Underrated Spots in Kolkata

The key to experiencing Kolkata’s true spirit is to explore its various aspects and corners, which reveal its rich history and diverse culture. The most popular places representing its British colonial heritage and cultivation of literary arts are definitely a good point to start from. However, several underrated spots in Kolkata are often overlooked when discussing the city’s cultural history. These places deliver a unique perspective of the city and give a taste of how Kolkata has evolved throughout the years. Head to these spots if you want to experience the city of joy like never before!

Tiretti Bazaar

Often known as the ‘Old Chinatown’, Tiretti Bazaar is a neighborhood near Lalbazar in central Kolkata that was once home to over 20,000 ethnic Chinese immigrants. The number has diminished to around 2000 now, with the community moving elsewhere over the years. The highlight of the spot is the Sunday Breakfast Market, which provides authentic Chinese breakfast items. It is best to reach the place by 5:30 am as the food stalls are wound up within the early hours of the morning.

The place is almost phantasmal in nature- transforming into a parking lot for office-goers during peak hours, only revealing its rich culinary history if you visit it during the right time of the day. Lined with furniture shops, sauce factories, butcher shops, and noodle shops, which have signboards in Chinese, Tiretti Bazaar provides a glimpse into the lesser-known history of Kolkata. Next time you are in the mood for some comfort food, head to Tiretti for some delicious steamed buns, noodles, and dumplings.

Currency Building

The Currency Building is one of the best-maintained heritage properties of Kolkata. It is a place worth visiting for art and history enthusiasts. When it comes to museums in the city, most visitors choose popular options like the Indian Museum or the Victoria Memorial. However, the Currency Building is also a splendid choice. It is somewhat unfortunate that it is one of the more underrated spots in Kolkata. Built in 1833, the Italianate structure had once served as the first central office of the Reserve Bank of India.

After extensive restoration, it was reopened to the public as a site of art, culture, and literary exhibitions and discussions. The ‘Ghare-Baire’ exhibition is particularly special since it houses over three centuries of art in Bengal. It features artists like Jamini Roy, Rabindranath Tagore, Nandalal Bose, and Abanindranath Tagore. The beautiful property is located in the B.B.D. Bagh area; easily accessible from most parts of the city. Free and open for all, the Currency Building conducts programs for tourists, art lovers, and locals alike.

Marble Palace

Situated at a five-minute walking distance from the famed Jorasanko Thakur Bari, the colossal structure stands in a small lane of North Kolkata. The palatial building, reminiscent of neoclassical style, was built by Raja Rajendra Mullick. The architecture is a fusion of Bengali elements, Chinese styles, and Western influences.  The Marble Palace is home to lavish furniture, intricate sculptures, and paintings dating back to the Victorian era. The reason why it is one of the most underrated spots in Kolkata is that the Marble Palace needs a special permit from the West Bengal Tourism Information Bureau for you to visit. Once that is taken care of, the building is free for all to visit. The Marble Palace is a sheer marvel because of its location, acting as an oasis in the midst of the crowded streets of North Kolkata.

Bow Barracks

Originally built as a shelter for World War 1 soldiers, Bow Barracks became the residence of the Anglo-Indian community in Kolkata over time. It is yet another proof of the city’s multicultural ethos. The streets are clustered with red four-storied buildings framed by quaint green windows. Rest assured that you can take your time posing for the most aesthetic pictures with this colourful backdrop. When strolling around Bow Barracks, you will never know what interesting events await you. You might be treated to an impromptu jazz performance by street musicians or local art galleries conducting exhibitions.  The best time to visit Bow Barracks is undoubtedly Christmas. You will be greeted by carols wafting down the streets and roads filled with stalls that serve delicacies like plum cakes, hearty stews, and roasts. The energy and spirit of these beautiful lanes are unlike any other place in Kolkata.

Armenian Church

The Armenian Church is amongst the most underrated spots in Kolkata. The legacy of the Armenian community is one of the lesser-known facts about the city’s cultural history. However, the pristine church stands tall as a testament to Armenian heritage. With interiors primarily built with marble, the church has an upper gallery decorated with beautiful frescoes and paintings. As long as one is respectful, the church premises are free and open for all. You cannot miss the exquisitely crafted cenotaphs and epitaphs that adorn the church grounds and reflect generations of history. The cemetery is known for housing the grave of Rezabeebeh Sookia. Her grave dates back to 1630, which makes it the oldest Christian grave in Kolkata. While it may not be a popular location, a visit to the Armenian Church would definitely make for an enlightening experience for tourists and locals alike.

Tri Art and Culture Center

The most novel suggestion on this list is the Tri Art and Culture center. It has recently started gaining popularity amongst the people of Kolkata. It is a non-profit, multidisciplinary space that exists at the intersection of visuals, art, and performance that echoes Kolkata’s spirit. The Center is a heritage property located in Ballygunge. It was used as a private residence before being converted into a gallery, free and open for all. It is the most innovative space you can visit in Kolkata if you are interested in art and culture. The building’s unique triangular shape will immediately catch your eye. The center’s curation programs bring together various artists, artisans, writers, and performers to explore multi-faceted exhibitions and events that bridge the gap between history and the emergent. It is one of those underrated spots in Kolkata that deserves everyone’s attention.

These places are not talked about enough when discussing all that the city has to offer. However, make sure you visit some of these underrated spots in Kolkata if you want to catch a glimpse of its sophisticated legacy.