One of the most eye-catching places in the city is Mallick Ghat which is widely considered to be Asia's biggest flower mandi (market). It was built by Ram Mohan Mallick in 1855 and is celebrating its 164th birthday this year.
The city itself is more than three centuries old, and for the past 125 years, Mallick Ghat, situated under Howrah Bridge on the banks of the Hooghly river, opens shop early every morning to present all the colors nature can bloom into.
Garlands of fiery orange marigolds strung together, forming huge chains, bouquets of lotus, roses, sunflowers, and all sorts of flowers along with their distinctive fragrances surround you as you enter the market. Most vendors live in makeshift shelters inside the market and are usually occupied with flower arrangements and bouquets that are in great demand during festival seasons and religious occasions.
From small quantities to large amounts, you can purchase flowers from 4 am - 10 pm. Peak hours last till 10 am and pick up again after lunch hour. Since the market is also the biggest supplier of flowers to its neighboring states, the market is also a hub for packing and transporting massive bales of flowers. The picturesque vibrancy, vigor, and life of Kolkata's flower market experience are bucket-list-worthy.
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