kolkata walking tour map

Explore like a local

& fall in love, with calcutta, walking tours | homestays.

Calcutta Capsule

Explore and fall in love with calutta like locals with walking tours & homestays.

Calcutta Capsule is Ranked as the no#1 Walking tour company in Calcutta on TripAdvisor and Airbnb

At Calcutta Capsule we help you fall in love with Calcutta and experience the city like a local.

The walking tours at Calcutta Capsule are led by Soham ; A 5th Generation Calcutta Bengali(Local). Soham’s Love for Calcutta is contagious and he specializes in making sure you are at the right place at the right time.

                             ”  Take one of Calcutta Capsule’s amazing Walking tours. It will be the experience of a lifetime.”                                                             – Elizabeth Gilbert  (Bestselling Author of Eat, Pray, Love)

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Walking tours, calcutta contrast tour.

A soul searching voyage through 2 contrasting sections of Calcutta 

The choice of being part of the uncomplicated Business community or Artsy intellectual Native folk. Come feel and experience the Difference between Finance and Romance. We start off by visiting a native Bengali Area at college street ,browsing through alleys of books and old book stalls, A coffee break at the famous coffee house, initiation to becoming a Bengali and finding a few hidden spots.The whole sale markets (Burrabazar) are a place where a non Bengali culture has been in place for decades. A city within the heart of the city which is not native. A walk through India’s largest and oldest wholesale fruit market and diving deep into the maze of wholesale markets that constitute the heart of Calcutta is experienced through local food,people and watching hand made products being made on the streets. Not all walks should be just about walking somewhere, so to finish off the tour we end up on a secret roof top with a panoramic view of old Calcutta sipping on beer/tea/lassi and basking in the Sunset.

• All Food stalls regularly sanitized & monitored to maintain safe hygienic practices with reference to anti-Covid norms.
• All staff members and Hosts wear Face mask.
• Complimentary Sanitizers for all guests on the tour.
• Full Refund till 48 Hours before tour start time.
• Please reach tour starting point on time. Tour party will not wait for anyone after the tour start time. Reaching the start point late may lead to cancellation of ticket.

 Magic Hour Tour

An early morning adventure  to see Calcutta Wake up

Every morning, before the sun is up; the light sensitive Neon street lamps of Calcutta go off just when there is enough light. We hop on to the first bus of the day as the city enters the enchanting Magic Hour

Meandering through the sleepy 300 year locality of Calcutta in full throttle , the next few hours are spent visiting some local hidden spots around the oldest part of the city. Before the bustling giant city wakes up, we’d have used all the iconic transport modes of Calcutta, enjoyed sights that are just ignored in plain sight, had breakfast by a hidden hole in the wall with an extraordinary view, gossiped about Bengalis and Calcutta in general, learnt the meaning to “Adda” and lot more about being Bong(Bengali).The “unguided tour” as we call it is wrapped up savoring the best sweets of Calcutta and finding our way through the winding streets to the place where we began. Highlights : Oldest residential area of Calcutta Local transport Howrah Bridge Flower Market Idol Making Village Traditional Breakfast no Historical overdrive Experience like a local

Duration: 4 hours Price: 3000 INR Start Time: 6:00 am

Oldest residential area of Calcutta Local transport Howrah Bridge Flower Market Idol Making Village Traditional Breakfast no Historical overdrive Experience like a local

“Metro Inox” is our Start Location and is available on google maps or app cabs like Uber/Ola.

Google maps : You can find the start location as Metro Inox

App Cabs: Please select destination as “Metro Inox” for 100% accurate drop. Please keep at least 10 mins buffer for your Uber/Cab to reach your pickup spot. Please reach out to us to find the best time to start from your accommodation to reach the start location on time.

P.S : auto rickshaws and Tuktuks cannot be availed to reach the starting point. Recommended method : Uber

Minimum 1 guest required to conduct the tour. For groups more than  10 members please contact us

Tour starts sharp at 5:30 am. Failure to reach on time will lead to cancellation. Tour involves apprx 3 kms of moderate walk with breaks. This tour is not a heritage walk but an anthropological experience of the city local life

Trams are not included on the tour as they are suspended in old Calcutta due to metro construction.

 Alleyway Food Tour

A Food Tour through the Mystical Alleyways of Old Calcutta 

Duration: 3 hours Price: 3000 INR Timing: 4-7pm(Nov-March) 5-8pm (Apr-Oct)

Durga Pujo Walk

Expereince Calcutta’s Biggest Festival Like a Local

18th October 2023 to  24th October 2023

Learn to maneuver the crowd and make the most of the festivities. Indulge in interpreting the art and what the artist has to say. Discover and experience Durga pujo like a true local and make memories for a lifetime. A photographers Paradise , Calcutta during Durga Puja offers unbelievable shots of Indian art, religion, rituals, Devotion , decoration and lighting. This Tour is a walk through the most celebrated and famous areas of Old Calcutta that have stood the test of time and have been local favorites among thousand of others. This tour is not an Air conditioned bubble with VIP access to tick off a bucket list of temples, but a very honest attempt to portray how locals enjoy the festival through temple visits, food, friends and rituals. Traveling through various local transport modes, talking about mythology, art, history and indulging in great street food, this tour gives you an authentic Durga Pujo experience like a Local. Hosting this tour will be Soham, the founder of Calcutta Capsule; Calcutta’s Highest rated walking tour company. Inclusions: *Visit to 4 Iconic temples( pandals ) of old/ North Calcutta each different from the last in terms of art, style, historical and cultural significance. *The Experience of celebrating India’s Biggest festival not like a tourist but like a local *Stories of Mythology and Hinduism *Kumartuli:Village of sculptors where they make the clay idols of the goddess.

Duration: 3 hours

Price: 5000 INR Timing: 4-7 pm

Debarati is a dedicated yoga instructor with over eight years of expertise, seamlessly integrating ancient yoga with modern science in her classes. An Internationally Certified Yoga Trainer, Debarati enhances her clients’ well-being on and off the mat with her scientific approach. Trained by renowned gurus, she has inspired over 200 individuals to embark on transformative fitness journeys with impactful results.

Yoga at Dawn

A De-stressing Conversational Yoga Expereince at Dawn

Duration: 1.5 hours Price: 2500/- INR Start Time: 5:45 am

• Light Breakfast
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travellers can participate

Cycle the Kolkata Wetlands

Explore Calcutta’s Hidden Backwaters on cycle

A unique, bio diverse and sustainable area next to Kolkata is what you will explore.Your cycling trip will start with a 3 km city ride till the green eye candy of Kolkata, known as the East Kolkata Wetlands which has practically no pollution and vehicles.

Duration: 3 hours Price: 2500/- INR Start Time: Check availability

• MTB Bikes with Helmets
• Not recommended for travellers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travellers
• You should be knowing Cycling
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate

wetlands tours

He is known as the GPS of The Wetlands in the cycling fraternity. Being a nature lover and living just next to the Wetlands has given him the opportunity to ride and share his experience with those looking for a Kolkata never seen. Shirish has been hosting the experience since 2012

Walk the Kolkata Wetlands

Explore Calcutta’s Hidden Backwaters by walk

• Tea and basic biscuit or snacks from the shacks

Sundarbans- Mangroves

 the san zen- art retreat.

2 night Art Retreat at the  heart of Sundarbans

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The best immersive experience of Sundarbans meets an Art retreat with hands-on workshops on Pottery and print making. A 2 nights trip to the Largest Mangrove forest of the world and a stay at Sundarban’s first eco village.

The San Zen Art retreat is an opportunity of a lifetime that takes you to the deepest part of Sundarbans with lip-smacking local food, accommodation, transportation, Art workshops and Immersive experiences for your entire stay. Learn the ancient art of pottery and Print making with nature all around you. Filled with immersive and unique experiences from the heart of the jungle like Night safari, Sunset boat rides and Village walks.

Come experience the Art retreat of a lifetime

Highlights :

• Pottery and Print making workshops
• 2 nights 3 days stay at the Sundarbans Eco Village
• Live music and Bonfire
• Sunset boat ride
• Village Walk

Duration: 2nights & 3 days Price:15,000 INR Date : 11th Feb 2023-13th Feb 2023

Day 1: Pick up from any of the designated spots (PC Chandra gardens or Esplanade). We reach the ghats of Gadkhali and then board a private boat, where we have some exquisite and elaborate Bengali lunch.

Once we reach the Eco-Village of @tourdesundarbans and are designated our rooms, we start the workshop after a brief rest.

The mangroves are best experienced when cris crossing the riverine landscape deep in their midst. In the evening we take a row boat ride with experienced crewmen to enjoy the mesmerizing Sunset.

Once back, we get to end the day with a charming bonfire with some soulful live music playing. Kick back and relax. A fun days work is done.

We then head for another elaborate dinner specially curated for us.

Day 2 : We start our day with some energizing breakfast after which we go out for a village walk. Once we have gathered enough inspiration, we get back to our village and start expressing the same through techniques that we will show you during the workshop. We will spend the whole day exploring and making art. Oh … and before we forget … there will be another elaborate lunch coming your way so that we can keep those creative juices flowing!

We will create another memorable evening with the help of fire, music and food.

Post dinner, we head out for a night safari, let the rest be a surprise and a wonderful surprise indeed it will be.

Day 3 : We have breakfast and then take a boat journey back to Gadkhali and then back to Kolkata by 3pm.

 Atikala- Art Retreat

5 night Art Retreat at the  heart of Sundarbans

Savor the essence of sustainable living through dance, tattoos, pottery, and printmaking workshops, complemented by sound healing, music jams, and capoeira sessions. Indulge in curated local cuisines, cozy accommodations, and a community ambiance that fosters connection and creativity. Revel in the delights of nightly bonfires, explore the wilderness on a boat safari, and unwind with serene sunset rides. This retreat is not just a break from the everyday; it’s a journey to your inner self amidst the serene beauty of the Sundarbans.

• Belly Dancing
• House Dance
• Art & Tattoo
• Music & Performances
• Culinary Delights
• Safari Adventures
• Nature Walks
• Healing Sessions
• Bonfire Nights
• Sunset Boat Rides

Duration : 5 nights all inclusive; Location : Sundarbans (Kolkata to Kolkata) Price starting :35,000 INR Date : 7th Dec 2023-12th Dec 2023

• Diverse Dance Forms:
• Capoeira by Shiva: Engage in this Afro-Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music.
• House Dance by Leo Orchidacae: Experience the energy and rhythm of house dance.
• Bellydance by Aakriti: Explore the expressive art of belly dancing.
• Dancing with the Stars by Vastvikta: Participate in a unique dance experience under the stars.
• Artistic Workshops:
• Cyanotype Printing workshop by Itra & Krishna: Delve into the world of cyanotype printing.
• Pottery + Wheeling by Bobby: Get hands-on experience with pottery and wheeling.
• Integrating Design in Dance by Piny Orchidacae: A unique workshop blending dance with design elements.
• Watercolor Painting by Vaibhav: Express yourself through the medium of watercolors.
• Hand-Poked Tattoo by Prakriti: Experience the traditional art of hand-poked tattoos.
• Musical Experiences:
• Sound Healing by Sina & Una: Immerse in the therapeutic sounds of sound healing sessions.
• Music Jam Session: Join in a communal music-making experience.
• Sundowner with Leo: Relax and enjoy music as the sun sets.
• Capoeira Music & Percussion by Shiva: Explore the musical aspects of Capoeira.
• Bengali Folk Music & Dance: Experience the local culture through folk music and dance.

In addition to these activities, all meals and snacks are included, with a special menu curated by the retreat’s chef, offering different cuisines each day. Accommodation is provided on a sharing basis, and participants have access to all workshops and sessions during their stay.

Standard Package

• Price: INR 35,000 per person
• Accommodation (rooms on a sharing basis)
• Meals for all days
• Access to all workshops and sessions​​.

Solo Package

• Price: INR 47,000 per person
• Accommodation (single room occupancy)

Family Package

• Price: INR 60,000 for two people
• Accommodation (twin sharing rooms)
• Access to all workshops and sessions
• Note: This package is available only for family members, with a limited number of rooms​​

Atikala means abundance (ati ) of art (Kala). Co-founded by Aakriti and Prakriti Gandhi: two sisters, seekers and multidisciplinary artists. Sunflower being the symbol of the company, our vision is to bring healing through dance, art and other creative practices. Atikala curates experiences that help participants connect with their soul and find new ways to express their authentic self, through dance, art, tattoo making, travel and annual retreats that combine all of these elements. Over two years of its inception, Atikala has become the home of a diverse community of dancers, artists, creative practitioners from other fields and seekers of all kinds.

 Sundarbans In a Nutshell

An Immersive Experience in the Largest Mangroves on Earth – Sundarbans

 Owl’s Nest 1

Owl’s Nest Penthouse in Heritage Calcutta

An artistic rooftop Cabin at tree level .Totally different from the boxed in spaces called rooms, this is a work of art .Welcome to experience gorgeous Old Calcutta at its Best !

We are on the 5th floor & you have to use stairs . Help with luggage can be provided. The Room : This is a lovely rooftop Cabin cradled in nature .Watch sunrise & sunset from the terrace or bed .Soak in the Sun in the terrace amid greenery & flowers & unhindered views . Walk out of your nest , onto a terrace & an unhindered expanse of greenery ! Enjoy hours of winter sunshine , lounging with a book & coffee. The room is like a nest in a tree so that you can enjoy a relaxing country experience plum in the core of Classical Old Calcutta ! You will realize why Kolkata is totally different from other cities in India . Both the Owl’s Nest rooms are unconventional & is designed by T.C from Calcutta Capsule with lots of passion in the tiny house concept . *The room has been listed as. : #1 Stay option in Kolkata in the December 2019 edition of Lonely Planet , India . ** We have hosted guests from more than 50 countries with 290+ top reviews in our three rooms in the same location.

A strong fast Wifi Air-conditioned Attached bath with towels & toiletries. Water Filter Hot kettle with Tea & Coffee pouches.

• 1 day gap between every Check-in and previous Check-out.
• Cleaned and Sanitized

Check in : Any time after 12 noon. Check out any time before 10 am . For Late night check-in , Self check-in app will be shared by Mail . The gate lock can be operated through phone & your net connection or after logging onto our Wifi. Early check in late check out options also available upto 6 hours subject to availability and chargeable.

 Owl’s Nest 2

Private Sundeck & Cozy Penthouse in Vintage Calcutta 

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An unique experience with all modern facilities in Classic Old Kolkata ! This is not a traditional boxed space with no windows , it is more windows than wall! Live amid nature ,watch sunrise & sunset from the bed .

You will enjoy your stay immensely if you appreciate a challenging creative design . There are two levels of the room with the Lower level having a writing table,storage space and the washroom & the upper level has the bed and the Sundeck and has windows with a unique 270 degree view . The decor of the room is a mixture of traditional handwoven materials from rural artisans and an open skies design with plenty of natural light and sun. There is a private sundeck & also a mini library. There is lots of space in the adjacent terrace which is frequented by various birds and overlooks the largest park of Calcutta . Walk out of your room onto a green terrace full of flowers & an unhindered expanse of greenery ! All this 5 minutes from a Metro , close to Heritage spots, & 30 mins from the Airport .

The room is was designed by us & built on the tiny house concept . * We have been listed as #1 among 3 places to stay shortlisted in Kolkata , by Lonely Planet , India . December 2019 edition.

The Sunshine Room

Heritage Kolkata Homestay: The Sunshine Room

Welcome to our 5 generation home, with a breathtaking terrace garden .Sunnny, airy,spotless ,with great views & a five minute walk from the nearest Metro . This is in the core of Charming Old Calcutta which is distinct from other cities & the rest of the city ! A safe stopover for women & family.

The room is a well maintained modern setup with a small changing room/walk-in closet. It has a comfortable double bed, with a 14 ft window giving a fantastic view of old Calcutta . The room is naturally very Sunny and Airy unlike the suffocating walled in rooms you find in most places. Half a flight of stairs above, is a beautiful terrace garden with views of Old Calcutta on one side & breathtaking greenery on the other !! It is a place to relax and the swing seats are a special attraction ! The terrace is an oasis of peace away from the bustle of city life . It is part of an apartment , but has independent access from the main gate to the room.

** We have hosted more than 500 guests from more than 50 countries with 270+ top reviews in our three rooms in the same location. Lots of options of eating out is available nearby. The neighbourhood is famous for its street food & Kolkata Sweets-the Rosogolla,Sandesh & Mishti Doi all of which have its roots here.

Virtual Experiences

Sculptor’s village virtual walk kumartuli.

A virtual Walk through India’s most fascinating Sculpting Village

In this experience you walk with Calcutta’s best Airbnb experience curator Soham ( https://bit.ly/Airbnb_CalcuttaCapsule ) and witness Kumartuli / sculptor’s village. With stories on Hindu Gods, festivals and secrets of Hinduism this experience tries to give you an in-depth feeling of actually being in Calcutta and watching the artists work. Interact with the artists , understand their perspective on the Gods and unravel secrets of Gods. Sit back and enjoy as Soham walks you through this fascinating village explaining the different studios and how each idol is made

Duration: 1 hour Price: 1500 INR Medium: Google Meet

After Successful ticket booking our host will share a google meet Code/link. You can join the meeting from any web browser of your laptop.  If you are using an Android Device you may download the Google meet app from Google Playstore or input the code in google meet option inside your stock Gmail app. If you are using Apple devices you can download the google meet app from Apple Playstore.

Mom’s Chai (Bengal) 

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THE 10 BEST Kolkata (Calcutta) Walking Tours

Walking tours in kolkata (calcutta).

• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Explore Kolkata- Private Full Day Tour

2. Bengali Nights Kolkata Food Tour with 13+ Tastings

3. British Raj Heritage walk in Kolkata with guide

4. Kolkata - A Sea of Faces and A Thousand Places (local guide)

5. Private Half-Day Kolkata Tour

6. Magic Hour Tour

7. Cultural Confluence of Kolkata - Culture Kaleidoscope Tour

8. Alleyway Food Tour

9. Kolkata Full Day Sightseeing Including Mother House, Kumortuli and Flower Market

10. Walk the Kolkata Wetlands: Green Eye Candy

11. In the Footsteps of the Raj - Dalhousie Square Walk

12. Experience Kolkata in 2 Days like never before - Private Tour

13. Mesmerising Kolkata Private Customised Day Tour

14. Private Guided Day Trip to Santiniketan from Kolkata (Calcutta)

15. Calcutta Contrast Tour

16. Kolkata 3-Hour Tour of Kumortuli - The Goddess Beckons

17. Kolkata's Flower Market - Hooghly's Flower Fest Tour

18. The Taste of Kolkata - Evening Food Walk Tour

19. Hello Kolkata - Cultural Walk Tour

20. Chasing The Sun Experience Kolkata's Culture

21. Confluence of Cultures - Bow Barracks to Burra Bazar Walk

22. Raj Heritage Walk

23. Kolkata's English History - European Calcutta Tour

24. Photography Tour of Mesmerizing Markets of Kolkata

25. 3 Days Private Tour of Kolkata & Sunderbans

26. Colonial city Kolkata by walk

27. Heritage sightseeing tours(Walking tours)

28. Victoria Memorial Hall Guided Tour (Including Surrounding Areas)

29. The Second City of Empire: A Kolkata Heritage Walking Tour with Private Transfer

30. Morning Bazaar Walking Tour in Kolkata

What travellers are saying.

• Bengali Nights Kolkata Food Tour with 13+ Tastings
• Magic Hour Tour
• Cultural Confluence of Kolkata - Culture Kaleidoscope Tour
• Explore Kolkata- Private Full Day Tour
• Private Half-Day Kolkata Tour
• Kolkata Story Tours
• Five Senses Tours, Kolkata
• Kolkata City Tours
• Go City Adventures
• Calcutta Capsule
• Tour De Kolkata
• FunOnStreets
• Walks of Kolkata
• Calcutta City Guide Tour
• Calcutta Photo Tours
• Calcutta Walks

This "Walking Kolkata" interactive map is the continuation of the Out of Eden Walk's urban walking maps series.

This story is part of journalist Paul Salopek’s multiyear, 24,000-mile walk across the world in the footsteps of our forebears. Learn More

Kolkata, India

CHAPTER 5: Riverlands ?

May 30, 2019

Kolkata , eastern India's cultural capital, is a steaming hot alloy of human longing, high and low.

Kolkata , eastern India's cultural capital, is a steaming hot alloy of human longing, high and low.

Walking Kolkata

By Paul Salopek

This "Walking Kolkata" interactive map is the continuation of the Out of Eden Walk's urban walking maps series. Photos, video, and interviews recorded on a storytelling walk through a major city located on (or near) the project's global walking route are loaded into a digital map. And by following our GPS track, readers anywhere in the world can experience the daily textures and dramas that unfold on the streets of great urban centers that today straddle the corridors of our species’ first discovery of the world in the Stone Age.

Past city walks have included foot journeys through Jeddah, Saudi Arabia ; Jerusalem, Israel ; Tbilisi, Georgia ; and Baku, Azerbaijan . I am joined on this journey through Kolkata by Out of Eden Walk cartographer Jeff Blossom and by journalist Sutirtha Chatterjee .

Our city walks are guided by locals, most of them newly met friends: archeologists, human rights activists, radio talk show hosts, skyscraper window washers, mountaineers. The walks are recorded at a leisurely pace—we pause often to chat with passersby, hydrate with a chai, and explore dead-ends. The distances can be spanned comfortably in a day. (Walking Jerusalem, a particularly complex city, took three days.) This time we ramble through Kolkata, the historic capital of West Bengal, India.

Nicknamed the "city of joy," Kolkata—or Calcutta as it was formerly known—is the cultural capital of eastern India: a dizzying, steaming hot alloy of human longing, high and low. Much of its gloried architecture dates to the British Raj. It’s where Mother Teresa treated lepers and AIDs sufferers at her missionary hospitals. Men in boats sink lines into its river, the muddy Hooghly—not to pull up fish, which are almost gone, but to yank up old, recyclable metal using magnets. Occasionally, it is said they find gold.

View interactive walking tour map

Photos, text, and videos by Paul Salopek; Esri story map compilation by Jeff Blossom, GIS service manager, Center for Geographic Analysis, Harvard University; guiding and interpretation by Sutirtha Chatterjee.

Copyright (c) 2012 - 2020 National Geographic Society

Explore More from Out of Eden

On foot across India’s plundered riverlands.

Sleeping With a Saint

On a hilltop in India, a woman hermit offers refuge—and walking directions.

The author unfolds Kolkata’s first tourist map, which reveals the old city like never before.

By Nidhi Dugar Kundalia

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The best of Kolkata walking tour

• Professional local guide services
• Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026, India By the entrance of Kalighat (Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026, India)
• Kolkata, West Bengal, India The guide will tell you this information at the beginning of the tour
• Near public transportation
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Anami Sangha Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026, India By the entrance of Kalighat (Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026, India) See address & details
• 1 Kolkata (Calcutta) Stop: 2 hours Kolkata Read more
• You'll end at Kolkata Kolkata, West Bengal, India The guide will tell you this information at the beginning of the tour See address & details

More to explore in Kolkata (Calcutta)

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Kolkata Heritage Walking Tour

Kolkata city is known as the Football capital of India. The place is also famous for its history and for being the land of Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray, and many legends. If you are looking for a tour that helps you to explore the history and culture of Kolkata city then grab this heritage tour in Kolkata package. This Kolkata heritage tour  gives you access to all monuments and to explore the history of this beautiful city. About  Kolkata heritage tour: This 4-hours Kolkata heritage tour will give you access to explore the history of this contemporary city. Uncover the history and little-known treasures of Kolkata with the guide. The guide can speak in English and will tell you the secrets about the city. At first, the heritage walking tour of Kolkata takes you to Howrah Bridge. Howrah Bridge, a suspension bridge over the sacred Hooghly River. After visiting the Howrah Bridge, take a short walk to the local Raj Bhavan. Raj Bhavan, the official residence of the West Bengal Governor. Your next destination after Local Raj Bhavan is Calcutta High Court. After exploring the monuments, walk around the local markets of Kolkata.  Know before you go: Starting point:  Main entrance gate, Howrah Tram Depot Endpoint:  St. John Church Places you will visit: You will visit  River Ganga, the Howrah bridge,  Raj Bhavan, Kolkata High Court, local markets of Kolkata, and St. John Church .  -  The children aged 0-4 can join this Kolkata heritage tour

• Kolkata Heritage tour

Other Inclusions

• Heritage tour in Kolkata
• Highly trained and friendly Storyteller/ Guide who can speak English & Hindi
• Great local tips and recommendations to save money and to explore the best of the city.
• Great conversations, interesting stories, and local trivia

Things To Carry

• Voucher received from Thrillophilia
• Umbrella (in case of rainy season or summers)
• Camera if you enjoy photography
• Entry Fees to the monuments are not included in the package.
• This activity can be availed as a private or group tour

Cancellation Policy

• If cancellations are made 30 days before the start date of the trip, 25% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
• If cancellations are made 15-30 days before the start date of the trip, 50% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
• If cancellations are made within 0-15 days before the start date of the trip, 100% of total tour cost will be charged as cancellation fees.
• In case of unforeseen weather conditions or government restrictions, certain trips or activities may get cancelled. In such cases operator will try their best to provide an alternate feasible. However a cash refund will not be applicable for the same.
• Cancellations are strictly subjected to cancellation policies mentioned on the website & are irrespective of the date of booking.

Refund Policy

• The applicable refund amount will be processed within 15 business days
• All applicable refunds will be done in traveller's thrillophilia wallet as Thrillcash

Booking Confirmation Policy

• The customer receives a confirmation voucher via email within 24 hours of successful booking
• In case the preferred slots are unavailable, an alternate schedule of the customer’s preference will be arranged and a new confirmation voucher will be sent via email.
• Alternatively, the customer may choose to cancel their booking before confirmation and a full refund will be processed.

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Calcutta – melting pot of cultures walking tour.

For a long time, Calcutta or Kolkata was the city that the whole world wanted to come to. This was the trading and business hub and attracted merchants from all over. Over time, some of them settled here.

They started their families here, more people from their community joined them and they claimed a part of the city for themselves. They influenced their adopted city in their own ways while soaking in the colors of the city in their fabric of life.

Walk through the Cultural melting pot of Calcutta

One evening, Kolkata expert and fellow blogger Rangan Datta took me for a walk across these busy quarters of the megapolis. We walked through the roadside markets selling imitation jewelry. We walked through the electronics goods markets. Walked past people living on the roads next to the garbage piles. We saw some old monuments built by these immigrant communities. Some of them are well maintained, some wear the signs of aging while others are simply in ruins. You get a glimpse of the era when these communities would have flourished here. You get an idea of how the cosmopolitan spaces looked a century or two ago.

So come with me for a walk through some of the key milestones on this walk.

Armenian Church

Do you know there is a piece of Armenia that exists in Calcutta? Armenian Church in the city, officially the Armenian church of Holy Nazareth, dates back to 1707. It is probably the oldest church in Calcutta and one of three Armenian churches in the city. The original church, built in 1688 was destroyed in a fire. The current structure was built in the early 18 th CE. Now, Armenians have lived in India for a very long time. But it was in the first decade of 18 th CE that they had an agreement with East India Company to build churches for them.

Clock Tower, Plaque

We entered the Armenian church through a narrow path that opened up to this pristine structure in white. Sun added a pale red tinge to it with its evening rays. A clock tower with a nice lattice window base stood tall and provided perspective to the white church. This is obviously a later addition. The plaque below the bust of a bearded man has something written in Armenian. I could just gather the style and flow of the language. And the fact that it was written, read, and understood in the city once. On one side was a wall with open windows indicating a kind of hostel. On the floor were various graves and the engraved stones had their own stories to tell. A grave belonging to Rezabeebeh Sookias is supposedly the oldest known grave in the city, dating back to 1630 CE.

Do you know Armenian Christians celebrate Christmas on January 6 th ?

In the wall of the clock tower is fitted a donation box whose key has been lost – a perfect advertisement for Godrej locks.

Next to the main building of the Armenian church is a memorial to all those Armenians who lost their lives in World War I.

The Jewish community came a bit later to the city, but they were fast to establish their presence. Trading and Jews cannot be far apart for long, and along with Jews came their synagogues. They came from Syria, Iran & Iraq around the turn of 19 th CE.

Maghen David Synagogue, Calcutta

The Maghen David synagogue is located at the junction of Brabourne Road and Canning Street. Be prepared to wade your way through the crowds and keep looking for a towering clock tower in red. You will see a red arch and a standard ASI board telling you it is a protected monument. By the time I reached the Maghen David synagogues it was already closed and no amount of coercing allowed us entry into the monument. I was told that the services in this synagogue stopped many years back but the interiors are very well preserved. You can see a lot of Hebrew inscriptions all over the place along with items that showcase Jewish iconography.

Maghen David was built in 1884.

Neveh Shalom Synagogue, Calcutta

The Neveh Shalome or Shalom is the first Jewish synagogue of Calcutta built in the 1830s. The original prayer hall of Jews stood at the same place where now Maghen David synagogue stands. The one you see now was built later in the early 20 th CE in the same complex.

We were lucky that the caretaker of Neveh Shalom synagogue opened it for us and allowed us to see it in detail. For the first time, I saw the altar of a synagogue which has commandments written on it. It resembles a church except that altar is different. The hall is simple with old-style cane furniture. There is a central podium I assume for Rabbi to make announcements.

An exhibition on the first floor here was showcasing the Jews in India . There was a wooden platform with poles on all 4 corners. This is the place to get married. The exhibition had copies of wedding contracts called Ketubahs and how they changed over time. When I entered the synagogue, Rangan Da told me that only about 20 Jews are left in the city and most of them are senior citizens. When we were leaving the caretaker informed us of a recent death and the number was down to 19. The reason for this low population is that most Jews migrated when India became independent in 1947 and the birth of the Jewish state of Israel in 1948.

Portuguese Church

The Portuguese had a love and hate relationship with the city. They set up their initial place of worship way back in late 17 th CE. Their signs in the city today remain in the form of this Portuguese church that was built around 1799 CE. This church is dedicated to Rosary Virgin Mary and is built in a classic Catholic style. It is a fairly large church and impeccably maintained. The white exterior with a blue outline reminded me of the churches back home in Goa.

I would remember speaking to the nuns there. When I told them I have come from Goa, they immediately switched to Konkani.

One of the ladies who survived the Calcutta Black Hole is buried here – do look out for a tablet announcing that in the Portuguese church in the megapolis.

Shwetambar Jain Temple, Calcutta

In Indian communities, Jains cannot be far behind a trading hub. So in a small lane in Canning Street, we found this white marble Shwetambar Jain temple. Dedicated to 24 th Teerthankar Mahaveer, the temple has his idol in the middle. The main temple is surrounded by white marble torans and carved pillars. These were covered with colorful clothes, something that I saw for the first time in a Jain temple. The recessed ceiling is decorated with lights in multiple colors.

Apparently, only Jains are allowed to visit the temple.

Parsi Fire Temple, Calcutta

We passed through many narrow lanes to reach the base of an out-of-service fire temple. The temple was built in the 1830s for the followers of the Zoroastrian religion. Now only a skeleton of this temple remains along with a plaque that chronicles its age.

Parsi fire temples are usually out of bounds for non-Parsis. So I did not even attempt going to the other practicing Parsi temple in the megapolis.

Chinese settlements developed in Calcutta in the late 18 th CE when Tang Chew came and set up the sugar mill. He brought Chinese workers along with him to the mill. The mill did not work for long but the Chinese settled in a place called Tiretta bazaar. This place incidentally was designed by an Italian architect but was known as China town. Later a new china town came up in Tangra. However, the Tiretta bazaar is where you find the old Chinese temples. They are all called churches as that is how they were registered in the records of the government.

No wonder the Indian word for sugar is Cheeni.

Chinese Temples

Since it was quite late by the time I reached Chinatown, I could only see one of the temples from outside – Toong on Church or temple. Temple is on the first floor and the ground floor used to be the famous Nanking restaurant. It is said that Bollywood celebrities used to give public appearances here when they visited the megapolis.

I need another trip to the city to discover its Chinese heritage and hopefully, meet some Chinese people living there. It is fascinating when you hear a Chinese person speaking fluent Bengali.

China town is best known for its early morning breakfast. Unfortunately, there is nothing much for vegetarians like me.

Here and there we met memorial plates dedicated to the prominent residents or contributors to the city. Like this one is dedicated to a Russian Performer who used Bengali actors in a play in 1795.

What a walk through the cultural melting pots of this city!

This megapolis experience was curated by ITC Sonar for IndiTales.

Recommend you to read the following Travel Blogs.

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Wonderfully captured the melting pot of cultures of Kolkata. Rangan da is a friend, and perhaps the best person to take one around Kolkata. Wish I had known this so I could have joined you both. Want you to come back real soon for exploring Kolkata more

Anindya, I also want to come back and explore more of Kolkata. There is so much to be seen, explored & experienced in your city. Rangan Da is simply great – you can not get a better person tp guide you in Kolkata.

Now that is a fascinating walk and something I know I will love. I did not know of the Synagogue and Parsi Fire temple.

Wonderful article of temples and churches. My last visit to Kolkata was 48 hours long. This city deserves a longer stay. The above mentioned places will be in my to do list.

Thank you, Kishor. Totally agree Kolkata deserves much more than 2 days. However this time in 2 days I managed to do 2 lovely heritage walks.

I think I love this article the best of all! Thank you Anuradha, for seeing beyond Durga Puja and exploring the various facets of the people in the city and places of cultural interest. Kolkata charms its tourists in its own diversity and yet unites all who have some connection with the city in far off distant lands. You must go to China Town and try the various food options there! All said and done, I insist that you must visit Kolkata during Durga Puja, however crowded may the place be. The celebrations are alive and the city adorns a festive look like no other, or so claimed by people who have been to various parts of the country during festivals. Feel free to let me know if I can assist in any way while you are there.

There is so much more to Kolkata that I am yet to explore. Let’s see when this lovely city calls me back.

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THE 10 BEST Kolkata (Calcutta) Walking Tours

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48 Hours in Kolkata

48 Hours in Kolkata: The Ultimate Itinerary

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Visiting Kolkata for the weekend and wondering how to spend your time? This comprehensive two-day itinerary covers the city's Bengali heritage, as well as many iconic attractions and hot new restaurants. Kolkata is one of those cities best explored on foot to soak in the sights, so do wear comfortable shoes. Let's get started!

Day 1: Morning

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8 a.m.: Begin by acquainting yourself with Kolkata's British heritage. The British founded the city in 1690 as a trading post and later developed it as their capital. Many impressive historic buildings are located in the B.B.D. Bagh neighborhood, which was the central business district known as Dalhousie Square under British rule. Wandering through it is a comfortable way to ease yourself into the city and admire the various architectural styles. There are 55 landmark heritage buildings dating from 1695 and 1947 in the precinct. Notable ones include the General Post Office, Writer's Building, Treasury Office, Reserve Bank of India, Raj Bhavan, Stephen House, the Great Eastern Hotel, the Town Hall, the High Court, Saint Andrew's church, and Saint John’s church. Go on a guided walking tour, such as the one conducted by Calcutta Walks, to learn about the detailed history behind each building.

10 a.m.: Take a taxi to the Indian Coffee House to recharge with a snack and coffee. This café harks back to the time of India's independence movement in the early 1940s, when it was a popular meeting place for freedom fighters, social activists, revolutionaries, and bohemians. It remains a sought-after hangout spot for college students and intellectuals.

11 a.m.: Head over to the iconic Howrah Bridge; spanning the Hooghly River, it connects Kolkata with Howrah on the other side. This huge, busy, steel bridge was constructed during World War II and is regarded as an engineering marvel. It's fascinating to walk over it, or simply watch the constant stream of traffic.

Below the Howrah Bridge, at Mallik Ghat on the left side, you'll find Kolkata's famous flower market. It's been there since the mid 19th century and is one of the biggest such markets in Asia. The market is teeming with life and color, but do be aware it may be overwhelming if you're not used to crowds.

Day 1: Afternoon

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12:30 p.m.: Have lunch at an authentic Bengali cuisine restaurant . Depending on your budget, try Aaheli at the Peerless Inn for fine dining or Bhojohori Manna for a casual bite. You'll especially love the cuisine if you're a fan of seafood.

2 p.m.: Browse the shops in New Market , or check out one of Kolkata's museums nearby. The Indian Museum is not only the oldest museum in the country, it's also among the oldest in the world. Its three floors are filled with a diverse assortment of exhibits showcasing the cultural history of India from prehistoric to Mughal times.

4 p.m.: Cross the Maidan and stroll along the Hoogly River waterfront from Babu Ghat to Prinsep Ghat. This stretch is paved and well-maintained, and provides a captivating glimpse of daily life. Named after eminent British scholar James Prinsep, Prinsep Ghat features a white 19th-century Palladian-style porch in memory of him. If you're feeling hungry, grab something to eat from the street food stalls that line the promenade. Relax on the lawn at Prinsep Ghat for a while and enjoy the scenery.

Day 1: Evening

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5:30 p.m.: Hire one of the traditional wooden boats at Prinsep Ghat for a quintessential sunset ride on the Hooghly River. You'll need to negotiate the fare. Expect to pay 400 to 500 rupees ($5.50 to $7) for 45 minutes to an hour.

7:30 p.m.: After getting ready back at your hotel, spend the evening along Park Street—the hub of dining and nightlife in Kolkata . The street is lined with restaurants. Some are nostalgic old favorites that have been around for decades, such as Mocambo for sizzlers, Trincas for continental baked dishes, or Peter Cat for Chelo kebabs. Chic new restaurants include Spice Klub , which serves up contemporary takes on Indian food and Pa Pa Ya , which offers a variety of Pan-Asian dishes. Barbecue Nation is a reliable choice for grills.

9:30 p.m.: The Park Hotel is the focal point of entertainment on Park Street. Take your pick from two bars, a pub, and a nightclub. Other options for live gigs are the Hard Rock Cafe , The Lords and Barrons (a popular new pub), and Trincas for classic retro hits.

Day 2: Morning

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6 a.m.: If you didn't party on last night, try getting up early to enjoy the legendary Chinese breakfast at Tiretti Bazaar in Kolkata's Old Chinatown district. Chinese immigrants started arriving in the late 18th century and are an important part of the city's fabric. Members of the community serve up fresh delicacies at their roadside stalls from around 5:30 a.m. to 8 a.m. Sample yummy steamed momos, handmade sausages, stuffed buns, pork rolls, and fish ball soup.

7:30 a.m.: Take a taxi about 35 minutes north to Dakshineswar Kali temple , located by the Hooghly River. This magnificent 19th-century temple is dedicated to Kali, the presiding deity of Kolkata, and is where saint Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa served as chief priest before going on to found Belur Math. His disciple, global spiritual leader Swami Vivekananda, also received his initiation at the temple. The divine energy feels especially strong early in the morning when the grounds are peaceful.

10 a.m.: Continue to explore the city's culture by visiting the native Bengali quarters of Kolkata. This district, encompassing Bagbazar and Sovabazar, was home to Bengali aristocracy. To get there, take a taxi 20 minutes south to Mayer Ghat and walk down Chitpur Street/Rabindra Sarani, said to be the oldest street in Kolkata. Keep an eye out for street art near Bagbazar Ghat. After a kilometer (0.6 miles), turn left onto Raja Naba Krishna Street and follow it about 500 meters (0.3 miles) to the 18th-century Sovabazar Rajbari, the old palace of the local royal family.

It's also worth taking a short detour to the Kumartuli potter's colony , especially from June to January when idols are made for various festivals. If you'd like to go on a guided walking tour, The Ganges Walk's Sunati Trails is a recommended option.

Day 2: Afternoon

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12 p.m.: From Sovabazar Rajbari, head to either Mitra Cafe or Arsalan for lunch. The former has been in business for more than a century and is one of Kolkata's oldest restaurants. It's a simple and inexpensive "cabin cafe" that offers quick Bengali bites, including fish and chicken kabiraji cutlets. Alternatively, Arsalan is suitable for a longer meal in an air-conditioned setting. Serving north Indian Mughlai cuisine, the restaurant is also renowned for its distinctive Kolkata-style biryani.

1 p.m.: Take a taxi 20 minutes south to Victoria Memorial Hall . This imposing white marble relic of the British Raj has been turned into a museum amid expansive landscaped grounds that are an attraction in themselves (and an ideal spot to rest post lunch). The museum's recently revamped galleries showcase the history of British rule in India and include paintings, rare photographs, manuscripts, textiles, and armor. One gallery is dedicated to the development of the city as the British capital.

4 p.m.: After exploring the museum for a few hours, freshen up with English high tea. There are a few options to choose from, the most central of which is the Elgin Fairlawn Hotel . Built in 1783, this characterful hotel was recently given a facelift; high tea is served every afternoon in its dining room. The luxury Taj Bengal hotel puts on a fine spread of sandwiches, cakes, teas, and coffees in its Promenade Lounge. Meanwhile, hip and contemporary Karma Kettle is a specialty tea company and one of India's finest tea blenders. Its leafy tea room offers Indian (Burra Sahib) as well as English (Gora Saheb) high tea. Pick up some tantalizing Indian teas while you're there—they make great gifts!

Alternatively, if you're interested in the humanitarian work of Mother Teresa, visit the Mother House to see where she lived.

Day 3: Evening

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6 p.m.: Calcutta Walks' Bengali cooking experience is a must-do for foodies who'd like to learn the art of Bengali cooking. You'll be guided through a market to become familiar with the ingredients before participating in a cooking demonstration, led by a Bengali housewife or by the owner of one of the best restaurants in Kolkata. Finish off with authentic Bengali sweets.

Those who prefer the arts to cooking can check out the exhibitions at the Academy of Fine Arts , which features works by up-and-coming local artists. Or, check out Harrington Street Arts Center (open until 8 p.m.) for contemporary Indian and international works.

8 p.m.: Head over to Camac Street for dinner. This entertainment precinct has trendy new restaurants and bars such as Scrapyard for craft beers, The Fatty Bao for Asian, and SAZ - American Brazzerie for gourmet grills and burgers. Nearby, Gabbar's Bar and Kitchen has a Bollywood theme, and specializes in molecular gastronomy and cocktails.

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I really wanted to visit Kolkata it was my birth place and I came to India with my family on this tour we are glad that all hotels has been choosen carefully and local English speaking guide helped us for buying entry tickets of monuments. My suggestions please be advised that in India driver speak understandable English whereas you will have local guide who gives much knowledge. Highly recommended

8 Days Kipling’s Kanha & Sunderbans Tiger Tour from Mumbai(ALL INCLUSIVE)

We were looking for an adventure that combines nature and wildlife with relaxation and sightseeing, then I found Hemender and Mytravelcon. After listening my questions, he suggested me about 8 Days Kipling's Kanha & Sunderbans Tiger Tour from Mumbai. From the world-famous Kanha National Park to the majestic Sunderbans Delta, this all-inclusive tour had something for everyone. This was a remarkable 8-day journey through India's lush wilderness. Actually He offered all-inclusive, adventurous and unique tour experience, which we were looking for. This 8-day tour was an unforgettable adventure, full of exciting wildlife encounters and awe-inspiring scenery. From encountering the majestic tigers of Kanha National Park to explore the mangrove forests of Sunderbans National Park.

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Total tour arrangements is highly rated since we had a very professionally organized tour with a fantastic driver. One of the most important things was security and clean rooms and that factor was definitely fulfilled. Tiger safari was a success, we saw a beautiful tiger and took plenty of amazing pictures. We loved India and got a deep insight into their culture having met lots of local interactions with the local people and also thanks to our driver who saw us real life of Indian people as well as villages. We love this tour.

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What people love about kolkata (calcutta) tours.

I was solo traveller from Canada and booked a private tour so that i can enjoy all flexiblity of this golden Triangle Tour I am very much happy with all services

We went on the 8 Days Kipling's Kanha & Sunderbans Tiger Tour from Mumbai and it was an absolutely amazing experience. The trip was all-inclusive and included all meals, accommodation and transportation, so it was really convenient and stress-free. We started the tour with a visit to Kanha National Park, which was truly breathtaking. The lush green surroundings, the beautiful wildlife and the stunning scenery made the experience unforgettable. We were lucky enough to spot some tigers, which was really exciting. We then moved on to Sunderbans National Park, where we stayed for a few days. The park is home to the world's largest mangrove forest and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We were able to take part in some wildlife safaris and boat rides, which was really exciting. We also got to see some rare species of birds and animals. Overall, I had an amazing time on the 8 Days Kipling's Kanha & Sunderbans Tiger Tour from Mumbai. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable adventure.

India has a loft of populations and traffic on the road however India is very charming country we have paid for five star hotels where we want to enjoy our first trip to india.

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