Kolkata Through a Lens: A Photographic Guide

Named after James Princep, an eminent orientalist, and built under the British Raj, Princep Ghat is a quaint getaway from Kolkata's sense-assaulting vibrancy. Perfect for evening walks along the banks of the Hooghly, this is the place for languid conversations and internal musings among the auburn setting Sun and the gray Hooghly waters.

Regular customers swear by this long-standing bar and eatery on Park Street. Olypub has managed to keep its grungy, rustic appeal that keeps its patrons coming back year after year. Go here for, arguably, the best beef steak in Kolkata, reasonably priced drinks, and a heavy dose of nostalgic banter drifting in from one of the nearby tables.

One of the most famous landmarks in Kolkata, Victoria Memorial is another piece of historic architecture left behind by the British. The memorial lies on the grounds next to the arterial Hooghly and is almost as famous for its flamboyant gardens as it is for its imposing, stark-white façade.

A mecca for bibliophiles, the street is lined with stalls buying and selling books. The locals call it 'boi para' (colony of books) and it is the largest second-hand book market in the world and the largest book market in India. Visit to get hold of some precious book titles and the joys of bargaining for that one book you just cannot do without. Also, stop-by the famous Coffee House and Calcutta University campus.