Kolkata was in the grip of New Year fever since Thursday morning. Thousands thronged popular spots such as Victoria Memorial, Alipore Zoo, Nicco Park and Millennium Park, among others. And it was not just Kolkatans who hit city streets. People from adjoining districts poured in too in their best attires and donning winter garments. Sealdah and Howrah stations were teeming with people as thousands arrived to see the bright lights of Park Street.
The weather was good as well, though less than perfect, the temperature being a few degrees above normal (which is expected to continue for the next few days).
As the crowds swelled and spilled on the roads from the footpath, vehicles moved at a snail’s pace. As the sun went down and the city wore a festive look, all roads led to Park Street. The young as well as the old thronged Park Street, decked up in attractive attires. While some wore the red and white Santa Claus hats, others wore the headbands with devil’s horn and reindeer horn. Long queues were noticed outside the popular restaurants and shopping malls were overcrowded. Food courts also registered high footfalls.
2016 has begun with a bang. Here is a look at some of the hotspots you can visit during the pleasant winter.
Prinsep Ghat
Take a boat ride on the Hooghly or walk down the promenade or simply sit at one of the several ghats and watch the sun set behind the majestic Vidyasagar Setu. If you are in a big group you may carry a guitar and throw an impromptu party by the river.
Bandel Church
Undertake a day trip to Bandel in Hooghly district to visit the magnificent Bandel Church. The chandeliers, coloured-glass windows and the statues in the compound are bound to take you back in time. You can also visit the adjoining imambara. Bandel is 45 km from Kolkata. You can either take a local train or drive down to the church.
Eco Park Eco Park in New Town has emerged as the latest kid on the city's recreation block. From a boat ride to playing badminton or cricket, from a short train journey to clicking selfies, there is something or the other on offer for everybody. Senior citizens can take a stroll and children can be let loose on the swings and slides.
Malls
If you are looking for a variety of amusement options under one roof, raid a mall. Catch the latest films if you want. Dig into an array of cuisines at the food courts or the standalone eateries. The latest to join the mall bandwagon is Acropolis, in the southern suburbs of the city. You may head to City Centre in Salt Lake for an adda in the kund area over a hot cuppa.
Victoria Memorial and Maidan
For complete outdoor fun, visit Victoria Memorial or the Maidan. The weatherman predicts the sun would be out which is a good excuse for a picnic on the greens with family and friends. Do not forget to take a ride on the horse carriage around the Maidan and click selfies.
Alipore Zoo
Of course, there is the Alipore Zoo, the old favourite. It is a wonderful place to spend a few hours in, especially if you have children. The exotic animals are always a big draw for children. There is also the aquarium complex opposite the zoo.
