4 Days of Fun and Culture in Kolkata

Experience the joy of vibrant culture and family fun in Kolkata, India!

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Kolkata, India offers a culturally rich experience with something for everyone. Explore iconic landmarks such as the stunning Victoria Memorial and majestic Howrah Bridge, while kids can enjoy interactive museums like the Science City and Indian Museum. Indulge in delicious street food, enjoy vibrant traditional dance performances, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the city known as the "Cultural Capital of India."

Travel plan

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Day 1

Unraveling the Cultural Melange

  • Kickstart your journey with a stay at the cozy and family-friendly Sonnet Hotel, where warm smiles and comfortable beds await.
  • Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Victoria Memorial, a majestic testament to Kolkata's colonial past, surrounded by lush gardens.
  • Dive into the vibrant chaos of New Market, where you can haggle for everything from spices to sarees and soak up the enticing aromas wafting through the air.
  • Savor a delectable Bengali lunch at Bhojohori Manna, where each bite transports you to foodie heaven with their flavorful fish curries and luchi.
  • Wander along the Hooghly River, capturing the sunset hues and stopping by Eden Gardens to witness the passion of a cricket match.
  • Finish your day with a cultural extravaganza at the Kolkata Kathakali Dance Academy, where graceful moves and exquisite costumes leave you spellbound.
Day 2

Heritage Tales and Tram Rides

  • Greet the morning with a scrumptious breakfast at Flurys, an iconic tearoom dating back to the British Raj, known for its delectable pastries and aromatic teas.
  • Embark on a heritage walk through North Kolkata's labyrinthine streets, marveling at the colonial mansions and charming Bengali-style houses.
  • Catch a nostalgic tram ride from Esplanade to Shyambazar, relishing the leisurely pace and panoramic views of the city passing by.
  • Refuel with a lunch of Kolkata's beloved street food, puchka (pani puri), at Vivekananda Park, where spicy explosions of flavor dance in your mouth.
  • Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Indian Museum, with its impressive collection of artifacts including the renowned Ashoka Pillar.
  • Wind down the day at Oh! Calcutta, the ultimate culinary destination for authentic Bengali cuisine, with its mouthwatering dishes like hilsa fish and mustard-infused shorshe ilish.
Day 3

Artistic Enclaves and River Trysts

  • Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at The Corner Courtyard, a charming eatery housed in a converted British-era residential space, known for its fusion delicacies.
  • Indulge your artistic senses at Kolkata's coffee-fueled intellectual hub, Coffee House, where poets and bohemians have gathered for decades.
  • Explore the quaint neighborhood of Kumartuli, the artisanal quarter where skilled craftsmen breathe life into enchanting clay idols used in religious festivals.
  • Treat yourself to a river cruise along the Ganges, sipping on a steaming cup of chai as you witness the daily rituals and chaos of the ghats.
  • Satiate your hunger with a visit to the historic Nizam's, where juicy biryanis and succulent kebabs make every bite a delight.
  • Conclude your day embracing the city's intellectual heritage at Oxford Bookstore, winding up flights of literary curiosity and finding solace in the written word.
Day 4

Nature's Nook and Culinary Adventures

  • Rise and shine with a delightful breakfast at Flury's, savoring their iconic Swiss hot chocolate and buttery croissants.
  • Seek solace in the tranquil environs of the Indian Botanical Gardens, home to the Great Banyan Tree, a sprawling natural wonder.
  • Visit the Marble Palace, an eccentric mansion filled with priceless artifacts from around the world, including paintings by Rubens and Murillo.
  • Feast on a traditional Bengali thali at Kewpie's Kitchen, where flavors burst on your palate with each bite of fish curry, vegetable chops, and steamed rice.
  • Unleash your inner shopaholic at Quest Mall, a modern retail haven with international brands, before bidding adieu to the cultural extravaganza called Kolkata.

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: A 5-Day Adventure

Kolkata, known as the cultural hub of India, offers a one-of-a-kind experience at a budget-friendly cost. Visit the Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, and Mother Teresa's Missionaries of Charity for a glimpse of the city's rich history and culture. Savor the delicious street food at Park Street and shop at New Market for a unique shopping experience without breaking the bank.

Kolkata in 3 Days: Fun, Budget-Friendly, and Unforgettable

A family friendly trip to Kolkata, India promises a vibrant and culturally enriching experience. Visit the iconic Victoria Memorial, a stunning marble structure surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for a family picnic. Explore Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in the country, offering a wide range of exhibits on art, archaeology, and natural history, fascinating for both kids and adults alike. Lastly, enjoy a peaceful boat ride along the Hooghly River, passing by the famous Howrah Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the city's skyline.

Get Ready to Explore Kolkata on a Budget!

Visiting Kolkata on a limited budget can be an enriching experience. The street food is amazing, with plenty of vegetarian options available. The city is filled with temples, parks, markets, and museums that can be explored without breaking the bank.

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.