Tourists rank kolkata among asia’s top 10: Here’s why

Affordable, affable and accessible – these are a few reasons that cemented Kolkata’s spot on the list. We dig deeper to know what tourists love about the city and what makes it stand out. From architecture to street food, the city is a traveller’s paradise, here’s why

According to a recent travel trend survey, where over 1.8 lakh people participated, Kolkata has made it to the list of top 25 best cities to travel to. We spoke to tourists, expats and city experts to know what sets Kolkata apart and what it needs to do better.

A slice of history with a side of delish kathi rolls
Kolkata is home to architectural marvels for all who enjoy a heritage walk. Edvan Carvalho, football coach from Brazil, who’s been living in Kolkata now, says that the Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial and Dalhousie’s colonial era buildings are a must-visit. He adds: “Kolkatans are knowledgeable and helpful. This fascinates me about the city.” Lovelene Aton from Germany shares, “During my time in Kolkata in 2023, I used to treat myself to a kathi roll every other day. It’s good food on a budget,” says Aton.

Kolkata is a combination of affordability, affability and accessibility. It’s one of the most friendly cities in the world
– Mudar Patherya, city expert
Durga Pujo, Christmas & Ramadan celebrations are visually stunning. They’re about culture, which brings communal harmony to the spotlight
– Esme Adrien from France who visited Kolkata recently

Kolkata always has so much going on, this makes for great subjects for photos. Be it the flower market or scenic ghats, even adda at the cha’er dokan is so lively
– Nimesh Agrawal,who recently visited the city

Wholesome travel on a budgetAccessibility and affordability are two big factors that contribute to the ease of travelling to and within Kolkata. “Not just outside the city but also commuting within the city is easy due to the availability of so many public transport options,” said Tathagata Neogi, city walk and tour curator.

‘Kolkata is not a just city, it’s an emotion’
Born in the US, grown up in London and now in Kolkata, Ethan Heppe thinks that the city is a giant village with an X-factor. “Every part of the city is vibrant and so different from the other. It has an old-world charm and a café and clubbing culture all at once,” quipped Heppe.

Kolkata visitors go yays and nays for:
Potholes
Oily and sometimes unhygenic street food
Odd stares from locals causing them discomfort at times
Pickpockets and petty crimes
Variety and flavours of food
Affordability of food and stay
Ease of travelling within the city
Durga Pujo is a major attraction for tourists especially after attaining the UNESCO heritage tag
Survey parameters
n Culture
n Landmarks
n Food
n Friendliness
n Values
n Shopping
The Mallik Ghat flower market is a photographer’s paradise
Handicrafts are popular souveniers among visitors