Kolkata, famously known as ‘The City of Joy,’ and previously referred to as Calcutta, stands as a historical marvel – the very heartbeat of India during the British Raj era. Renowned for its colonial architecture, world-class museums, a vibrant arts scene, and tantalizing culinary heritage, this city seamlessly weaves together tradition and modernity, inviting Halal-friendly travelers to explore its captivating offerings.
From 1773 to 1912, Kolkata held the title of the British capital, etching an indelible mark upon its landscape. Architectural treasures like the Belvedere House, Writer’s Building, and the Victoria Memorial, a tribute to Queen Victoria, exude a splendid fusion of ancient Indian, Indo-Islamic and Indo-British architectural influences. The iconic Howrah Bridge, a colossal steel structure spanning the river, epitomizes the city’s pulsating energy. Kolkata thrives on its people, diverse cultures, and storied past, boasting nearly 300 years of history – a blend of a magnificent yet fading yesteryear with a promising future.
City’s distinctive cultural identity is exemplified by the iconic “yellow taxis” that have graced its streets for generations. As a cultural nexus, the city has nurtured world-renowned writers, poets, artists, and literary works. It proudly claims Rabindranath Tagore, the first non-European Nobel Prize laureate in Literature, as one of its own. The city remains a vibrant epicenter of cultural activities and stands as a haven for food enthusiasts, often likened to the bustling street food cultures of Bangkok and Osaka. Bengalis’ legendary passion for food shines through sumptuous dishes deeply rooted in the region’s culinary heritage.
The charming city is also home to the historic Basri Shah Mosque, which traces its origins back to 1219 Hijri, and the awe-inspiring Nakhoda Masjid, designed to emulate Mughal Emperor Akbar’s mausoleum in Agra, showcasing mesmerizing Islamic architecture. The city takes pride in its colonial-era architectural treasures, a testament to British grandeur. Just 80 kilometers away, the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sanctuary for globally endangered species, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, awaits exploration.
Explore our meticulously crafted itineraries for an enchanting trip to Kolkata while savoring a mesmerizing Halal-friendly travel experience throughout your journey.
