Winter seems to cast a magical spell on Kolkata. The residents, who are so accustomed to hopping between air-conditioned malls, step out to soak up the sun and brave foggy evenings for a cosy adda with friends over chai. If you’re on the lookout for perfect spots to relish the final days of winter, look no further. My Kolkata brings you a list of destinations in north Kolkata and around New Town that are ideal for a delightful winter outing.
Eco Park
The Taj Mahal replica at the Eco Park is an Instagram favourite TT Archives
In a short span of time, Eco Park has cemented its place among Kolkata’s favourite outdoor spaces. The massive green cover, complemented by a serene water body makes it an ideal spot for morning walks, family picnics and even book clubs hosting reading sessions here every Sunday. The park also has replicas of the seven wonders of the world — from the Taj Mahal to the Colosseum of Rome. With fun activities like cycling, boating, toy train rides, water zorbing and archery, there is something for everyone!
Timings: 11am - 7.30pm (Tuesday to Saturday), and 10.30am - 7.30pm (Sundays and Holidays); Monday Closed
Entry fee: Rs 30
Axis Mall Flyover
The area around the Axis Mall flyover and New Town Clock Tower has a range of activities like a winter mela, food trucks and a roller-skating rink! TT Archives
The flyover between Axis Mall and Central Mall in New Town has spawned a community of its own, following its beautification in 2022. With food kiosks, comfy seats and chess boards, the area sees a huge influx of visitors every evening. The amphitheatre area regularly hosts exhibitions too, attracting regional artists and craftsmen. The adjacent Clock Tower area is also a winter hotspot, hosting an elaborate mela when the mercury dips. Besides, there are a number of food trucks serving various tasty cuisines.
Timings: It starts buzzing post 6pm
Central Park Salt Lake
A walk through Salt Lake’s Central Park is the perfect self-care routine you need to start your day with TT Archives
A favourite for morning walkers, Banabitan Biodiversity Park (also called Central Park) stands out as one of the city's green gems. The park manages to blend a well-maintained walking track with the rugged feel of a conserved forest, fostering a dedicated community that frequents the park daily. Be it meditating under a tree, choosing from over 200 different plants in the nursery, or relieving stress in a laughter club, this is one of the best places to start your day.
Entry Fee: Rs 10 till 9am, Rs 50 post 9am
Swimming Pool area in Salt Lake
With two parks, multiple restaurants, and a plethora of chaat options, we suggest taking a stroll down the Swimming Pool area is worth it Shutterstock
Want to play badminton in a park? Check. Want to have sizzling kachori-sabzi for breakfast? Check. Want to quench your thirst with some badam doodh? Check. Salt Lake’s quintessential hangout spot is buzzing throughout the day, especially in winters. With two parks, multiple restaurants, and a plethora of chaat options, we suggest taking a stroll down the Swimming Pool area if you’re looking to pass the time. There’s always something to do.
Timings: 7am - 8am and post 6pm are the best times
Aircraft Museum
The Aircraft Museum has a sprawling campus, packed with interesting nuggets about India’s aerial firepower TT Archives
Opened in 2022, the Aircraft Museum in New Town is a treat for all aviation enthusiasts. This spot is ideal for a winter outing, given that most of the instalments are displayed outdoors. Not only does this museum showcase the full might of India’s defence system, but also some of the most powerful flight systems in the world. Visitors even get a chance to examine the cockpit of the legendary Tupolev Tu-142M — the largest turboprop aircraft in the world.
Timings: 11am - 7.30pm (Tuesday to Saturday), 10.30am - 7.30pm (Sundays and Holidays); Monday closed
Entry fee: Rs 30 per person, free for school students
Ahiritola Ghat
The Ahiritola Ghat provides some of the most scenic views of the city TT Archives
While many have waxed poetic about Prinsep and Babu Ghat, there is a quaintness about Ahiritola Ghat that makes it stand out. Located right beside the bustling Bhoothnath Mandir, its banks bring a unique sense of calm to an otherwise chaotic neighbourhood. Spending an evening watching a glorious sunset on its banks and sipping bhanr’er chaa can lift your mood instantly. If you’re looking to up your Instagram game, this is also one of the most photographic parts of the city.
Timings: It is open to everyone all throughout the day
Indian Coffee House and College Square
A steaming cuppa at Indian Coffee House unites intellectuals across ideologies TT Archives
If you’re looking for a quintessential Kolkata experience that is steeped in arts and culture, why not sit and ideate at the very spot often frequented by legends such as Satyajit Ray, Amartya Sen, Mrinal Sen and Manna Dey? Indian Coffee House, for over a century, has been the crown jewel of College Street, serving as the ideal setting for intellectuals and students alike. Their hot coffee will feel like a warm hug in this winter chill. And if you’re craving sunny outdoors, you can simply head over to College Square next door and enjoy the views of the pool.
Timings: 12-8pm, No entry fee
Tiretta Bazar
Tiretta Bazar serves Kolkata’s most authentic Chinese breakfast TT Archives
Kolkata Chinese has carved a separate niche for itself in the hearts of foodies. For decades, Tiretta Bazar has become the go-to spot for the city’s finest Chinese breakfast, courtesy the sizable Chinese community that continues to live in Tangra. From momos to dim sums, fish Siu Mais to breaded pork chops, the elaborate spread is a foodie’s paradise.
Pro tip: We’d suggest you reach early to enjoy the delicacies as fresh as possible.
Timings: Best to go between 5.30am and 7am
Average pocket pinch: Rs 150 per person
Harinalaya
A visit to the Harinalaya can be a fascinating day-excursion that allows you to acquaint yourself with some of the most beautiful animals we share our planet with
This 12.5-acre mini zoo lies adjacent to the Eco Park, and houses 50 spotted deer and six barking deer. While it was initially conceptualised as a deer park, it now houses tigers and lions too. In addition to this, the zoo also has zebras, giraffes and crocodiles, with plans to bring in more reptiles in the future. This can be a great place to spend an entire day at your leisure, especially with kids.
TImings: 10am - 5pm Tuesday to Sunday, Mondays closed
Entry fee: Rs 30
Science City
Over 25 years since its inauguration, Science City remains Kolkata’s favourite place to learn while having fun
This is the original tourist hub, responsible for thousands of children developing an interest in science. With attractions like a musical fountain, butterfly nursery and a dynamotion hall, even an entire day won’t be enough to soak in its magic. If you have kids, this is the perfect way to get them outdoors, while engaging in a multitude of experiential learning activities.
Timings: 10am - 6pm
Entry fee: Rs 65
