kolkata, a city where age-old architecture dances with the rhythm of modern suburbs, offering a fascinating blend of the past and the present. the bengali cuisine, steeped in history and culture, from its staple fish dishes to the irresistibly sweet desserts, tells a story of its own.
beyond the historical landmarks and culinary delights, kolkata thrives with a vibrant street food culture, integral to its identity.
it's not just a city; it's an immersive experience. known for its forward-thinking religious community, kolkata, like its architecture, is a beautiful mosaic of contradictions.
kolkata is a city that never sleeps, brimming with activities to explore. from exceptional food tours to journeys through colonial-era architecture, the city captivates with its intricate beauty.
its accepting atmosphere makes it a leading city in india, and gay travellers will find a warm welcome.
locals are proud to show off their beloved city. here's a guide to experiencing kolkata, with a special focus on its inclusive spaces. one such example is amra odbhut cafe, which creates a space for free expression and exchange of ideas between queer people and their allies, working to reduce prejudice through inclusivity.
must-see attractions in kolkata
kolkata offers a wealth of historical and cultural attractions for every visitor to explore.
indian museum
originally known as the imperial museum of calcutta, the indian museum is one of the oldest museums in the world.
its collections trace india's cultural history from prehistoric times through the muslim era.
from an extensive coin collection to paintings, textiles, and life-sized models of people from different asian cultures, the museum offers a rich exploration of india's heritage.
tagore house (jorasanko thakur bari)
visit the ancestral home of rabindranath tagore, a nobel laureate and prominent figure in bengali culture.
explore the house and museum to learn about his life and works.
victoria memorial
this iconic landmark, a grand marble building, showcases colonial-era architecture and houses a museum dedicated to the history of kolkata.
the memorial features a central chamber, sculptures, and a portrait gallery offering a glimpse into the city's past.
marble palace mansion
step back in time at the marble palace mansion, a neoclassical mansion dating back to the 19th century.
this opulent residence was once home to raja rajendra mullick, a wealthy bengali merchant.
the mansion, built with over ninety types of marble, showcases a diverse collection of western art and even boasts a private zoo.
howrah bridge
an engineering marvel, the howrah bridge is a balanced cantilever steel bridge over the hooghly river.
a symbol of kolkata, it's a must-see for its sheer scale and design.
eden gardens
for cricket enthusiasts, eden gardens is an iconic stadium to visit. it's a significant landmark in a country where cricket reigns supreme.
st. paul's cathedral
adjacent to the victoria memorial, st.
paul's cathedral is admired for its gothic architecture. it was formerly the seat of the diocese of calcutta and remains a significant landmark.
the taste of kolkata - evening food walk tour
for an authentic culinary experience, join an evening food walk in new market.
a local guide will introduce you to the diverse flavors of bengali cuisine and lead you through the vibrant local market.
gay-friendly kolkata: accommodations and nightlife
kolkata's accepting atmosphere extends to its hospitality industry, with several hotels and establishments embracing the queer community.
gay-friendly hotels in kolkata
while not every establishment might openly welcome the lgbtq+ community, certain hotels in kolkata have pledged to create inclusive spaces.
global hotel chains can offer consistency and familiarity for queer travelers navigating new destinations.
choosing these hotels ensures comfort, luxury, and acceptance.
the oberoi grand, kolkata
established in 1887, the oberoi grand is known as the "grande dame of chowringhee." it offers a blend of colonial charm and modern luxury.
the rooms feature vintage furniture, mini-paintings, and wall prints reflecting bengali heritage, creating a rustic yet luxurious feel.
guests can enjoy free wifi, a luxurious pool with a bar, and diverse dining options.
the lalit great eastern kolkata
this five-star hotel is recognized for its lgbtq+ inclusive events, such as kitty su pop-ups. the spacious rooms are furnished with retro tapestries that give them an antique ambiance.
the bathrooms, with restored antique tubs and retro fittings, are perfect for romantic stays.
the hotel also features a courtyard pool, a gym, a spa, and restaurants serving delectable cuisine.
the corner courtyard
situated in a century-old colonial building, the corner courtyard beautifully blends the elegance of old calcutta with contemporary elements.
this heritage property, popular among gay travelers, has seven themed rooms with retro fittings, ensuring an intimate and exclusive experience.
the restaurant and rooftop bar are popular among locals and tourists alike.
roland hotel
roland hotel, a three-star hotel in the city center, is a budget-friendly option for gay travelers. amenities include free wifi, laundry services, airport and train station transfers, and complimentary breakfast.
the hotel provides spacious rooms with luxurious amenities, an on-site restaurant serving various cuisines, and is located near sealdah railway station and popular attractions like the victoria memorial.
city central hostel (cch)
city central hostel, located in the heart of kolkata, is a great option for budget travelers.
it offers affordable rates and access to key city locations.
the hostel provides amenities like free wifi, free breakfast, a shared kitchen, laundry facilities, city maps, and discounts at associated restaurants and tourist sites.
gay nightlife in kolkata
while kolkata may not have openly gay bars or clubs due to its conservative societal norms, many establishments are gay-friendly, offering a welcoming atmosphere for the lgbtq+ community.
remember to exercise caution outside of these spaces.
here are some popular spots:
kitty su pop-ups
kitty su, known for its presence in major indian cities, hosts events like drag queen nights that celebrate queerness. these parties, with live music and drinks, are famous for their unmatched ambiance.
la dolce vita
located in new market, la dolce vita is a popular spot to unwind after shopping and sightseeing.
its dimly lit ambiance, impressive drink menu, and delicious food make it a great hangout.
pink party, kolkata
pink party collaborates with queer event organizers like kitty su to host some of the best queer events in kolkata.
someplace else
situated in park street, someplace else is a british-style pub with wood paneling and a retro vibe.
it's known for live bands and impressive performances, attracting young gay music lovers on weekends.
tantra the park
tantra, located in the park hotel, is a luxury bar and nightclub with neon lighting, a dance floor, and an extensive menu. it's a popular spot for those who love to party and dance.
club boudoir
club boudoir offers an amazing ambiance with diverse music, food, and dancing.
it boasts a large space with a packed dance floor and an award-winning bar, making it a fun destination for a night out.
nocturne
nocturne features high-quality amenities and modern technology, including a p3 led screen and state-of-the-art sound systems.
the dj keeps the dance floor lively, and the bar offers various drinks and finger foods. hookah is also available in the basement of the club.
embracing kolkata's queer spirit
kolkata, with its blend of tradition and modernity, provides a welcoming environment for gay travelers.
explore the city's landmarks, indulge in its culinary delights, and experience the inclusive spaces that embrace the queer spirit.
remember to be mindful of local customs and exercise caution in public spaces, while enjoying the vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions that kolkata has to offer.
with its rich history, diverse culture, and accepting atmosphere, kolkata is a destination that will leave a lasting impression.