Kolkata is celebrated as one of the iconic cities in India, rooted in legendary tales. Besides the Howrah Bridge and Victoria Memorial, the city has an unexplored and unconventional side that rewards offbeat travellers. Beyond its street food fame lies a city full of immersive, emotional, and spiritual experiences waiting to be explored. If you are someone in search of off-the-beaten-path experiences, here are five unconventional, travel-centric things to do in Kolkata.
Explore the artisan lanes of Kumartuli
Kumartuli is often known as the hidden beauty of North Kolkata. It is unlike any tourist attraction and is a living workshop where artisans craft clay idols, especially for the most celebrated festival of West Bengal, Durga Puja. As you step inside, you will be transported to a bygone era where the open-air studio concept prevailed. You will notice streets lined with half-finished sculptures of the goddesses. Witnessing the entire idol-making process is a deeply immersive cultural experience.
Relish a Chinese breakfast at Tiretta Bazaar
For some of the best Chinese food in Kolkata, you need to visit Tiretta Bazaar, which happens to be the city's old Chinatown. If you arrive before sunrise, you can relish steaming momos, baos, and wonton soup. This food is prepared and served by Indo-Chinese families. Remember to reach on time as the market operates only for a few hours in the morning. It is a rare experience for travellers, offering a glimpse into Kolkata's multicultural roots.
Visit Mallick Ghat Flower Market
Located right under the Howrah Bridge, Mallick Ghat Flower Market is every photographer's dream experience. It is advised to visit early in the morning to see heaps of marigolds, roses, and jasmine in the market. It is a blast of colours, energetic bargaining, and photogenic travelling chaos.
Ride a Heritage Tram
Kolkata's tram rides feel otherworldly. They immediately transport people to the black-and-white era when the city was still called Calcutta. Asia's oldest electric tram system offers a slow-paced journey through colonial-era neighbourhoods and colourful markets. This is one of those unconventional Kolkata experiences that encourages you to slow down and observe the true beauty of an old city.
Asia's largest book market at College Street
Kolkata is a paradise for book lovers. Every bibliophile's dream destination, College Street is famous as one of the world's largest second-hand book markets. It is spread for nearly a kilometre, featuring thousands of stalls. The legendary cafés like the Indian Coffee House are another charming feature of the place, perfect for travellers wanting to experience the cultural side of the city.
