Joyous Kolkata: A 5-Day Adventure

Experience the vibrancy and diversity of Kolkata - India's cultural capital.

17 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

First Impressions

  • Check-in to the Oberoi Grand Hotel, a colonial-era gem in the heart of Kolkata
  • Stroll through Park Street and admire historic architecture
  • Visit Victoria Memorial for a glimpse of British India's opulence
  • Learn about Bengali art at the Academy of Fine Arts
  • Sip famous chai and devour scrumptious snacks at Flurys, an iconic tearoom
Day 2

Culture Crawl

  • Explore Dakshineswar Kali Temple's unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere
  • Learn about India's struggle for independence at the Netaji Bhawan
  • Delve into the city's literary heritage at the Oxford Bookstore
  • Visit Marble Palace, a hidden gem showcasing a spectacular art collection
  • End the day enjoying Kolkata's iconic street food scene, from puchkas to jhalmuri
Day 3

Urban Explorations

  • Witness the hustle-bustle of Howrah Bridge, Asia's largest cantilever bridge
  • Take a boat ride during sunset on the Hooghly River
  • Admire the cityscape from the top of St. Paul's Cathedral
  • Stroll through Kumartuli, the centuries-old neighborhood of clay idol makers
  • Relish traditional Bengali cuisine at 6 Ballygunge Place
Day 4

The Rebels of Revolution

  • Learn about India's revolutionary past at Jorasanko Thakur Bari
  • Indulge in vintage shopping at Shreeram Arcade
  • Explore the vibrant South Park Street Cemetery, where famous personalities are buried
  • dine at Kewpie's Kitchen, renowned for its authentic home-style Bengali fare
  • End the day toasting to Kolkata's famous nightlife at the Park Street pubs and bars
Day 5

Farewell Kolkata

  • Visit Kalighat Kali Temple, one of Kolkata's most important and oldest temples
  • Watch an enthralling dance-drama performance at Rabindra Sadan
  • Shop at the colorful and quirky New Market
  • Bid goodbye to the city with a 'dhunuchi naach' at Durga Puja pandals
  • Enjoy the last supper of your trip at Oh! Calcutta for classic Bengali dishes with a contemporary twist.

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.

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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.

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A romantic trip to Kolkata, India, promises to be a unique experience for couples looking to explore a city steeped in history. From a sunset boat ride on the Hooghly River to a visit to Victoria Memorial, the city offers plenty of opportunities for couples to indulge in some romantic moments. Kolkata's rich culinary scene is another highlight, with its delicious street food and local delicacies.

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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.

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A trip to Kolkata, India offers a vibrant and enriching experience for a family-friendly adventure. Discover the city's rich cultural heritage by exploring iconic landmarks like the Victoria Memorial and Dakshineswar Kali Temple. Immerse yourself in the bustling markets, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy family-friendly activities like boat rides on the Hooghly River or visiting the Alipore Zoological Gardens for a memorable and enjoyable trip.