- Shopping
Pan-India Handicrafts: Dakshinapan Shopping Centre
This open-air shopping centre is an excellent place to buy Indian handicraft. The numerous Indian state government emporiums are stocked with interesting handicrafts at reasonable, fixed prices. You are looking to buy Sarees and other Indian clothing too, Dakshinapan is the place to go.
Old Books: College Street
Any book lover’s paradise, College Street is filled with book stalls as far as the eyes can see. The largest second-hand book market in the world is renowned for stocking rare books at cheap prices. Many have found hidden gems here.
Tea: Karma Kettle and Mahabodhi Tea Company
Bengal’s love for tea has fuelled Kolkata’s hunt for the best in the city. Owned by a certified tea sommelier, Karma Kettle is recommended for its new-age, gourmet wellness tea blends.However, for old-world hearty tea, Mahabodhi Tea House is the place to be. Established in 1943, one can pick teas from 87 tea gardens in Darjeeling and 400 in Assam. Its in-house master tea blenders will help you find one sure to please your palate.
Almost Everything: New Market
New Market, also known as Hogg's Market, is Kolkata's oldest and most famous market. It dates all the way back to 1874, and has about 4,000 stalls and 27 entrances. People believe it's possible to buy everything from a needle to an elephant here. Stroll around and you might find some beautiful Indian jewellery, bags and some wonderful terracotta wares.