Diljit Dosanjh’s highly anticipated concert on November 30 in Kolkata, part of his thrilling Dil-Luminati tour, is officially sold out. If you're lucky enough to be attending, make the most of your time in this vibrant city. As the cultural capital of India, Kolkata holds a special allure that enchants everyone who visits. With winter arriving and Christmas around the corner, the city takes on a magical atmosphere. Picture yourself strolling down iconic Park Street, or having a coffee and sandwich at the Indian Coffee House where Satyajit Ray and Mrinal Sen would hang out. And while you are there, don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in delicious seasonal winter mishti, or sweets. Kolkata promises a rich and unforgettable tapestry of experiences that will remain in your heart long after the concert. Here are the top places you must visit in Kolkata for the Diljit Dosanjh concert.
Stepping into the Indian Coffee House of Kolkata is like embarking on a journey back in time when intellectual discourse thrived amidst the aroma of rich coffee and the haze of cigarette smoke. The walls of this iconic café have been the silent witnesses to inspiring conversations and debates among luminaries such as Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen, Manna Dey, and Amartya Sen. It has long been a sanctuary for local adda—the spirited exchange of ideas and stories. The timeless ambience is preserved as if frozen in its original charm, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its history.
Address: 15, Bankim Chatterjee St, College Square West, College Street, Kolkata, West Bengal 700073
A visit to Kolkata wouldn't be genuinely unforgettable without experiencing a ride on the enchanting Hooghly River. You can choose a nouko, a small traditional oar-driven boat, a ferry, or a barge ride, each offering a unique area perspective. For a special experience, consider the themed boat rides at the Polo Floatel riverside hotel. Plan your exploration just before sunset when the twin bridges over the Hooghly are illuminated. Alternatively, indulge in one of the weekend evening cruises from New Babughat to the pilgrimage sites of Belur Math and Dakshineswar and back again. As you glide, you’ll be captivated by the ancient ghats, historic houses, and majestic temples, all contributing to a truly magical atmosphere.
Kolkata's iconic Park Street is an absolute must-visit if you appreciate delightful food, drinks, and captivating live music. While it may not shine as brightly in the nightlife scene as it once did, this street is still a hidden gem full of unique experiences waiting to be rediscovered. Once celebrated as "the street that never sleeps," Park Street vibrantly teemed with restaurants and pubs, offering a unique atmosphere like no other. Embrace the opportunity to explore its charm and immerse yourself in the true essence of Kolkata. Check here for our guide.
Participating in heritage and themed walks organised by various groups offers an incredible opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of Kolkata's history. Home to vibrant communities such as the Chinese, Parsi, Jewish, and Armenians, the city showcases an array of buildings that reflect their unique legacies. By joining these curated walks, you immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of these cultures and experience the city's culinary delights through specially designed food walks.
The Tiretta Bazaar area in Kolkata still holds several remnants of a vibrant Chinese culture that has become an integral part of the city. Situated near Lalbazar in central Kolkata, Tiretta Bazaar was once known as the Old China Market. You will find Chinese temples, community clubs, provision stores, and even a unique breakfast ritual here. As you wander through the narrow lanes, you'll come across historic Chinese temples, shops, and restaurants that have shaped the neighbourhood and contributed to India’s only Chinatown.
Discover the captivating history of Jorasanko Thakurbari, a heritage mansion in North Kolkata's heart. This remarkable estate was the ancestral home of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore and hosted groundbreaking artists Gaganendranath and Abanindranath Tagore, who were vital in founding the celebrated Bengal School of Art. Today, this beautifully preserved mansion has been transformed into an inspiring museum where visitors can explore an extensive collection of personal artefacts and artistic masterpieces from the Tagore family, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts.
Address: Ganesh Talkies, 267, Rabindra Sarani, Singhi Bagan, Jorasanko, Kolkata, West Bengal - 700007. Timings: 10:30am-5pm. Mondays closed.