Last Updated on June 28, 2023 by
Kolkata is known for its colonial architecture, festivals and delicious cuisine. The City of Joy is home to some of India’s best attractions, from skyscrapers to street markets, century-old temples, and cultural hubs. Alongside, it is important to book rooms in top 5 star hotels in Kolkata. Don’t return without visiting these awesome places:
Victoria Memorial
One of Kolkata’s most iconic monuments, the Victoria Memorial is a grand building constructed by Bengali artisans and sculptors between 1906 and 1921 in memory of Queen Victoria. The edifice is a mix of Mughal and British architectural styles, with intricate marble carvings, sprawling gardens and wide open spaces. The Victoria Memorial is open daily, from sunrise to sunset and is one of the most famous spots in Kolkata for picture-perfect moments.
Indian Museum
The largest and oldest museum in India since 1878, the Indian Museum houses many of India’s most culturally significant artefacts. Known for its intricate metallic and terracotta statues, beautiful sculptures, manuscripts, coins and fossils, the museum is a great spot for a family trip or educational visit. With multiple galleries and dedicated sections to different kinds of artefacts, the Indian Museum is a haven for history and art enthusiasts.
Howrah Bridge
The Howrah Bridge is an iconic symbol of Kolkata’s industrialization; it was built in 1943 and is the sixth-longest cantilever bridge in the world. The bridge is testimony to the city’s solid engineering, supporting the constant movement of people, carts, cars and cyclists. A walk across the bridge offers breathtaking views of the Hooghly River, with the colourful setting sun in the background.
Dakshineswar Kali Temple
The Dakshineswar Kali Temple is one of Kolkata’s most important Hindu temples, dedicated to Goddess Kali. Built-in 1855, this temple features a large open terrace courtyard and nine spires, surrounded by lush greenery. Devotees from around the world visit this sacred site for offerings and spiritual pursuits.
Park Street
Park Street is Kolkata’s most famous entertainment district, where various restaurants, pubs, malls and cafes can be found. Enjoy a stroll around Park Street, listening to live music and sampling some mouth-watering food. This area is also known for its vibrant nightlife and local bazaars.
Mullick Ghat Flower Market
The Mullick Ghat Flower Market is a must on any Kolkata itinerary, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Located on the banks of the Hooghly River, this is one of the largest flower markets in India, bustling with locals and tourists alike. You can find every kind of fresh flower imaginable here and creative art pieces made from them.
Kalighat
The Kalighat Temple, located in the heart of Kolkata, dates back to 1809 and is dedicated to Goddess Kali. This site is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and is the holiest of Kali temples in India. The ornate and intricate architecture of the temple is awe-inspiring, and devotees visit from all over the world.
Science City of Kolkata
The Science City of Kolkata, the largest science centre in the Indian sub-continent, is a must-visit attraction. Spread over a sprawling 65-acre campus, the Science City of Kolkata is home to an incredible array of exhibits and educational activities featuring topics like astronomy, zoology, robotics and old-fashioned preserves.
Tagore House
The Tagore House, an old ancestral home of the iconic poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, is a great slice of Kolkata’s cultural history. Open to the public, and the Tagore House is filled with memorabilia and keepsakes from the Tagore family, from books and paintings to beautiful photographs.
Birla Planetarium
The Birla Planetarium is a great spot for astronomy enthusiasts in the Maidan area. This exquisite building, designed to resemble a Buddhist temple, is the largest planetarium in India, offering stunning views of stars and galaxies, educational sessions and fun interactive shows.
Tips to Help You Find the Perfect Hotel for Your Stay
While visiting Kolkata do remember to book a good hotel that is near the heart of the city. But finding the perfect place doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are our few tips to help you narrow your choices and find the best hotel for your stay!
Know Where You Want to Stay
Knowing the general area, you would like to stay in is an important part of the hotel selection process. Start by researching the popular areas to stay in the city you’re travelling to. From there, you can determine which hotels are in the ideal location for you. Make sure to also consider the availability of public transportation, local attractions, and other features that may make one spot stand out as the ideal destination.
Research Hotel Amenities
When researching hotels, another important factor to consider is the amenities offered. Every hotel is different in terms of its services and knowing what a hotel offers can help you make a more informed decision. Some hotels include luxurious spa treatments or room service, while others may lack some features. Make sure to double-check what features a hotel offers before booking.
Read In-Depth Reviews
In-depth reviews offer a great insight into what staying at a particular hotel is like. Online websites providing professional reviews from travel bloggers, experienced tourists, and staff members can help you get an authentic look at what a hotel is like. Pay close attention to the details about the hotel’s cleanliness, customer service, and overall value for the money.
Compare Prices
Before booking, always compare the prices of different hotels. This will help you narrow your list and ensure you’re getting the best deal. Online hotel comparison websites are a great resource for comparing rates and can help you find the hotel that’s most within your budget. Some sites offer special discounts or deals on certain properties. Make sure you look into these opportunities before booking to maximize your savings.
Read User Reviews
User reviews are an invaluable source of information when selecting a hotel. Reading user reviews will give you a sense of what it’s like to stay at a particular hotel by highlighting both the good and bad experiences past travellers have had. As with professional reviews, read through the details of the user reviews to get a better idea of what you can expect from the stay.
Find Deals
Finding the best hotel deals can be one of the most challenging aspects of booking a hotel. Keep an eye out for special deals and discounts to ensure you’re getting the best price. Many hotels offer season or holiday specials and last-minute discounts, while some sites allow you to bundle activities or meals with your stay. Taking the time to compare rates and search for discounts can save you significant money.
See the Hotel in the Photos
Many websites feature high-res images of the hotel you’re considering staying at. A virtual tour of the property can help you get a better idea of what you can expect from the stay, from checking out the size of the rooms to the few amenities offered. Pay special attention to the photos of the pool, restaurants, and other areas of the hotel that may be important to you.
Use Your Connections
If you know someone who’s already stayed at a hotel you’re considering, don’t hesitate to ask them for advice. Friends and family members can provide first-hand accounts of their experience, complete with insider tips and tricks on getting the most out of your stay. This kind of advice can be invaluable and can help you avoid making an uninformed booking.
Consider Alternative Options
Getting stuck on the idea of finding a hotel can be easy, but there are so many alternative accommodation options. Consider renting out an Airbnb or staying at a bed and breakfast instead. These options can often be more affordable while providing a comfortable and unique stay. Additionally, they often provide unique amenities and experiences not available at traditional hotels.
Avoid Unnecessary Fees
Hotel fees can add up quickly, and it’s important to avoid them if possible. Most hotels have hidden fees that can add up quickly. Read through the fine print of any hotel you’re considering to make sure you’ll be able to avoid any of these hidden costs. If a hotel doesn’t list all of its fees, ask the staff in advance to avoid any unexpected charges.
Conclusion
Kolkata is one of the most exciting cities in India, no matter if you’re looking for culture, food, or great nightlife! Whether it’s your first visit to India or your hundredth, a trip to Kolkata is an absolute must. Even if you only have one or two days, these top sights will give you an amazing glimpse into the City of Joy.
