The Second City of Empire: A Kolkata Heritage Walking Tour with Private Transfer

Kolkata , India

The Second City of Empire: A Kolkata Heritage Walking Tour with Private Transfer

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About this experience

Once the proud capital of the British Raj (rule), Kolkata today is a unique blend of ancient and new. The city is rich in cultural, literary and religious flavors. Your walking tour concentrates on what was White Town in Old Kolkata. White Town was centered on Lal Dighi, a water tank which provided drinking water to the area. It is the oldest square in the city. Some of the city’s earliest and grandest buildings are located in this square. These impressive edifices are still in use, providing a glimpse of Kolkata’s British colonial grandeur and influence. A walk through this area tells the story of the growth of this important British outpost, from its early years to modern days.
NOTE: (Expect More People on Ground / Monuments / Public Places During the Tour). You will have Private tour Guide during the Sightseeing Tour.

Available options

1-8 Travelers

Price per person for 1-8 travelers<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional guide

Bottled water

Transport by air-conditioned Vehicle

Round-trip private transfer

Detailed itinerary

You will be transferred to the Lalit Great Eastern Hotel, where your guided walk commences. Lal Dighi, the small rectangular water tank is at the heart of Colonial Kolkata. Its British name became Dalhousie Square after Lord Dalhousie who ruled India from 1848 to 1856. Today it is named BBD Bagh after three Indian Nationalists fighting for an independent India.

St. Andrew’s church is a simple looking white church with a tall spire, Kolkata’s first and only Scottish church. It was built in 1818, when the Scottish exercised considerable influence.

Next is the Kolkata Collectorate Building which was built in 1890. Today it is the office of the Commissioner of the Presidency Division of Kolkata. Further down, the General Post Office stands out with its sparkling white color and its big dome, impossible to miss.

Then you will see the Secretariat or Writer's Building, which is the best known building in the BBD Bagh area of Kolkata. This deep red building stretches across the northern edge of Lal Dighi. Writer’s building once was the office of the clerical and administrative staff of the famous British East India Company. It is now the West Bengal State Secretariat. The building dates back to 1777.

Next to it is the Royal Insurance Building dating back to 1905. The size and facade of the building indicate the wealth of insurance companies before Independence. During colonial times Indians were not allowed to purchase insurance. Next on our walk is Metcalfe Hall. This building draws its inspiration from traditional, ancient Greek architecture. Tall Greek pillars are the easy giveaway. Built around 1840, it was home to the Imperial Library of Calcutta, which later became the National Library of India. Currently, it houses the library of the Asiatic Society. Onward you reach the Town Hall, a public building built in 1814 for public functions. It is now managed by Kolkata Corporation and houses painting exhibitions. Having enjoyed this overview of Kolkata’s early days, you will be driven back to your hotel.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

We will pick up traveler from their hotels / fixed point within city center.

Important notes

• Please note: entrance tickets and transport included. This voucher will not be accepted if presented directly at the venue.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

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