Hotels in Esplanade

Esplanade: Where History Meets Serenity in a Tapestry of Nature and Culture

Esplanade, Kolkata, is a vibrant cultural hub that beautifully merges history with modernity. This bustling area is home to iconic landmarks like the majestic Rajabazar College and the historic Metro Station, while the lush greenery of nearby parks offers a serene escape from the urban hustle. As a focal point for shopping, dining, and entertainment, Esplanade invites travelers to explore its lively streets filled with local vendors and exquisite cuisine. With its rich tapestry of heritage, religious sites, and colonial architecture, Esplanade is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic taste of Kolkata’s spirit. For the best hotel rates in Esplanade and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Esplanade

New Market and Eden Gardens are must-visit spots in Kolkata. New Market offers a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of local and international goods, perfect for first-time visitors. Eden Gardens, one of the world’s most iconic cricket stadiums, is great for sports enthusiasts. Accommodation in both areas ranges from budget-friendly options to mid-range hotels, providing convenient access to attractions, with room rates varying widely to suit different budgets. For first-timers, New Market is highly recommended for its lively atmosphere. Here are some of the best hotels in Esplanade that our travelers love:

1. Near New MarketOpens in a new window: This vibrant area is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of shopping and business opportunities. New Market is a bustling marketplace that offers a wide range of goods and local delicacies. The area is well-suited for those looking for a business-themed vacation experience. A notable option is Sapphire SuitesOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel that caters to business travelers with excellent amenities. Another choice is The LindsayOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel that provides multiple meeting rooms and a business center, making it ideal for work-related stays. For a more budget-friendly option, consider OYO 24555 Gujral HotelOpens in a new window, which offers free breakfast and entertainment options like television, ensuring a comfortable stay.
2. Near Eden GardensOpens in a new window: Known for its sports affinity, this area is a great choice for cricket enthusiasts and those who appreciate outdoor activities. Eden Gardens is one of the most iconic cricket grounds in India. For a cozy stay, Hotel Sonar Bangla KolaghatOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star bed and breakfast, offers a range of dining options and recreational activities such as an onsite ropes course. Alternatively, OYO 26652 Roop River ResortOpens in a new window is a 2.5-star hotel that provides free daily breakfast and comfortable accommodations with entertainment options like cable TV, making it a great budget-friendly choice.

What to do in Esplanade

Esplanade is a vibrant destination that offers a captivating blend of parks, historic sites, and bustling shopping areas. Travelers can enjoy leisurely strolls through lush green spaces, indulge in local markets, and partake in various activities like boating and hiking, making it a perfect three-day getaway. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Esplanade:

• Day 1: Start your Kolkata exploration at the iconic Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel that offers stunning views of the Hooghly River. After admiring the bridge, make your way to the Standard Chartered Building, a historic structure that reflects the colonial architecture of the city. Conclude your day with a visit to the serene Holy Rosary Cathedral, where you can appreciate the beautiful interiors and peaceful ambiance, ideal for some quiet reflection.
• Day 2: Begin your day at the majestic Victoria Memorial, surrounded by lush gardens and showcasing a rich collection of artifacts. Then, stroll over to The Harrington Street Arts Centre, where you can engage with local art and culture through various exhibitions. Wrap up your day at the Asiatic Society, a treasure trove of knowledge with its vast library and fascinating collections that highlight India's heritage and history.
• Day 3: Kick off with a visit to the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a revered spiritual site located on the banks of the Hooghly River, where you can immerse yourself in local traditions. Next, head to New Town Eco Park, a sprawling urban park perfect for leisurely walks, boating, and enjoying nature. Finally, visit Belur Math, a significant religious site founded by Swami Vivekananda, where the architecture and serene surroundings provide a tranquil end to your Kolkata adventure.

5 tips to find a great Esplanade hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: If you're looking for an affordable getaway, consider visiting Esplanade in June, August, or September, when hotel prices are at their lowest. To truly experience the main attractions, it’s recommended to stay for at least 2-3 days. During your visit, you can explore the park, the historic buildings, and a variety of monuments, providing great value for money while enjoying this budget-friendly destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Last-minute deals to Esplanade can offer great savings for travelers seeking spontaneity. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find reduced rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep yourself informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, maximizing your chances to save on your stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Esplanade.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for your holiday, think about your location. Staying near major attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and easy access to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Esplanade and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

What to eat in Esplanade

Here are a few popular dishes in Esplanade, Kolkata, West Bengal, India:

• Roshogolla: A beloved Bengali dessert, roshogolla consists of soft, spongy balls made from fresh cottage cheese (chhena) soaked in sweet syrup. These bite-sized delights are often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations, embodying the sweetness of Bengali culture. Their preparation involves curdling milk, kneading the chhena, and delicately boiling the balls in sugar syrup, making them a must-try for any visitor.
• Sandesh: Another iconic sweet, sandesh showcases the finesse of Bengali sweets. Crafted from finely kneaded chhena, sandesh can be flavored with cardamom or garnished with pistachios, reflecting the artistry of local sweet-makers. This treat is often enjoyed during special occasions and is a symbol of hospitality in Bengali culture.
• Biryani: Kolkata-style biryani is a fragrant rice dish, layered with marinated meat, potatoes, and spices. It stands out for its unique preparation, where the meat is slow-cooked, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. This dish is often served during family gatherings and celebrations, making it a culinary staple in the region.

Best time to go to Esplanade

Esplanade experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 69.6°F (20.9°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 88.9°F (31.6°C). August is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Esplanade, July, September, and December are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to frequent rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, February, March, and May are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by dry to light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.