Kolkata, India-5-day-itinerary
Kolkata Calling: A 5-Day Itinerary
Welcome to the City of Joy! This vibrant metropolis steeped in history, culture, and culinary delights awaits.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: The Oberoi Grand, Taj Bengal
- Mid-Range: Park Hotel Kolkata, Swissotel Kolkata Neotia Vista
- Budget: Hotel Hindusthan International, FabHotel City Centre
Things To Know:
- Currency: Indian Rupees (INR)
- Language: Bengali is the local language but Hindi and English are widely spoken.
- Weather: Kolkata has a tropical climate. Expect warm and humid weather most of the year.
- Safety: Kolkata is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft.
Transportation:
- Metro: Efficient and affordable for getting around the city.
- Taxis & Auto-rickshaws: Easily available, negotiate fares beforehand.
- Buses: Extensive network covering most areas but can be crowded.
- App-based taxis (Uber/Ola): Convenient and reliable option.
Day 1: Historical Kolkata
- Morning: Explore the Victoria Memorial, a stunning marble monument dedicated to Queen Victoria.
- Afternoon: Visit the Indian Museum, one of the oldest museums in India, housing a vast collection of art, artifacts, and natural history specimens.
- Evening: Witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Kalighat Kali Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site.
Where to Eat:
- Flurys: Indulge in delectable pastries and afternoon tea.
- Oh! Calcutta: Savor authentic Bengali cuisine.
Day 2: Literary & Artistic Kolkata
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Morning: Visit the Jorasanko Thakur Bari, the ancestral home of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, now a museum showcasing his life and works.
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Afternoon: Explore the Academy of Fine Arts, which hosts exhibitions of contemporary and traditional art.
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Evening: Catch a performance at the Nandan, Kolkata’s premier cultural center, featuring plays, music, and dance.
Where to Eat:
- 6 Ballygunge Place: Experience fine dining with modern Bengali flavors.
- Peter Cat: Enjoy Continental cuisine in a retro ambiance.
Day 3: Architectural Wonders & Shopping
- Morning: Marvel at the grandeur of the Howrah Bridge, an iconic landmark connecting Kolkata to Howrah.
- Afternoon: Explore the bustling markets of New Market and Park Street, where you can find everything from textiles to spices.
- Evening: Take a leisurely stroll through the serene Botanical Garden.
Where to Eat:
- Arsalan: Relish mouthwatering biryani and kebabs.
Day 4: Day Trip to Sunderbans National Park
- Embark on an unforgettable excursion to the Sunderbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger.
- Take a boat safari through the mangrove forests and spot diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, deer, and birds.
Where to Eat:
- Enjoy local Bengali cuisine at eateries near the Sunderban National Park entrance.
Day 5: Relax & Depart
- Morning: Visit the Mother House, the headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity founded by Mother Teresa.
- Afternoon: Relax at a cafe, indulge in some last-minute shopping, or revisit your favorite spot.
- Evening: Depart from Kolkata with cherished memories.
Tips:
- Carry sufficient cash as not all places accept cards.
- Bargain while shopping at markets.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
- Enjoy the street food – Kolkata is a culinary paradise!
Have a wonderful time exploring the City of Joy!