Kolkata: A 5-Day Cultural & Culinary Journey

1

Day 1: Arrival and Colonial Grandeur

Thursday, January 22, 2026
+2
Activities
6

Arrival in Kolkata

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), Kolkata
The journey to central Kolkata can take 60-90 minutes depending on traffic. It's advisable to have some Indian Rupees in cash for the taxi.

Check-in to Hotel

Park Street Area, Kolkata
Suggested hotels: The Park Kolkata (Luxury), The Oberoi Grand (Luxury), The Fairlawn Hotel (Heritage Mid-Range), The Elgin Fairlawn (Heritage Mid-Range).

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Near Park Street
Consider trying a 'Kathi Roll' from Kusum Rolls on Park Street for a classic Kolkata experience.

Victoria Memorial Hall

Victoria Memorial Hall, Queens Way, Kolkata
The museum closes at 6 PM, but the gardens are open until later. The building is beautifully illuminated after sunset. Check timings for the light and sound show.

St. Paul's Cathedral

Cathedral Rd, Maidan, Kolkata
Maintain silence and dress modestly. Photography is usually restricted inside the main prayer hall.

Iconic Dinner on Park Street

Park Street, Kolkata
Highly recommended: Mocambo for its classic ambiance and continental dishes, or Peter Cat for its famous 'Chelo Kebab'. Reservations are advised, especially on weekends.
2

Day 2: The Soul of North Kolkata

Friday, January 23, 2026
+3
Activities
7

Mallick Ghat Flower Market

Mallick Ghat, beside Howrah Bridge, Kolkata
This is a photographer's paradise. Be prepared for crowds and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. The best activity is from 5 AM to 8 AM.

Howrah Bridge

Howrah Bridge, Kolkata
You can also take a ferry from a nearby ghat for a different perspective of the bridge and the city skyline.

Traditional Bengali Breakfast

Shyambazar Area, North Kolkata
Ask a local for a recommendation. Many small, old shops serve the most authentic food.

Jorasanko Thakur Bari (Tagore's House)

Ganesh Talkies, 267, Rabindra Sarani, Singhi Bagan, Jorasanko, Kolkata
The museum is well-maintained and has captions in English. Plan for at least 1.5-2 hours here.

Authentic Bengali Thali Lunch

6 Ballygunge Place (multiple outlets)
This is a great way to sample a wide range of local cuisine in one meal. Be prepared for a feast!

College Street (Boi Para)

College Street, Kolkata
Don't be afraid to browse and bargain. It's a treasure trove for book lovers.

Coffee at the Indian Coffee House

15, Bankim Chatterjee Street, College Street, Kolkata
The ambiance is more important than the food. It's about the history and the conversations echoing through its large hall.
3

Day 3: Spiritual Trail & Artistic Heart

Saturday, January 24, 2026
+2
Activities
6

Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Dakshineswar, Kolkata
Dress modestly. You'll need to leave your shoes and bags at a counter. The temple can get very crowded, so an early start is recommended.

Ferry to Belur Math

Hooghly River
The ferry service is frequent and very cheap. It offers great views of both temple complexes from the water.

Belur Math

Belur, Howrah
This is a place of peace and meditation. Strict rules of silence and conduct apply. Check the opening hours as it closes in the afternoon for a few hours.

Lunch near Shyambazar

Shyambazar, North Kolkata
Try some Mughlai dishes like Biryani or Chaap from a famous place like Arsalan or Aminia.

Kumartuli - The Potters' Colony

Kumartuli, Shobhabazar, Kolkata
While January is not the peak season (which is before Durga Puja), you will still find artisans at work. Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of the artists or their work.

Sunset Boat Ride on the Hooghly

Prinsep Ghat, Kolkata
Bargain for the boat ride price before you board. This is a very romantic and relaxing experience. Backup option if weather is poor: Visit the Academy of Fine Arts.
4

Day 4: History, Faith, and Flavors

Sunday, January 25, 2026
+1
Activities
5

Indian Museum

27, Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Park Street area, Kolkata
The museum is huge, so you may want to focus on specific galleries like the Egyptian section or the Bharhut gallery. It can easily take 2-3 hours.

Lunch at a Heritage Restaurant

Esplanade Area
Consider Aminia for its famous Biryani or Oh! Calcutta for an upscale Bengali dining experience.

Kalighat Kali Temple

Anami Sangha, Kalighat, Kolkata
The temple is very crowded and intense. Be firm and say 'no' to the many priests ('pandas') who will offer to guide you for a fee. It's best to go with a clear mind and just observe.

South Park Street Cemetery

Park Street, Mullick Bazar, Kolkata
A surprisingly peaceful and atmospheric place. Great for photography, especially in the late afternoon light.

Kolkata Street Food Tour

Varies (e.g., Vivekananda Park, Dacres Lane)
Must-try items: Puchka (pani puri), Jhalmuri (puffed rice snack), Telebhaja (fried snacks), and various Bengali sweets (Sandesh, Rosogolla) from a reputed sweet shop like Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick.
5

Day 5: Republic Day, Souvenirs & Departure

Monday, January 26, 2026
Activities
4

Republic Day Observations (Optional)

Maidan / Red Road area (from a distance)
Be aware of significant traffic diversions and heightened security in the city center, especially in the morning. Plan your travel accordingly.

Shopping at New Market

New Market, Dharmatala, Taltala, Kolkata
Bargaining is expected. It's a great place to buy souvenirs like terracotta items, Darjeeling tea, or Bengali cotton sarees.

Farewell Lunch

Central Kolkata
A final Chelo Kebab at Peter Cat or a traditional meal at a Bengali restaurant would be a fitting end to the trip.

Departure from Kolkata

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU), Kolkata
Allow extra time for travel to the airport due to potential holiday traffic. It's recommended to leave for the airport at least 3-4 hours before your flight departure time.
Travel FAQs

Q.What are the must-visit places in Kolkata?

Key attractions include the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Dakshineswar Kali Temple, Belur Math, Jorasanko Thakur Bar...

Q.What is the best time to visit Kolkata?

The best time to visit is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Your t...

Q.How to get around Kolkata?

Kolkata has a diverse public transport system. The Metro is efficient for north-south travel. Yellow ambassador taxis ar...

Q.What are the famous food items to try?

Kolkata is a food lover's paradise. You must try Puchka (pani puri), Kathi Rolls, Bengali sweets like Rosogolla and Sand...

Q.Are there any local tips or customs to be aware of?

Dress modestly when visiting temples. Bargaining is common in local markets like New Market. Be cautious of touts at cro...

Q.What about currency and daily costs?

The currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). A mid-range daily budget would be around ₹3000-₹5000 per person, excluding accom...

Q.What should I pack for a trip in late January?

The weather will be pleasant. Pack light cotton clothes for the day and a light jacket, sweater, or shawl for the cooler...

Q.What should I know about traveling on Republic Day (Jan 26th)?

January 26th is a major national holiday. Expect heightened security and road closures, especially in the morning around...

Q.Do I need a visa to visit India?

Most foreign nationals require a valid visa to enter India. Please check the latest e-visa or regular visa requirements ...