Kolkata: Full-Day Spirituality & Temples Tour

Kolkata , India

Kolkata: Full-Day Spirituality & Temples Tour

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About this experience

Explore Kolkata, the second largest city of India, its rich cultural and spiritual past in this full day tour of the city which takes you to some of the oldest temples, churches, and synagogues representing the beautiful culmination of different religions.

Available options

Includes Pick-up and drop-off

Includes Pick-up and drop-off<br/>Pickup included

What's included

All parking, tolls, driver allowances, fuel and taxes.

English speaking professional licensed guide

Hotel Pick & Drop

Transportation in Air Conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Start your day at around 8:00 in the morning with your guide picking you up from your hotel. The first stop on the tour is the Dakshineshwar temple, one of the most revered temples of Kolkata dedicated to goddess Kali. This 18th-century temple is an architectural marvel with a height of 100 ft and a massive courtyard

Stop 2

The second spot on the itinerary is the Belur Math temple which is separated from the earlier one by river Ganga. Take a fun ferry ride like a local to reach this site which attracts people of a different faith from across the world! The temple is a place for pilgrimage for people of different religious faith and exudes a sense of peace like nowhere else!

After this, take the ferry back to reach your car and head towards your next destination, the Magen David Synagogue. One of the largest synagogues around Asia and an important site tracing the origin of Jews in Kolkata, the place will have you swooning with its architecture and the intricacies.

Next on the line is the pristine and utterly stunning Parasnath Digambar Jain temple. One of the most revered shrines for people of Jainism faith, this temple has a scenic appearance to itself with beautiful garden decorated with glass mosaics and silver European styled deities. Don’t forget to see the lamp which has been perpetually burning since the inception of the temple, i.e 1867!

Stop 5

Before proceeding to your last stop, stop for a hearty Bengali lunch (at your own expense) at one of the best-known local restaurants and once you’re through proceed further to your last stop at the St John’s Church. One of the first few buildings erected by the East India Company, the Church is also called as the Stone Church built in the Neoclassical architectural style with its interiors decorated with beautiful wood carvings and marble bass relief work. The Church also holds many important memorials including Job Charnock, the founder of Kolkata. End your tour with a flavoursome masala chai in earthen cups with your guide before the driver drops you back at your hotel

Stop 6

Travel further, to the next destination, the Kalighat temple. One of the 52 Shakti peeths (places where the various parts of Sati's body are believed to have fallen, in the course of Shiva's Rudra Tandava) of India. An extremely important pilgrimage site this temple is dedicated to goddess Kali and attracts a huge number of devotees around the year. Explore this site as your guide acquaints yours further with Hindu mythology.

What's not included

Gratuities (recommended).

Entry tickets to the monuments.

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

9 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Shoes must be removed at places of worship, Knees and shoulders must be covered at all places of worship.

About Kolkata

Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, colonial architecture, and intellectual legacy. It is a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity, offering a unique experience to its visitors.

Top Attractions

Victoria Memorial

A stunning white marble monument dedicated to Queen Victoria, the Victoria Memorial is a symbol of Kolkata's colonial past. It houses a museum with a rich collection of artifacts.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours INR 20-100

Howrah Bridge

One of the busiest cantilever bridges in the world, the Howrah Bridge offers stunning views of the Hooghly River and the city skyline.

Architecture/Historical 1-2 hours Free

Indian Museum

The largest and oldest museum in India, the Indian Museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including ancient sculptures, fossils, and rare coins.

Museum 2-3 hours INR 20-50

Belur Math

A serene and spiritual destination, Belur Math is the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Mission. It is known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil atmosphere.

Religious/Architecture 2-3 hours Free

Eden Gardens

One of the largest and oldest cricket stadiums in India, Eden Gardens is a must-visit for cricket enthusiasts. It is also a beautiful park with lush greenery and a peaceful ambiance.

Nature 1-2 hours INR 10-100 (depending on the event)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rasgulla

A popular Bengali sweet made from chenna (fresh cheese curds) and soaked in sugar syrup. It is soft, spongy, and has a distinct flavor.

Dessert Vegetarian

Rolla

A sweet roll made from chenna, similar to rasgulla but rolled into a cylindrical shape and coated with coconut shavings. It is a popular sweet during festivals.

Dessert Vegetarian

Sandesh

A sweet made from chenna and flavored with various ingredients like pistachios, coconut, or rose water. It is a popular sweet in Bengal and comes in various shapes and sizes.

Dessert Vegetarian

Machher Jhol

A traditional Bengali fish curry made with fresh fish, potatoes, and a variety of spices. It is usually served with rice and is a staple in Bengali cuisine.

Main Course Contains fish

Popular Activities

Boat safaris in the Sundarbans Trekking in the Eastern Himalayas Parasailing at the Ganges River Spa treatments at luxury hotels Yoga and meditation classes Strolling through the gardens of Belur Math Visiting the museums and art galleries Attending classical music and dance performances

Best Time to Visit

October to February

This is the best time to visit Kolkata as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The city hosts several festivals during this period, including the famous Durga Puja.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Bengali
Widely spoken: English, Hindi
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and among the educated population

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Kolkata is generally safe for travelers, but it is advisable to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and at night. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, so it is important to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable transportation services
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport • 17 km from city center

By train

Howrah Junction, Sealdah Station

By bus

Esplanade Bus Terminus, Karunamoyee Bus Terminus

Getting around

Public transport

The Kolkata Metro is the oldest underground metro system in India. It is efficient and covers most parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Park Street New Market Ballygunge Chowringhee

Day trips

Sundarbans National Park

100 km from Kolkata • Full day to overnight

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sundarbans National Park is the largest mangrove forest in the world and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger.

Dakshineswar Temple

20 km from Kolkata • Half day

A famous Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali, the Dakshineswar Temple is known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance.

Shantiniketan

160 km from Kolkata • Full day

A small town known for its rich cultural heritage and as the former home of the famous poet Rabindranath Tagore. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its unique architecture, art, and music.

Festivals

Durga Puja • September/October (dates vary each year) Kolkata International Film Festival • November/December (dates vary each year) Christmas • December 25

Pro tips

Visit the Victoria Memorial early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the beautiful gardens
Try the local street food, such as puchka (pani puri) and jhalmuri (spicy puffed rice), for an authentic culinary experience
Explore the city's vibrant nightlife in areas like Park Street and New Market, but be cautious of your surroundings and belongings
Use the metro for efficient and affordable transportation, especially during peak hours
Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak seasons and festivals, such as Durga Puja