Apart from helping visitors get a clear idea of Kolkata’s geography, this free map offers interesting trivia, must do's in the city and information on day trips to places around it.

It also has useful English-to-Bengali translations for those who do not speak the local language.

“This is a great idea and lots of visitors to the city, especially those from foreign countries, will find the map extremely helpful,” said actor Sabyasachi Chakraborty, who took part in a chat session.

“Apart from directions, this very handy map provides useful tips and advice on how to go around the city and experience Kolkata up, close and personal,” he said.

Arnab Nandy, the man behind the map, said, “I have deliberately kept the size of the map the way it is because I have explored new cities with a map in my hand and I know something that is too big does not work well.”

A journalist and travel writer, Nandy works with a newspaper and runs www.travelandy.com, a budget travel resource site.

According to the officials, the free alternative to a bulky tourists’ guide is now available at Raj’s Spanish Cafe and Lytton Hotel on Sudder Street, Mocambo, Peter Cat, Kenilworth Hotel, Kolkata, The Lalit Great Eastern, Kolkata and the tourism department kiosk at NSCBI Airport.

It is also available online at www.travelandy.com and www.traveladdictguy.wordpress.com, the officials noted.

Femke Maas, a Dutch national who has been to Kolkata, said: “It’s a great map that makes me want to go back and explore the city all over again.”

Maas added, “From the culture hub to shaking legs at Park Street and rosogolla, I’m in!”