Start your trip by exploring the colonial heritage of Kolkata by visiting the Victoria Memorial Hall, a grand marble building reminiscent of Buckingham Palace. Next, head to see the iconic Howrah Bridge, an engineering marvel and a symbol of Kolkata. End your day by taking a walk through the St. Paul's Cathedral, an Anglican cathedral that boasts of impressive Gothic architecture.
Start the day by visiting the Kumortuli, the traditional potters' quarter, known for its clay idols of Hindu gods and goddesses. Head next to the Indian Museum, one of the oldest museums in the world, for a glimpse of art and artifacts from Indian history. In the evening, savor the local cuisine and experience the vibrant nightlife of Kolkata at the Park Street.
Start your day by visiting the famous Kali Temple at Kalighat, one of the most sacred temples dedicated to the goddess Kali. Next, explore the colorful New Market, a shopper's paradise that offers a wide range of goods, from clothes to electronics. End your day by visiting the Belur Math, a serene temple complex that serves as the headquarters of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission.
Begin your day by visiting the Birla Industrial & Technological Museum, a science museum that showcases scientific and technological progress made in India. Next, explore the Academy of Fine Arts, a gallery that houses a rich collection of art from Indian and international artists. End your day by visiting the Birla Mandir, one of the most famous Hindu temples in the city.
Start your day by visiting the Alipore Zoological Gardens, the oldest zoological garden in India, that houses a diverse range of flora and fauna from across the globe. Next, head to the Botanical Gardens, home to one of the world's largest banyan trees and a vast array of rare plants. End your day by visiting the Fort William, an 18th-century fort, that houses the Indian Army's Eastern Command headquarters.
Spend your last day by taking a day trip to the nearby town of Serampore. Here, you can visit the Dutch Cemetery, an old and picturesque burial ground, and the Hooghly Imambara, a religious shrine that embodies the culture and history of the region. Take a stroll by the river and taste the famous sweet delicacies of the town before heading back to Kolkata in the evening.
To get around Kolkata, you can use the local transport options like buses, trams, and the metro, which are cheap and efficient. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also easily available. If you're exploring the city on foot, be mindful of the traffic and pedestrians. The estimated cost of transportation is around Rs. 500 - Rs. 1000 per day, depending on the mode of transport you choose.
If you have more time, you can consider taking a day trip to the Sundarbans or Darjeeling. If you have less time, you can skip the Dutch Cemetery and Hooghly Imambara in Serampore. It's also advisable to start your day early to avoid the crowds, especially at popular tourist attractions like Victoria Memorial Hall and New Market.
The Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) serves Kolkata city and is located about 14km from the city center. It's a modern airport that offers a wide range of facilities, including ATMs, currency exchange counters, shopping outlets, and restaurants.