Kolkata, India-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploration of Colonial Kolkata

Morning

  • Start at Victoria Memorial, a stunning white marble monument built in memory of Queen Victoria. Take a leisurely stroll around the gardens and admire the beautiful architecture.
  • From there, head to St. Paul’s Cathedral, a historic Anglican cathedral with impressive stained-glass windows.

Afternoon

  • Visit the Indian Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums in India, housing a vast collection of artifacts, art, and antiquities.
  • Take a short walk to Park Street, known for its vibrant atmosphere, street food, and colonial-era buildings. Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes.

Evening

  • Take a sunset stroll along the Hooghly River at Princep Ghat, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline.
  • End the day with a delicious Bengali dinner at Bhojohori Manna, a popular restaurant serving authentic local cuisine.

Accommodation Suggestions

  • Fairlawn Hotel: A charming heritage hotel located in the heart of Kolkata, offering comfortable rooms and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • The Oberoi Grand: A luxurious 5-star hotel with elegant rooms, excellent service, and a rooftop pool.

Things to Know

  • Kolkata is known for its chaotic streets, so be prepared for crowds and traffic jams.
  • Dress modestly when visiting places of worship or museums.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (7-10 am and 4-7 pm) to minimize traffic woes.

Transportation

  • Use auto-rickshaws or taxis for short distances. They’re affordable and easily available.
  • For longer journeys, consider hiring a private car with a driver for the day.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting places of worship.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Morning

  • Visit the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Soak up the spiritual atmosphere and explore the surrounding markets.
  • Head to Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, featuring stunning architecture and peaceful gardens.

Afternoon

  • Explore the College Street Book Market, one of Asia’s largest book markets, with an astonishing array of books, from classics to contemporary titles.
  • Visit the Rabindra Sarobar, a beautiful lake surrounded by lush greenery, offering boating facilities and stunning views.

Evening

  • Enjoy a Bengali cultural program at the Rabindra Sadan or Sisir Mancha, featuring traditional music, dance, and theater performances.
  • Savor a delicious dinner at 6 Ballygunge Place, a renowned restaurant serving innovative Bengali cuisine with a modern twist.

Day 3: Street Food and Local Markets

Morning

  • Indulge in street food at the iconic Vivekananda Road, offering an array of local delicacies, from puchkas (crunchy fried bread) to jhal muri (spicy puffed rice).
  • Visit the New Market, a bustling marketplace with an incredible variety of goods, including clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.

Afternoon

  • Explore the Flower Market, a colorful and fragrant market selling fresh flowers, garlands, and puja items.
  • Stop by the Jorasanko Thakurbari, the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore, now converted into a museum showcasing his life and works.

Evening

  • Take a leisurely walk along the Ganges River, enjoying the sunset views and street food vendors.
  • End the day with a hearty dinner at Azad Hind Dhaba, a popular eatery serving mouth-watering Indian and Chinese cuisine.

Additional Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in local markets.
  • Haggle politely when shopping at markets or from street vendors.
  • Don’t forget to try some local Bengali sweets, like mishti doi (sweet yogurt) or rosogolla (sweet dumplings).

I hope you enjoy your trip to Kolkata!