Kolkata: 10 dreamy places in the City of Joy

Calcutta, the old name of Kolkata, gets the sobriquet "City of Joy." India's cultural capital is bursting with vibrant gastronomic pleasures, celebrations, creative expression, and—of course—fairly legendary sites. Here are some lovely locations you have to see if you're headed to Kolkata: Here are some lovely locations you have to see if you're headed to Kolkata:

1. Victoria Memorial

Victoria Memorial is one of the most popular and worth visiting places every tourist should visit in Kolkata. Queen Victoria is honored by this building built in white marble which is a replica of the Taj Mahal. A treasure both in and out, Victoria Memorial has a grand museum, aesthetically designed lush green garden, splendid water bodies, and mysterious tales of the British Raj. Wasting some hours walking in this marvelous symbol, particularly during the evening.

2. Kumartuli

To have a feel of the traditional art and craftsmanship, take a stroll to the side streets of Kumartuli. This part of the town is a testimony to the fact that hundreds of clay idols are made by hand for Durga Puja. This is the beauty of art, and you have the chance to watch the master sculptors create tiny statues of gods and goddesses. The excitement builds up to the grand festival and the feeling is magical. The best part? For souvenirs, you can get small clay idols which would be a novelty if you were to present them to friends and family.

3. Princep Ghat

Take a break from the city that never sleeps and spend some time surrounded by relaxed vibes at Princep Ghat. Located on the banks of the Hooghly River, this charming place is a part of the colonial era and is serene and has palm trees all around. Take a walk on the riverside and the beautifully lit Vidyasagar Setu Bridge by evening; take a visit to the Ochterlony Monument; or simply lie down on the grass and watch the dreams come true. Don't forget your camera!

4. Mullik Ghat Flower Market

If you want to enjoy the burst of colors and fresh smell, head over to Mullik Ghat flower market on Howrah Bridge. The largest wholesale flower market in Kolkata with over 2000 vendors comes alive at the break of dawn to see truckloads of marigolds, roses, and jasmines being offloaded for distribution. The whole market area is lively as the sellers turn flowers into malas and the buyers negotiate for lower prices. Start this interesting race early morning just don’t forget to capture some images for your Instagram accounts.

5. South Park Street Cemetery

Feel free to take a chilling walk around South Park Street Cemetery, which has been included in the list of heritage sites since 2014 but was established in 1767. Now a wild and mossy jungle, it is the last resting place of the dilapidated tombs of British soldiers, the who’s who of the British aristocracy, and an eight-year-old girl – the daughter of a famous Indologist. This puts an eerie spin on historical tours because the remnants provide deeper narratives of Kolkata’s complex history. If you brave the gates, enter and partake or if you just want to gawk at the tropical Gothic wonder, then by all means do so.

6. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Travel up north from Kolkata and stop at the well-known goddess Kali temple, Dakshineswar. Built in 1855, this wondrous house of prayer contains Shiva temples and is situated on the banks of the holy river Ganga. Nine spires, complex domes, and beautiful idols define the architectural elegance of the temple constructed in Bengali style. Attend the nightly "aarti" ritual after sunset and the temple is beautifully lit. Therefore, Dakshineswar should be among the destinations anybody interested in seeing the city of Kolkata should consider.

7. Rabindra Sarobar

Relax from the city rush at the Rabindra Sarobar, one of the vibrant green parks in Kolkata. This tranquil lake has grassy clearings and wooded paths that are appropriate for walking, jogging, or even having picnics. There are various gardens such as a rose garden through which one may see birds and butterflies while walking around. Other attractions include a monument for the Bengali poet – Rabindranath Tagore and boating on the Dal Lake. Make sure you carry a mat and some snacks along so that you can fully enjoy the aura of the place.

8. College Street

It will be a tragedy for bookworms not to visit College Street, also known as ‘book town’ or ‘boi para’ in Bengali. Stretching bookstores, publishers, sidewalk book stalls, and old-world cafes on this 800-meter seem to effortlessly make literary lovers go weak on their knees in Kolkata. Rummage through everything from old collectors’ editions, and compulsory second-hand novels, to the current hit parade. Wander for hours with your senses being captivated by Europe’s rustic ambiance to sit in a rickety teashop for tea.

9. Marble Palace

Established in 1815, Marble Palace in North Kolkata takes you back to the kings and queens of Calcutta. This magnificent house was built in 1835 by a Bengali merchant and the house is filled with Victorian furniture, sculptures from Europe, paintings from various European artists, and a fair share of Victorian antiques and souvenirs. Whether you prefer watching movies or reading books, the plot associated with secret rooms, marbles, lions, and attempts in the past will blow your mind. Do not overlook the stroll through the enchanted gardens.

10. Prinsep Ghat

And finally, probably the most interesting place that is worth visiting in Kolkata is Prinsep Ghat. Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River it offers a fine view of one of the approaches to Howrah Bridge and the twin cable suspension Vidyasagar Setu Bridge. Nestled at the Prinsep Street this is a good place to watch the pedestrians or just take photographs or take a break and sip on a cup of tea. When the sun sets on the river and the lights of the City of Joy twinkle on the horizon, retire with delightful memories.

So, here are some of the best dream places in Kolkata that will compel you to pack your bags and set out for a vacation! Get an exciting experience of exploring the historical background, and the culturally vibrant and spiritually charged atmosphere of the city. Get lost in nostalgic corners, crowded bazaars, foggy ghats, and serene parks for an extraordinary romantic date with happy Kolkata!

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