Umaid Bhawan  Palace JODHPUR Logo Northindia (1)
Back to Listing

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.

Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (1).jpg Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (1).jpg
Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (2).jpg Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (2).jpg
Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (8).jpeg Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (8).jpeg
Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (4).jpg Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (4).jpg
Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (6).jpg Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (6).jpg
Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (3).jpg Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (3).jpg
Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (5).jpg Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (5).jpg
Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (7).jpg Calcutta Bungalow, Calcutta, North India (7).jpg
The first condition of understanding a foreign country is to smell it.
Rudyard Kipling

Client Testimonials

Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India

Let us keep you up to date

Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on unmissable exclusive luxury experiences