15 Top Tourist Destinations of Kolkata, India – A Complete Travel Guide

Explore the Cultural Capital of India Like Never Before!

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is a city that pulses with heritage, art, literature, and colonial charm. As the capital of West Bengal, it stands as a bridge between the past and the present — showcasing grand British architecture, cultural festivals, hand-pulled rickshaws, and a fiercely passionate local crowd. From the ghats of the Hooghly River to the aroma of street food in Gariahat, Kolkata is not just a place, it's an emotion. The city is home to Nobel laureates, India’s oldest tram system, the iconic Howrah Bridge, and the intellectual legacy of Rabindranath Tagore.

Whether you're a foodie, history buff, art lover, or just a curious traveler, Kolkata promises a sensory-rich experience that lingers long after your journey ends.

Here is 15 top destinations, precautions, foods, etc.:

📍1. Victoria Memorial

One of the most iconic structures in Kolkata, the Victoria Memorial is a symbol of the city's colonial past. Built in memory of Queen Victoria, this grand marble monument sits amidst sprawling gardens and houses an incredible collection of British-era artifacts and paintings. With a combination of Indo-Saracenic, Mughal, and European styles, the architecture of this memorial is simply mesmerizing, especially when lit up in the evening. A walk through its galleries gives deep insight into India's colonial history and the Raj.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Located in central Kolkata; easily accessible via Metro (Rabindra Sadan station)
🏛️ Places to Visit: Central Hall, Royal Gallery, gardens, and museum
📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant winter weather)
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, Hindi, English
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Both accepted at entry counters; cash recommended for vendors
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Hat, water bottle, camera, ID proof
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Park Street or Esplanade; ₹1500–₹2500 per night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Entry ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners); be mindful of camera fees
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Puchka, jhal muri, rolls nearby
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: New Market for souvenirs and handlooms
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 2–3 hours to explore fully
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹3,000 including travel, food, entry, local transport
🚇 Nearby Transport: Metro, cabs, trams available
📸 Photography Tip: Best shots at sunset or night when monument is illuminated

📍2. Howrah Bridge

The Howrah Bridge, also known as Rabindra Setu, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Kolkata and an engineering marvel. Spanning the Hooghly River, it connects the city of Howrah with Kolkata and carries daily footfalls in the millions. The bridge, constructed without any nuts or bolts, is a testimony to India's engineering prowess. Walking across it during sunrise or sunset offers a surreal view of the river and the bustling ferry terminals below.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Easily accessible from Howrah Station and central Kolkata
🏛️ Places to Visit Nearby: Mullik Ghat Flower Market, Ferry Ghats
📅 Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for best views
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, Hindi, English
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Cash preferred for ferry and street vendors
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Water, sunglasses, camera, umbrella
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Near Esplanade or Burrabazar; ₹1000–₹2000/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Watch out for traffic and large crowds; free entry
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Tea in earthen cups, kachori sabzi, aloo chop
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Burrabazar for wholesale goods, flowers at Mullik Ghat
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 1–2 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹2,500 including local food and ferry ride
🚇 Nearby Transport: Howrah Station, local cabs, ferries
📸 Photography Tip: Best morning shots with ferry boats in frame

📍3. Indian Museum

Established in 1814, the Indian Museum is the largest and oldest museum in India and boasts an extraordinary collection of antiques, fossils, Mughal paintings, ancient mummies, and coins. Housed in a grand colonial building, this museum offers an enriching journey through India's cultural and natural history. Ideal for history buffs, it's a perfect educational stop for families and students.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Located near Esplanade and Park Street area
🏛️ Places to Visit: Egyptian gallery, prehistoric section, textile gallery
📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, Hindi, English
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Card preferred for tickets; cash for vendors
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Water, ID card, notebook (if interested in research)
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Park Street; ₹1500–₹3000/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Entry ₹50–₹500 depending on nationality; large premises so wear comfy shoes
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Rolls, mishti doi, fish curry nearby
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Bookstores and street art near Sudder Street
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 3–4 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹3,500 including entry, food, transport
🚇 Nearby Transport: Metro (Esplanade), taxis, walking distance from New Market
📸 Photography Tip: Interior photography is restricted in some galleries

📍4. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Located on the banks of the Hooghly River, Dakshineswar Kali Temple is one of Kolkata’s most spiritually powerful destinations. Dedicated to Goddess Kali, it’s associated with Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and exudes peace despite the crowd. The temple complex features twelve shrines dedicated to Shiva and a bathing ghat where pilgrims perform rituals.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: 12 km from central Kolkata; accessible by metro (Dakshineswar station)
🏛️ Places to Visit: Main temple, river ghat, Ramakrishna’s quarters
📅 Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or during Durga Puja
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, Hindi
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Cash preferred
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Offerings, scarf, water bottle
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Nearby guesthouses; ₹800–₹1500/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Beware of touts; remove shoes outside temple
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Bhog (offering), Bengali sweets nearby
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Temple street shops selling puja items
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 2–3 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹2,000 including food and transport
🚇 Nearby Transport: Metro, autos, local trains
📸 Photography Tip: Exterior only; photography restricted inside temple

📍5. Science City

Science City is one of the largest science centers in the Indian subcontinent and a paradise for children and knowledge seekers alike. The complex includes a Space Odyssey, Evolution Park, Dynamotion Hall, and Earth Exploration Hall. It offers hands-on exhibits, 3D theaters, and even a cable car ride over the expansive grounds. Perfect for family trips, school outings, or just a day of curiosity-filled fun.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Located on EM Bypass; 8 km from Sealdah station
🏛️ Places to Visit: Earth Hall, Space Theater, Cable Car, Dinosaur Zone
📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, English, Hindi
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Card preferred for tickets; carry some cash for snacks
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Water bottle, camera, sunglasses
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Salt Lake or Park Circus; ₹1500–₹3000/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Tickets range from ₹60–₹120; extra for theater shows
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Street snacks and rolls nearby
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Science souvenirs at gift shop
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 4–5 hours to explore all sections
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹3,000–₹3,500 including food, tickets, and transport
🚇 Nearby Transport: Buses, cabs, metro connectivity from EM Bypass
📸 Photography Tip: Cable car and Dinosaur Park are great for pictures

📍6. Marble Palace

Marble Palace is a lesser-known architectural gem in Kolkata, known for its splendid marble walls and priceless art collection. Built in 1835 by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a wealthy Bengali merchant, this neoclassical mansion houses European paintings, Victorian furniture, and sculptures from Italy and Belgium. A private residence that’s partly open to tourists, it's a place of elegance and hidden history.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Located in North Kolkata near Girish Park
🏛️ Places to Visit: Art Gallery, private zoo, sculptures
📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, English
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Cash only
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: ID proof, water bottle, camera
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: College Street or Esplanade; ₹1200–₹2000/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Entry is free but requires prior permission
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Telebhaja (fried snacks), Sandesh
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: College Street book market nearby
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 2–3 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹2,500 including local transport and food
🚇 Nearby Transport: Metro (Girish Park), rickshaws
📸 Photography Tip: Photography not allowed inside the palace

📍7. Kalighat Temple

One of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India, Kalighat Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and is a deeply revered site among Hindus. It is said to be the place where the toes of Sati fell, and the temple has a spiritual aura that draws devotees from all over the country. The bustling lanes around the temple offer a slice of old Kolkata.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Located in South Kolkata; near Kalighat Metro Station
🏛️ Places to Visit: Kali idol, Natmandir, Kalighat Ghat
📅 Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or during Navratri
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, Hindi
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Cash only
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Puja items, water bottle, comfortable shoes
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Rashbehari or Gariahat area; ₹1000–₹2000/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Be cautious of touts; remove shoes outside
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Bhog, street sweets nearby
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Religious souvenirs and puja items
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 1–2 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹2,000 including offerings, food, transport
🚇 Nearby Transport: Metro (Kalighat), autos, buses
📸 Photography Tip: Photography not allowed inside temple premises

📍8. Eco Park (New Town)

Eco Park is a massive urban park in New Town featuring themed gardens, boating lakes, cultural exhibitions, and a replica of the Seven Wonders of the World. A favorite weekend hangout for families and couples, this green escape offers both relaxation and recreation within city limits.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Located in New Town, ~13 km from central Kolkata
🏛️ Places to Visit: Rose Garden, Butterfly Garden, Seven Wonders
📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, Hindi, English
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Both accepted
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Sunglasses, hat, water, picnic mat
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Hotels in New Town; ₹2000–₹3500/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Entry ₹30–₹60; additional cost for boating and activities
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Food court with Bengali and fast food options
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Handicraft shops inside the park
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 4–5 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹3,500–₹4,000 including food and entry fees
🚇 Nearby Transport: App-based cabs, buses from Salt Lake and airport
📸 Photography Tip: Excellent photo ops at the Seven Wonders replica zone

📍9. Rabindra Sarobar

A peaceful oasis amidst the city, Rabindra Sarobar is a large artificial lake surrounded by lush greenery and walking paths. Popular among joggers, nature lovers, and photographers, this area also features cultural halls, open-air theaters, and rowing clubs. Early mornings here are especially tranquil, with the sight of blooming lotuses, migratory birds, and misty water making it a photographer’s dream.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Located in South Kolkata near Dhakuria
🏛️ Places to Visit: The Lake, rowing clubs, Japanese Buddhist temple
📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February, early mornings
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, English
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: No cost for entry; cash for nearby eateries
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Water bottle, camera, mosquito repellent
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Southern Avenue or Ballygunge; ₹2000–₹3500/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Safe; maintain cleanliness
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Puchka, ghugni chaat, momos from roadside stalls
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Nearby Gariahat Market
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 2–3 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹2,000–₹2,500 (transport, food, camera gear)
🚇 Nearby Transport: Metro (Rabindra Sarobar), buses, autos
📸 Photography Tip: Sunrise or sunset around the lake is magical

📍10. Birla Planetarium

One of the largest planetariums in Asia, Birla Planetarium in Kolkata is a must-visit for astronomy lovers. The circular domed structure resembles the Buddhist Stupa at Sanchi and hosts regular shows about planets, stars, galaxies, and cosmic mysteries. The planetarium offers presentations in English, Hindi, and Bengali, making it a hit with tourists and students alike.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Located near Cathedral Road, beside St. Paul’s Cathedral
🏛️ Places to Visit: Planetarium dome, galleries, exhibits
📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, English, Hindi
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Both accepted
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Notepad (for enthusiasts), water
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Park Street or Esplanade; ₹2000–₹3500/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Entry ticket ₹100–₹150; shows in slots
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Rolls from Park Street, pastries from Flurys
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Handicrafts stalls nearby
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 1–2 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹2,500–₹3,000
🚇 Nearby Transport: Metro (Maidan), taxis
📸 Photography Tip: Photos not allowed inside, but great exterior architecture shots

Adv

📍11. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

This iconic riverside temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and located on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River. Built by Rani Rashmoni in the 19th century, the temple is known for its Navaratna-style architecture and spiritual aura. It’s also closely associated with the revered saint Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. The surrounding ghats and the ferry rides add to the experience.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Located ~13 km from central Kolkata; taxis or ferry from Belur
🏛️ Places to Visit: Main temple, 12 Shiva temples, Panchavati garden
📅 Best Time to Visit: Early mornings; avoid festivals if crowd-sensitive
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, Hindi
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Cash only for offerings and prasad
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Puja items, shawl, water bottle
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Dunlop or Baranagar area; ₹1200–₹2000/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Be wary of over-enthusiastic priests
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Temple bhog, jalebis, khichuri
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Religious artifacts, conch shells
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 2–3 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹2,000–₹2,500
🚇 Nearby Transport: Metro (Dakshineswar), ferry, auto
📸 Photography Tip: Beautiful temple silhouette from the riverbank

📍12. Belur Math

Located on the western bank of the Hooghly River, Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission and a serene spiritual center. The temple’s architecture symbolizes the unity of all religions, blending Hindu, Christian, and Islamic styles. The peaceful gardens and river views make it a place of quiet reflection and spiritual learning.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: About 8 km from Dakshineswar or 10 km from central Kolkata
🏛️ Places to Visit: Main temple, Swami Vivekananda’s room, museums
📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March, evenings for arati
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, English
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Mostly free; donations in cash
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Modest clothing, water bottle
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Howrah or Bally; ₹1200–₹2500/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Maintain silence and dress appropriately
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Prasad from canteen, sweets in nearby shops
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Books and souvenirs from mission shop
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 2–3 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹2,000–₹2,500
🚇 Nearby Transport: Ferry from Dakshineswar, buses, taxis
📸 Photography Tip: No photography inside, but lovely shots by the river

📍13. Gariahat Market

Gariahat is one of the best shopping destinations in Kolkata, offering a mix of street-side stalls and branded stores. It’s a shopper’s paradise for traditional sarees, electronics, handicrafts, and inexpensive jewelry. The area is also famous for food joints serving delicious Bengali snacks and sweets.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Located in South Kolkata, easily accessible via Ballygunge or Gariahat crossing
🏛️ Places to Visit: Saree shops, roadside stalls, AC markets
📅 Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for less crowd; evenings for vibrancy
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, Hindi, English
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Both accepted
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Bag for shopping, water bottle
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Ballygunge, Golpark; ₹1500–₹3000/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Watch out for pickpockets
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Kathi rolls, mishti doi, cutlets
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Tangail, Jamdani sarees, terracotta jewelry
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 2–4 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹3,000–₹4,000 (including food + shopping)
🚇 Nearby Transport: Auto, buses, taxis
📸 Photography Tip: Colorful stalls make great street photography subjects

📍14. Alipore Zoological Garden

Established in 1876, Alipore Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in India and houses a wide variety of animals including tigers, elephants, reptiles, and exotic birds. A favorite with kids, it also has a reptile house and an aquarium. Winter is the best time to visit due to the pleasant weather and animal activity.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Located in Alipore, near National Library
🏛️ Places to Visit: Reptile house, tiger enclosures, bird section
📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February
🗣️ Speaking Language: Bengali, Hindi
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Card accepted at ticket counter
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Cap, water, snacks for kids
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: New Alipore; ₹2000–₹3000/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Entry ₹30–₹60; camera fee extra
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Snacks inside the zoo, or street food outside
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Toy and animal-themed gift shops
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 3–4 hours
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹2,500–₹3,000
🚇 Nearby Transport: Buses, taxis, auto
📸 Photography Tip: Use zoom lens for safe animal photography

📍15. St. Paul’s Cathedral

This impressive Anglican cathedral, built in Gothic Revival style, is known for its stained-glass windows, tall spires, and calm interior. Located beside the Birla Planetarium, it offers a place of reflection, prayer, and architectural admiration. During Christmas, the area is beautifully lit and festive.

🔍 Highlights:

🛣️ Route: Cathedral Road, beside Victoria Memorial
🏛️ Places to Visit: Cathedral hall, garden, library
📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February
🗣️ Speaking Language: English
💳 Cash or Card to Carry: Cash donation optional
🎒 Necessary Items to Carry: Water, camera, quiet shoes
🏨 Best Safe Stay Location & Expenses: Park Street; ₹2000–₹3500/night
⚠️ Overall Precautions & Expenses: Dress modestly and maintain silence
🍛 Local Foods to Try: Cakes and bakes at Flurys
🛍️ Shopping Spot & Famous Products: Oxford Bookstore nearby
🕓 Minimum Time Needed: 1 hour
🧳 Average Expenses for 2 Persons: ₹2,000–₹2,500
🚇 Nearby Transport: Metro (Maidan), buses
📸 Photography Tip: Exterior shots during golden hour are stunning

Adv

✅ Overall Travel Precaution Tips for Tourists Visiting Kolkata

🚖 Use trusted local transport: Prefer pre-paid taxis, app-based cabs (Ola/Uber), or metro trains for safety and convenience.
👜 Stay alert in crowded areas: Markets and public places like Gariahat, Esplanade, and New Market may have pickpockets. Keep valuables safe.
💧 Stay hydrated and carry essentials: Kolkata can be humid. Always carry bottled water, sunscreen, light cotton clothing, and an umbrella.
🏥 Emergency contacts: Keep numbers of your hotel, local police, and emergency medical services handy. Pharmacies are easily accessible.
🧍 Dress modestly in religious places: For temples and churches, wear respectful attire and remove shoes when required.
🕓 Plan time wisely: Most attractions close by 5 or 6 PM. Start your day early to explore more.
🧾 Beware of scams: Avoid unauthorized guides and be cautious of inflated prices at touristy spots.
📶 Connectivity: Carry a local SIM or portable Wi-Fi for navigation and communication.
💬 Language basics: Learning a few Bengali words like "Dhonnobad" (Thank you) or "Kothay?" (Where?) helps locals warm up to you.
🧳 Luggage and document safety: Use hotel lockers for storing important documents. Carry scanned copies digitally.

📅 Total Number of Days Needed to Cover All 15 Destinations in Kolkata

To explore all the listed 15 destinations in a comfortable and enjoyable manner, you would ideally need:

🔸 Minimum Duration: 6–7 full days
🔸 This allows 2–3 destinations per day without rushing, including time for food, shopping, and local experiences.

Pro Tip: Add 1 buffer day for rest or to revisit favorite spots, especially if you plan shopping or photography in depth.

🗺️ Ideal Visit Order & Best Way to Explore Kolkata’s 15 Tourist Spots

🔰 Day 1 – Heritage and Colonial Charm (Central Kolkata)

1. Victoria Memorial

2. St. Paul’s Cathedral

3. Indian Museum
🚶 All 3 are within walking distance or a short taxi ride from each other.
📍 Base: Stay near Park Street / Maidan

🌅 Day 2 – Riverfront Views & Culture

4. Prinsep Ghat

5. Howrah Bridge

6. Marble Palace
🛥️ Visit Prinsep Ghat in the morning, Howrah Bridge nearby, and end at Marble Palace.
📍 Base: Esplanade / Bara Bazar area

🌇 Day 3 – Temples and Spiritual Places

7. Dakshineswar Kali Temple

8. Belur Math
🚖 Take a cab or ferry from Dakshineswar to Belur Math (crosses the Hooghly River).
📍 Base: North Kolkata

🛕 Day 4 – Museums & Education

9. Science City

10. Birla Industrial & Technological Museum (BITM)
🚗 Both located on EM Bypass and close to each other.
📍 Base: Ballygunge / Salt Lake area

🌸 Day 5 – Art, Shopping & Food

11. South Park Street Cemetery

12. Kumartuli Artists Village
🛍️ Start with the peaceful cemetery, then explore Kumartuli’s artistry.
📍 Base: Park Circus or Shyambazar

🎭 Day 6 – Markets & Culture

13. College Street (Boipara) & Coffee House

14. New Market & Esplanade Area
📚 Book shopping in College Street, then head for food & fashion at New Market.
📍 Base: Esplanade or Sealdah

🌃 Day 7 – Evening Lights & Relaxation

15. Eco Park (New Town)
🌇 Spend your final evening unwinding in Eco Park with boating, cycle rides & more.
📍 Base: Salt Lake / New Town

✅ Best Way to Explore

🚇 Metro: Use for long routes like Park Street ↔ Dakshineswar, College Street ↔ Esplanade, etc.
🚖 App Cabs (Uber/Ola): Convenient and safe for point-to-point travel.
🛥️ Ferry Ride: Use Hooghly river ferries from Dakshineswar to Belur Math for a scenic option.
🚌 Hop-on Hop-off Bus: Available from certain tourism agencies covering key landmarks.
🏨 Stay Central: Park Street, Esplanade, or Ballygunge for easiest access to most places.

🍽️ Famous Food Points in Kolkata You Must Try

1. Sweets & Mishti Doi (Sweet Curd)

🍬 Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick (Bhowanipore / Ballygunge)
➤ Famous For: Nolen Gur Sandesh, Mishti Doi, Rasgulla, Mango Doi
💰 Price: ₹30–₹80 per piece / cup
⭐ Very hygienic and legendary sweet shop chain in Kolkata
🍮 KC Das (Esplanade)
➤ Famous For: The original Rasgulla, Cham Cham, Rajbhog
💰 Price: ₹25–₹60 per item
🏆 Historic — credited with inventing canned rasgulla
🍯 Mithai (Beck Bagan, Park Circus)
➤ Famous For: Mishti Doi, Sandesh, Kacha Golla
💰 Price: ₹25–₹50 per item
🌟 Fresh and consistent quality

2. 🐟 Fish Curry & Bengali Thali

🐠 6 Ballygunge Place (Ballygunge)
➤ Famous For: Fish curry (Rui, Katla), Ilish Bhapa, Shorshe Maachh
💰 Price: ₹400–₹600 per meal
🍛 Offers buffet and a la carte — perfect for Bengali cuisine tasting
🐟 Bhojohori Manna (Multiple Branches – Esplanade, Gariahat)
➤ Famous For: Fish curry, Pabda Jhol, Doi Ilish, Luchi with Alur Dom
💰 Price: ₹250–₹500 per thali
🥄 Authentic home-style food, very popular with locals
🐚 Oh! Calcutta (Forum Mall)
➤ Famous For: Fish fry, Shorshe Ilish, Chingri Malai Curry
💰 Price: ₹500–₹800 per person
🎖️ Premium Bengali dining experience

3. 🍗 Biryani & Mughlai Food

🍛 Arsalan (Park Circus, Ripon Street)
➤ Famous For: Kolkata Mutton Biryani, Chicken Chaap, Firni
💰 Price: ₹300–₹450 per biryani plate
🧅 Signature Kolkata-style biryani with potato and egg
🍽️ Shiraz Golden Restaurant (Mullick Bazar)
➤ Famous For: Mutton Rezala, Biryani, Chicken Afghani
💰 Price: ₹280–₹400 per plate
🕌 A must-try for Mughlai lovers
🍖 Royal Indian Hotel (Chitpur, Bara Bazar)
➤ Famous For: Heritage mutton biryani, beef chaap
💰 Price: ₹200–₹400
🕰️ One of Kolkata’s oldest Mughlai eateries (since 1905)

4. ☕ Snacks & Street Food

🥪 Paramount Sherbet (College Street)
➤ Famous For: Daab Sherbet, Green Mango Cooler
💰 Price: ₹40–₹80
🍹 Iconic place to cool off while book shopping nearby
🧁 Nahoum’s Bakery (New Market)
➤ Famous For: Fruitcake, Cheese puffs, Brownies
💰 Price: ₹50–₹150 per item
🎄 Legendary Jewish bakery since 1902
🥘 Dacre Street / Office Para (near Esplanade)
➤ Famous For: Street Biryani, Ghugni, Kathi Rolls, Cutlets
💰 Price: ₹30–₹100 per plate
🌆 Office-goers’ food heaven, cheap and fast

🔺 Tip: Try Biryani at Arsalan, Sweets from Balaram Mullick, and a Bengali thali at 6 Ballygunge Place for the ultimate local experience.

💰 Estimated Total Expenses for 2 Persons (All 15 Spots)

Here's an approximate cost breakdown for a couple covering all 15 destinations in 7 days:

✅ Add ₹15,000 buffer to avoid any shortage →
🔺 Total Safe Budget for 2 Persons: ₹45,000 – ₹60,000

💡 You can lower the budget by using metro trains, choosing homestays, or limiting shopping.

🛑 Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is based on publicly available data, personal travel experiences, and local recommendations as of the time of writing. Prices for transportation, food, entry tickets, and accommodations may vary based on season, availability, and ongoing local developments. Travelers are advised to verify all necessary details, including COVID-19 regulations, timings, and safety precautions, before visiting. We are not responsible for any unexpected changes or travel disruptions. Always travel responsibly and respect local cultures and guidelines.

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