Journey Through Vibrant Kolkata: A 3 Day Guide

Experience the vibrant culture of Kolkata, India's city of joy.

17 June 2023

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is a vibrant city located in eastern India. As a tourist, visitors can explore the city's historical landmarks such as Victoria Memorial and St. Paul's Cathedral, as well as its bustling markets and bazaars. Additionally, Kolkata is known for its rich cuisine, including delicious street food like puchka and kathi rolls.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Discovering the Cultural Gems of Kolkata

  • Stay at The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata, an iconic heritage hotel in the heart of the city
  • Start your day with a visit to the Victoria Memorial, a magnificent marble monument dedicated to Queen Victoria
  • Wander through the colorful streets of the bohemian neighborhood of Kumartuli, where artisans create beautiful clay idols of gods and goddesses
  • Explore the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in India, with collections ranging from art to natural history
  • End your day with a sunset cruise on the Hooghly River, taking in the stunning views of the Howrah Bridge and Kolkata's skyline
Day 2

Indulging in the Culinary Delights of Kolkata

  • Begin your day with breakfast at Flurys, a legendary tea room that serves delicious pastries and cakes
  • Visit the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, one of the holiest places in the city dedicated to the goddess Kali
  • Have lunch at Bhojohori Manna, a restaurant that specializes in authentic Bengali cuisine
  • Take a walk through the colorful markets of New Market, where you can find everything from silk saris to spices
  • End your day with a dinner at 6 Ballygunge Place, a restaurant that serves traditional Bengali dishes in a charming colonial setting
Day 3

Exploring the Artistic Side of Kolkata

  • Start your day with breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day, a popular local chain with great coffee and snacks
  • Visit the Academy of Fine Arts, a cultural center that showcases the works of renowned artists
  • Explore the Kalighat Art Market, a bustling bazaar that sells beautiful paintings and handicrafts
  • Have lunch at Bohemian, a quirky restaurant that serves fusion cuisine inspired by Kolkata's diverse cultural heritage
  • End your day with a visit to the Park Street Cemetery, a historic graveyard that is home to beautiful tombs and sculptures from the colonial era.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Kolkata, India by plane is to fly directly to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport which is located in the city. Many major airlines operate flights to Kolkata from different cities around the world.

Car

To get to Kolkata by car, you can take the National Highway 12 which runs from Chennai to Kolkata. The journey takes around 30 hours and it is recommended to stop at several rest points along the way.

Train

Kolkata is well-connected to other major cities in India by train. The best way to get to Kolkata by train is to take the Howrah Duronto Express which runs between Mumbai and Kolkata. The train journey takes around 26 hours.

Boat

Kolkata is connected to various ports along the Ganges and Hooghly rivers. A cruise from cities like Patna, Varanasi or Allahabad is a good way to explore the Ganges and reach Kolkata. However, boat transportation may not be the most practical and comfortable way to get to Kolkata.

Bus

Getting to Kolkata by bus is not recommended as it is a long and tiring journey. However, if you still prefer to travel by bus, the best way to get there is to take a bus from Esplanade Bus Station which connects Kolkata to other cities in West Bengal and neighboring states.

More travel plans

Kolkata on a Budget: Uncovering Hidden Gems

A trip to Kolkata, India on a limited budget can still be an enriching and fulfilling experience. Exploring the bustling streets and bazaars, sampling the delicious street food, and visiting historic sites such as Victoria Memorial and Marble Palace are all affordable experiences. Staying in budget-friendly accommodations, such as hostels or guesthouses, and using public transport like buses and trams can help save money while immersing in the local culture.

Journey Through Kolkata: Family Fun on a Budget!

Kolkata, India offers a plethora of family-friendly experiences that are sure to create lasting memories. Explore the iconic Victoria Memorial, an architectural marvel offering a glimpse into the city's historical past. Indulge in the vibrant street food culture, with countless stalls offering delicious treats like puchkas and jhal muri that both kids and adults will adore. Finally, take a peaceful boat ride along the scenic Hooghly River and witness the beautiful sunset, providing the perfect end to your family-friendly trip to Kolkata.

Kolkata on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun!

Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is a fascinating city filled with history, art, and delicious cuisine. Despite being a popular tourist destination, it is still possible to experience the vibrant energy of the city on a tight budget. From exploring the iconic Howrah Bridge to sampling the street food at Park Street, there are plenty of affordable ways to enjoy the best of Kolkata.

Romantic Getaway: Kolkata's Culture and Cuisine

A romantic trip to Kolkata, India would offer couples a chance to immerse themselves in the country's dynamic culture, delicious cuisine, and rich history. The city's colorful streets are perfect for strolling hand in hand, while its stunning landmarks like Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge provide picture-perfect backdrops for unforgettable moments. With its lively nightlife, vibrant markets and peaceful riverside parks, Kolkata is a fantastic destination for a romantic getaway.