Esplanade, Commercial district in central Kolkata, India.
The Esplanade neighborhood extends from Lenin Sarani to the Hooghly River, forming the central business district of Kolkata with a mix of colonial and modern buildings. The area comes alive with offices, shops, and restaurants spread across wide streets and open spaces.
British settlers developed the Esplanade neighborhood in the mid-18th century outside Fort William, building large bungalows and houses along the eastern end of Chowringhee Road. These mansions reflected British power and continue to shape the district's character today.
The neighborhood is home to the Indian Museum, where visitors can see artwork, Buddhist relics, and archaeological finds from across Asia. This collection reflects India's rich heritage and draws people interested in learning about the region's past.
The neighborhood is a major transportation hub with bus terminals connecting to multiple states, and the North-South and East-West Metro lines meet at Esplanade station. Visitors will find good connections for getting around the city and reaching major sites.
The Currency Building was renovated into a public museum in 2020 and features Italian architecture with marble floors and Chunar sandstone. The structure is a rare example of European design in the city and reveals details that visitors often overlook.
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