Previously known as Calcutta, Kolkata is the capital of the West Bengal region (and served as the nation’s capital between 1773 and 1911). It retains many historic elements, such as traditional foods, colonial architecture, museums, Mother Theresa’s charity HQ and temples. But it’s an evolving city that has a strong music, film and theatre scene and is one of the most progressive places in India. Known as ‘The City of Joy’, it’s been delighting visitors for centuries. Choose to stay in one of these impressive hotels while you’re holidaying or on business in Kolkata.
ITC Royal Bengal, a Luxury Collection Hotel
With a timeless feel and distinctive architecture (think pillars, colonnades and arches), the ITC celebrates Bengali rich culture alongside the latest technology. It houses 456 bedrooms and suites, each with iPads to control in-room features and the ‘infotainment’ and some come with butler service. Those staying for an extended period can opt for a self-catering residence, with sitting and dining areas. Kaya Kalp is the ITC’s wellbeing centre, specialising in Ayurvedic therapies. And there are five sumptuous places to eat; a vegetarian restaurant, an Italian kitchen, an international buffet, The Brass Room tapas bar and the Darjeeling tea lounge.
The Oberoi Grand
Dating back to the late 19th century, this hotel is found in the bustling shopping district, yet has an oasis-like ambience. A blissful pool area sits at its centre, flanked by palm trees and comfy loungers. Threesixtythree° is the hotel’s signature restaurant, fusing cooking influences from across Asia and Europe and baking pizzas in a wood-fired oven. Decorated in a midcentury style, its menus include a wellness selection with uber-healthy dishes and a lavish brunch. Guests can also eat at the fine dining Baan Thai restaurant, or order lighter meals in the fashionable bar. Personalised treatments are available at the Oberoi Spa.
ITC Sonar A Luxury Collection Hotel
The terracotta facade of this ITC property is designed to emulate those of Bengali temples, with the liberal use of bamboo as a nod to indigenous materials and replica sculptures from the Pala Dynasty. It’s only a little out of the city, but feels like the countryside, due to the lily pad-covered ponds and swaying trees. Inside are five restaurants, serving everything from finger food to North-West Frontier meals, plus an exotic chocolate boutique and a spa. Displaying a strong commitment to the environment, this was the first-ever hotel to earn carbon credits through the carbon trading regime.
Taj Bengal
Found in the Alipore district, this landmark building was designed by lauded architect Bob Fox. Rooms here are grand yet understated, created to be peaceful cocoons, with soundproofing, classic wood furnishings and the highest-quality cream and gold fabrics. There are eight venues in which to eat and drink, serving Chinese, Lebanese, Middle-Eastern, European and Italian food, as well as patisserie and grilled seafood. Recline beside the pool to the sounds of live music, peruse the priceless artworks on show, marvel at the five-storey stone and marble atrium, shop Indian handicrafts and unwind in the spa – all within the Taj Bengal.
JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata
If you want a luxurious place to party – or to bring the kids, this Marriott hotel has it all. There’s an in-house cosmopolitan nightclub, with sets from live bands and DJs, as well as signature cocktails and snacks. The property is set across 18 floors, incorporating 260 bedrooms, 21 suites, several restaurants, a bakery and a full-service spa. Outside there’s a pool and Bar-B-Q alfresco dining area. With a pillow menu, an onsite florist, a limousine service, in-room minibars, business services, a laundry valet and 24-hour room service, everything you need is provided. The JW Mariott in Kolkota welcomes families – children have their own play area.
