Kolkata on a Budget: 4 Days of Fun!

Explore the culture and charm of Kolkata without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Colonial Heart of Kolkata

  • Start with a hearty breakfast at Flurys, an iconic bakery renowned for its cakes and sandwiches.
  • Visit the Victoria Memorial, an impressive marble structure built in honor of Queen Victoria.
  • Check out St. Paul's Cathedral, one of Kolkata's oldest churches with beautiful stained glass windows.
  • Walk around Park Street, a bustling street full of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
  • Wrap up the day with a dinner at Oh! Calcutta, a restaurant serving authentic Bengali cuisine.
  • Hotel suggestion: The Corner Courtyard, a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of the city.
Day 2

Discovering Kolkata's Art Scene

  • Start with a visit to the Indian Museum, the largest museum in India with a vast collection of artifacts from various eras.
  • Check out the Academy of Fine Arts, showcasing artworks by local artists and a great place to immerse yourself in Kolkata's art scene.
  • Explore the Rabindra Sadan area, known for its theaters, galleries and cultural events.
  • Take a break for lunch at Bhojohori Manna, a restaurant serving delicious traditional Bengali food.
  • In the evening, catch a live performance at Nandan, a popular cultural center showcasing regional films and theater.
Day 3

A Foodie's Delight

  • Start the day at Tiretti Bazaar, an early morning market famous for its Chinese breakfast specialties.
  • Visit Howrah Bridge, an iconic landmark of Kolkata that offers stunning views of the Hooghly River and the bustling cityscape.
  • Treat yourself to some sweets from Girish Chandra Dey & Nakur Chandra Nandy, a renowned old sweet shop.
  • Have lunch at Blue Poppy, a Tibetan restaurant serving authentic momos and other delicacies.
  • In the evening, indulge in some street food at Park Circus 7 Point Crossing, known for its delicious phuchkas, egg rolls, and more.
Day 4

A Step into Kolkata's Spiritual Side

  • Begin the day with a visit to Kalighat Temple, one of the oldest and most revered temples in Kolkata dedicated to Goddess Kali.
  • Explore the serene grounds of Belur Math, a spiritual and educational center founded by Swami Vivekananda.
  • Visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple, situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, known for its beautiful architecture and scenic location.
  • Head to Flury's again for High Tea, a quintessential British tradition served in a beautiful setting.
  • End the day with a dinner at Bohemian, a cozy restaurant known for its fusion cuisine and artistic decor.
  • Hotel suggestion: OYO 1225 Hotel Green View, a budget-friendly option located near the airport.

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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.

Destination

Kolkata

Welcome to the city where traffic jams are a valid excuse for being late to your own wedding and where every meal comes with a side of spicy tummy troubles. Get ready to explore Kolkata!

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Type of trip

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