Narrow lanes, full of whispers and hushed voices. Broad roads and highways connecting it to different parts of the country. Modern multinational towers in one area. Authentic British architecture dating back to the pre-independence era, in another. Home to the first underground metro in the country, this city is also home to the vintage tram, and the hand-pulled rickshaw, the latter two modes of transport are not prevalent anywhere else in the world.
A poignant city with a soul, Kolkata is a place you will grow to love. A city which has deep ties with India's independence-struggle era. It was here that the East India Company consolidated its trade business. It was also here that the horrific communal riots, known as the Great Calcutta Killings, took place during the Partition of India.
Fast forward to 2017, and the City of Joy, as it is popularly called, is a famous tourist destination. Blending in multiple interesting aspects, it presents a unique and quirky experience, that is sure to surprise even the most seasoned traveller. Strolling down Kolkata's streets during the evening will bring to your notice its bustling city life, complete with high end restaurants juxtaposed against hawkers screaming themselves hoarse, trying too attract prospective customers. The top 5 tourist destinations of Kolkata are:-
- The Victoria Memorial:- This British monument has been known for its iconic stature. Pure white, it stands out because of its beauty. A walk inside the memorial gives a sneak peek into life during the times of the British occupation. The Makrana Marble built memorial to an empress has many galleries, boasting of various beautiful artworks and sculptures. It also has a collection of rare and antiquarian books such as the complete illustrated works of Shakespeare, and Rubaiyat by Omar Khayyam. The gardens at this beautiful monument cover around 64 acres. A must visit!
- Indian Museum:- The largest and oldest museum in India, it boasts of an incredibly rare collection of antiques, ornaments, fossils, skeletons, ancient mummies and various Mughal paintings. Its six sections, consisting of 35 galleries of culturally and scientifically significant artefacts attracts enthusiasts and tourists alike. Expect to find some rare artefacts here, like the skulls of Indus Valley inhabitants. The Indian Museum is a great way to go back in time and trace the existence of civilisation.
- Science City:– Science buffs will love the largest science centre in the Indian subcontinent. The Dynamotion Hall, Earth Exploration Hall, Space Odyssey and the Maritime centre offer interactive exhibits on the various topics of science. Visitors are encouraged to experience this, and enjoy and understand the underlying scientific principles. Experience illusions, se a fresh water aquarium, view a conclave of live butterflies and satiate the scientist in you!
- Eden Gardens:- The atmosphere at this cricket stadium is inexplicable. When empty, the Eden Gardens exudes a sense of calm. During a match, it is anything but that. Cricket is a religion in India, and the Eden Gardens is a revered place of worship for the legions. Famous players have played landmark innings at this stadium. Few fans will forget Kapi Dev's ODI hat-trick against the Sri Lankans in 1991, or VVS Laxman's 281 against Australia in the second test of the 2000-2001 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
- Botanical Gardens:- A befitting end to a whirlwind trip, the Botanical Gardens offers solitude and sanctuary for your tired mind. Lush flora and fauna, spread across acres, will invigorate you. Well maintained, and extremely popular among tourists and nature enthusiasts, it boasts of a wide variety of vegetation. A paradise within a bustling metro city.
Martin Wynn
