5 Things to Do Near Kolkata Airport
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Aptly called the City of Joy, Kolkata exudes cheerfulness and effervescence from the very moment one enters the city. Repository of rich cultural heritage, Kolkata has a unique charm when it comes to its architecture, its food and most importantly, its people. Undoubtedly, the hearts of the people of Kolkata are warmer than its weather. As the former capital of British India, the streets of Kolkata are replete with the architectural splendour of the colonial era and the celebration of modernity. Poetry and music are intrinsically linked with Kolkata. Be it the murals on the walls or the installations at every crossroad, as your drive out of the airport, you”ll see the spirit of Rabindranath Tagore and Kavi Nazrul”s poetry, Satyajit Ray”s artistic vision and the patriotic fervour of Swami Vivekananda aesthetically portrayed. Kolkata is one of the busiest cities in the country and it might appear strange for those who arrive in a Delhi to Kolkata flight. Unlike any other city, the rush doesn”t seem overwhelming.
While the winter months endow Kolkata with a soothing climate, the summer heat is, unfortunately, one of the upsetting attributes of Kolkata. But if you happen to alight from a Delhi to Kolkata flight, the weather would be relatively less daunting. The evenings, in any case, are pleasant throughout the year and will enhance the joy of exploring the quintessential beauty of Kolkata. Be it a short stopover or a hurried business trip, it would be prudent to stay around the vicinity of the Kolkata airport. Perched away from the heart of the city, Kolkata airport and the surrounding Rajarhat area have plenty of sights to appease your soul.
Ecopark
Constructed in 2011, Ecopark is the most significant urban park in India, spread across a vast expanse of 480 acres. This park recreates the bounty of nature in the centre of the concrete urbanscape. Lush lawns surround a tranquil lake, offering the perfect respite if you are travelling on a Delhi to Kolkata flight or any other flight of a longer duration. Ecopark has a whole host of activities available for its visitors ranging from cycling to kayaking and zorbing. But, the major attraction of Ecopark is the adroitly constructed replicas of the Seven Wonders of the World. Ecopark also hosts myriad food kiosks to pacify your cravings.
Mother”s Wax Museum
Located in the north-eastern fringes in Kolkata, at a distance of only 10 minutes ride from the airport, Mother”s Wax Museum is the version of the Madame Tussauds. Curated to house the wax idols of eminent national and global personalities, the statues of this museum have an uncanny semblance to the real celebrities. From social reformers like Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar and Swami Vivekananda to contemporary sports stars like Lionel Messi, Sourav Ganguly and Kapil Dev, the museum is home to a vast array of famous people from different walks of life and different generations. This makes for a quaint experience and must not be missed if you”re around that area.
New Town City Centre Mall
One of the most popular hangout locales for the youth of Kolkata, the New Town City Centre Mall”s elegant design and wide range of shopping brands make it a compelling destination for every visitor. From traditional goods to urban chic products, City Centre has anything and everything to woo its visitors. The Kantha-stitch or batik fabric-works or the terracotta and dokra jewellery readily available here encapsulate the spirits of Kolkata and make for amazing souvenirs. Located close to the mall, there is a newly constructed sweet hub which houses all the famous sweet brands of Bengal under one roof. So, if you have a sweet tooth, this is a paradise for you.
Axis Mall
Axis Mall is yet another shopping arcade of Kolkata which is located at a very convenient distance from the airport and is a potpourri of delectable purchases. But, the biggest attraction of Axis Mall is Snow Park. If you travel on a Delhi to Kolkata flight, Snow Park will offer a refreshing change with its snow themed indoor activities like skiing, sledging and ice-skating.
Nalban and Nicco Park
One of the oldest amusement parks in Kolkata, Nicco Park not only has immense nostalgic value but also has adapted itself to the changing demands of the changing times. Ideally, Nicco Park can be a tiring experience with numerous rides and sights to visit, but if you”re looking for a quieter soiree, then the adjoining Nalban would be the perfect place. A boating complex, lining the banks of the tranquil Ganges, Nalban offers one of the best spots to catch the sunset while in Kolkata. There are several eateries around Nalban serving the delicacies of Kolkata like the ravishing Rasogollas or the irresistible Malai Chom-Choms, the unparalleled Mustard Hilsa or the scrumptious Mutton Curries. A trip to Kolkata is incomplete without trying out its unforgettable flavours. So, make sure to put this high up on your itinerary.
Read More : Essential Guide to Kolkata Airport
