Kolkata walking tour & city guide
India's cultural capital of colonial grandeur.
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Kolkata, formerly Calcutta, was the capital of British India until 1911. It is a city of grand colonial buildings, yellow taxis, trams, bookshops and a passionate love of art, literature and food.
Colonial Kolkata
The white marble Victoria Memorial stands in gardens near the Maidan, a huge park. St Paul's Cathedral and the Writers' Building recall the British era. Park Street is the city's dining and nightlife street.
The river and markets
The Howrah Bridge, one of the busiest bridges in the world, crosses the Hooghly River. Beneath it, the Mullick Ghat flower market is a riot of marigolds. College Street is famous for its bookstalls and the historic Indian Coffee House.
A day in Kolkata
Start at the Victoria Memorial, a white marble building with gardens, then walk around the colonial buildings of BBD Bagh. Cross the Howrah Bridge on foot and visit the Mullick Ghat flower market below it, a riot of marigolds.
In the afternoon, look out for the city's historic trams, a symbol of old Calcutta, or visit Kumartuli, where craftsmen make clay idols for festivals. End at Park Street for dinner and live music.
Good to know
Kolkata is India's cultural capital, home of Tagore and the Bengali film industry. Durga Puja in autumn is the city's biggest festival, when thousands of decorated pandals appear.
Yellow taxis and the metro are easy to use. Do not leave without trying rosogolla and mishti doi.
Top sights in Kolkata
- 1
Victoria Memorial
A marble memorial and museum.
- 2
Howrah Bridge
A giant cantilever bridge.
- 3
Mullick Ghat Flower Market
A colorful flower market.
- 4
College Street
Book stalls and coffee house.
- 5
Dakshineswar Kali Temple
A famous riverside temple.
Food markets & where to eat in Kolkata
Park Street
Historic restaurants and bakeries.
New Market
A Victorian market with sweets.
Street stalls
Kathi rolls and phuchka.
Food to try in Kolkata
Rosogolla
Syrupy cheese balls, born in Bengal.
Kathi roll
A paratha wrap invented in Kolkata.
Machher jhol
A Bengali fish curry.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Kolkata
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in KolkataCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Kolkata.
- eSIM for IndiaStay online from the moment you land.
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