Massage at Babu Ghat

One of Kolkata’s most characterful rituals: an open-air oil massage on the steps of Babu Ghat, where masseurs have worked the riverfront for generations. For a few hundred rupees you’ll get a vigorous hour-plus rubdown in the Ganges breeze, amid bathers, pigeons and morning puja. It’s rough-and-ready, not a spa — come early, agree the price first, and soak up the scene.

While you’re in the city, pair it with a Kolkata Bengali food tour.