Kolkata - Visit this cultural city:
Kolkata's rich cultural heritage and grandeur make it a top destination for tourists from the country and abroad. Narrow lanes, British-era buildings and coffee shops evoke a sense of nostalgia. But the city has its own pace. Nothing moves fast here, and no one seems to be in any race to prove anything. Yellow ambassadors running as taxis are indeed unique besides a whole lot of other charming things.
Here is all what you can do in the city of joy.
Street food is phenomenal in Kolkata. If I say, every corner in Kolkata leads to a puchka hawker, I won't be wrong. Puchkas, 'Jhaal Muri' and Kathi rolls are a must have. If you get a chance, go to old city early in the morning and have Jalebi and lassi at 100-year-old 'Tiwari Brothers' shop.
Tea in kulhad from various shops on the streets has no match. I can never forget the most wonderful tea I had at 'Balwant Dhaba'. Relish street food while you are in the city without worrying about hygiene. Believe me, you will not fall sick.
Just hop on to the classic tram through the 'maidans route' for an amazing view. Introduced in the 1860s, these exist even today. They are slower probably than going by foot, but they add so much heritage charm. Imagine how they must have looked when they were horse-drawn initially. Then they started running through cables on the tracks right in the middle of the roads.
Absolutely easy on the pocket, and fastest mode of transport, you can bypass traffic clogged roads to reach various points in the city. Rides begin at Rs 4 and they are available at frequent intervals. Cross the river by public ferries, munch on the local snacks and watch the sunset.
When it comes to nightlife, The Park Hotel at the Park Street is the place to be. Right in the heart of the city, it offers various interesting venues suitable for all. For live music and a real British pub atmosphere, go to 'Someplace Else', whereas 'Roxy' is more retro, a complete chill out zone and 'Tantra' is a great happening night club, spread over two levels. I had a memorable mid night musical blast with international DJs at their performing best.
Kolkata's art and culture is well known. I had an opportunity to attend a premiere show of the National Award film, 'Asha Jaoar Majhe' (Labour of Love). The silent movie by young director, Aditya Vikram Sengupta captures a Kolkatan slice of life beautifully.
For art enthusiasts, a visit to 'ArtsAcre' -a world class composite arts hub is a must. Spread over 4.5-acre, it houses a museum, art galleries and workshops to bring artists and creative minds to one platform with the sole purpose of keeping Bengal Art alive. "Painter, writer, artist or musician. anyone can stay comfortably and work here," told renowned artist Shuvaprasanna for whom it is a dream project.
You must take at least one Kolkata Walk tour, you will have an enlightening perception about the city which is difficult to get otherwise. Go to their site for help: http://www.calcuttawalks.com
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