You have probably heard the statement, ‘Kolkata is more than just a city—it’s an emotion.’ And if you’ve ever been there, you know it’s true!”
Every time I hear the name “Kolkata,” I feel a deep sense of connection, as if the city holds a special place in my heart. Though I am not a resident, every visit makes me feel like I truly belong. It’s not just another city—it’s my second home. As a Bengali, my cultural roots and childhood memories tie me even closer to this vibrant place.
One of the first sights that amazes me is the Howrah Bridge—a massive structure standing tall without pillars, stretching across the Hooghly River. Watching it glow at night is truly mesmerizing. As I cross the bridge, I find myself in North Kolkata, where the narrow lanes are filled with history. I stop by a roadside tea stall, take a sip of hot ‘cha’ (tea), and soak in the peaceful vibes at the Ganga ghats.
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Walking further, I reach Kumartuli, where art meets devotion. Here, skilled sculptors bring gods and goddesses to life with their hands, filling the place with an air of spirituality. Moving ahead, we stop by the famous Indian Coffee House, a spot rich in history and culture. Sipping coffee, we browse through books, reading stories that offer a deeper understanding of Bengal’s glorious past.
Next, we visit the grand Victoria Memorial, where I step back in time to learn about Queen Victoria’s colonial rule. From there, we head to the Birla Planetarium, one of the oldest and largest in Asia, where I explore the mysteries of the universe and learn about planets and stars. Later, at St. Paul’s Cathedral, I step inside to experience a deep sense of peace and serenity.
No trip to Kolkata is complete without indulging in its famous food. We savor the spicy phuchkas at Vivekananda Park, followed by a visit to an iconic sweet shop in Bara Bazar to taste the legendary Roshogolla and Mishti Doi.
As the sun sets, we take a peaceful boat ride on the Hooghly River, watching the city skyline glow under the evening lights. The sight of the Dakshineswar Kali Temple and the calmness of Prinsep Ghat make the moment unforgettable. To wrap up the day, we take a tram ride from Esplanade to Kidderpore Depot—an experience worth just 9 rupees, yet priceless in memories.
On the last day, as I prepare to leave, I look back at all the moments I spent here. It feels as if the city doesn’t want to let me go. I have traveled to four of India’s biggest cities, but Kolkata feels different—it touches the heart in a way no other city does. I capture every moment on my phone, knowing that these memories will stay with me forever.
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