The City of Joy is full of joyful surprises. Mostly, people visit the regular famous tourist spots like Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge. But, many fail to know that the city is beyond them. There are many fascinating places that are not under the spotlight. So, the next time you plan a trip to Kolkata, remember to visit these places without fail.
- Indian Museum:
The oldest museum in India is also the home of a 4000 years old Egyptian Mummy. There are many other attractions in the museum. Trust me, once you enter the fascinating museum, you would not realise how fast time would fly away as you would marvel from one treasure to the other. Before you would have realised, you must have spent the entire day in the museum. Hence, it would be wise to check into one of the hourly hotels near the Indian Museum to rest for the day.
2. The Birla Planetarium:
The largest planetarium in Asia is also the second largest planetarium in the world. With over a 100 works on astrophysics and astronomy, the planetarium is surely a treat. Do not assume that the planetarium is only for the science geeks. All the projects are so minutely and simply explained that anybody can understand it clearly. So pack your bags and reserve a day to brush up your knowledge of astronomy. After visiting the planetarium, complete your day by dining at a restaurant in Park Street and resting in one of the couple friendly hotels in Park Street.
3. Amitabh Bacchan Temple:
Yes, you read that right. There is a temple in Kolkata where the megastar Amitabh Bachhan is worshipped like any other God. A pair of his shoes from the movie Agneepath is kept there along with various portraits and movie stills. Even if you are not an ardent Amitabh Bacchan fan, you should still visit the place when you stay in one of the hourly couple friendly hotels in Taltala.
3. Armenian Church of the Holy Nazareth:
Initially a church was built in 1688. The church got burnt and destroyed. The current church was built in its place in 1724. The church is a reflection of the Armenian culture. You can go on a soul-searching trip in the tranquil riveting church. After checking out of one of the hourly couple friendly hotels near Jorabagan, do visit the church on priority.
4. Tiretti Bazaar:
Kolkata's very own Chinatown is a must-visit. You must dine at the place where authentic Chinese food is served. Many people of Chinese-origin still live there and it is definitely a cultural trip. You would not be wrong to mistake the place for China while walking down the lane. You can easily spend the entire day in the place, discovering one wonderful treasure after the other and stay in one of the hourly couple friendly hotels near Chinatown.
5. Nam Soon Church:
The Chinese temple in Damzen Lane is a historical site. You must visit the temple to understand the Chinese culture and religion. As you plan your day in one of the hourly couple friendly hotels near Shyambazar, do keep a visit to the Nam Soon Church in priority.
6. Mother House:
Wondering what that could be? Well, it is the house where Mother Teresa lived. The house has been refurbished as a museum where most of Mother Teresa's belongings have been treasured and preserved. Her tomb is also within the vicinity of the house. The tranquil place is full of positive energy. Believe me, you would surely leave the place with a sense of satisfaction. When you reach Kolkata and check in at one of the hourly couple friendly hotels near the Howrah Railway Station to overcome the travel fatigue, make a list of the places you want to visit and do not forget to mention the Mother House in the list.
7. Rabindra Sarovar:
Want to relax and chill after a hectic long day? Trust me, no place can be better than a lakeside. The cool breeze and moonlight would definitely calm your nerves. Stroll by the lake in the evening and check into one of the hourly couple friendly hotels near Rabindra Sarovar to end the day on a peaceful note.
8. Nehru Children's Museum:
The museum is evidently a great attraction for children. But, even adults can visit the museum for a trip down the memory lane. The stories of both the epics, "Ramayana" and "Mahabharata" are beautifully depicted with the help of dolls. The various dolls and doll houses are quite an engaging sight. You must visit the museum when you leave your hourly couple friendly hotel in Shyambazar for a fun-filled time and reminisce your childhood.
9. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir:
The Swaminarayan Sampradaya has built many temples across the globe. This temple in Kolkata is equally magnificent and beautiful. The tranquil atmosphere is so soothing that it will induce you to introspect on life and beyond. Yes, you can meditate there at ease and pray to Lord Vishnu. The temple is spread over 10 acres, so there is a lot for you to explore and know. When you would stay in one of the hourly couple friendly hotels in Alipore, remember to spend a day in the temple.
10. Botanical Garden:
The Acharya Jagdish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden is spread over 273 acres. In 1786, the garden was established under the name of Company Garden by Colonel Kyd. It is the first botanical garden in India. Over time, it became popularly known as the Botanical Gardens. Currently, it is maintained by the Botanical Survey of India (BSI) of Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India. There are umpteen varieties of plants in the garden and a lot of experiments are conducted in the premises. Walking in the enchanting garden can be quite an experience and you should not miss it.
I hope you would enjoy your stay in the City of Joy. The best time to visit Kolkata is definitely during Durga Puja. So, pack your bags to visit these beautiful places.