What is the Status of Kolkata in Terms of Tourism?

Kolkata, the bustling capital city of India’s West Bengal is a tourist’s paradise. From its eclectic culture to its wide array of monuments, temples, religious institutions, markets, and universities, the city has plenty to offer. Moreover, various industries here provide lucrative business opportunities to those coming to the city. As such, it’s easy to understand why many people visit Kolkata for its vibrant atmosphere.

Demographics and Tourists Flocking to Kolkata

Kolkata is the third most populous metropolis in India. This city is home to over 4.6 million people and has an estimated population of more than 14 million. With this large population base, it’s no surprise that the city attracts a huge number of tourists.

Reports from the 2017-2018 tourism report of Kolkata indicate that the city attracted about 12.7 million tourists in 2017. This figure had gone up to 14 million tourists in 2018. In terms of international tourists, Kolkata had 2.2 million arrivals in 2018. The biggest source countries for foreign tourist coming to Kolkata are the US and UK.

The Reasons Why People Come To Kolkata

Kolkata has many attractions that make it an attractive destination for tourists from around the world. The Victoria Memorial, Mighty Banyan Tree, Howrah Bridge and many other historical monuments in and around Kolkata attract tourists from every part of the world.

Apart from these attractions, Kolkata also serves as an educational and financial hub. The city houses many renowned universities, colleges and research institutes like Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Indian Statistical Institute, Calcutta University and prestigious business schools like Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM-C) and School of Planning and Architecture Kolkata (SPA-K). All these educational institutions provide this city with a strong economic life and attract scores of students annually.

Moreover, Kolkata’s famous street food culture and shopping spots are also a major reason why people come here. The Great Bazaar of Kolkata at College Street is among the largest such markets in the world with more than 300 book stores and selling all sorts of products at bargain prices.

Finally, Kolkata is also well known for its cultural scene. The city celebrates the festivals of Durga Puja, Kali Puja and Diwali with great enthusiasm each year with every street wearing a festive and celebratory look during these festivals. Every year thousands of people come here to witness the vibrant cultural atmosphere.

Conclusion

As explained, Kolkata features a range of attractions from educational institutions to shopping centers and from historical monuments to street food stalls that make it an irresistible destination for tourists. The city offers great opportunities to business travelers who come here and an unforgettable experience to others. As a consequence, Kolkata currently enjoys a solid position as one of India’s main tourism hotspots. For a comprehensive overview on the city’s Touristic Status, please visit Kolkata Travel Guide’s article on the topic.

Insider’s Guide to Kolkata: The Cultural Capital of India

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is a bustling city located in the eastern state of West Bengal, India. Renowned as the ‘Cultural Capital of India,’ the city has a rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse cuisine. Kolkata’s bustling markets, Victoria Memorial, lively streets, and colonial-era architecture make it one of the most iconic cities in India. Here is an insider’s guide to help tourists make the most of their visit to Kolkata.

Attractions and Activities

Kolkata has plenty of attractions that cater to every traveler’s needs, including historical landmarks, museums, temples, and gardens. Some of the must-visit places in Kolkata are:

– Victoria Memorial: The Victoria Memorial is a stunningly beautiful museum that serves as a testament to the city’s colonial past. The building, constructed in white marble, houses a vast collection of art, artifacts, and documents from the British era.

– Howrah Bridge: The Howrah Bridge is one of the busiest and most iconic landmarks of Kolkata. Visitors can take a walk on the bridge and enjoy stunning views of the Hoogly River below.

– St. Paul’s Cathedral: St. Paul’s Cathedral is another architectural wonder that stands tall in the heart of Kolkata. Built-in the Gothic Revival style, the Cathedral is a significant tourist draw for its stunning stained-glass windows, majestic interiors, and calm surroundings.

– Dakshineswar Kali Temple: Dakshineswar Kali Temple is a pilgrimage site located on the banks of the Hooghly River, about 11 miles from Kolkata. It is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali, and visitors can witness various rituals and offerings at the temple.

Cultural Experiences

Kolkata is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse traditions. Some of the cultural experiences that visitors can indulge in are:

– Bengali cuisine: Kolkata’s cuisine is famous for its sweet and spicy flavors, and visitors can savor the city’s signature dishes like Mishti Doi, Rosogolla, and Kolkata Biryani at the local eateries.

– Durga Puja: Durga Puja is Kolkata’s biggest festival, and visitors can witness the city’s pandals (elaborate temporary structures) with massive idols of the goddess Durga.

– Kolkata Literary Festival: The Kolkata Literary Festival is Asia’s largest literature festival, with several notable national and international writers, poets, and literary figures. Visitors can attend book readings, panel discussions, and cultural events during the festival.

Local History

Kolkata has a rich history that has played a crucial role in shaping the city’s culture and development. Some of the noteworthy historical landmarks in Kolkata are:

– The Indian Museum: The Indian Museum is the oldest and largest museum in India and houses a vast collection of historical artifacts, including rare fossils, antiques, and paintings.

– The Marble Palace: The Marble Palace is another significant landmark that is worth a visit. The palace was built-in 1835 by a wealthy Bengali merchant and houses an impressive collection of European sculptures and paintings.

– Jorasanko Thakur Bari: Jorasanko Thakur Bari is the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore, a national poet and Nobel laureate. Visitors can explore the house and see some of Tagore’s original manuscripts, paintings, and personal belongings.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Apart from the popular attractions, Kolkata has several lesser-known hidden gems that visitors can explore:

– Kumortuli: Kumortuli is a pottery district that is home to several skilled artisans who make clay idols of the gods and goddesses. Visitors can witness the idol-making process and interact with the artisans.

– Prinsep Ghat: Prinsep Ghat is a beautiful riverside promenade that offers stunning views of the Howrah Bridge and the Hooghly River.

– College Street Boi Para: College Street Boi Par is a haven for book lovers, with several shops that sell rare books, academic texts, and novels.

In conclusion, Kolkata is a city that has something to offer for everyone. Visitors can soak in the city’s cultural heritage, feast on delicious food, explore the historical landmarks, and indulge in off-the-beaten-path experiences. A trip to Kolkata is an experience that every traveler should have on their bucket list.