In Partnership with Malaysia Airlines
Ever heard someone describe a place as having a heartbeat? Well, in Kolkata, you feel it the moment you arrive. This city, which used to be spelt Calcutta before the name was changed to reflect traditional Bengali pronunciation, is often thought of as the cultural capital of India.
It’s colourful, chaotic and completely unforgettable, a place where historic architecture meets vibrant street life, food and local music. And thanks to Malaysia Airlines, getting there has never been easier.
Taking off from Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide or Perth, the airline flies to 10 destinations in India, including Kolkata. If you’re travelling from Melbourne, you can fly on their new A330neo aircraft, which is available six times weekly from Melbourne to Kuala Lumpur*.
Martin Puddy / Getty Image
Malaysia Airlines also offers a “Bonus Side Trip”, which lets you add an extra stop to one of seven destinations in Malaysia including Penang and Langkawi, so you can experience two cities in one trip.
So, why travel to Kolkata? Here’s a closer look at what makes this city one of the most exciting and underrated destinations in India.
The live music
Kolkata offers plenty of spots to experience local live music. Jam House is a popular underground venue where local bands play gigs in an intimate setting every night. For a more classic vibe, Someplace Else has been a hub for live rock and jazz performances for decades, drawing some of the best artists in the country. Or if you’re into traditional Indian music, head to the historic theatre and cultural hub Rabindra Sadan, where music, theatre and dance concerts are often held.
Manaswi Patil / Getty Image
The food
If you love food, Kolkata might just ruin all other travel destinations for you. This is the home of iconic dishes like rosogolla (sweet syrupy dumplings) and mishti doi (sweet yogurt), as well as famous street food like puchka (spicy pastry snacks) and kathi rolls (stuffed wraps). You can wander around, visit local markets like New Market or stop by iconic restaurants like Peter Cat for the original Chelo kebab.
The landmarks
If you look up Kolkata, you’ll notice the huge light-up bridge that looks a bit like a distant cousin of Sydney’s Harbour Bridge. The Howrah Bridge isn’t just a way to cross the Hooghly River, it’s an iconic symbol of the city itself. Built in 1943, this massive cantilever bridge carries 100,000 vehicles and pedestrians daily. Walking across it at sunrise or sunset offers breathtaking views of the river and the bustling life along its banks.
The Durga Puja festival
If you’re lucky enough to visit during Durga Puja, a multi-day Hindu holiday in West Bengal, you’ll see Kolkata at its most exciting. Every October, the streets turn into an outdoor art gallery, with elaborate pandals (large-scale structures and installations), and the city comes alive with music, worship, art, dancing and food. The festival celebrates the goddess Durga, a daughter and mother who symbolises good defeating evil. It’s a special time of year you have to experience at least once in your lifetime.
The markets
Kolkata’s markets are like no other. Whether it’s the beautiful 125-year-old Mullick Ghat flower market that opens at 4am, or the eclectic stalls at Gariahat, you could spend hours exploring the city’s many markets and shopping hot spots. Here, you’ll find colourful textiles, handmade jewelry, traditional silk sarees, spices, antiques and everything in between. Don’t forget to wear comfy shoes, negotiate prices, and soak up the energy.
Ready to explore something different? With Malaysia Airlines connecting you to 10 destinations in India, including Kolkata, your next adventure is just a flight away. Even better, Malaysia Airlines are giving four lucky winners double return flights to Kolkata, Paris, Malaysia or Da Nang^, so now’s the time to enter the competition and start planning.
For your chance for you and a friend to live it up in some of the world’s most spectacular cities, enter here to win. Visit malaysiaairlines.com or follow @malaysiaarlines on Instagram or Facebook to get inspired for your next trip.
*Available on selected flights only.
^Terms and conditions apply.
