West Bengal
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3 Days in Kolkata for an Active Getaway
Kolkata isn't just about history and culture—it's a city that gets your heart pumping if you know where to look. I've spent years discovering its hidden adrenaline rushes, from early morning boat rides to late-night street food crawls. This itinerary mixes must-see spots with offbeat thrills.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Kolkata
Kick off your Kolkata trip with its most iconic landmarks and flavors, from colonial history to bustling markets and legendary sweets.
Activities
Victoria Memorial & Maidan Walk
Start your day at Kolkata's grand white marble monument, the Victoria Memorial, built in memory of Queen Victoria. Wander through the galleries showcasing colonial-era artifacts, then stroll through the surrounding Maidan, Kolkata's sprawling green lung. Early mornings are peaceful here, with locals practicing yoga and kids playing cricket.
- Carry sunglasses - the white marble reflects sunlight intensely
- Hire a guide near the entrance for fascinating backstories
New Market & Tiretti Bazaar
Dive into Kolkata's chaotic shopping heart at New Market (officially Hogg Market), where you'll find everything from spices to souvenirs. Then head to nearby Tiretti Bazaar for a unique breakfast experience - this Chinese quarter comes alive at dawn with steaming baskets of dumplings and pork buns, a legacy of Kolkata's Chinese community.
- Try kathi rolls at Nizam's near New Market
- Carry small change for street vendors
Howrah Bridge & Evening Ghats
As dusk falls, walk across the iconic Howrah Bridge, feeling the pulse of the city with countless commuters. Then head to Prinsep Ghat or Babughat to watch the Hooghly River turn golden during sunset. Local ferries offer short rides if you want to get on the water.
- Try roadside chai from clay cups (kulhad) near the ghats
- Watch for the flower sellers - their displays are photogenic
Must Try Foods
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Day 2
Day 2 in Kolkata
Dive deeper into Kolkata's rich history and vibrant culture, exploring iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and indulging in the city's famous sweets.
Activities
Indian Museum & Park Street
Start your day at the Indian Museum, the oldest and largest museum in India, showcasing fascinating artifacts from ancient sculptures to Mughal paintings. After soaking in history, take a short walk to Park Street, Kolkata's iconic boulevard lined with colonial-era buildings, bookstores, and charming cafes. Grab a coffee at Flurys, a legendary 90-year-old bakery.
- Check the museum's gallery closures in advance as some sections may be under renovation.
- Park Street comes alive in the evening, but mornings are perfect for a quiet stroll.
Kumartuli & Marble Palace
Head to Kumartuli, the traditional potters' quarter where skilled artisans craft stunning clay idols, especially during Durga Puja. Witness the intricate process of idol-making. Then, visit the opulent Marble Palace, a 19th-century mansion filled with European sculptures, vintage clocks, and a private zoo (advance permission required).
- Respect the artisans' workspace in Kumartuli—ask before taking photos.
- Marble Palace requires prior permission from the West Bengal Tourism office; plan ahead.
Princep Ghat Sunset & Sweet Treats
Wind down at Princep Ghat along the Hooghly River, a serene spot with colonial-era architecture. Watch the sunset while locals enjoy boat rides. Then, satisfy your sweet tooth at Balaram Mullick & Radharaman Mullick, a century-old sweet shop famous for its rosogolla, sandesh, and mishti doi.
- Try the 'nolen gur' (date palm jaggery) sweets during winter—they're a seasonal delicacy.
- Avoid weekends at Princep Ghat if you prefer a quieter experience.
Must Try Foods
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Day 3
Hidden Gems of Kolkata
A relaxed day exploring lesser-known spots and local favorites, from historic neighborhoods to quirky cafes and vibrant markets.
Activities
Chor Bazaar & Boipara
Start your day at Kolkata's famous 'Thieves Market' (Chor Bazaar), a chaotic but fascinating place where you can find everything from vintage books to antique curios. Then head to College Street (Boipara), the world's largest second-hand book market. Wander through rows of stalls and hole-in-the-wall shops—you might stumble upon rare Bengali literature or old English classics.
- Bargain hard at Chor Bazaar—start at 30% of quoted price
- Try the street-side 'koraishutir kochuri' (pea-stuffed fried bread) near Coffee House
Jorasanko Thakur Bari & North Kolkata Walk
Visit Rabindranath Tagore's ancestral home, now a museum filled with his paintings, manuscripts, and personal artifacts. Then take a slow walk through the old North Kolkata neighborhoods—peek into crumbling mansions, spot hidden terracotta temples, and watch locals play carrom on the sidewalks.
- Look for the 'Black Room' where Tagore passed away
- Stop by Putiram Sweets for their legendary 'shor bhaja' (fried cottage cheese)
Sunset at Rabindra Sarobar
End your day at this serene lake, far from the city chaos. Rent a paddleboat, watch migratory birds, or just sit by the water as local musicians practice Rabindra Sangeet. The golden light filtering through the rain trees makes it magical.
- Weekdays are quieter than weekends
- Try 'tele bhaja' (local fritters) from lakeside vendors