Kolkata - A Sea of Faces and A Thousand Places (local guide)

Kolkata , India

Kolkata - A Sea of Faces and A Thousand Places (local guide)

Active

(52 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take this tour to get local in one day!
Discover Kolkata with our innovative tour that takes you on a cinematic journey to witness her different shades, to learn how she has evolved into what we know as 'The City of Joy'.
This tour is curated by drawing inspiration from filmmaking, a completely new style of walking tours which we call 'Cinematic Tours'. We personify Kolkata for you to connect with her on a personal level. This tour is based off of a story which we refer to as 'The Script', the locations selected are based on the story-line and the guide plays the role of a narrator weaving a real-time storyboard.
This experience will give you a proper orientation of Kolkata so that you feel confident to be by yourself and feel like a local.

Available options

Kolkata Immersive Private Tour

Snacks<br/>Private <br/>Pickup included

Immersive Small group Tour

Duration: 6 hours<br/>Pickup included

What's included

WiFi on board

Detailed itinerary

Begin your journey with an orientation beside a beautiful lake in a modern South Kolkata locality. In this area we shall explore the life of Modern Kolkata or as we like to say, '21st Century Ms. South Kolkata'.

We arrive at the business district of Kolkata. This is where we discover the 'Victorian Calcutta' to understand the British Advent and witness some of the best heritage masterpieces of the city . Stop at a famous food lane for a traditional Bengali breakfast or light snacks while observing the present office culture

Stop 3

We walk through the largest wholesale market of India. Kolkata is a trading city, this place is the best part to understand the depth of trading.

Stop 4 Pass by

We follow the fascinating trade tail from White Town to Grey Town in a tuk tuk passing by the oldest china town and synagogues and hearing tales from the past while observing the present day hustle

Stop 5

We arrive at the college town aka the intellectual hub of Kolkata. Walk through the lanes of revolution where sparks of the freedom movement first ignited. This area also has a famous book market. You'll get any book that you can name. It is said that if you don't find a book here it probably doesn't exist. Also we stop by at the most famous café of Kolkata, 'The Indian coffee house'.

Stop 6

We arrive at the 'Black Town'. Explore 300 year old neighbourhoods, explore the famous pottery locality also known as 'Kumortuli', witness Bengali aristocracy and find various buildings lost in time and people simply living their lives. A special visit to a secret gym built by resistant fighters of the freedom era and a famous sculpture's studio.

Stop 7 Pass by

We travel back to the present in a ferry which passes under the Howrah Bridge.

We get off the ferry, catch the iconic yellow cab and take a ride to our ending point which goes through the posh localities of The 'White Town' which includes Victoria Memorial.

What's not included

Please carry Rs. 500 minimum for food and travel

Air-conditioned vehicle

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

5 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

47 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If you have a request for pick up from any specific location please call on +91 9073480087

For directions, call on +91 9073480087

Meeting point

You can find the meeting point on Google Maps.

Important notes

If you have a request for pick up from any specific location please call on +91 9073480087

For directions, call on +91 9073480087

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