Kolkata-5-day-itinerary

Kolkata Travel Itinerary: 5 Days of Exploration

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Kolkata

Morning

  • Start at Victoria Memorial, a stunning white marble monument dedicated to Queen Victoria. (Entry fee: ₹20)
  • Take a stroll through the adjacent Maidan, one of the largest urban parks in India.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Indian Museum, which houses a vast collection of Indian art, archaeology, and natural history. (Entry fee: ₹50)
  • Head to New Market, also known as Hogg’s Market, for some shopping and street food.

Evening

  • Enjoy a traditional Bengali dinner at Bhojohori Manna or Azad Hind Dhaba.
  • Stay at The Oberoi Grand Kolkata or The Lalit Great Eastern Kolkata, both luxurious options in the heart of the city.

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos, especially in market areas.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (8 am - 11 am and 4 pm - 7 pm).

Day 2: Kolkata’s Cultural Heritage

Morning

  • Visit Jorasanko Thakurbari, the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore, now a museum showcasing his life and works. (Entry fee: ₹50)
  • Stop by Nirmal Hriday, a charitable organization founded by Mother Teresa.

Afternoon

  • Explore College Street, famous for its bookstores, coffee shops, and lively atmosphere.
  • Visit the Asiatic Society, a prestigious institution dedicated to promoting Asian studies. (Entry fee: ₹20)

Evening

  • Savor some delicious street food at Vardaan Market or Park Street.
  • Catch a performance at Rabindra Sadan, a popular cultural center.

Tips

  • Be respectful when visiting religious sites and cultural institutions.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.

Day 3: Kolkata’s Spiritual Side

Morning

  • Visit Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali. (Free entry, but donations welcome)
  • Stop by Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission, founded by Swami Vivekananda. (Free entry)

Afternoon

  • Take a ferry ride across the Ganges River to Howrah, offering stunning views of the city skyline.
  • Explore Flower Market, a colorful and lively spot.

Evening

  • Enjoy a relaxing evening cruise on the Ganges with Sundarbans Cruise or Vibrant Kolkata Cruises.
  • Stay at The Park Kolkata or Hyatt Regency Kolkata, both offering comfortable accommodations.

Transportation

  • Use autos (three-wheeled vehicles) or taxis for short distances.
  • For longer journeys, consider hiring a car with a driver or using public transportation like buses or the metro.

Day 4: Foodie’s Delight

Morning

  • Visit Russell Street, known for its eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, and bakeries.
  • Try some authentic Bengali sweets at Mitra Cafe or K.C. Das.

Afternoon

  • Explore Park Street, a hub for foodies with numerous eateries and cafes.
  • Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral, a beautiful Anglican church built in the 19th century.

Evening

  • Enjoy a delectable dinner at Oh! Calcutta or Bistro by the Park.
  • Take a stroll along The Strand, a scenic waterfront area.

Things to Buy

  • Bengali sweets and snacks
  • Handmade crafts and textiles
  • Books from College Street’s bookstores

Day 5: Day Trip to the Sundarbans

Morning

  • Embark on a day trip to the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest and home to the Bengal tiger. (Book a guided tour in advance)

Afternoon

  • Explore the Sundarbans’ scenic waterways and spot local wildlife like monkeys, crocodiles, and birds.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings.

Evening

  • Return to Kolkata and enjoy a farewell dinner at The Square or The Tea Lounge.
  • Reflect on an unforgettable trip to this vibrant city!

Tips for Departure

  • Plan your departure from Kolkata according to your flight/train schedule.
  • Leave some extra time for checking out of your hotel and traveling to the airport/railway station.

I hope you have a fantastic trip to Kolkata!