Calcutta Bungalow
Calcutta

Originally a 1920s merchants’ townhouse, Calcutta Bungalow is a heritage property that made a striking entry to Calcutta’s vibrant hotel scene in 2016. Having undergone a meticulous restoration, this boutique hotel blends old-world charm with classic luxury, offering an experience that feels timeless yet contemporary. The restoration process has been executed with such care and attention to detail that guests are transported back to the golden era of Calcutta when the city served as the Imperial Capital of British India and was a bustling cultural metropolis.

The hotel features six elegantly appointed bedrooms, each designed with a unique sense of place and character. Every room is named after and decorated to evoke a distinct neighbourhood of Calcutta, such as Patuapara and Sahibpara, giving guests an authentic sense of the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. With these rooms, the hotel’s design celebrates the era when Calcutta thrived as an intellectual and cultural hub, and the aesthetic elements capture the atmosphere of a bygone age. Inside each room, guests will find an impressive array of vintage and quirky furnishings, carefully chosen to recreate the ambiance of the city’s imperial past. From antique typewriters and cobblers’ tools to nostalgic old light switches, each element in the room tells a story, adding depth and personality to the space. The journey back in time even extends to the hotel’s transportation, where guests have the opportunity to explore the streets of Calcutta in a charming green Hindustan Ambassador, a beloved symbol of Indian automotive history.

Located in the heart of the Bengali disctrict of Calcutta, known as Black Town during British colonial rule, the hotel places guests right at the epicentre of the city’s most fascinating and vibrant neighbourhoods. This area is a rich tapestry of diverse communities, bustling markets and age-old traditions. The hotel’s owner, Iftekhar Ahsan, is a passionate local guide and a man dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of his beloved city. As co-owner of Calcutta Walks, one of the city’s most successful tour companies, Iftekhar brings deep knowledge and a personal touch to every guest experience. His guided tours are not just about sightseeing, they’re an opportunity to dive into the authentic soul of Calcutta. Iftekhar takes visitors through hidden alleyways, introduces them to lesser-known local delicacies and offers a window into the day-to-day life of the city's residents. More than just a guide, Iftekhar is on a mission to protect Calcutta’s unique local traditions and trades, which are increasingly under threat from mass development and consumerism. He is deeply committed to supporting local communities and providing guests with an experience that’s truly off-the-beaten-path, showcasing the real Calcutta in all its chaotic beauty.

In keeping with his sustainable ethos, Iftekhar has ensured that Calcutta Bungalow adheres to best practices in sustainable and responsible tourism. The hotel’s kitchen serves traditional Bengali cuisine, made from ingredients sourced from local markets, ensuring both freshness and a direct connection to the vibrant food culture of Calcutta. The property itself is a heritage restoration, with much of its architectural charm preserved, allowing guests to experience a living piece of the city’s history. The furniture inside the hotel has been carefully curated, with an emphasis on locally sourced pieces that reflect the artistry and craftsmanship of the region.

One of the key advantages of staying at Calcutta Bungalow is its convenient location. Just a short 30-minute drive from the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, the hotel provides a fantastic option for visitors looking to maximise their time in Calcutta. Whether guests are in the city for just a few hours or several days, the hotel offers easy access to the city’s key attractions, while providing a peaceful and culturally enriching retreat from the hustle and bustle of the streets.

The first condition of understanding a foreign country is to smell it.
Rudyard Kipling