Kolkata Tour Package

The 330th anniversary of a city with a distinct cultural identity will be celebrated in 2020. Kolkata's history as a British town, known to the British as Calcutta, began in 1690 with the foundation of a trade station thereby Job Charnock, an agent of the English East India Company. In the nineteenth century, it expanded fast to become the second-largest metropolis in the British Indian Empire.

Kolkata's history and culture

Kolkata is undoubtedly India's most prominent cultural center. The city is the cradle of contemporary Indian literary and creative ideas, as well as Indian nationalism, and its residents have worked hard to preserve Indian culture and civilization.

Kolkata's previous name Calcutta

Kolkata was traditionally referred to as Kolkata in Bengali, a name derived from one of the three villages claimed to have given rise to the contemporary metropolis of Kolkata. However, the British referred to it as Calcutta. The rent-roll of Akbar, the Mughal emperor of the 16th century, and the work of a Bengali poet, Bipradas Pipilai, of the late 15th century, both indicate the city's early name as Kolkata, from which Kolkata/Calcutta come.

There is a long sequence of occurrences.

The East India Company's agents initially visited Bengal and Bihar for commerce during the reign of Ibrahim Khan (about 1617–1624), the Subahdar (governor) of Bengal under the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir. The first factory was founded at Surat in 1620, followed by Agra, and agents were dispatched from these locations to the eastern provinces to investigate the possibilities of establishing factories there. However, the shipping and logistical expenses proved prohibitive, and the concept was scrapped. In January 1644, the Emperor's daughter was seriously burned, and a doctor called Gabriel Boughton, previously the surgeon of the East Indiaman Hopewell, was dispatched from Surat to cure her.

He was successful and was granted permission by Emperor Shah Jahan to construct a plant at Pipili, Odisha. This was the first time that English ships landed at an eastern port. In exchange, the company was allowed to establish factories in Balasore, Odia, Hooghly, Bengal, as well as Pipili. The East India Company was established in Bengal in 1665 and their saltpeter trade was disrupted by a rival English company. In 1685 the company requested King James II to permit the use of force against the Emperor's army. Admiral Nicholson was sent with ships to attack the port at Chittagong, fortify it and collect revenue. English Admiral Shaista Khan sent a large force to drive out the English from Hooghly in an attempt to restore Firman to Mr. Charnock's saltpeter factory in Chittagong. However, the plan went awry and the admiral burnt down 500 houses and damaged about 30 lacs of rupees' worth of property. The English were forced to move downstream to Sutanuti, a small hamlet on the banks of the river Hooghly. At this time their ships in Bengal required extensive repairs and the remainder of their fleet were considered in danger. On August 16, 1687, Shaista Khan and Charnock signed a peace deal. Emperor Aurangzeb desired to reconcile with the Company to ensure that pilgrims may go to Mecca without interruption. While they were unable to confront the Governor's men, two Company agents were dispatched to Dhaka to petition the governor for permission to return to Sutanuti and construct a fort there.

Why will you love Kolkata?

Kolkata city's old-world charm, beauty, culture, and legacy captivate everyone who visits. Kolkata provides a welcome respite from the fast-paced and hectic lifestyles of other Indian metropolises. She is not your average city; she is the city of joy, in fact, THE city of joy. Kolkata has a long culinary legacy that every foodie should sample at least once. Kolkata is one of India's best cities for sampling wonderful food, with delicious street food, exquisite Bengali sweets and desserts, ancient Indo-Chinese restaurants, and a range of renowned eateries.

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Kolkata is a melting pot of religions and races. Museums, planetariums, libraries, cricket fields, football stadiums, and several religious sites may be found. There are amusement parks, nightclubs, and other forms of entertainment for people of various ages. Kolkata has long been recognized as India's cultural center. Kolkata, West Bengal's capital, came out on top. It was ranked first owing to its numerous economic benefits. It has a $150 million GDP and is seeing rapid growth in a variety of industries, including pharmaceuticals, textiles, agriculture, and food processing.

5 Historical Monuments in Kolkata

Queen Victoria Memorial

Victoria Memorial, one of Kolkata's most renowned tourist sites, is also a historical landmark. It was created in remembrance of Queen Victoria by the Prince of Wales in 1906. Victoria Memorial Hall is a historical site as well as one of Kolkata's best art museums. Aside from being a monument, the hall also commemorates the British Empire's triumph in India. The design is a lovely mix of British and Mughal features. It is enormous and boasts stunning gardens spanning 64 acres.

Dakshineswar Kali Temple

Another well-known location is the Dakshineshwar Kali Temple. It is devoted to the reincarnation of Goddess Kali, Bhavatarani, and is located on the eastern banks of the Hooghly River. People sincerely think that the goddess aids them in their journey to emancipation and redemption. The monument is constructed in a traditional Nava-Ratna style that is both massive and pleasantly enigmatic. Rani Rashmoni, a well-known bastion of feminine fortitude in the mid-nineteenth century, built the shrine in 1847.

The town of Fort William

Fort William, on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, is another historical site in Kolkata. Fort William's most notable feature is its octagonal design, which allows it to face the Ganga on three sides. The fort's remaining five sides are surrounded by lovely green gardens. Plassey Gate is a vast arcade with six entrance points in the fort: Chowringhee, Plassey Calcutta, Water Gate, St. Georges, and the Treasury Gate. Visit Fort William and learn about the history of this historic site.

Writer's Residence

The building's construction began in 1690, and its name was derived from the fact that it was the house of the East India Company's junior authors. This historical structure, also known as 'Mahakaran,' is where the West Bengal Government's crucial documents and other records are meticulously stored.

The Palace of Marble

The name Marble Palace is self-explanatory, evoking the palace's opulent grandeur. It is one of Kolkata's most historically significant attractions. This regal structure is widely visited by both Indians and foreign tourists. It will undoubtedly captivate your attention and wow you with all of the interesting features it has to offer. Don't miss the zoo, the pool, the beautiful garden, and the pure lake.

What are the top 10 fascinations to visit in Kolkata?

Howrah Bridge, Kolkata

It would be an understatement to say that Howrah Bridge is one of the best spots to see in Kolkata. Howrah Bridge, an unofficial symbol of the city, is worth a visit if you want to spend some time alone with only the ocean in front of you. Sit here in quiet or simply watch the fisherman at work at dawn and twilight.

Park Street, Kolkata

If you enjoy uploading images of breakfasts with your besties, Park Street is the place to be. Because this area contains the most photogenic cafés and eateries! Park Street has become a gathering place for those who wish to unwind in the evening. This town has everything, from high-end restaurants to legendary clubs and bars.

New Market, Kolkata

New Market, which was built by the British in 1874, is where all the shopaholics go to purchase the greatest of clothing, jewelry, and other stuff. The market is a tangle of booths with over 2000 of them, making it one of the locations to visit in Kolkata for young people. This market is ideal for bargain hunters and those with a keen eye for merchandise.

Alipore Zoo, Kolkata

The Alipore Zoo is a famous tourist destination in Kolkata, especially among families with children. The country's oldest zoo houses a diverse collection of animals, birds, and reptiles. Here you may see the one-horned rhinoceros, white tigers, zebras, Swinhoe's Pheasant, and a variety of migrating species.

Kumortuli, Kolkata

Durga Pujo is undoubtedly one of the most colorful and lavish festivities in Kolkata. This event takes place on a big scale, with everything from the pandals to the delectable cuisine served on the last day lasting ten days. While viewing the magnificence of this celebration in the city should be on everyone's bucket list, if you are more creative, we propose going to Kumortuli and watching how the Durga idols are produced. A potter's community that dates back roughly 300 years, the area comes alive in the weeks leading up to the festival. Over 150 families live in the region and work tirelessly to create all of the festival idols. You may stroll around the area.

Babu Ghat, Kolkata

Babu Ghat is one of Kolkata's most renowned tourist attractions, with a stunning view of the Howrah Bridge. It's great for photographers, and you should go before it becomes too crowded.

College Street, Kolkata

There is no better spot in Kolkata to shop for books than College Street. College Street, one of the best locations to visit in Kolkata for young people, is similar to Daryaganj in Delhi, with the exception that it is open seven days a week.
College Street has everything from classroom materials to secondhand novels. Remember to haggle and wear comfortable clothing and footwear.

South Park Cemetery, Kolkata

The British founded India's South Park Cemetery in 1767, and it is a vestige of their architectural style. Take a trip through the cemetery during the day and you'll find enough to appreciate. The place is locked at night and the entrance is restricted because of strange events that have occurred in the past.

Old Chinatown, Kolkata

This is India's sole Chinatown, and it is a refuge for anyone who wishes to sample the flavors of this Asian country. After Chinese businessmen who came to work in the ports lived here, the area developed. While the area has lost its originality, some booths continue to provide real Chinese appetizers such as pork sausage, prawn crackers, momos, and fish ball soup.

M.P. Birla Planetarium, Kolkata

The grandiose Birla Planetarium must be included on any list of sites to see in Kolkata. The planetarium, which was inaugurated in 1963 by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, features exhibition sections, various galleries, a library, and a highly magnificent theatre room with high-end projection screens. It is an excellent location for teaching youngsters about astronomy.

Tip for those who are going on a Kolkata tour       

Despite Kolkata (aka Calcutta) being once the capital city of India, the thought of visiting Kolkata always intimidated me.  From other travelers and Indians, I’d talked to,  I got the impression it must’ve been the armpit of India~ poverty and disease-ridden, old, crumbling… Hence, it took my third trip to muster the courage to make it to India’s former capital. The moment my airport taxi hit the road, I immediately sensed I’d like… no, love this charming, historical, and utterly unique city! Delhi and Mumbai fell in my eyes; Kolkata beat them with its charm, friendliness, and an old colonial character, completely reframing my experience of an Indian city. 

I experienced Kolkata culture shock but it was not what I expected. If you ask me about all the cities I’ve visited, Kolkata is one of my top Indian gems and a city worth spending time in! Please be cautious of too nice taxi drivers while arriving at the airport or railway station. I'm not saying they're nasty people, but they'll normally try to extort a higher amount for cab price, especially if you're a foreign visitor. I recommend that you go to the prepaid counter at the airport or train station and take a cab to your hotel or lodging. At other times, request that the yellow cab drivers use the meter. Take it easy when it comes to street food. If you are not careful, you may get a gastrointestinal condition. Also, keep an eye on the water you consume. Don't consume water from any source, especially the tap.

 Where to stay in Kolkata

Sudder Street – The main backpacker area of the city, where there’s always action, is Sudder Street. You’ll find plenty of accommodation options on and around Sudder street ranging from about 300 INR to 2,000 INR per night. Afridi International Guest House – Recommended by my friend Wandering Earl, I stayed at the Afridi International Guest House. Though it’s located right between Sudder street and the New Market, it’s positioned on a small side lane so it’s quite quiet and provides a good home base while you’re in Kolkata. Also, while I was staying there, they opened a brand new additional branch to the guest house. They offer everything from private en-suite double rooms to older rooms with shared bathrooms. I paid 350 INR per night for a double room with a shared toilet, quite a deal!
Broadway Hotel – Broadway Hotel in Kolkata is a historical classic and a great place to stay. The rooms are spacious, comfortable, and clean.

• Nizam's - Nizam's is a restaurant in Nizam's Nizam's is Kolkata's Karim's (renowned Delhi restaurant). It's located in the New Market neighborhood (across the street from Old Market, to be exact). It's one of the city's oldest and most well-known eateries, and it's well recognized for creating the Kati roll (see Kusum rolls below). The rest of their cuisine was likewise quite tasty. The curries, kebabs, and fluffy naan are all worth trying.
• Kusum Rolls - A booth called Kusum Rolls is located just off a small alley off Park Street and sells unbelievably delicious Kolkata Kati rolls. Before adding spicy chicken or mutton, onions, and chilies, a piece of dough is flattened into a paratha and cooked in oil. It's been twisted up into a greasy pleasure. There are several options available.
• Bhojpuri Manna - Kolkata is located in the Indian state of West Bengal, hence there are no doubt various eateries providing delicious Bengali cuisine. One of my favorites was Bhojohori Manna. Order the crab curry as well as the mother ghonto (curried banana flower)
• At lunchtime, Deckers Lane (James Hickey Sarani) offers a tempting array of Kolkata street cuisine, ranging from nibbles to substantial meals of rice and curry.
• Sher-e Punjab — There are several sites across Kolkata, but the one on AJC Bose Road is where I ate a few times. The restaurant focuses on takeout, however, there are a few seats available for you to sit and enjoy some delicious North Indian and Indian Chinese cuisine.

How to get it?

By Air

Kolkata is located in West Bengal in the eastern part of India. Kolkata has an international airport (Netaji Subhash Chandra International Airport). The distance of Kolkata airport from Esplanade (considered to be almost in the heart of the city) is about 16 km.
Otherwise, Kolkata is well connected with other cities of India by flights all through the day.

By ROAD

I would not suggest traveling by bus if the distance is more than 200 km. nevertheless, buses are available to Kolkata from the neighboring towns.

By Train

India has an extensive railway network and one can travel anywhere in India by train. Kolkata has 3 important railway stations – Howrah, Sealdah, and Kolkata Terminus, Howrah Station being the busiest of all. All the three stations are well connected by trains from almost all the parts of India.

Rental cars services in Kolkata

If you are planning to travel for holiday or on a business trip, renting a car is always a great idea. This helps make your traveling convenient, fast, and also cost-effective. However, there are some dos and don'ts of car rental which you should know before commencing your trip. Below are some of these do’s and don’ts to help you go about your car rental successfully:
Compare car rental prices: Before you reserve a rental car from one company, always take time to compare car rental prices. You can use a car rental marketplace such as travelauto.com to find suitable rental cars and compare prices from different rental companies. This will help you find the best deals in the market. A tiny car will suffice if you are traveling alone or on a budget, but if you are traveling with a group, a large SUV or sedan would be an excellent choice. Do not put off making your reservation until the last minute. Instead, reserve your automobile online and early to take advantage of lower car rental rates.

Kolkata Important instructions when you rent your car 

How to Rent a Car: A Step-By-Step Process

1. Have a valid driver's license. You can't rent a car unless you have a valid, unexpired driver's license. ...
2. Verify age restrictions. ...
3. Pick a rental car company. ...
4. Select the vehicle of your choice. ...
5. Have a valid form of payment. ...
6. Return your vehicle on time.

Necessary document required for renting a car

To rent a car, you need the following: A valid driver's license (which must have been in your possession for at least 1 year); A valid form of identification (ID card or passport); A credit card (with an expiration date of at least 3 months after the return date of your car)          

What do they ask for when you rent a car?

Bring your ID, credit card, and confirmation number.

The rental car company will ask to see your driver's license and credit card. And whether you'll be picking up at the counter or a booth dedicated to the rental car company's loyalty program, it's always safer to have the rental confirmation handy.