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Seven Days in the City of Joy

Colonial Heritage, Cultural Treasures & Bengali Soul

Trip Overview

Kolkata, India's cultural capital, unfolds over seven immersive days through grand colonial monuments, vibrant street markets, spiritual landmarks, and lush green spaces. This itinerary balances iconic attractions like Victoria Memorial and Howrah Bridge with intimate experiences in heritage mansions and local neighborhoods. You'll explore world-class museums, serene temples, expansive parks, and the city's legendary literary heritage. The pace allows for deep cultural immersion while leaving room for spontaneous chai stops and riverside wandering. From the architectural grandeur of St. Paul's Cathedral to the biodiversity of Zoological Garden Alipore, you'll experience why Kolkata remains India's most intellectually and artistically vibrant metropolis. This journey captures both the colonial past and the dynamic present of this endlessly fascinating city.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$35-60 per day
Best Seasons
October to March (winter months with pleasant weather)
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Kolkata, History and architecture enthusiasts, Culture and literature lovers, Photography enthusiasts, Solo travelers and couples

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Colonial Grandeur & River Heritage

Central Kolkata
Begin your Kolkata journey with the city's most iconic colonial monument and explore the historic riverfront area with its legendary bridge and monuments.
Morning
Victoria Memorial
Start at Kolkata's crown jewel, this magnificent white marble monument built during the British Raj. Explore the museum's extensive collection of colonial-era paintings, sculptures, and artifacts. Stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens surrounding the memorial, perfect for morning photography. The Indo-Saracenic architecture is stunning in morning light, and you'll need time to fully appreciate both the interior galleries and exterior grounds.
2.5-3 hours $3-5
Arrive right at opening time (10 AM) to avoid crowds and heat
Lunch
A traditional Bengali restaurant near the memorial serving thali meals
Bengali vegetarian and fish dishes Budget
Afternoon
Howrah Bridge and James Prinsep Monument
Walk to the iconic Howrah Bridge, one of the world's busiest cantilever bridges. Experience the incredible pedestrian and vehicle traffic that defines Kolkata's energy. Continue to the elegant James Prinsep Monument along the Hooghly River, a Palladian porch commemorating the Anglo-Indian scholar. The riverside promenade offers excellent views and local life observations. This area is perfect for understanding Kolkata's relationship with the Hooghly River that shaped its history.
2-3 hours $0-2
Evening
Sunset at Millennium Park and dinner
Visit Millennium Park for sunset views over the Hooghly River and the illuminated Howrah Bridge. Enjoy street food from vendors or dine at a riverside restaurant serving Bengali cuisine

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Kolkata or Park Street area (Mid-range hotel in the central business district)

Central location provides easy access to major attractions and excellent restaurant options for your first night

Visit Howrah Bridge early evening when it's beautifully illuminated and the flower market underneath comes alive with activity
Day 1 Budget: $40-55
2

Museums, Cathedral & Spiritual Sites

Central and South Kolkata
Dive deep into Kolkata's cultural heritage through India's oldest museum, a magnificent cathedral, and a serene hilltop temple.
Morning
Indian Museum
Explore Asia's oldest museum, founded in 1814, housing extraordinary collections spanning archaeology, art, and natural history. The Egyptian mummies, Ashoka pillar, and Gandhara sculptures are highlights. The museum's colonial-era building itself is architecturally significant. Allow ample time to navigate the extensive galleries covering Indian art, fossils, meteorites, and rare antiques. The anthropology section provides fascinating insights into India's diverse tribal cultures.
2.5-3 hours $2-3
Photography permits cost extra; decide if you want to capture the exhibits
Lunch
A popular lunch spot near Park Street serving fusion cuisine
Continental and Indian fusion Mid-range
Afternoon
St. Paul's Cathedral and Birla Mandir
Visit St. Paul's Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece of Indo-Gothic design with stunning stained glass windows and soaring spires. The peaceful interior offers respite from the city's energy. Later, head to Birla Mandir, a beautiful Hindu temple built of white marble. The temple's intricate carvings and serene atmosphere provide a spiritual contrast to the morning's museum visit. The temple complex offers panoramic city views from its elevated position.
2.5 hours $0-1
Evening
M.P. Birla Planetarium show and dinner
Catch an evening show at Asia's largest planetarium, then explore the Park Street area for dinner at restaurants serving diverse cuisines from Chinese to Italian to traditional Bengali

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Kolkata or Park Street area (Same area as Day 1 for convenience)

Staying in the same area eliminates check-out/check-in time and keeps you centrally located

St. Paul's Cathedral is most atmospheric during evening prayer services when you can hear the organ music echo through the vaulted ceiling
Day 2 Budget: $35-50
3

Literary Legacy & Freedom Movement

North Kolkata
Step into Kolkata's intellectual heritage by exploring the ancestral home of Rabindranath Tagore and the residence of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Morning
Jorasanko Thakurbari
Visit the sprawling ancestral mansion of the Tagore family, now a museum dedicated to Rabindranath Tagore, Asia's first Nobel laureate. Explore rooms where Tagore wrote, painted, and composed music. The museum houses his paintings, manuscripts, personal belongings, and family heirlooms. The traditional Bengali architecture and courtyard design offer insights into 19th-century aristocratic life. The guided tours provide deep context about Bengal's Renaissance period and Tagore's multifaceted genius.
2-3 hours $2-3
Consider hiring a guide at the entrance for richer historical context
Lunch
A traditional sweet shop and restaurant in North Kolkata serving authentic Bengali dishes
Traditional Bengali home-style cooking Budget
Afternoon
Netaji Bhawan and Shaheed Minar
Explore Netaji Bhawan, the former residence of freedom fighter Subhas Chandra Bose, preserved as a museum showcasing his life and India's independence struggle. The personal artifacts, photographs, and documents provide moving insights into his revolutionary activities. Continue to Shaheed Minar, a 48-meter column offering panoramic city views from the top. Originally built as the Ochterlony Monument, it's now a memorial to Indian martyrs.
2.5 hours $1-2
Evening
Evening exploration of North Kolkata lanes
Wander through the narrow lanes of North Kolkata's old neighborhoods, observing traditional courtyard houses, street-side artisan workshops, and local community life. Enjoy street food like kathi rolls and phuchka

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Kolkata (Mid-range hotel in accessible location)

Return to central area for better connectivity to next day's attractions

Visit Jorasanko Thakurbari on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that Tagore himself would have experienced
Day 3 Budget: $35-48
4

Wildlife & Gardens

South Kolkata
Spend a relaxing day with nature at India's oldest zoo and explore heritage collections in a lesser-known museum.
Morning
Zoological Garden Alipore
Discover India's oldest formally stated zoological park, established in 1876. The sprawling 18-hectare garden houses diverse species including Royal Bengal Tigers, African lions, elephants, and exotic birds. The well-maintained Victorian-era landscaping creates a pleasant walking environment. Notable attractions include the reptile house, primate section, and the aquarium. The zoo's historical significance and conservation efforts make it more than just animal viewing. Morning visits offer the best chance to see animals at their most active.
3-4 hours $2-4
Weekday visits are less crowded; bring water and snacks as options inside are limited
Lunch
A garden restaurant near the zoo area with outdoor seating
Multi-cuisine with Bengali specialties Mid-range
Afternoon
Sabarna Roy Chowdhury Sangrahashala
Visit this hidden gem museum housed in the ancestral mansion of the Sabarna Roy Chowdhury family, the original zamindars who granted land to the British East India Company. The collection includes rare manuscripts, paintings, sculptures, and artifacts spanning several centuries. The traditional Bengali architecture and family heirlooms provide unique insights into aristocratic Bengali life. This lesser-visited museum offers an intimate, uncrowded cultural experience.
1.5-2 hours $1-2
Evening
Relaxation and local market exploration
Explore nearby South Kolkata markets for local shopping, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant specializing in Bengali fish preparations and traditional sweets for dessert

Where to Stay Tonight

South Kolkata (Comfortable hotel near Alipore area)

Stay near today's attractions and tomorrow's destination for efficient travel

The zoo's reptile house is air-conditioned and offers relief during warm days while housing impressive collections of snakes and crocodiles
Day 4 Budget: $38-52
5

Theme Parks & Entertainment

Eastern Kolkata and Salt Lake
Enjoy a fun-filled day at Kolkata's popular amusement parks, perfect for thrills, water activities, and family entertainment.
Morning
Nicco Park
Spend the morning at Nicco Park, Kolkata's premier amusement park offering over 35 rides and attractions. From thrilling roller coasters to gentle family rides, the park caters to all ages. The Cyclone roller coaster and River Caves are particularly popular. The landscaped gardens provide pleasant walking areas between attractions. The park's toy train, paddle boats, and various themed zones create a complete entertainment experience. Morning visits mean shorter queues for popular rides.
3-4 hours $8-12
Purchase unlimited ride passes for better value if you plan to enjoy multiple attractions
Lunch
Food court within the park or nearby restaurant in Salt Lake
Fast food and Indian snacks Budget
Afternoon
Wet O Wild
Cool off at this water park featuring numerous water slides, wave pools, and splash zones. The park offers both thrilling high-speed slides and gentle pools suitable for all swimming abilities. Lazy rivers and rain dance areas provide relaxation options. The tropical landscaping and well-maintained facilities make it a refreshing escape from Kolkata's heat. Lockers and changing facilities are available throughout the park.
3-4 hours $6-10
Bring swimwear, towels, and waterproof pouches for valuables; lockers available for rent
Evening
Salt Lake area evening
Explore the modern Salt Lake neighborhood with its shopping complexes and diverse dining options. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant offering regional Indian cuisines

Where to Stay Tonight

Salt Lake or Eastern Kolkata (Modern hotel in the planned township area)

Stay near today's activities and close to tomorrow's Eco Park destination

Visit water parks on weekdays when they're significantly less crowded, and arrive early to secure good spots near popular attractions
Day 5 Budget: $45-65
6

Urban Wilderness & Japanese Serenity

New Town and Eastern Kolkata
Experience Kolkata's newest green spaces with a full day exploring the massive Eco Park and the tranquil Japanese Forest.
Morning
Eco Park
Explore this vast 480-acre urban park, one of the largest in India, featuring themed gardens, water bodies, and recreational zones. Rent bicycles or take electric vehicles to navigate the expansive grounds. Highlights include the bamboo garden, bonsai garden, rose garden, and the seven wonders replica section. The park's wetland areas attract numerous bird species. Pedal boats and rowboats on the lake offer relaxing water activities. The well-planned landscape architecture creates distinct ecological zones worth exploring.
4-5 hours $3-6
Rent bicycles or e-vehicles early as they're popular; bring sun protection
Lunch
Lakeside cafe within Eco Park or nearby restaurant in New Town
Continental and Indian light meals Mid-range
Afternoon
Japanese Forest
Visit this serene Japanese-style garden featuring authentic landscaping, bamboo groves, and traditional Japanese architectural elements. The peaceful walking paths, stone lanterns, and carefully manicured plants create a meditative atmosphere. The garden's design follows Japanese aesthetic principles with water features, bridges, and contemplation areas. It's a stark contrast to Kolkata's urban intensity, offering tranquility and photographic opportunities. The compact size allows thorough exploration while maintaining the sense of spaciousness.
1.5-2 hours $1-2
Evening
Return to central Kolkata for farewell evening
Head back to central areas for a farewell dinner at a heritage restaurant serving traditional Bengali cuisine. Consider a rooftop restaurant with city views for your final evening

Where to Stay Tonight

Central Kolkata (Hotel in central location)

Return to central area for convenient access to final day's attractions and departure logistics

Eco Park is best visited during the cooler months; the sunrise and sunset viewpoints offer spectacular photography opportunities
Day 6 Budget: $40-55
7

Riverside Reflections & Departure

Central and Riverside Kolkata
Conclude your Kolkata journey with peaceful riverside spots and any remaining must-see attractions before departure.
Morning
Elliot Park and NilPukur Ghat
Begin your final day at Elliot Park, a peaceful green space perfect for morning walks and reflection on your journey. Continue to NilPukur Ghat along the Hooghly River, where you can observe morning rituals, boat activities, and riverside life. The ghat offers authentic glimpses of daily Kolkata life away from tourist crowds. Watch locals performing morning prayers, fishermen preparing their boats, and the river's gentle flow. These quiet riverside moments capture Kolkata's spiritual essence.
2-3 hours $0-1
Lunch
A riverside restaurant serving fresh fish preparations and Bengali specialties
Traditional Bengali seafood Mid-range
Afternoon
Last-minute exploration and shopping
Depending on your departure time, revisit a favorite location, explore local markets for souvenirs like traditional textiles, handicrafts, or Bengali sweets to take home. Consider visiting any nearby attractions you may have missed or simply wander through neighborhoods that intrigued you. Use this flexible time to capture final photographs, enjoy last chai breaks, or simply absorb the city's atmosphere before departure. Pack carefully and prepare for your onward journey.
2-3 hours $5-15
Evening
Departure preparations
Head to the airport or railway station with plenty of time. If evening departure, consider a final meal at a restaurant near your departure point

Where to Stay Tonight

Not applicable (Departure day)

End of itinerary

Purchase famous Bengali sweets like sandesh and rosogolla from established sweet shops to bring home; they're available at the airport but better quality in city shops
Day 7 Budget: $30-45

Practical Information

Getting Around

Kolkata's yellow taxis and app-based ride services are convenient for point-to-point travel between attractions. The Metro connects major areas efficiently and affordably. For authentic experiences, try the iconic hand-pulled rickshaws in North Kolkata or the ferry across the Hooghly River. Auto-rickshaws work well for short distances. Most attractions in central Kolkata are within reasonable distances, making walking feasible during cooler hours. Budget approximately $5-10 daily for transportation. Consider hiring a car with driver for day trips to distant attractions like Eco Park for comfort and time efficiency.

Book Ahead

Most attractions don't require advance booking. However, book accommodation 2-3 weeks ahead, especially during Durga Puja season (September-October) when the city is extremely crowded. Planetarium shows can sell out on weekends, so check schedules. Theme park tickets can be purchased online for slight discounts. Train tickets for onward travel should be booked well in advance.

Packing Essentials

Comfortable walking shoes, light cotton clothing for warm weather, modest attire for religious sites, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), reusable water bottle, hand sanitizer, basic medications, camera, power bank, light rain jacket during monsoon months, insect repellent for park visits

Total Budget

$265-430 for 7 days (excluding international flights and major shopping)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in budget guesthouses or hostels in central areas ($10-15 per night). Eat primarily at local eateries and street food stalls experiencing authentic flavors for $5-8 daily. Use public buses and metro exclusively instead of taxis. Skip theme parks or visit only one. Focus on free attractions like monuments, ghats, and walking tours. Many museums have very low entry fees. Street food tours cost nothing but provide incredible culinary experiences. Total budget can reduce to $25-35 daily.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at heritage hotels or five-star properties in colonial buildings ($150-300 per night). Hire private cars with knowledgeable drivers for all transportation. Enjoy fine dining at upscale restaurants specializing in modern Bengali cuisine and international options. Book private guided tours of museums and heritage sites with expert historians. Add spa treatments and evening cultural performances. Include a sunset cruise on the Hooghly River with dinner. Upgrade to VIP experiences at theme parks. Budget $200-350 daily for luxury comfort.

Family-Friendly

Prioritize Zoological Garden Alipore, Nicco Park, Wet O Wild, and Eco Park which children especially enjoy. Break museum visits into shorter sessions with ice cream breaks. Stay in family suites with kitchenettes for flexible meal times. The Science City (though not on verified list) area hotels work well for families. Use larger vehicles for comfortable transportation with car seats if needed. Many restaurants offer children's menus. Parks have playgrounds and open spaces for kids to run. Plan rest time during hot afternoons. Consider skip-the-line options where available to minimize waiting with children.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Kolkata

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Kolkata

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Kolkata

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Kolkata

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Kolkata

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