Delhi vs Kolkata: A Complete City Comparison
Delhi and Kolkata both are the prime cities of India. While Delhi is the capital city of India Kolkata is known for its cultural heritage and vibrant cultures. Both the cities have their own history and vibrancy. Delhi is one of the prime cities of North India and Kolkata is the major city when it comes to East India. Get a complete gist of the major factors that differentiate between Delhi and Kolkata.
Delhi Vs Kolkata
1. History of the City
Delhi is the historic capital of India and has a multifaceted history dating back thousands of years. It has been a seat of power for various dynasties and empires, including the Mughals, Delhi Sultanate, and British colonial rule. The city is popular for its vibrant city and rich heritage along with its diverse architecture and cultural influences. The city offers both budgeted localities and upscale areas like Connaught Place and South Delhi’s upscale areas like Vasant Vihar and Greater Kailash. The city provides a mix of affordable and upscale housing, with options starting at around INR 50 lakhs and going upto crores.
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is a city with a rich historical legacy. It was the capital of British India until 1911. The city witnessed the formation of several key nationalist movements and iconic events. Kolkata is also known as the cultural capital of India, with a thriving arts, literature, and intellectual scene. Kolkata’s diverse localities and key areas like Ballygunge, known for its heritage homes, and Salt Lake City, a planned township, offer varying property prices. In Ballygunge, prices range from INR 1 crore to 10 crores or more, while Salt Lake City offers options from INR 50 lakhs to 5 crores.
2. Things to Do
Delhi, India’s capital, offers a myriad of experiences for visitors. While visiting the city, one can explore historic landmarks like the Red Fort and Humayun’s Tomb, Jama Masjid and the busy market of Chandni Chowk. India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan, soaking in spirituality at the Lotus Temple and Akshardham Temple and strolling through the serene Lodi Gardens are also great options when living in Delhi.
In Kolkata, one can immerse themselves in a wealth of cultural and historical experiences. Visitors can explore the majestic Victoria Memorial and peruse the intriguing exhibits at the Indian Museum. A serene boat ride along the Hooghly River at Princep Ghat offers a tranquil escape. Iconic landmarks like the Howrah Bridge and Marble Palace beckon history enthusiasts, while North Kolkata’s streets reveal colonial-era architecture on a heritage walk. While visiting the iconic streets of the city, one can explore the culture and heritage of Kolkata.
3. Food
In Delhi, the food is a delicious adventure and you can try tasty street snacks like spicy chaat, kebabs, and stuffed parathas in busy markets like Chandni Chowk and Sarojini Nagar. The city is famous for its Mughlai dishes, like biryani and butter chicken. Delhi has lots of nice mid-budgeted and upscale restaurants with North Indian food and international flavours.
In Kolkata, the food is a delightful experience. People can taste delicious street snacks like spicy puchka (pani puri), kathi rolls, and sweets like rasgulla and sandesh. The city is famous for its aromatic Bengali cuisine, offering dishes like fish curry and rice, and the beloved roshogolla. You can enjoy a cup of strong Bengali tea at street stalls or try a traditional meal at local eateries known as “macher jhol.” Kolkata’s culinary offerings are a unique blend of flavours that capture the essence of Bengali culture.
4. Street Life
In Delhi, street life is intertwined with its traditional markets, creating a vivid tapestry of culture and commerce. The city is popular for its bustling bazaars, like Chandni Chowk and Sarojini Nagar. The markets are a blend of old and new, where age-old customs meet contemporary shopping trends. These markets narrate the beautiful cultural heritage of Delhi and its development over the years.
Iconic markets like New Market and Gariahat offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture. Streets are adorned with stalls selling handwoven textiles, intricate jewellery, and aromatic spices. The new market was established in 1874 making it a reminisce of Kolkata’s rich heritage. It also provides a taste of its warm and bustling street life, making them must-visit destinations for both locals and tourists.
5. Accommodation
Accommodation in Kolkata offers a range of choices from affordable apartments to luxurious homes. In areas like Salt Lake City and Rajarhat, one can find modern apartments with reasonable rent, often starting from INR 10,000 per month. South Kolkata, including neighbourhoods like Ballygunge, commands higher rental rates due to its upscale status, where a decent apartment may start from INR 25,000 per month. Property prices also vary widely, with prime localities like Alipore and Ballygunge witnessing higher rates, while more affordable options can be found in areas like Barasat and Madhyamgram.
The rental market is diverse, with affordable options in areas like Rohini and Uttam Nagar, where one can find apartments starting from around INR 10,000 per month. South Delhi, encompassing neighbourhoods like Vasant Kunj and Greater Kailash, features upscale properties with higher rental rates, often starting from INR 25,000 per month.
FAQs
- Which city is bigger, Kolkata or Delhi?
Ans. Delhi is the most populous city in the country with a population equal to 30 million.
- Which one is better: Delhi or Kolkata?
Ans. Based on the reports, Kolkata is comparatively a cheaper city to live as compared to Delhi.
- Which city is more expensive, Delhi or Kolkata?
Ans. A person only needs Rs 1,00,000 to live a comfortable life in Kolkata whereas the same is required for Rs 1,30,000 for Delhi.
- Is Kolkata a very big city?
Ans. Yes, Kolkata is considered one of the most populous cities in India with a population of more than 15 million.
- Which are the two most expensive cities in India?
Ans. Delhi and Mumbai are considered the two most expensive cities in India.
