Kolkata Culture Crawl: A Day Trip Guide

Discover the vibrant culture and history of Kolkata, India.

17 June 2023

A trip to Kolkata, India is a sensory overload experience with its vibrant culture, architecture, and food scene. Visitors can explore the iconic Victoria Memorial, learn about the life of Mother Teresa at Missionaries of Charity, and indulge in street food at Park Street. Additionally, they can explore the unique art and literature scene that the city has to offer.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Cultural Heart of Kolkata

  • Begin your day by sipping aromatic chai at the iconic Flurys Café, an age-old bakery famous for its mouthwatering cakes and pastries.
  • Visit the grand Victoria Memorial, a stunning Indo-Saracenic structure that boasts of a huge collection of art and artefacts from the British era.
  • Take a stroll through the lush greenery of the Maidan, a park that serves as a popular recreational area for locals.
  • Visit the Howrah Bridge, a magnificent steel structure over the Hooghly River that is one of the busiest bridges in the world.
  • Head to the Kumartuli district to see skilled artisans creating beautiful clay idols of gods and goddesses with their bare hands.
  • End your day with a sumptuous Bengali dinner at Oh! Calcutta, a restaurant that serves local delights like fish curry and luchi-alur dom.
  • Note: Remember to carry a hat, sunscreen, and water as Kolkata can get quite hot and humid.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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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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.

4 Days of Fun and Culture in Kolkata

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."

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.

Discovering Kolkata's Old World Charm & Flavors

A romantic trip to Kolkata, also known as the "City of Joy", will leave you awestruck with its beautiful architecture, rich cultural heritage, and mouth-watering street food. You can take a stroll with your partner along the Hooghly River, witness the stunning sunset at the Victoria Memorial, and explore the colorful markets of New Market. Don't miss the chance to savor the famous Roshogolla, a Bengali delicacy that will leave you wanting more.