolving bronze figurine symbolizing victory. There are 25 galleries in a chamber beneath the dome. These house several mementos of British Imperialism - statues and busts of Queen Mary, George V and Queen Victoria; paintings of Robert Clive and the Queen, French Guns captured at the Battle of Plassey in 1757 and a black marble throne of a Nawab defeated by Clive. Two regular sound and light shows are held in the evening. Closed on Mondays
INDIAN MUSEUM
Originally established in 1814, and moved to its present site in 1878, Calcutta’s Indian Museum is the largest and best museum in the country. Founded by Dr Nathaniel Wallich and housed in a magnificent Italian-style building, designed by W L Granvil, the museum has over 60 galleries and is divided into six different sections: archaeology, art, anthropology, geology, zoology and industry. The art section contains a picture gallery, with Persian- and Indian-style drawings and paintings, and also contains other artefacts and textiles, including silk-woven Tibetan temple banners. Other sections of the museum contain diverse treasures, such as an Egyptian mummy, the skeleton of a whale, rare statues and a collection of meteorites. Address : Indian Museum, 27 Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Calcutta 700016, India
EDEN GARDEN
In the North-West corner of the Maidan are small & pleasantly laid out Eden Gardens. The gardens were created in 1840 and named after the sister of Lord Auckland, the former governor general. The idea was to make a Biblical - style garden of Eden in India. The expanse dotted with beautiful trees and shrubs is intersected by winding paths, and there is a large artificial lake. Alongside the gardens, is the world famous Eden Gardens cricket stadium. The stadium is supposed to be the largest in Asia with a seating capacity of more than a lakh spectators. The Kolkata cricket ground, where International test & one day matches are held, is also with in the gardens. Near the gardens you can take a pleasant walk along the bank of hoogly river.
SAHEED MINAR
It was earlier known as the ‘Octarloni Monument’ or in short ‘monument’. This was erected in 1828 to commemorate the victory of British army under David Octarloni over the Nepal army in 1814. Charles Nolis had made the blueprint of this monument. Its builder was J.P. Parker. A fund was collected to erect this monument. Its cost was Rs. 35,000 in those days. The construction of the monument encompasses an architectural variety. The foundation followed an Egyptian style whereas the body of the Minar and the dome resembled Syrian and Turkish designs respectively. The Minar is 158 ft. high. It has two balconies at the top. One can reach the balcony by using the serpentile staircase. 198 stairs lead from the bottom to the first balcony. From here 25 more stairs lead to the second balcony. In 1969, the Monument was rechristened as the ‘Shahid Minar’ to commemorate the Indian freedom fighters. Different political parties convene meetings, rallies and seminars behind the Shahid Minar at present. The custom of convening political seminars started in 1931 when a historical convocation took place here which was presided by Rabindranath Tagore. The humanitarian poet had severely condemned the vandalism of the imperialist British Government which had shot a youth dead in the Calabooze in Hizli. Few years ago, the dome of the ‘Minar’ was coloured which kicked off a storm of protest. One can have a panoramic view of Calcutta from the top of Shahid Minar. From there, the much-known Calcutta is transformed into an enigmatic fantasy land. But one can not get at the top of the Minar at one’s sweet will. For that, one has to secure permission from the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Lal Bazar (Enquiry) by signing a bond that the venture is undertaken at one’s own risk.
VIDYASAGAR SETU
Vidyasagar Setu is a modern day engineering marvel. It is situated near the race course. This is the imposing and ultra-modern second Hooghly Bridge. Vidyasagar Setu a golden Gate Bridge look alike, 2kms downriver, was completed in 1994. It is a modern day engineering marvel and is the largest cable stayed bridge in Asia. The bridge connects the twin cities of Calcutta and Howrah. It was built at a cost of Rs. 388 crores. Unfortunately it is not making the big difference that was envisaged, as the approaches are too narrow to to handle the amount of traffic that use bridge, and plans for widening the road are slow in implementation. It was inaugurated in the year 1992. It was built at a cost of Rs. 388 crores. It is capable of holding around 85,000 vehicles every day. This beautiful bridge spans the Hooghly and has been built to ease the load of the existing Howrah Bridge. It offers a panoramic view of Calcutta and its vicinity.
HOWRAH BRIDGE
It is one of three bridges on the river Hooghly and is the most famous symbol of not only Kolkata but also West Bengal. Until 1943, the Hooghly River was crossed by a pontoon bridge which had to be opened to let river traffic through. There was considerable opposition to construction of a bridge due to fears that it would affect the river currents and cause silting problems. This problem was eventually avoided by building a bridge that crosses the river in a single 450m span - there are no pylons at all within the river. The cantilevered bridge, also known as Rabindra Setu, is similar in size to the Sydney Harbour Bridge but carries a flow of traffic which Sydney could never dream of .It is the busiest bridge in the world. It’s intriguing to stand at one end of the bridge at morning rush hour and watch the procession of double-decker buses come across. They heel over like yachts in a heavy wind due to the weight of passengers hanging onto the sides. In between are lumbering bullock carts, hordes of bicycles and even the odd car. The ferries running from below Howrah Station are a more convenient way to cross the river and give you a good view of the bridge.
BIRLA PLANETARIUM
This is the largest planetarium in the World near the Government of India tourist office providing a view of the stars and the solar system. For enthusiasts of Astronomy this is a place not to be missed. One of the largest in Asia, close to the crossing of Theatre Road and Chowringhee Road, the Birla planetarium is adjacent to the Maidan. The planetarium is a single storeyed, circular structure constructed in pure Indian architectural style. The central dome has a diameter of 27m. shaped in imitation of the Buddhist Stupa at Sanchi. The central hall can accommodate 500 persons. Interesting exhibits are the fine collections of paintings, celestial models and busts of famous astronomers that line the corridors. The gigantic planetarium projector accessories comprise of 29000 parts and combine to portray on the inner ceiling of the planetarium, the naked face of space, Stars, planets and heavenly bodies.
SCIENCE CITY
Located on the Eastern Metropolitan Bypass, this is newest addition to Kolkata’s long list of tourist attractions. This architectural showpiece has more than just its external grandeur. A showcase of scientific applications, this is the first and the only institution of its kind in India. The different sections of the complex include the Space odyssey, Dynamotion, Life Science Corners, Science Park, Toy Train & Ropeway , the Dinosaurs Complex and others. A visit to the Space Theatre is an experience that one would cherish for a long time. It generally runs shows on the animal world , or some astronomical events and at other times , on Kolkata. Yet another breathtaking experience is the ride on the Time Machine which sends you to a world of suspended disbelief, by generating artificial movements and sounds, while taking you on a jaunt to the ancient Egypt or the wilds of Africa. Then, there are the almost real size versions of the dinosaurs that gnarls and sways it body parts much to the delight of the kids hanging around. A ride of the Ropeway helps you get a clear view of the Science City as well as the outer skirts of the metropolis. The main auditorium of the Convention Centre complex can accommodate over 2000 people, while the mini auditorium has a capacity of about 400. There are 8 seminar halls complete with latest audio-visual systems.
ZOOLOGICAL GARDEN
The Nawab of Lucknow, Wozid-Ali-Shah might have founded the zoo in Calcutta during his exile in MetiaBruz. The British took the initiative for this purpose in 1867. Earlier, some doctor had made an attempt in this regard but it was not materialized. In 1873, the then Governor Sir Richard Temple proposed the formation of a zoo in Calcutta. Sir C.L. Lendal corroborated it. Finally, the Government allotted 45 acres of land for this purpose responding to the joint petition of The Asiatic Society and Agri-Horticultural Society. On 1st January, 1876, king Edward VII inaugurated the Alipur Zoo. This is the largest zoo in India. It comprises several animals, birds and even creatures of rare species. The ‘White Tiger’, an almost extinct race, is the chief attraction of the zoo. During the winter season, the migratory birds flock in the zoo for its artificial lake and vegetation. But in recent times the birds do not flock so much as the yester years due to ecological imbalances. There are some ‘Bhawans’ or buildings inside the premises of the zoo such as the Reptile-House. Different creatures dwell in these buildings as well.
RABINDRA SADAN
Situated on the southeast corner of the Maidan, the Rabindra Sadan is the seat of Bengali culture where cultural programmes & exhibitions are held regularly. The Nandan theatre hall behind Rabindra Sadan, is Calcutta’s prime place for cine culture. It is a cultural centre for film enthusiasts and professionals. It was largely patronized by the late Satyajit Ray who inaugurated Nandan and designed its emblem. Its three motion picture theatres have the best screening facilities in Calcutta. One of the halls is used largely by film clubs to screen art films and parallel movies for their members. It is situated adjacent to the Academy of Fine Arts Complex.
BOTANICAL GARDEN
This is situated at Shibpur area of Howrah District. It was laid out in 1786 and administered by Colonel Kyd. This is the oldest of all the Botanical Gardens in India. Its cover area is 270 acres. Inside is an incredible variety of about 50,000 trees. The pivotal attraction here is the giant banyan tree which covers about 404 metres of land. It has 157 offshoots hanging down from the original tree. Au reste, there are innumerable orchids and colourful flowers. Boating takes place regularly on the lake. There is a precious library in the garden which comprises a rare collection of books on Botany. It remains opened from sunrise to sunset. This ethereal ambience is ideal for fun, fiesta and frolics. It was from these gardens that the tea now grown in Assam and Darjeeling was first developed. Trees of the rarest kinds, from Nepal, Brazil, Penang, Java and Sumatra can be found here. There are towering Mahogany trees, an avenue of Cuban Palms and an Orchid House. Mango and Tamarind trees shade the grassy lawns. But the main attraction of the garden is the 200 year old Banyan Tree, claimed to have the second largest canopy in the world. It is the world’s largest, having a circumference of 330m.
NICCO PARK
Located at Salt Lake, this amusement park can be called The Disney land of West Bengal. There is no bar for any age group in this park. The various rides are enthralling. Food is not allowed to be carried inside but there are many food stalls to cater to all kinds of tastes. The park is opened to the public from 10.00 A.M. to 8.00 P.M. everyday during the winter and 11.00 A.M. to 9.00 P.M. everyday during the rest of the year.
BIRLA MANDIR
Located on Ashutosh Chowdhury Avenue, it is the latest addition to the places of visit in Calcutta. It took twenty-two years of sedulous work to build this all-marble structure. The temple has very high quality Rajasthani engravings. This splendid and imposing structure in white, attracts huge crowds everyday.
NALBAN BOATING COMPLEX
Located at the heart of Salt Lake City, just 12 Kms. away from Central Calcutta. Nalban Boating Complex is a beautiful picnic spot for families, who would like to spend few hours in the lush greenery and placid lake. It is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its unpolluted environment offers a respite and soothes the visitors. The main attraction of this place is the four hundred acre picturesque lake with various kinds of boating facilities like paddle boats, shikaras etc.
ACADEMY OF FINE ARTS
Established in 1933. Exhibits works of contemporary artists throughout the year. Group theatres and dance programs are performed in a hall inside. The Rabindra gallery exhibits manuscripts, paintings and personal belongings of Tagore. Open 3-8 p.m. All tram, buses going to Rabindra Sadan can bring you here. The nearest Metro station "Rabindra Station" is 3/4 minutes walk.
AGRI HORTICULTURAL GARDEN
Agri-Horticultural Gardens are situated in Alipore and was founded by William Carey in 1820. This garden has a significant collection of botanical varieties with facilities for gardeners and plant/flower lovers.
This garden is adjacent to the Calcutta’s Zoological Garden. Open: 07:00-11:00 and 15:00-17:00
ASIATIC SOCIETY
The institution is located at 1 , Park Street ( in the junction of Park Street and J.L.Nehru Road ). Was founded by Sir William Jones in 1784 with Warren Hastings as its first patron. The library inside has approximately 20000 volumes inclusive of 8000 rare Sanskrit, Arabic, Persian and Hindi manuscripts. It is also rich with archaeological relics, geological and ethnological specimens.
ASUTOSH MUSEUM OF INDIAN ART
Located at Centenary building of University of Calcutta. This museum has rare and valuable collections including Bengal patachitra paintings, ‘katha shilpo’ art etc.
BELUR MATH
6 kms from Howrah station on the bank of the river Hooghly. Provides a picturesque view of Belur math and Ramakrishna temple. Was built in 1899. The Ramakrishna mission runs among other things, an art college, an industrial school and charitable dispensary. From Howrah station bus 51,54, 56.
BIRLA INDUSTRIAL AND TECHNOLOGICAL MUSEUM
Established in 1966 at 19A, Gurusaday Road ( at the junction of Gurusaday Rd and Syed Amir Ali Avenue ) at south Calcutta. Displays industrial and technological models.
DAKSHINESWAR TEMPLE
On the bank of the Ganges near Bally bridge. One temple of goddess Kali & 12 temples of God Shiva. Full of memories of saint Ramakrishna and Sarada Debi.
FORT WILLIAM
Situated on the bank of river Hooghly and named after king William III. The fort occupies five square kilometers and has six gates. The Arsenal inside is worth visiting for which a prior permission is required from the Commanding Officer.
KALIGHAT KALI TEMPLE
Famous Hindu pilgrimage situated at Kalighat beside Tolly’s Nullah.
MISSIONARIES OF CHARITY (NIRMAL HRIDAY)
Mother Teresa’s center for the dying and destitute. Address: 251, Kalighat Road, Calcutta 700026. You may visit Mother Teresa’s home at 54A, A.J.C.Bose Rd, Calcutta 700016
NATIONAL LIBRARY
Biggest library in India. Located at Belvedere House in Alipore. Previuosly Emperial Library. It consists of around 1800000 books and documents in all different languages.
EATING OUT
BENGALI RESTAURANTS
Aaheli Peerless Inn, 12 Jawaharlal Nehru Road , Esplanade 2228-0301/2 Open: 12 pm - 2.45pm & 7.30 - 11.30pm. Average meal for two: Rs 1000 Authentic Bengali delicacies in a homely atmosphere. Speciality :Chingri Malakari
Kewpie’s 2 Elgin Lane , Elgin Road 2475-9880, 2476-9929 Open: 12.30pm - 2.30pm & 8pm - 11.30pm. Average meal for two: Rs 550 Taste of Bengal with delectable innovations. Speciality :Prawn Malakari
Bhajahari Manna 9/18 Ekdalia Road , Gariahat 2440-1933 Open: 10 am - 9 pm. Average meal for two: Rs 500 Bengal on a platter. Speciality :Ilish Meghna
Suruchi 89 Elliot Road , Nonapukur 2229-1763 Average meal for two: Rs 450 Genuine Bengali food amidst simple, homely surroundings. Speciality :Pabda Machher Jhol
6 Ballygunge Place 6, Ballygunge Place , Ballygunge Phari 2460-3922 Average meal for two: Rs 500 Enjoy the flavour of east and west Bengal Speciality :Ilish Paturi
SOUTH INDIAN
Malgudi Jn 24 , Camac Street 98312-92372/6 Open: 11am - 11pm. Average meal for two: Rs 300 Enjoy south Indian food in an authentic ambience. Visa/MC/Amex/DC
Chennai Kitchen P15/1 Chowringhee Square, Beside Aayakar Bhawan & Paradise , Esplanade 2248-8509, 2243-5271 Open: all days, 12 - 10pm. Average meal for two: Rs 250 A lunch experience with the local flavours of Chennai.
Raj Restaurant 10/2 Manoharpukur Road , Hazra 2475-4344/45/46 Average meal for two: Rs 300 Authentic south Indian food in a cosy ambience.
PUNJABI
Honey Da Dhaba P54 CIT Road, Scheme VIIM , Kankurgachi 2355-6802-4 Average meal for two: Rs 350 Enjoy the seasonal delicacies.
Pride of Punjab 46 Uttar Panchanna Gram, between Science City & Ruby General Hosp , EM Bypass 3096-5590 Average meal for two: Rs 350 Authentic Punjab fare.
MUGHLAI
Shiraz 56 , Park Street 2280-5006 Open: 5.15am - 11pm Average meal for two: Rs 500 For a wholesome dinner spread.
Rahamania 66 , Park Street 2281-2683 Average meal for two: Rs 350 Royal food in the heart of the city.
Aminia 6A S N Banerjee Road , New Market 2244-1318 Average meal for two: Rs 400 One of the oldest restaurants in the city.
Arsalan: A new Retaurant in Town but already one of the hot favourites for Mughlai Food. Has its branches at Park Circus 5 point Connector and another in Free School Street Area.
