4 days of Joy: A Guide to Exploring Kolkata

Embrace the chaos and colors of Kolkata, a city that will keep you on your toes.

17 June 2023

Kolkata, also known as the city of joy, is a vibrant and bustling city in eastern India. As a tourist, you can experience the rich culture and history of the city through its historical monuments, delicious street food, and colorful markets. Some of the must-see attractions include Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and Park Street.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Bengali cuisine

  • Check into The Oberoi Grand, Kolkata's iconic heritage hotel
  • Have a traditional Bengali lunch at Bhojohori Manna, with dishes like luchi, chholar dal, and fish curry
  • Visit Victoria Memorial, the city's iconic marble palace that now serves as a museum
  • Go on a boat ride on the Hooghly River during sunset
  • Have dinner at 6 Ballygunge Place, known for its authentic Bengali cuisine and cozy ambiance
Day 2

Culture and history

  • Start the day with a breakfast of chai and kochuri at Tiretti Bazaar, a popular local market
  • Visit the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in India, showcasing a wide range of artifacts and exhibits
  • Explore Kalighat Temple, one of the most important Hindu shrines in Kolkata
  • Walk through College Street, known as the "Boi Para" or book market, with over 30 bookshops
  • End the day with a sunset view of the Howrah Bridge and the glittering Kolkata skyline from Prinsep Ghat
Day 3

Art and creativity

  • Take a walk through Kumartuli, the potters' colony known for creating Durga idols for the annual festival
  • Visit the Academy of Fine Arts, showcasing a vast collection of contemporary and traditional art
  • Explore the charming streets of South Kolkata, with its beautiful art deco buildings and quaint cafes
  • Visit the Indian Coffee House, a Kolkata institution favored by the city's intellectuals and artists since 1948
  • Have dinner at Oh! Calcutta, a restaurant showcasing traditional Bengali food with a modern twist
Day 4

Nature and spirituality

  • Drive to Sunderbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest mangrove forest in the world
  • Go on a boat ride to spot the iconic Royal Bengal Tiger and other wildlife species
  • Visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple, an enormous complex dedicated to the goddess Kali with beautiful gardens and architecture
  • Experience the serene atmosphere of Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission, overlooking the river
  • Catch a flight back home from Kolkata's Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, filled with memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.

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

Rediscovering Joy: A 2 Day Kolkata Adventure

Kolkata, also known as the 'City of Joy', is a vibrant and bustling metropolis located in eastern India. As an avid tourist, you can explore the beautiful colonial-era architecture, the bustling markets, mouth-watering street food, and soak up the culture and warmth of the friendly locals. From admiring the Victoria Memorial to taking a sunset boat ride down the Hooghly river, Kolkata offers a tourist experience that is unique and unforgettable.

Joyous Kolkata: A 5-Day Adventure

Kolkata, also known as the "City of Joy," offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and cuisine. From the iconic Howrah Bridge to the magnificent Victoria Memorial, the city boasts of several architectural marvels. A walk through the bustling streets of Burrabazar and experience of the local street food scene are some of the must-do activities for a tourist visiting Kolkata.

Fall in Love with Kolkata: A 5-Day Romance Guide

Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is a perfect destination for a romantic trip. Known for its colonial architecture, art scene, and food culture, Kolkata offers a unique and enriching experience. From cruising on the Hooghly river to exploring the bustling markets, a trip to Kolkata is bound to leave you mesmerized.

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.