Kolkata, India-4-day-itinerary

4-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Kolkata, India

Day 1: Exploring the City’s Heritage

  • Morning: Start at Victoria Memorial, a stunning white marble monument dedicated to Queen Victoria. Explore the surrounding gardens and museum.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Indian Museum, one of the oldest and largest museums in India, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Evening: Take a stroll along the Ganges River at Princep Ghat, enjoying the sunset and street food vendors.

Where to Eat

  • Breakfast: Try the famous Kolkata-style breakfast at Fairlawn Hotel ( ₹200 - ₹500)
  • Lunch: Head to Bhojohori Manna for authentic Bengali cuisine ( ₹300 - ₹600)
  • Dinner: Enjoy a lavish dinner at The Park Hotel’s Saffron restaurant ( ₹1,000 - ₹2,000)

Where to Stay

  • Budget: Check into the Fairlawn Hotel ( ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 per night)
  • Mid-range: Book a room at The Park Hotel ( ₹5,000 - ₹10,000 per night)
  • Luxury: Treat yourself to The Oberoi Grand ( ₹15,000 - ₹30,000 per night)

Things to Know

  • Kolkata is a bustling city; be prepared for crowds and traffic.
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples or museums.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak hours (8 am - 10 am and 4 pm - 7 pm).

Day 2: Exploring the City’s Spirituality

  • Morning: Visit the Dakshineswar Kali Temple, a revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Belur Math, the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission.
  • Evening: Take a leisurely walk along the Ganges River at Strand Road.

Where to Eat

  • Breakfast: Try the local street food at Dakshineswar Kali Temple ( ₹50 - ₹100)
  • Lunch: Head to The Biryani House for delicious Muslim cuisine ( ₹300 - ₹600)
  • Dinner: Enjoy a home-cooked meal at Kewpie’s Kitchen ( ₹500 - ₹1,000)

Day 3: Exploring the City’s Cultural Hub

  • Morning: Visit the Rabindra Sarobar, a scenic lake surrounded by cultural institutions.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Academy of Fine Arts, showcasing Indian art and culture.
  • Evening: Catch a performance at the Nandan Theatre Complex.

Where to Eat

  • Breakfast: Try the local bakeries in the Rabindra Sarobar area ( ₹50 - ₹100)
  • Lunch: Head to The Coffee House for a nostalgic experience ( ₹200 - ₹400)
  • Dinner: Enjoy a meal at The HHI (Himalayan Heritage Hotel & Restaurant) ( ₹800 - ₹1,500)

Day 4: Exploring the City’s Markets and Gardens

  • Morning: Visit the New Market, one of Kolkata’s oldest and busiest markets.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Botanical Garden, featuring a stunning collection of plants and flowers.
  • Evening: Take a stroll through the picturesque Eco Park.

Where to Eat

  • Breakfast: Try the street food at New Market ( ₹50 - ₹100)
  • Lunch: Head to The Golden Dragon for Chinese cuisine ( ₹300 - ₹600)
  • Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Square, Novotel’s rooftop restaurant ( ₹1,000 - ₹2,000)

Transportation

  • Use autos or taxis for short distances.
  • Hire a car and driver for longer trips.
  • Avoid traveling during peak hours.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Dress comfortably and modestly.
  • Try to avoid eating from street vendors if you have a weak stomach.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Learn some basic Bengali phrases to show respect for the culture.

Other Things of Interest

  • Take a day trip to the Sunderbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest ( ₹2,000 - ₹5,000)
  • Explore the Kolkata Museum of Modern Art (KMOMA) (free admission)
  • Visit the St. Paul’s Cathedral, a beautiful Anglican cathedral (free admission)

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, spirituality, and leisure activities to help you experience the best of Kolkata. Enjoy your trip!