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Do's and Dont's while visiting Kolkata

 Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is a city rich in history, art, and tradition. To make the most of your visit, here are some important do's and don'ts: Do's: Explore Local Cuisine: Kolkata is famous for its street food and sweets. Try local delicacies like puchka (pani puri), kathi rolls, jhalmuri, and sweets like rasgulla and sandesh. Be adventurous with the food but also cautious about hygiene. Visit Cultural Landmarks: Make time to visit iconic landmarks like Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. These sites are integral to understanding the city’s history and culture. Respect Religious Sites: When visiting temples, mosques, or churches, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Follow any specific customs or rules that are posted or explained. Use Public Transportation: Kolkata has an extensive network of public transport, including the historic tram system and the metro. Use these to get around the ci

Restaurants in Kolkata ----

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  BEST Vegetarian food I had in Kolkata — The Global Vegetarian Excellent synopsis by Pooja Kolkata is the city I have lived in most of my life, for over 25 years before I moved to the USA. I have always said that Kolkata has AMAZING food and is SO underrated but here is my love letter to it. In fact, even Eater Magazine named Kolkata as ONE OF THE TOP 10 PLACES to eat in 2023!! This is exactly what I’ve been preaching about for years, the food in Kolkata is fabulous and doesn’t get the love it deserves, and now it’s finally starting to get it! I visited Kolkata after 3 years in November 2022 and let me tell you I ate a lot, no seriously I ate ALOT! So here is my list of best places to eat (obviously vegetarian) including places that surprised me and places that let me down. North Indian Food in Kolkata Kolkata has some great North Indian Food all over the city, so many so that I haven’t been able to try many! From restaurants in 5-star hotels to roadside dhabas, the Indian food scene

Life in a Jute Mill for Scots in Bengal

 Life for Scots involved in the jute mills in Bengal was distinctively marked by a blend of colonial privilege, industrial responsibility, and cultural adaptation. Here’s an exploration of what life was like for them: Living Conditions Housing : Scots managers and engineers often lived in spacious bungalows provided by the mill companies. These houses were typically located in well-maintained neighborhoods, separate from the local Indian population and mill workers. The bungalows often had gardens, servants' quarters, and other amenities reflecting their higher social status. Lifestyle : The Scots maintained a lifestyle that was a blend of their homeland traditions and the colonial environment. They enjoyed amenities such as clubs, social gatherings, and recreational activities that were reminiscent of life in Scotland. Many engaged in sports like golf, tennis, and cricket, often within exclusive clubs. Work Environment Roles and Responsibilities : Scots occupied key managerial and

Scots and Jute Industry in Bengal

 The Scots played a significant role in managing jute mills in Bengal, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Their involvement shaped the industry and left a lasting impact on the region's economy and society. Here’s a detailed look at how they managed these mills: Early Involvement and Establishment Pioneering Efforts : The Scottish industrialists were pioneers in the jute industry in Bengal. They had previous experience with jute in Dundee, Scotland, which was the leading global center for jute manufacturing before the industry shifted to Bengal. Strategic Location : Bengal, especially areas around Calcutta (now Kolkata), was ideal for jute manufacturing due to its proximity to jute cultivation areas along the Ganges River, and its access to the port for export. Management and Operations Investment and Capital : Scottish entrepreneurs brought in significant investment and capital, setting up jute mills in Bengal. They utilized their expertise and technological k

Best Trip Planners in Kolkata

 Planning a trip to Kolkata and the surrounding region can be an enriching experience, given its vibrant culture, historical landmarks, and diverse attractions. Here are some of the best trip planners and travel agencies based in Kolkata: 1. Kundu Special Overview : Known for its extensive network and well-planned tours, Kundu Special is one of the most trusted travel agencies in Kolkata. Services : Group tours, family vacations, and customized holiday packages. Website : Kundu Special 2. Eastern Travels Overview : A well-established travel agency offering a wide range of travel services. Services : Corporate travel, leisure travel, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), and customized tours. Website : Eastern Travels 3. Shree Ganesh Tours and Travels Overview : Specializes in personalized travel solutions and package tours. Services : Domestic and international tours, pilgrimage tours, and tailor-made itineraries. Website : Shree Ganesh Tours and Travels 4. Wanderl

Salient Features of North Kolkata

 North Kolkata is known for its old-world charm, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance. It offers a unique glimpse into the city's past with its narrow lanes, vintage buildings, and vibrant local culture. Here are some of the salient features of North Kolkata: 1. Architectural Heritage Colonial and Bengali Architecture : North Kolkata is dotted with colonial-era buildings, traditional Bengali mansions (known as "bari"), and Victorian-style structures. The area is a blend of European and Indian architectural styles. Heritage Homes : Many old homes have distinct features such as courtyards (thakur dalan), intricate wrought iron railings, wooden balconies, and shuttered windows. 2. Cultural and Literary Significance Tagore’s House (Jorasanko Thakur Bari) : The ancestral home of the Tagore family, which is now a museum showcasing the life and works of Rabindranath Tagore. Natyashala : Theaters like Star Theatre and Minerva Theatre are historically significant an

The palaces and mansions worth visiting in Kolkata

 Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is home to numerous palaces and mansions that reflect its rich history and architectural grandeur. Here are some of the most notable ones worth visiting: 1. Marble Palace Overview : Built in 1835 by Raja Rajendra Mullick, this palace is renowned for its collection of art, sculptures, and antiques. Highlights : Neoclassical architecture, a large collection of Victorian furniture, Western sculptures, and paintings by European and Indian artists. Location : Muktaram Babu Street, Chorbagan. 2. Victoria Memorial Overview : An iconic landmark built between 1906 and 1921 in memory of Queen Victoria. Highlights : Impressive Indo-Saracenic architecture, expansive gardens, museum galleries with British Raj artifacts, paintings, and manuscripts. Location : Maidan, Kolkata. 3. Raj Bhavan Overview : The official residence of the Governor of West Bengal, this grand structure was built in 1803. Highlights : Majestic colonial architecture, lush gardens, and his