A Private Morning Walk Through Kolkata's Markets

Kolkata , India

A Private Morning Walk Through Kolkata's Markets

Active

6h - 7h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

An early morning visit to the open air markets of Kolkata gives you an insight into the Bazaar culture of this prominent place, once the headquarters of British colonial power. You and your professional local guide will visit the amazing stalls of the colorful open-air markets. You can interact with merchants and learn about daily life of sellers and buyers during your walk. You'll make stops at Burra Bazaar and College Street, where you'll have the chance to view and purchase textiles, handicrafts, keepsakes, books and a multitude of other items.

Highlights
• Spice Market
• Fruit market at Machua
• Burra Bazaar
• Boi Para Book Market

Available options

1-8 Travelers

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

What's included

Local English-speaking guide

Hotel pickup and drop-off within city center

02 Bottles of Mineral water per person

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle to be used within city

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

You will be picked up from your hotel in the city center, meet your professional guide and head towards your Kolkata morning bazaar adventure. Primary stops will be the Spice Market where you will enjoy finding the key ingredients of the Indian cuisine. Continue further to the wholesale fruit market at Machua, loaded with crisp organic fruits.

After this, you will explore Burra Bazaar, meaning “big market” in English. Your guide will share the history of this old market, exhibiting the best in Kolkata.

Continue to College Street for its books and known to be one of Asia's biggest book markets. The market is called Boi Para (Book Market) in the local dialect.

Then on to Kumortuli, where you will find potters. You will witness specialists making many clay idols by hand. Your guide will share the traditional significance of these items made from clay.

Enjoy eating lunch at a local restaurant. (at own expense).

After lunch you will be driven back to your hotel within city center.

What's not included

Gratuities

Food and drinks, unless specified

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Consider wearing comfortable clothes and walking shoes.

Tour does not operate on Sunday

Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

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

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

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