Backpacking in Kolkata

Backpacking in Kolkata, an Old City Still Alive

Hello, I'm mr.hotsia. Today, I'll take you on a walk throughKolkataor by its former name familiar to many asCalcuttathe capital of West Bengal state, India. Although it is no longer the national capital, it is full of historical stories, vibrant lifestyles, and charm not found in other major Indian cities.

Kolkata is located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, with a population of over 14 million in the metropolitan area. The people of Kolkata live a blend of old and modern ways. Once the capital during British colonial times, it features colonial architecture and many leading educational institutions. Despite facing overcrowding, poverty, and pollution, Kolkata remains a lively city that I, mr.hotsia, will never forget.

Walking to the Heart of Kolkata through the Eyes of mr.hotsia

I arrived in Kolkata via AirAsia from Bangkok, landing at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport. I booked accommodation online for 3 nights in the city center and one night in Assam, totaling 4 full nights to truly experience this city.

The accommodation I chose wasHotel VicterraceAn affordable hotel not far from Victoria Memorial, a key city landmark. This stay led me past small coffee shops that open late (most eateries in Kolkata open from 1 PM onwards), so my mornings mostly depended on small roadside cups of tea, which truly reflect the local lifestyle.

Unique Streetside Life in Kolkata

One thing that impressed me and remains vivid is seeing people living and resting on the streets as a normal part of life. It is not unusual here to see people eating, sleeping, bathing, raising children, and going about daily life on the sidewalks. Though it may seem chaotic and untidy to foreigners, for Kolkata residents, this is a life harmoniously shared with nature and the city.

These streets are filled with smiles, laughter, and even the cries of little children, showing the happiness unique to this city. This atmosphere reminded me of walking through a bustling morning market.Kolkatawhich is lively and vibrant as well. The skillful balancing and swift movements of vendors carrying goods on their heads evoke images of an ancient city still breathing life.

Must-Try Local Delicious Food

Food is an important part that I, mr.hotsia, never miss. In Kolkata, most restaurants open from 1 PM and close late, so for breakfast, I mostly relied on hot Indian tea by the roadside with some small snacks. The strong, fragrant tea here makes you forget coffee.

For main meals in this city, I recommend tryingroti dipped in curry from street stallswith spicy beef curry and rich-flavored curries eaten by hand with rice, as is customary. There are also hotel restaurants where I stayed, convenient for those wanting to relax in their rooms after a tiring day of sightseeing.

Thai Spa and Massage in Kolkata

Surprisingly, I found about five Thai massage and spa shops in Kolkata, staffed by teachers and models directly from Thailand. The price is about 2000 baht per hour, which seems reasonable for tourists wanting to relax after a day of city exploration. This is another point of pride that Thai massage is recognized and popular in Kolkata.

Traveling and Communicating in Kolkata

For getting around Kolkata, I recommend using Uber Taxi, which is popular and safer than regular taxis that often overcharge. Communicating in English with locals can be challenging but is part of the exciting and rewarding travel experience.

If You Want to See the Real Life of Kolkata

If you want to experience the atmosphere of fresh markets and authentic street life, don't forget to visitthe fresh markets in Kolkataand try fresh coconut water roadside atthe coconut water stalls in front of markets in Kolkatawhich are popular with locals. I guarantee you will experience walking in a city full of life and color just as I, mr.hotsia, have.

Summary of Impressions from mr.hotsia

Kolkata may not be the cleanest or most modern city in India, but it is full of stories, lifestyles, and the sincerity of its people. This makes me, mr.hotsia, feel that backpacking in Kolkata is a deep and diverse way to truly experience India. For anyone wanting to challenge themselves and open their hearts to new experiences, I highly recommend Kolkata.